Tag: #CostOfLiving

Budget 2026 – Low Pay Commission (LPC) recommendations take the National Living Wage to £13.21

Screenshot The Government has today announced increases to minimum wage rates from April 2027. The National Living Wage (NLW), the minimum wage rate for all workers aged 21 and over, will rise by 3.9 per cent to £13.21. The minimum wage for 18-20 year olds will increase to £11.27. The rates for 16-17 year olds … Continue reading Budget 2026 – Low Pay Commission (LPC) recommendations take the National Living Wage to £13.21 →

Why Living Hours Employers guarantee 16 hours’ work

The Living Wage foundation For over 20 years, the Living Wage Foundation has championed decent wages, working with nearly 16,000 employers, securing over £4.2 billion in pay rises for low paid workers and changing millions of lives. But high levels of insecure work are trapping millions of people in poverty, which makes it impossible to … Continue reading Why Living Hours Employers guarantee 16 hours’ work →

Changes to 16-17 Saver railcards

From 17th August 2026, 16-17 Saver railcards will be valid for a full year from the purchase date and will not expire when the holder turns 18. more students aged 16 to 18 to benefit from half-price rail fares from September 2026, helping them on their commutes to school, college or training the 16-17 Saver … Continue reading Changes to 16-17 Saver railcards →

Thousands of homes to be eligible for £9,000 off a heat pump

Households on heating oil across England and Wales will be eligible for £9,000 off a heat pump, helping them cut bills. Thousands of households on heating oil across England and Wales will be eligible for a £9,000 heat pump grant  Funding will help rural households make the move from heating oil to a heat pump, … Continue reading Thousands of homes to be eligible for £9,000 off a heat pump →

Great British Summer Savings: Tax cut on kids’ meals and days out goes live

Every family across the UK will pay less tax on meals and days out as new VAT cut helps families enjoy trips to the seaside and making memories with loved ones. “I cannot think of a simpler and more accessible way to bring some affordable treats into family life this summer” – more businesses back … Continue reading Great British Summer Savings: Tax cut on kids’ meals and days out goes live →

Supporting families and businesses with the Cost of Living.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves on 21st May 2026 updated the House of Commons on the Government's economic response to the war in Iran, and the action they are taking to support families and businesses with the Cost of Living. With permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on the Government’s economic response to the war … Continue reading Supporting families and businesses with the Cost of Living. →

Families face age 16 apprenticeship penalty

Families face financial penalties when young people take up apprenticeships. A new report from the Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) finds that the benefit system is influencing post‑16 choices regarding education and training. The perverse effects risk undermining other government policy aims, in particular to reduce the number of young people not in education, employment … Continue reading Families face age 16 apprenticeship penalty →

Help with the cost of living in 2026

taking action to help families with the cost of living The government claim they know that families across the country are feeling the impact of the cost of living - it’s the number one issue impacting working people.  It’s why they say they are taking action to reduce everyday costs, whether it’s freezing rail fares … Continue reading Help with the cost of living in 2026 →

Government to cover travel costs of children with cancer

£10 million financial support package for families of children and young people with cancer to cover travel costs to and from appointments. £10 million support comes as more than a third of families travel over an hour to reach hospital for cancer care Fund a key recommendation of the Children and Young People’s Cancer taskforce … Continue reading Government to cover travel costs of children with cancer →

Small Employers Relief increased to 9%

HMRC have issued the following (edited) information on Wednesday 21st January 2026, effective for payments from 6th April 2026. Dear PAYadvice.UK, Change to Small Employers Relief rate Employers can currently reclaim 92% of employees’ Statutory Maternity, Statutory Paternity, Statutory Adoption, Statutory Parental Bereavement, Statutory Neonatal Care and Statutory Shared Parental Pay. If a business has … Continue reading Small Employers Relief increased to 9% →

Fuel margins remain “persistently high”

Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) publishes latest report analysing competition in the road fuel market and the factors influencing prices paid by drivers. New analysis shows fuel retailer operating costs do not explain why fuel margins remain at persistently high levels  Fuel finder set to launch next year [2026] to help drivers get the cheapest prices and boost competition in the sector  CMA publishes enforcement guidance setting out what happens if … Continue reading Fuel margins remain “persistently high” →

Employment Rights Act receives Royal Assent

Over 15 million people across the UK are expected to benefit as New laws bring the world of work into the 21st century Over  15 million people across the UK are to benefit from new worker protections, including those on the lowest pay and in the most insecure jobs.   New rights confirmed including day one paternity leave and parental leave, statutory sick pay, protections for pregnant workers, increased protection from unfair … Continue reading Employment Rights Act receives Royal Assent →

