Budget 2026 – Tax and National Insurance – limited to no payroll change

Income Tax (England and Northern Ireland) Income tax rates and rate limits for Scottish taxpayers are set by the Scottish Parliament. The UK rates are reduced by 10p in £1 for Welsh taxpayers, and the Welsh rates of income tax are set by the Senedd and added to the UK rates. Income tax for England and Northern Ireland remain … Continue reading Budget 2026 – Tax and National Insurance – limited to no payroll change →

Budget 2026 / Payrolling 2027 – Annual Uprating of the Van Benefit Charge for 2027-2028 and the Car and Van Fuel Benefit Charges for 2027-2028

As part of the Budget 2026 announcements, the government is increasing the van benefit charge and the car and van fuel benefit charges in line with the  September 2026 Consumer Prices Index (CPI). The original announcement appears to have confused amounts between the different charges. PAYadvice.UK have reviewed and amended to what is more likely … Continue reading Budget 2026 / Payrolling 2027 – Annual Uprating of the Van Benefit Charge for 2027-2028 and the Car and Van Fuel Benefit Charges for 2027-2028 →

Pay HMRC on-time

Employers are being reminded that for the HMRC payment for November 2026, the electronic payment deadline falls on Sunday 22nd November 2026. Employers who pay via BACs or other payment methods which do not transact on weekends need to make sure their payment for the October 2026 (6th October through 5th November 2026) tax month … Continue reading Pay HMRC on-time →

Payroll Question Time – Payroll Podcast

Payroll compliance rarely comes down to one person. But when the rules change, the questions multiply, and the pressure is on, having the right answers matters. On the latest episode of Payroll Question Time, Steve Yardley is joined by Mathew Akrigg MCIPPdip MAAT, Jeni Morris - NMW Specialist, Karen Thomson ChFCIPP MSc FHEA Dip, P … Continue reading Payroll Question Time – Payroll Podcast →

Payrolling 2027 – it’s time to get ready

If you, as an employer, provide any of the mandated benefits, including those offered via salary sacrifice or other Optional Remuneration Arrangements (OpRA) being: Company Cars including salary sacrifice cars Car fuel Company Vans Van fuel Medical benefits Then you need to start your Payrolling plans now. Does mandation affect those who have voluntarily payrolled … Continue reading Payrolling 2027 – it’s time to get ready →

HMRC – Help to prevent payroll errors and PAYE RTI disputed charges — GfC22

HMRC provide new guidance on errors HMRC have issued new promotional information on help to prevent RTI errors on HMRC systems. Although they state it as ‘Help to prevent payroll errors’, often there are no errors in the payroll yet the employers account at HMRC does not balance leading to what may be termed a … Continue reading HMRC – Help to prevent payroll errors and PAYE RTI disputed charges — GfC22 →

Employer Bulletin: October 2026

HMRC publishes the Employer Bulletin 6 times a year, giving employers and agents the latest information on topics and issues that may affect them.  The August edition of the Employer Bulletin brings the latest HMRC updates and guidance to support employers, payroll professionals and agents.  The October 2026 edition of Employer Bulletin includes articles on:  PAYE Payrolling … Continue reading Employer Bulletin: October 2026 →

Payrolling 2027 – non-mandated benefit registration

Voluntary registration for non-mandatory payrolling of benefits in kind  HMRC have confirmed that from November 2026, employers can register to voluntarily payroll non-mandated benefits for the 2027 to 2028 tax year, using the payrolling benefits and expenses online service.  Class 1A applies to voluntary Payrolling From 6th April 2027, employers who voluntarily choose to payroll … Continue reading Payrolling 2027 – non-mandated benefit registration →

Payrolling 2027 – BIK Class 1A calculation rounding

The HMRC Software Developers Support team have provided some further detail for developers in relation to the BIK Class 1A National Insurance Contributions (NICs) rounding rules as part of the MPBiKs measure. These rounding rules will apply to all payrolled benefits in kind which attract Class 1A from 6th April 2027 and align with the existing Class … Continue reading Payrolling 2027 – BIK Class 1A calculation rounding →

Legislation updates 2027 for payroll

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Originally started in readiness for 2021, PAYadvice.UK are constructing its popular PAYadvice Series Legislation Update 2027 for payroll. We believe that PAYadvice was the first organisation in the UK to bring together the various resources needed by payroll professional and payroll software developers in preparation for the April 2021 through April 2026 changes, even to … Continue reading Legislation updates 2027 for payroll →

Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early?

