Newsroom
What we’re seeing across our clients.
Commentary, briefings and case studies from the Mercian team — what’s hitting our inbox, what HMRC is asking, and what owners are doing about it.
Staff Entertainment – Tax Exempt or Benefit-in-Kind?
Do you provide occasional entertainment to your employees? There’s a common misconception that staff entertainment is automatically exempt from tax – and with a lack of clear guidance from HMRC, many businesses are under-reporting it for benefit-in-kind (BiK) purposes. In this article, we’ll help you understand when entertainment is and isn’t taxable, so you can…
Read MorePool Cars – Benefits and Tax Traps
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…
Read MoreNew Increase to Statutory Legacy on Intestacy
From July 26th (2023), the government has confirmed an increase to the Statutory Legacy on intestacy, from £270,000 to £322,000 (fixed net sum). When someone who has children passes away without a Will (otherwise known as “intestate”), this is the value of personal possessions that the surviving spouse or civil partner is entitled to first,…
Read MoreThe Renters (Reform) Bill – How Will it Affect Landlords?
Introduced to Parliament on 17th May 2023, the Renters (Reform) Bill proposes a new set of measures for the private rental property market – from abolishing Section 21 evictions to ending fixed-term tenancies. Though the bill hasn’t yet become law, it’s essential for landlords to identify what elements may be of concern so that they…
Read MoreIs Your Accountant Retiring? What You Need to Do
Has your accountant let you know that they’re retiring? Not sure of your next steps? There are several factors influencing accountants to retire early – and it’s not just because they’ve reached a certain age. The impact of the Covid pandemic and changes in the profession has led many to reconsider their role, which means…
Read MoreSDLT and Divorce: Property Transfer and the 3% Surcharge
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.…
Read MoreCapital Gains Tax (CGT) Rule Changes for Divorcing Couples
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…
Read MoreElectronic Sales Suppression: HMRC Voluntary Disclosure
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.…
Read MoreUnderstanding Full Expensing
Full expensing is a tax relief scheme that allows companies to claim 100% of the cost of qualifying plant and machinery all in one go. This tax incentive was introduced in the Spring Budget 2023 and runs from 01 April 2023 to 31 March 2026. Why Full Expensing Matters This tax relief measure encourages UK…
Read MoreEmploying Your Children in Your Business
Including your children in your business and finances can be a rewarding experience, offering them valuable work experience and instilling a strong work ethic while providing tax benefits for the business. However, employing your children involves understanding and adhering to legal, tax, and regulatory requirements. This article will help you navigate the complexities of employing…
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