Budget 2025 – Energy Bills

Billpayers to benefit from an average of £150 off the costs of energy bills. The government have announced in the Autumn Budget that they will cut the cost of living, including by taking an average of £150 off the costs of household energy bills from April next year.   This energy bill support is on top of extending the £150 Warm Home Discount to around a further 2.7 million of the poorest … Continue reading Budget 2025 – Energy Bills →

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 →

Discounts for families to keep warm in winter and cool in summer

Boiler Upgrade Scheme has been expanded to include air-to-air heat pumps and heat batteries giving families more choice in how they upgrade their home. Government expands successful heat pump scheme to technology that keeps homes warm in winter and cool in summer  Heat batteries also included in expansion of Boiler Upgrade Scheme giving consumers more … Continue reading Discounts for families to keep warm in winter and cool in summer →

Prescription charges frozen

The Chancellor is extending the freeze on NHS prescription charges next year to keep prescriptions under a tenner, saving patients around £12 million next year. Rachel Reeves announces cost of a single prescription will remain at £9.90, as she takes firm action to tackle the cost of living ahead of the Budget   The move is claimed to be further evidence … Continue reading Prescription charges frozen →

First rail freeze in 30 years to help commuters

Rail fares frozen for the first time in 30 years in historic intervention to deliver real savings for millions of commuters. The move from the Chancellor and Transport Secretary is to keep household costs down for hardworking families and drive economic growth by limiting inflation by keeping travel costs down. No price increases for fares … Continue reading First rail freeze in 30 years to help commuters →

Real Living Wage Rates Increase to £13.45 in UK and £14.80 in London

Half a million workers are set for a pay boost as over 16,000 employers are signed up to pay the real Living Wage, including IKEA, Everton FC and Aviva.  Popular high-street retailer Uniqlo is the latest to announce it is joining the Living Wage movement.  The real Living Wage is the only UK wage rate independently calculated based on what is needed to … Continue reading Real Living Wage Rates Increase to £13.45 in UK and £14.80 in London →

Government moves to end discriminatory age bands and unfair pay

The Government’s manifesto commitment to deliver a genuine living wage for working people takes a step closer as it sets out new considerations for the Low Pay Commission when recommending the April 2026 National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage. Discriminatory age bands to be removed as new Low Pay Commission remit delivers progress towards … Continue reading Government moves to end discriminatory age bands and unfair pay →

Pre-loved tech helps bridge digital divide 

Pre-loved tech will help to bridge digital divide under new government charter Organisations can sign up to the IT Reuse for Good charter on and then work with their chosen charity partner to distribute devices. Big names like Deloitte and VodafoneThree alongside leading charity Good Things Foundation are uniting with government to encourage organisations to … Continue reading Pre-loved tech helps bridge digital divide  →

Two million free breakfast clubs meals

The first wave of free breakfast clubs have already served two million meals, delivering on the governments Plan for Change. According to the government, thousands of families across the country are already benefitting from the flagship free breakfast club programme, with two million meals served in its first term.   The programme, which is set to … Continue reading Two million free breakfast clubs meals →

518 employers named for breaching minimum wage

518 Employers who have left workers over £7.4 million out of pocket by failing to pay the National Living and National Minimum Wage named. More money put into the pockets of hardworking people, as government delivers the biggest upgrade to worker’s rights in a generation, as part of the Plan for Change Workers will be … Continue reading 518 employers named for breaching minimum wage →

Thompsons Lecture: Employment law and the fundamental right to security

The RT Hon Lord Hermer KVC On Thursday 8th May 2025, the Attorney General Lord Hermer KC delivered the Thompson Foundation Lecture on “Employment law and the fundamental right to security” Introduction Thank you very much for this opportunity to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Thompsons Solicitors, a firm that has been a beacon of … Continue reading Thompsons Lecture: Employment law and the fundamental right to security →

Employment Rights Bill latest

The Government… table amendments to the Employment Rights Bill. The Government have laid amendments to the Employment Rights Bill following weeks of consultation with business groups and unions.  The Bill claims to support the Government’s mission to increase productivity and create the right conditions for long-term sustainable, inclusive, and secure economic growth, delivering on the … Continue reading Employment Rights Bill latest →

Over 370,000 underpaid in April 2024

The Low Pay Commission (LPC) published its report into compliance and enforcement of the National Minimum Wage. The LPC estimates (based on statistics from the employers ASHE data) that around 371,000 workers were underpaid in April 2024. This represents a slight increase on the previous year but is below estimated numbers from the pre-pandemic period. … Continue reading Over 370,000 underpaid in April 2024 →