For the third year running, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day don’t fall on weekends, however, Boxing Day is a Saturday and so the following Monday becomes a substitute day. And for Scotland the extended New Year celebrations which normally include the 2nd January which for 2027 is also a Saturday creating a substitute Bank … Continue reading Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early? →

Payrolling 2027 – Globally Mobile Employees can be exempted

The government has now confirmed that Employers will have the option to voluntarily except Globally Mobile Employees (GMEs) from mandatory payrolling from 6th April 2027. In these cases, employers may continue to use existing year-end reporting arrangements through forms P11D and P11D(b). HMRC indicate that this will be managed through a separate exception process. What are … Continue reading Payrolling 2027 – Globally Mobile Employees can be exempted →

Payrolling 2027 – Class 1A to apply to both mandatory and voluntary items

Another piece of the mandatory payrolling changes is confirmed by the government: From 6th April 2027 the position on applying real time Class 1A calculation in year is to be applied to all benefits in kind that have been payrolled. April 2027 brings into play two different payrolled benefit treatments: Mandatory Payrolling (excepting globally mobile … Continue reading Payrolling 2027 – Class 1A to apply to both mandatory and voluntary items →

7 million in the dark about their State Pension

HM Revenue and Customs is encouraging people to check their State Pension forecast using the HMRC app during Pension Awareness Week. Research shows 45 to 54-year-olds are more likely than any other age group to have never checked their State Pension, despite it being a key time for retirement planning. One in eight adults have … Continue reading 7 million in the dark about their State Pension →

658 employers shamed for illegally “Short-changing staff”

Around £4 million has been repaid to 27,000 workers. Latest list of employers who have underpaid workers revealed as Government hands enforcement powers to new dedicated body.  658 employers named for failing to pay staff the National Minimum Wage, with £4 million returned directly to workers.  Thousands of workers given more room to breathe as … Continue reading 658 employers shamed for illegally “Short-changing staff” →

Employer Bulletin: August 2026

HMRC publishes the Employer Bulletin 6 times a year, giving employers and agents the latest information on topics and issues that may affect them.  The August edition of the Employer Bulletin brings the latest HMRC updates and guidance to support employers, payroll professionals and agents.  The August 2026 edition of Employer Bulletin includes articles on:  PAYE Tax … Continue reading Employer Bulletin: August 2026 →

Second tax adviser registration window now open

HMRC has opened the second phase of mandatory tax adviser registration, with eligible advisers required to register by 18th November 2026. Phase two of the new online registration requirement for tax advisers rolls out. Advisers with Self Assessment or Corporation Tax accounts, but without an agent services account (ASA), now need to register. Advisers who … Continue reading Second tax adviser registration window now open →

Extend Child Benefit for your teen before 31st August 2026

Parents have until 31st August 2026 to extend Child Benefit for their 16 to 19-year-olds who are continuing in non-advanced approved education or training. Parents of 16 to 19-year-olds starting further education or approved training courses must extend their Child Benefit claim by 31st August 2026 or payments will stop automatically. GCSE results day on … Continue reading Extend Child Benefit for your teen before 31st August 2026 →

Payrolling Benefits and registration

Get ready for mandatory payrolling of benefits in kind (BiKs) For employers who offer any of the mandatory benefits: Cars and Fuel Medical benefits Vans and Fuel It is important that employers start planning on both the payroll implementation aspects and how they will obtain and apply the required benefit data from their benefit providers. … Continue reading Payrolling Benefits and registration →

Mandating Payrolling of Benefits in Kind (MPBiKs) – July/August 2026 update and the revised draft RTI Data Items

The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have updated the draft guides on Mandating Payrolling Benefits in Kind (MPBiKs) on the evening of Friday 31st July 2026. 31st July 2026 update: The default operation of mandatory payrolling Benefits in kind that come under mandatory payrolling from April 2027 have been listed. Reporting requirements The guidance has … Continue reading Mandating Payrolling of Benefits in Kind (MPBiKs) – July/August 2026 update and the revised draft RTI Data Items →

Do not to ignore Simple Assessment letters

HMRC is urging those who receive a Simple Assessment letter this summer to check it carefully and pay any tax owed by the deadline. HMRC will send Simple Assessment letters for the 2025 to 2026 tax year this summer. The letters are sent to those who have tax to pay on income that has not been … Continue reading Do not to ignore Simple Assessment letters →

Prime Minister Burnham to hand mayors a share of income tax

The Prime Minister has launched the biggest transfer of power from Westminster in a generation, giving communities greater control over the decisions that shape jobs, transport, housing and public services in their area. Biggest transfer of power, funding and responsibility from Westminster in a generation Mayors to keep a share of income tax and business … Continue reading Prime Minister Burnham to hand mayors a share of income tax →

Budget to move “power and money out of Westminster, and into every postcode

The Chancellor has confirmed that the date of the Budget will be Wednesday 28 October 2026. In a video message, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, John Healey MP said: This government is working fast to restore hope and back Britain’s communities. In the past two weeks, we have begun to kickstart growth in every postcode. We … Continue reading Budget to move “power and money out of Westminster, and into every postcode →

