The recent Budget has ushered in pivotal changes to the tax system, emphasising HMRC's commitment to addressing non-compliance and enhancing the accuracy of tax returns ...
This initiative proposes mandates for more comprehensive information about reliefs and allowances, akin to the adjustments made within the research and development (R&D) tax relief framework introduced in 2023. The aim is not only to bolster the compliance landscape, but to ensure that taxpayers are fully aware of their responsibilities concerning reliefs.
HMRC is considering reforms surrounding its ability to issue revenue correction notices, as well as the introduction of a partial enquiry process. This would allow HMRC to focus on specific issues within a tax return, which could enhance efficiency while not disrupting the overall enquiry window.
This innovative approach seeks to address inaccuracies predominantly from less complex, lower-value errors, making it crucial for small businesses and individual taxpayers to stay informed.
In addition to these compliance enhancements, two forthcoming consultations later in the spring will aim to reform behavioural penalties and improve access to alternative dispute resolution and statutory reviews. Stakeholder engagement will be vital as HMRC seeks insights and constructive feedback concerning these proposed changes.
Other noteworthy announcements within the Budget include significant steps aimed at addressing tax non-compliance, particularly concerning umbrella companies.
Starting in April 2026, the responsibility for PAYE obligations will shift to recruitment agencies and end-client businesses. This transfer seeks to close loopholes that have allowed some companies to evade their tax responsibilities!
Further adjustments will be made to the tax treatment of liquidations for limited liability partnerships beginning on the 30th of October 2024, coupled with strengthened charity tax rules set to come into effect in April 2026.
These changes aim to foster a fairer tax environment, preventing abuse of the system and ensuring that tax reliefs are not exploited. Additionally, a coordinated approach will address non-compliance linked to the overseas transfer of UK tax-relieved pension funds, along with revised regulations governing the extraction of shareholder funds from close companies.
I expect MTD ITSA to commence in 2026 for those with a turnover above £50,000, the framework will gradually extend to individuals generating over £20,000 by the end of the parliamentary session. Although this move indicates progress towards a digitised tax system, I am concerned about the additional administrative burdens, particularly the need for quarterly reporting.
The Government claims these changes will herald a pivot towards enhanced compliance and accountability, marking a significant shift in how the tax system operates for years to come.
I just hope it simplifies things for all of us.
If you feel inspired to find out more about anything I've said here, do call me on 01908 774320 or leave a comment below and I'll be in touch as soon as I can.