Check your eligibility for winter support schemes

Cold Weather Payments take effect from 1st November 2024 as low-income households set to get £25 during cold snaps. Alongside the £150 Warm Home Discount to support eligible customers with energy bills and extension to Household Support Fund Pensioners urged to check eligibility for Pension Credit to claim the Winter Fuel Payment From 1st November … Continue reading Check your eligibility for winter support schemes →

DWP – Autumn Budget 2024 to drive up opportunity and drive down poverty

Millions of people, including families, pensioners, carers and those struggling to find work are set to benefit from Autumn Budget reforms to boost work and tackle poverty. Welfare safety net will be strengthened with a new Fair Repayment Rate, an increase to benefits and an extension of vital crisis support. Carers will also see a … Continue reading DWP – Autumn Budget 2024 to drive up opportunity and drive down poverty →

Bus fares cap increasing to £3

“The £3 fare cap will keep bus travel affordable”. single bus fares to be capped at £3 until the end of 2025, ensuring services remain affordable and supporting travel in rural areas and towns fare cap extension comes on top of nearly £925 million invested to deliver high quality services and protect vital bus routes … Continue reading Bus fares cap increasing to £3 →

42% of workers earning below the real Living Wage have less than £10 left over after paying for their essentials 

Living Wage Foundation research reveals that 42% of workers earning below the real Living Wage, around 2.2 million people, have less than £10 left over after paying for their essentials.  They also found that 58% of workers earning below the real Living Wage, around 3.1 million people, are unable to afford an unexpected necessary £850 … Continue reading 42% of workers earning below the real Living Wage have less than £10 left over after paying for their essentials  →

Buy now Pay later – New protections

New rules to give millions of Buy-Now, Pay-Later consumers key protections offered by other forms of credit. Providers will have to ensure lending is affordable – stopping users from accumulating unmanageable debt   Rules deliver better protection for shoppers and clarity for innovative sector after years of uncertainty Millions of shoppers are set to be protected … Continue reading Buy now Pay later – New protections →

Minimum pay enforcement results

The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) have published the enforcement results of National Minimum Wage (NMW) and the National Living Wage (NLW) during the 2022 to 2023 financial year The significant increases to the NMW and NLW in recent years mean a growing proportion of workers are earning within a narrow range of the NMW/NLW rates. Due to the rising … Continue reading Minimum pay enforcement results →

Online jobs adverts with below National Living Wage pay!

New TUC research found 46 jobs online on a single day in July 2024 advertising pay below the National Living Wage! Many are office jobs targeted at graduates and experienced workers with advertised salaries below £20,820 (the annualised minimum wage)  The new Fair Work Agency must lead to a step change in enforcement to stop … Continue reading Online jobs adverts with below National Living Wage pay! →

Make Work Pay first steps

British workers are set for better working conditions as the Government takes its first steps towards its Plan to Make Work Pay. Businesses and workers are to get a bigger voice at the table as Government takes the next steps in its mission to Make Work Pay Deputy Prime Minister and Business Secretary host senior … Continue reading Make Work Pay first steps →

Drivers still paying too much for road fuel

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published 26th July 2024 an update on the widespread action it is taking to ensure that people can get the best possible choices and prices in the face of ongoing cost of living pressures. New analysis highlights how the cost to drivers of weakened competition in the fuel sector … Continue reading Drivers still paying too much for road fuel →

Minimum Wage Revolution – is it about to happen?

As part of the new Labour governments proposed 40 bills which formed part of the Kings Speech delivered on Wednesday 17th July 2024, was the inclusion of proposed changes to National Minimum Wage, forming part of the first 100 days commitment. My Government is committed to making work pay….Kings Speech 2024 The new government has … Continue reading Minimum Wage Revolution – is it about to happen? →

GPA – UK Payroll – Tax Planning and Tax Avoidance Measures Becoming Prevalent

PAYadvice author Simon Parsons is a contributor to the new GPA magazine 04:05 Global Payroll, in this months edition he covers the increasing use of Tax Planning and Tax Avoidance measures which appear to be expanding in use in the current cost of living crisis. However, where some may work, other don’t and HMRC are … Continue reading GPA – UK Payroll – Tax Planning and Tax Avoidance Measures Becoming Prevalent →

Labour win – payroll and HR impacts

With the Labour party winning with a significant majority and forming a new UK government, changes to employment and payroll law will be easier than experienced by prior governments. Tax and NICs Whilst there is an aim for stabilising the UK economy, Labour promised to not increase existing PAYE income tax rate or National Insurance. … Continue reading Labour win – payroll and HR impacts →