The Student Loans Company (SLC) is contacting some Plan 2 customers about corrections to their balances

Correction to some Plan 2 student loan balances. The Student Loans Company (SLC) is contacting some Plan 2 repayment employees about corrections to their balances. Around 71,000 (approximately 1.3% of current Plan 2 debts) have been affected by technical issues.   SLC and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are very sorry that this happened.   Those affected … Continue reading The Student Loans Company (SLC) is contacting some Plan 2 customers about corrections to their balances →

PSA deadlines and timing

As part of the Employers Bulletin June 2026, the HMRC is reminding employers on changes and deadlines for PSA reporting. PAYE Settlement Agreement (PSA) — agreements and mailbox closure The deadline for applying for a PAYE Settlement Agreement (PSA) or making any amendments to an existing PSA is 5th July following the first tax year it applies to. For example, … Continue reading PSA deadlines and timing →

Get ready to pay Class 1A for benefits

It’s that time of year to get ready to pay the Class 1A 15% charge on benefits for the 2025/2026 tax year Class 1A on benefits is not currently part of the payroll operation of PAYE. The realtime payroll related Class 1A capabilities currently present relate only to termination payments and sporting testimonials. P11D(b) Employers … Continue reading Get ready to pay Class 1A for benefits →

Low earner’s pension payment

As part of the employers bulletin June 2026 articles, the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has issued information on the Low Earners Pension Payment (LEPP). Contact imminent From August 2026, HMRC will be contacting around 1 million eligible individuals directly about the low earner’s pension payment, previously referred to as the low earner’s anomaly. This … Continue reading Low earner’s pension payment →

Pension tax relief – still getting it wrong

As part of the HMRC June 2026 Employer Bulletin, there is an article that highlights that the Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (LITRG) made HMRC aware of an error in the August 2023 issue of the employer bulletin and a corrected reissued article. Tax relief on employee contributions to registered pension schemes The text below is based on a replacement for … Continue reading Pension tax relief – still getting it wrong →

Employer Bulletin: June 2026

HMRC publishes the Employer Bulletin 6 times a year, giving employers and agents the latest information on topics and issues that may affect them.  Some of these topics have already been covered by PAYadvice.UK in articles and blogs and further articles and blogs may now additionally be published. The June 2026 edition of Employer Bulletin … Continue reading Employer Bulletin: June 2026 →

Payrolling Benefits April 2027 phasing (MPBiKs)

The HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have confirmed a phased approach to the implementation of Payrolling for April 2027 and a further phase in April 2028. Originally it had been proposed to mandate the payrolling of all benefits in kind excepting accommodation and loans, from April 2026. This was then delayed until April 2027. This … Continue reading Payrolling Benefits April 2027 phasing (MPBiKs) →

Payrolling 2027 (MPBiKs) – mandatory items confirmed

Company Cars and Vans are are part of mandatory Payrolling On Monday 15th June, HMRC have confirmed a simplification to their original Payrolling mandation (MPBiKS) by phasing its introduction. So what does that mean for April 2027 preparation. It has been confirmed that mandatory Payrolling of benefits and introduction of Class 1A applies to: Company … Continue reading Payrolling 2027 (MPBiKs) – mandatory items confirmed →

Get ready for your 2027 (MPBiKs) Payrolling project

HMRC have indicated that benefits in kind must be payrolled from April 2027. This is being referred to as Mandatory Payrolling Benefits in Kind (MPBiKs). They had already issued two sets of draft documents with more information issued on Monday 15th June 2026 proposing a new phased approach for April 2027 and a further phase … Continue reading Get ready for your 2027 (MPBiKs) Payrolling project →

Dodgy shops: “We are coming for you”

HMRC crackdown targets criminals exploiting the high street. HMRC will carry out more than 30,000 interventions this year to tackle tax fraud and illegal activity on the high street. Action targets organised crime groups and others exploiting vape shops, barbers and convenience stores in hotspot areas. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) made unannounced visits to six … Continue reading Dodgy shops: “We are coming for you” →

Tax fraud warning: ‘Bills of Exchange’

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has seen an increase in attempts to use ‘Bills of Exchange’ to pay a tax liability. HMRC are aware that there are promoters, particularly in the recruitment and temporary labour sector, marketing their use. Organised Crime Groups are also particularly active in these sectors. HMRC have set out their position … Continue reading Tax fraud warning: ‘Bills of Exchange’ →

Check if you need to register as a Tax adviser – that includes payroll

From Monday 18th May 2026, a new registration requirement for tax advisers will roll out. New mandatory tax adviser registration requirements is claimed to protect customers and raise standards in tax advice. Online registration will roll out in stages between 18th May 2026 and 31st March 2027. Registration is free, and step-by-step guidance is available … Continue reading Check if you need to register as a Tax adviser – that includes payroll →

