Pool Cars – Benefits and Tax Traps

Pool car

Are you a business considering the use of pool cars for your employees? Pool cars can provide numerous benefits, such as cost savings, increased efficiency, and improved flexibility. However, it’s essential to understand the tax implications associated with pool cars to ensure compliance and make informed financial decisions. In this post, we’ll explore the key…

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SDLT and Divorce: Property Transfer and the 3% Surcharge

House with keys

Are you transferring property through a divorce or separation? Dealing with Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) can be complex, and it’s crucial to understand how to minimise costs. Transfers between two former partners may qualify for stamp duty relief and exceptions from the 3% additional rates, especially when timing the purchase of a replacement home.…

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Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Rule Changes for Divorcing Couples

Broken heart

When couples go through a divorce or separation, transferring the matrimonial home and other properties between them can result in a Capital Gains Tax (CGT) liability. However, new rules announced in the Government’s Spring Budget extend the period during which CGT relief can be claimed on asset transfers. Effective from 6th April 2023, these new…

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Electronic Sales Suppression: HMRC Voluntary Disclosure

A close up of an old fashioned cash register, showcasing its nostalgic charm while evoking thoughts of potential instances of Electronic Sales Suppression.

HMRC is sending letters to businesses that may not have paid the correct income tax, corporation tax, or VAT due to misuse of their till systems. The letters are intended to provide an opportunity for businesses using electronic sales suppression (ESS) to get their tax affairs in order by voluntarily disclosing undeclared sales to HMRC.…

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Pedal Your Way to Tax Savings: The Cycle to Work Scheme for Limited Companies

A group of cyclists pedaling down a road while taking advantage of the Cycle to Work Scheme for tax savings.

The ‘Cycle to Work’ scheme is an annual tax exemption allowing businesses to loan employees bicycles and cycle safety equipment as a tax-free benefit. The scheme has positively impacted workplace health and motivation and encouraged people to engage in physical activity. But is this scheme suitable for limited companies? Directors The ‘Cycle to Work’ tax…

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HMRC Basis Period Reform for Sole Traders & Partnerships

The word change spelled out in clouds over a grassy field, highlighting the HMRC.

Mandatory basis period reforms have been announced by HMRC for unincorporated businesses, including sole traders, irrespective of their involvement with Making Tax Digital (MTD). This article delves into the details of these reforms and how sole traders and partnerships need to adapt. Starting from the 2024/25 tax year, affected businesses must use the tax year…

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Preparing for Your 2023/24 Tax Return

A close up of a calendar with numbers on it, which is used for tax return preparation.

As the new tax year has commenced, we at Mercian Accountants would like to offer you some advice on managing your self-assessment tax returns. By staying informed of the upcoming tax deadlines and understanding the nuances of the process, you can be better prepared for your tax responsibilities and avoid any last-minute stress. When to…

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Guide to Self-Assessment tax returns

A hand holding a calculator and a piece of paper, guiding through tax returns.

Welcome to Mercian Accountants’ comprehensive guide to Self-Assessment tax returns in the United Kingdom. Navigating the complexities of the UK tax system can be challenging, but our team of experienced accountants is here to help you through every step. Self-Assessment is an essential aspect of the UK tax system that requires individuals with more complex…

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IR35: Gary Lineker Wins Case Against HMRC Over £4.9m Tax Bill

The red stadium.

Fresh from his win against the BBC over his tweeting activity, Linker makes it a double (for now) with a win against HMRC. HMRC has suffered another setback in its enforcement of IR35 rules with the recent defeat in the case against Gary Lineker. The former footballer and sports broadcaster was accused of underpaying tax…

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