Child Benefit for your 16 to 19 year old – Don’t loose out, extend

How to claim Child Benefit if your child is continuing in further education after their GCSEs. More than a million parents will receive reminders from this week to extend Child Benefit for their teenagers if they are continuing their education or training after their GCSEs. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is sending more than 1.4 … Continue reading Child Benefit for your 16 to 19 year old – Don’t loose out, extend →

National Insurance cut is live

Millions of workers checking payslips will have seen reductions in National Insurance contributions (NICs) As the economy turns a corner, the government is claiming to reward hard work, with over £900 a year boost for typical worker They state it is another step in ‘long-term ambition to end unfair double tax on work’ There are … Continue reading National Insurance cut is live →

Tips guidance published

The government’s Tipping Act is a step closer to coming into force, … the Code of Practice is published and laid before Parliament. The new Code of Practice will protect the tips of more than 2 million workers giving them a fair share of the tips received by a company. Tipping Act is a step … Continue reading Tips guidance published →

Childcare rollout on track

New data shows 195,355 children benefitting from government-funded childcare for two-year-olds Hundreds of thousands of parents are be able to more easily manage their career and childcare following the launch of the expansion of childcare in England.. April 2024 sees eligible working parents of 2-year-olds being given 15 hours of funded childcare for the first … Continue reading Childcare rollout on track →

£900 rise to state pension

The State Pension is increasing by 8.5 percent… as part of the Government’s commitment to support pensioners in retirement Millions of pensioners benefit from 8.5 percent increase to the State Pension Pensioners will receive an extra £900 a year on the full rate of the new State Pension Universal Credit and other working-age benefits see … Continue reading £900 rise to state pension →

Debt Relief Order change will support people in financial distress

Changes to Debt Relief Orders (DROs) were announced in the 2024 Spring Budget to offer more help to people in debt  Changes include abolishing the £90 administration fee to obtain a DRO from 6th April 2025 From June, the value of the car a person who wants to obtain a DRO can own will also … Continue reading Debt Relief Order change will support people in financial distress →

VAT threshold raised and rates frozen in boost for small business

28,000 small businesses freed from paying VAT, encouraging them to invest and grow as the threshold is raised from £85,000 to £90,000 Over one million properties protected from higher bills by freezing the small business rates multiplier for a fourth consecutive year Government backs British businesses as it sticks to the plan to cut taxes, … Continue reading VAT threshold raised and rates frozen in boost for small business →

New Childcare funding commences

First phase of the expansion of childcare starts giving working parents of two-year-olds access to 15 hours a week. Thousands of parents of two-year-olds across the country are getting help with their childcare costs as the first phase of the biggest ever expansion in childcare starts. In this first stage, working parents of two-year-olds are … Continue reading New Childcare funding commences →

Child Benefit rate rises

Child Benefit rates go up on 6th April 2024. Millions of families who claim Child Benefit will automatically receive increased payments from 6th April 2024, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed. Families with one child will now receive up to £1,331 a year – an annual increase of £83.20, and up to £881 a … Continue reading Child Benefit rate rises →

Household cash boost

Thousands of households across the UK are set to be around £3,850 better off as a raft of economic policies come into force. According to the UK government: More money in people’s pockets as a result of economic measures coming into effect Raft of economic policies are set to boost UK households and reward work … Continue reading Household cash boost →

Employment boost of 200,000 as cost of living support extended

Plans to boost economic activity while supporting vulnerable people with the cost of living will be driven through by Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride, as the Government unveiled its Budget for Long Term Growth. Household Support Fund extended with £500 million of support for the most vulnerable households  Equivalent of 200,000 more in employment … Continue reading Employment boost of 200,000 as cost of living support extended →

Spring Budget 2024 speech

Spring Budget 2024 speech as delivered by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. Madam Deputy Speaker… As we mourn the tragic loss of life in Israel and Gaza, the Prime Minister reminded us last week of the need to fight extremism and heal divisions. So I start today by remembering the Muslims who died in two world wars … Continue reading Spring Budget 2024 speech →

On low income? Check if you can get £150 energy bill discount

Low income households who qualify for the Warm Home Discount are urged to make sure they get the £150 discount most of the 3 million households who qualify will automatically receive this energy bill support households who need to confirm their details must do so by the end of February 2024 People on low incomes … Continue reading On low income? Check if you can get £150 energy bill discount →