Self Assessment confusion: Bank and Building Society Interest

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are indicating that they are aware of concerns raised by representative bodies about tax payers receiving Self Assessment (SA) notices to file linked to savings income, and in some cases receiving multiple or conflicting HMRC letters.  HMRC indicate that they recognise that this has caused confusion and concern, and apologise.  What happened? … Continue reading Self Assessment confusion: Bank and Building Society Interest →

Employer Bulletin: April 2026

HMRC publishes the Employer Bulletin 6 times a year, giving employers and agents the latest information on topics and issues that may affect them.  Some of these topics have already been covered by PAYadvice.UK in articles and blogs and further articles and blogs may now additionally be published. The April 2026 edition of Employer Bulletin … Continue reading Employer Bulletin: April 2026 →

Winter Fuel Payment scams targeting pensioners

Winter Fuel Payments paid in winter 2025 will be recovered from pensioners with income above £35,000  Check if your payment will be reclaimed at GOV.UK - you don’t need to contact HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) Scammers may try to trick customers into handing money over Pensioners are being warned to be on high alert for scams … Continue reading Winter Fuel Payment scams targeting pensioners →

Statutory Sick Pay record sheet update

Statutory Sick Pay: record sheet (SSP2) has been updated to reflect changes brought in by the Employment Rights Act 2025, to remove the waiting period before SSP can be made. Employers can use form SSP2 to record details of an employee’s sickness absences for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and monitor the use of the 28 … Continue reading Statutory Sick Pay record sheet update →

Statutory Payments uprating error

The HMRC Software Developers Support Team (SDST) have notified software developers on a difference in this year Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) uprating order to prior practice and original expectations. Under a notice issued to developers ‘Payroll 2026-27: Correction to uprating dates for certain Statutory Parental Pay entitlements’, the SDST have provided the following: … Continue reading Statutory Payments uprating error →

Happy New (Tax) Year 2026

Here it is again, the start of a New Tax Year. Often when meeting with payroll and tax professionals from overseas, they wonder why the United Kingdom tax year commences on 6th April annually.  Why is that when so many countries around the world celebrate both the new year and the tax year on 1st … Continue reading Happy New (Tax) Year 2026 →

National Living Wage rises to £12.71

(c)2025 PAYadvice Ltd New minimum wage rates come into force [for pay reference period starting{ from 1st April [2026], following Low Pay Commission recommendations. Increased rates of the National Minimum Wage, including the National Living wage came into force for pay reference period from 1st April 2026. These rates bring into effect recommendations made by the … Continue reading National Living Wage rises to £12.71 →

Mileage rates review to support working people

Millions of drivers who claim motoring expenses could benefit from a review of approved mileage rates. Millions of drivers who claim motoring expenses from their employer will see approved mileage rates reviewed ahead of a future Budget.  Approved mileage allowance payment rates have not changed since 2011, despite motoring costs evolving significantly.  Part of a plan to help keep prices down … Continue reading Mileage rates review to support working people →

Get ‘Tax Confident’

HMRC launches Tax Confident, a new website to help people understand tax in plain, simple terms. HMRC launches ‘Tax Confident’ website designed to fill tax knowledge gaps. It covers tax essentials from setting up a business to retirement.  Improving customer experience is key to HMRC’s Transformation Roadmap and supports the government’s Plan for Growth.  HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has launched a new ‘Tax Confident’ website and is encouraging people to use it to help fill their tax knowledge gaps.    It … Continue reading Get ‘Tax Confident’ →

Minimum wage shock – penalties for some big names

389 employers … named for failing to pay workers the minimum wage to tens of thousands of workers. Employers told to repay over £7.3 million in wages owed to workers to aid the cost of living for some of the lowest earners.  389 named employers, including well-known brands, faced consequences for failing to pay the minimum wage through £12.6 million in penalties.  Around 60,000 workers found to have been underpaid as employers who break the rules are … Continue reading Minimum wage shock – penalties for some big names →

New figures reveal 7 million started a new job in 2025

Jobseekers and those starting new jobs encouraged to download the HMRC app for essential job-related information. With National Careers Week under way, jobseekers are reminded to use the HMRC app for essential information when applying for or starting a new job More than 7 million people started new jobs in 2025, an increase of 300,000 from the … Continue reading New figures reveal 7 million started a new job in 2025 →

Payroll services to register as Tax Advisers and have AML responsibilities

HMRC are introducing the requirements to register in stages. From 18th May 2026, HMRC will introduce an online registration system for agent services accounts to register as tax adviserz. If a payroll service already has an agent services account, they will not need to register again. However, HMRC will contact them through the agent services … Continue reading Payroll services to register as Tax Advisers and have AML responsibilities →

Payroll technical specifications: Income Tax April 2026

The 'Specification for PAYE tax table routines' has been updated to version 24.0 (February 2026). HM Revenue and Customs have issued, on Wednesday 11th February 2026, the updated specification for Income which reflect the adjusted parameter values for Scottish Income Tax. The values for England, Northern Ireland and Wales remain frozen. PAYErout-v24-0Download Part of Tax … Continue reading Payroll technical specifications: Income Tax April 2026 →

Employer Bulletin: February 2026

HMRC publishes the Employer Bulletin 6 times a year, giving employers and agents the latest information on topics and issues that may affect them.  Some of these topics have already been covered by PAYadvice.UK in articles and blogs and further articles and blogs may now additionally be published. The February 2026 edition of Employer Bulletin … Continue reading Employer Bulletin: February 2026 →

Payroll 2026-2027: Allowances, Rates and Thresholds – updates on Income Tax

(c)2025 Photo by PSP The HMRC issued the following (edited) information on Friday 16th January 2026 confirming the U.K. tax rates applicable from 6th April 2026 (some aspects subject to final parliamentary approval). Dear PAYadvice.UK Following the Scottish Budget announcement, we can provide the following Income Tax information for 2026-2027.  Details for Wales, England and … Continue reading Payroll 2026-2027: Allowances, Rates and Thresholds – updates on Income Tax →

Scottish Budget 2026 – Income Tax

Majority of [Scottish] taxpayers will pay less income tax than in rest of the UK. Changes to the basic and intermediate rate income tax thresholds will protect lower-income households in 2026-27, Finance Secretary Shona Robison has announced. She also confirmed there would be no changes to rates or the number of tax bands in the … Continue reading Scottish Budget 2026 – Income Tax →

HMRC app surge on those taking control of their tax

Over 4.2 million HMRC app downloads in 2025. More than 136 million logins, a 20% increase on 2024. Older and retired people are the biggest growth area for app engagement. Millions more people are choosing to make managing their tax easier and simpler, with use of the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) app continuing to accelerate nationwide. … Continue reading HMRC app surge on those taking control of their tax →

New Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – what is the 80% rate?

Following the passing of the Employment Rights Bill and the Royal Ascent of the Employment Rights Act on Thursday 18th December 2025, one of the major changes are the new rights to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from Monday 6th April 2026 (Easter Monday). The Statutory Sick Pay measures include: Removing the Lower Earnings Limit to … Continue reading New Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) – what is the 80% rate? →

New Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Transitional Protection April 2026

Following the passing of the Employment Rights Bill and the Royal Ascent of the Employment Rights Act on Thursday 18th December 2025, one of the major changes are the new rights to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from Monday 6th April 2026 (Easter Monday). The Statutory Sick Pay measures include: Removing the Lower Earnings Limit to … Continue reading New Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) Transitional Protection April 2026 →

HMRC revises interest rates

HMRC interest rates for late payments will be revised following the Bank of England interest rate cut to 3.75% on 18th December 2025. The Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee announced on 18th December 2025 to reduce the Bank of England base rate to 3.75% from 4.00%. HMRC interest rates are linked to the Bank of … Continue reading HMRC revises interest rates →

2026/2027 P60 & eP60 substitute adjustments

The HMRC have issued the RD1 Specification for employer substitute form P60 and e P60 for the tax year 2026 to 2027. In addition to changing the tax year, the reference to tax credits has been removed and reference to Pension Credit has been added. April 2026 sees the introduction of Statutory Parental Bereavement Pay … Continue reading 2026/2027 P60 & eP60 substitute adjustments →

Grocery Salary Sacrifice! Buyer beware

As part of the December 2025 Employer Bulletin, HMRC have shared information on promoted Salary Sacrifices Grocery Schemes. They confirm that they are neither approved or promoted by HMRC and are unlikely to qualify for the savings that the promoters indicate. There is no 8% employee NI saving. The following has been issued as part … Continue reading Grocery Salary Sacrifice! Buyer beware →

Employer Bulletin: December 2025

HMRC publishes the Employer Bulletin 6 times a year, giving employers and agents the latest information on topics and issues that may affect them.  Some of these topics have already been covered by PAYadvice.UK in articles and blogs and further articles and blogs may now additionally be published. The December 2025 edition of Employer Bulletin … Continue reading Employer Bulletin: December 2025 →

2026/2027 New Starter Checklist – getting prepared

The HMRC Software Developer Support Team have kindly issued the new adjusted HMRC ‘New Starter Checklist’ to software developers to aid preparation for the 2026/2027 tax year. This new format comes into operation for payroll paying from 6th April 2026. Many years ago these were referenced as a P46 and that name continues to sometimes … Continue reading 2026/2027 New Starter Checklist – getting prepared →

Tax on cancelled, moved or curtailed shifts

As a result of the Employment Rights Bill currently going through parliament and anticipated as something that will be passed, workers will receive the right to receive payment from their employers if shifts are cancelled, moved, or curtailed at short notice. As part of Budget 2025, the HMRC, In line with existing legislation relating to … Continue reading Tax on cancelled, moved or curtailed shifts →

HMRC confirm most of the 2026/2027 values for software

Payroll 2026-27: Allowances, Rates and Thresholds from April 2026  Dear PAYadvice.UK Following the Autumn Budget of 26 Ltd November 2025, we can confirm the following information for payroll 2026-27. Where details are not currently known, these are marked as TBA.  We will provide a further update as soon as we can. We will also provide … Continue reading HMRC confirm most of the 2026/2027 values for software →

Budget 2025 – Changes to Employee Car Ownership Schemes (ECOS)

This measure is about bringing Employee Car Ownership Schemes (ECOS) within the scope of the benefit in kind rules as company cars from 6th April 2030, with transitional arrangements. What is an ECOS scheme An ECOS is something more organised than the employer simply ceasing to provide a company car and (normally) increasing taxable pay … Continue reading Budget 2025 – Changes to Employee Car Ownership Schemes (ECOS) →

2026/2027 Welsh Rate of Income Tax

Following the UK budget on 26th November 2025 which applied a freeze of tax bands and rates, potentially until 5th April 2031, it’s time to catch-up on what is happening with the Welsh Income Tax applicable from 6th April 2026 for the 2026/2027 tax year. As part of the Welsh draft budget preparation announced on … Continue reading 2026/2027 Welsh Rate of Income Tax →

OBR chair resigns over budget 2025 blunder

Richard Hughes has written to the Chancellor (1st December 2025) to resign as Chair of the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). The OBR inadvertently made it possible to access the November 2025 Economic and fiscal outlook (EFO) too early on Budget day. They launched an immediate investigation into what happened which has reported today, Monday 1st December … Continue reading OBR chair resigns over budget 2025 blunder →

Budget 2025 – National Insurance freeze!

As part of budget 2025, Rachel Reeves announced a freeze of National Insurance thresholds and rates until April 2031. Well not everything was frozen, it was after confirmed that the National Insurance Contributions (NICs) Lower Earnings Limit (LEL), the point where individual start accruing state benefit rights, would rise by +£4 to a new £129 … Continue reading Budget 2025 – National Insurance freeze! →

Tax advisers to register with HMRC and meet minimum standards

Tax advisers who interact with HMRC on behalf of clients will be legally required to register and meet minimum standards before doing so. This begins in May 2026, with a transitional period of at least 3 months for all tax adviser groups. A digital registration process will be available, with a non-digital alternative for those … Continue reading Tax advisers to register with HMRC and meet minimum standards →

Disguised remuneration: tax avoidance using unfunded pension arrangements

Tax avoidance arrangements seeking to avoid Corporation Tax, Income Tax and National Insurance contributions by using unfunded pension arrangements. HMRC is aware of tax avoidance arrangements used by owner managed companies and their directors. These arrangements are used to reward one or more directors for the services they provide to a company, in a way … Continue reading Disguised remuneration: tax avoidance using unfunded pension arrangements →

Independent Loan Charge review and response

The independent loan charge review and government response were published Wednesday 26th November 2025 following Budget 2025. At Autumn Budget 2024, the government committed to an independent review of the Loan Charge to help bring the matter to a close for those affected whilst ensuring fairness for all taxpayers. On 23rd January 2025, the Exchequer … Continue reading Independent Loan Charge review and response →

Budget 2025 speech

Budget 2025 speech as delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves - 26th November 2025 Madame Deputy Speaker.  It is my understanding that the Office for Budget Responsibility’s Economic and Fiscal Outlook was released on their website before this statement. This is deeply disappointing and a serious error on their part. The Office for Budget Responsibility has … Continue reading Budget 2025 speech →

Extra Christmas working hours and minimum pay

As the festive season approaches, many businesses rely on staff working longer hours, picking up extra shifts or staying late to meet demand. But are your clients confident they’re paying them correctly? Join HMRC’s National Minimum Wage (NMW) team, for a live webinar designed to help employers and their payroll advisers to understand what counts … Continue reading Extra Christmas working hours and minimum pay →

April 2026 National Minimum and Living Wage increases confirmed

(c)2025 PAYadvice Ltd The Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves has announced on the day before her 26th November 2025 Autumn Budget the acceptance of the Low Pay Commission recommendations on increases to the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage. These uplifts are predicted in benefit 2.7 million U.K. workers with a significant increase … Continue reading April 2026 National Minimum and Living Wage increases confirmed →

New Cryptoasset reporting rules – Jan 2026

From 1st January 2026 if you provide cryptoasset services in the UK, you’ll have new responsibilities for collecting data and reporting it to HMRC. Failing to provide accurate info could mean a penalty, additional fines, and account restrictions. ❌ This is because the UK is introducing the Organisation for Economic Development (OECD) Cryptoasset Reporting Framework … Continue reading New Cryptoasset reporting rules – Jan 2026 →

Christmas crafters – check the tax rules

Side hustlers selling festive items need to tell HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) online if earnings exceed £1,000 a year. HMRC’s Help for Hustles campaign supports people earning extra income during festive season to understand tax obligations. Online checker tool can clarify if and when side hustlers need to report their additional income. People making … Continue reading Christmas crafters – check the tax rules →

Pay deductions can cause minimum wage breaches

As part of the October 2025 shaming list of employers who have been named and fined for National Minimum Wage regulations breaches, 11 of the 491 related to various types of deduction from wages which reduce the average pay rate below National Minimum Wage rates which act as minimum legal amounts to pay for time … Continue reading Pay deductions can cause minimum wage breaches →

HMRC impacted by Amazon internet problems

(c)2025 PAYadvice Ltd HM Revenue and Customs have shared that they are aware that users of their web and app services have been having problems accessing online services. This is due as part of global issues affecting Amazon Web Services. HMRC are now pleased to confirm that the earlier global outage affecting Amazon Web Services … Continue reading HMRC impacted by Amazon internet problems →

Another 103 employers caught not paying for time worked!

Although employers may have set payment rates at or above the National Minimum Wage for their workers and employees, some even using the higher Living Wage (the voluntary living wage foundation rate), many appear to also get their workers to do extra time for free or count certain work activity as unpaid. All work time … Continue reading Another 103 employers caught not paying for time worked! →

HMRC name tax avoidance barrister

HMRC have added a practicing barrister, Setu Kamal, to the HMRC tax avoidance promoters list for the first time. Practising barrister added to GOV.UK tax avoidance promoter list for the first time HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) finds senior legal professional designed four schemes that aimed to avoid Income Tax and National Insurance A practising … Continue reading HMRC name tax avoidance barrister →

Exchequer Secretary speech to the annual HMRC Conference

(C)2025 PAYadvice Ltd Simon Parsons of SD Worx, PAYadvice and representing the BCS Oayroll Group (part of the Chartered Institute for IT) was in attendance at the annual HM Fevenue and Customs (HMRC) annual conference. The following is the recently appointed Exchequer Secretaries speech to the conference. The Exchequer Secretary made a speech at the … Continue reading Exchequer Secretary speech to the annual HMRC Conference →

National Insurance Verification (NVR) withdrawn

Since the introduction in April 2012, an employer who is within Real Time Information (RTI) had the ability to request, for up to 100 new employees only, a NINO Verification Request (NVR) via RTI to allow them to either verify a National Insurance Number (NINO), or to obtain a NINO for the Employee when it … Continue reading National Insurance Verification (NVR) withdrawn →

Legislation updates 2026 for payroll

Originally started in readiness for 2021, PAYadvice.UK are constructing its popular PAYadvice Series Legislation Update 2026 for payroll. We believe that PAYadvice was the first organisation in the UK to bring together the various resources needed by payroll professional and payroll software developers in preparation for the April 2021 through April 2025 changes, even to … Continue reading Legislation updates 2026 for payroll →

Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early?

For the third year running, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day don’t fall on weekends and there are no substitute days. However, Scotland has a substitute day for St Andrews. England and Wales So when are the Christmas and New Year Bank holidays? For England Wales and Northern Ireland matches: Scotland In Scotland there are … Continue reading Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early? →

Autumn 2025 budget date announced

On Wednesday 3rd September 2025, the Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that the date of the Budget will be held on Wednesday 26th November 2025 and has commissioned the Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) to prepare an economic and fiscal forecast. Budget to address economy that’s “not working well enough for working people” In a video message, … Continue reading Autumn 2025 budget date announced →

Mini Umbrella Company fraud tribunal win for HMRC

HMRC has secured a landmark victory at an Upper Tier Tribunal against Mini Umbrella Company (MUC) fraud.  The judgement states that MUC’s fraud is valued at hundreds of millions per year, through abuse of the VAT Flat Rate Scheme and Employment Allowance.  This tribunal decision is claimed to will help create fair competition for legitimate businesses, … Continue reading Mini Umbrella Company fraud tribunal win for HMRC →

New Services introduced for Self Assessment

People who pay tax through Self Assessment will benefit from new HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) services designed to make the process simpler and easier.  As part of its Transformation Roadmap HMRC is introducing improvements to the digital Self Assessment registration and opt-out processes. The introduction of enhanced on-screen messages will reassure SA filers and reduce follow-up … Continue reading New Services introduced for Self Assessment →

Student Loans Repayment Threshold confirmed for Plan 1 and 5

The Department for Education on 19th August 2025 confirmed annual updates repayment thresholds for Plan 1 and Plan 5 Income Contingent Student Loans. Income Contingent Repayment Student Loans Undergraduate loans Income Contingent Student Loans for Plan 1 (1998-2012) undergraduate loans The repayment threshold for Plan 1 loans will rise to £26,900 from 6 April 2026 … Continue reading Student Loans Repayment Threshold confirmed for Plan 1 and 5 →

Employers PAYE disputed charge process changed

As part of the August 2025 Employer Bulletin, HMRC have confirmed changes to the raising of charge resolution cases, now referred to as Disputed Charges. From 31st July 2025, employers are able to report a PAYE dispute to HMRC using a new online form. Report a dispute online This is accessed at get help to … Continue reading Employers PAYE disputed charge process changed →

Employer Bulletin: August 2025

HMRC publishes the Employer Bulletin 6 times a year, giving employers and agents the latest information on topics and issues that may affect them.  Some of these topics have already been covered by PAYadvice.UK in articles and blogs and further articles and blogs may now additionally be published. The August edition of Employer Bulletin includes … Continue reading Employer Bulletin: August 2025 →

Non-compliant umbrellas to be tackled

The government says it is committed to closing the tax gap and making the tax system fairer. Good and bad umbrella Many umbrella companies operate diligently, supporting their employees and providing convenience and administrative benefits for agencies. ..too many are used to facilitate non-compliance However, too many are used to facilitate non-compliance including tax avoidance … Continue reading Non-compliant umbrellas to be tackled →

Spotting disguised remuneration tax avoidance schemes

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have published promotional information on how to spot the signs of disguised remuneration tax avoidance schemes. Tax avoidance does not pay: most schemes do not work. Those who use tax avoidance schemes may end up paying more than the tax they tried to avoid as well as interest and potentially … Continue reading Spotting disguised remuneration tax avoidance schemes →

Tax Free Child Care

HMRC encourages parents to register for Tax-Free Childcare to help towards the cost of their childcare bills. Working families are encouraged to sign up for Tax-Free Childcare to save on their childcare bills. Working families can save up to £2,000 annually when paying for childcare in 75,000 childcare settings across the UK. Supporting the government’s … Continue reading Tax Free Child Care →

Payroll Service providers to be registered from April 2026

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have confirmed the intention Payroll Service providers to be registered along with other Tax Advisers from 1st April 2026 New requirements are being introduced for all tax advisers to register with HMRC and meet minimum standards. So who are tax advisers According to the UK government, Tax advisers are those … Continue reading Payroll Service providers to be registered from April 2026 →

Workers to take control of their tax affairs with new HMRC services

New PAYE service announced to save around 35 million taxpayers’ time. At least 90% of taxpayer interactions with HMRC to be digital by 2030. Reducing post and letters to save £50 million a year – equal to almost 1,500 full time nurses. Workers are set to take control of their tax affairs as the government announced on … Continue reading Workers to take control of their tax affairs with new HMRC services →

Side hustlers urged to get tax returns sorted now

Side hustlers urged to get tax returns sorted now If you earn more than £1,000 from additional income, you may need to register for Self Assessment Filing now means you will know your tax situation sooner and can spread payments over time HMRC's digital services make filing quick and easy Anyone earning extra income through … Continue reading Side hustlers urged to get tax returns sorted now →

Crypto bros being forced to pay fair share of tax

New rules are to unmask anyone evading tax due on their crypto profits UK crypto holders must provide personal details to crypto service providers from January 2026 or face penalties of up to £300 This is to align with government’s Plan for Change to ensure everyone pays their fair share of tax to fund vital … Continue reading Crypto bros being forced to pay fair share of tax →

HMRC disputed charges

As part of the June 2025 Employers Bulletin, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) shared an update on raising ‘disputed charges’. The name does not bode well with an implied fight with the nations tax collector, for that reason HMRC had perviously changed the name to ‘Charge Resolution’ as that was more aligned to the reality … Continue reading HMRC disputed charges →

Received an HMRC Simple Assessment letter?

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) automatically do a Simple Assessment if you owe tax they can’t collect through your PAYE tax code vi your employer or pension and you aren’t registered for Self Assessment. They work out what you owe then write to tell you how much this is and when you need to pay … Continue reading Received an HMRC Simple Assessment letter? →