All grown up – Child Benefit goes digital

Child Benefit claims can be made online for the first time. New parents can now claim Child Benefit online for the first time since it was launched 47 years ago, helping millions of families with the cost of raising their children, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced. Since 1977, families claiming Child Benefit had … Continue reading All grown up – Child Benefit goes digital →

Up to £600 winter support for pensioners

Payments of up to £600 are landing directly in the bank accounts of around 11.5 million UK pensioners for the second year running. Comes as part of a Government package helping people of all ages, including recent £300 Cost of Living payments to more than seven million eligible households. The Government also confirmed an 8.5 … Continue reading Up to £600 winter support for pensioners →

Largest ever increase to minimum wage

(c) PAYadvice Ltd The Government has announced Tuesday 21st November 2023 its acceptance of the Low Pay Commission’s recommendations on minimum wage rates to apply for pay period starting on or after 1st April 2024. We judge that this recommendation for the NLW will achieve the target first set by the Government in 2019 – … Continue reading Largest ever increase to minimum wage →

Record wage boost for nearly 3 million workers – April 2024

Biggest ever increase to the National Living Wage, worth over £1,800 a year for a full-time worker… Since 2010 the National Living Wage has doubled in cash terms from around £10,500 to nearly £21,000 a year for a full-time worker. For the first time, 21-year-olds on the National Living Wage will always earn two-thirds of … Continue reading Record wage boost for nearly 3 million workers – April 2024 →

£146 million in bonus payments for Help to Save

HMRC encourages sign up to Help to Save, the government savings scheme, after revealing savers shared £146 million in bonus payments. Help to Save account holders have received £146 million in bonus payments since the scheme launched in September 2018 and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging individuals to take advantage of the generous … Continue reading £146 million in bonus payments for Help to Save →

Real Living Wage increases to £12 in UK and £13.15 in London

10% increase in the real Living Wage as cost of living continues to hit low paid workers the hardest Over 460,000 Living Wage workers are set for a pay boost as 14,000 Living Wage employers are signed up to pay the new rates The new real Living Wage rates are now worth over £3,000 more per … Continue reading Real Living Wage increases to £12 in UK and £13.15 in London →

Save up to £2,000 a year on childcare costs for your little pumpkins

Working families can save up to £2,000 a year on their childcare bills with Tax-Free Childcare. Autumn is here and with October school holidays just around the corner, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding working families to give their childcare budget a treat this Halloween by opening a Tax-Free Childcare account. Parents can use … Continue reading Save up to £2,000 a year on childcare costs for your little pumpkins →

Commuting costs reduced – Bus fares in rural England drop 11% thanks to £2 fare cap

The £2 fare cap has cut travel costs, especially in rural areas, where buses are vital for people to get around. Millions of people in England, including those commuting to work, have enjoyed cheaper bus travel this year due to the government’s actions to lower bus fares and protect services. Statistics published 21st September 2023 … Continue reading Commuting costs reduced – Bus fares in rural England drop 11% thanks to £2 fare cap →

Cost of Living payment dates

Millions of households across the UK will receive £300 directly from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) between 31st October and 19th November. Millions of households to receive £300 from DWP between 31st October and 19th November 2023 This is the second of 3 payments totalling up to £900 supporting eligible people on means-tested … Continue reading Cost of Living payment dates →

Young people urged to ‘claim their cash’

Hundreds of thousands of young adults could have an average of £2,000 waiting for them in their unclaimed Child Trust Fund account. Almost 430,000 18-21 year olds have an unclaimed Child Trust Fund, worth an average of £2,000. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are urging them to claim their cash as part of UK Savings … Continue reading Young people urged to ‘claim their cash’ →

Flexibility for who? Variable shift work not so convenient for employees!

Six Million Face Cost of Living Crisis in Insecure Jobs, with Health and Social Care Workers Worst Affected More than 6 million UK workers are in insecure work, with 3.4 million who are in both low paid insecure jobs The majority (59%) of all shift workers have received less than a week’s notice of their … Continue reading Flexibility for who? Variable shift work not so convenient for employees! →

Bus fare ‘Get around for £2′ extended until 31 October 2023

The offer will be available for single bus tickets on over 5,000 routes in England (outside London), helping passengers save a third off the average ticket price. £2 single bus tickets will continue to help people save money and encourage bus use offer will be available across more than 5,000 routes until 31 October 2023 … Continue reading Bus fare ‘Get around for £2′ extended until 31 October 2023 →

Support measures for mortgage holders

An increasing number of homeowners will be worried about rising interest rates & the impact on mortgages. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt met mortgage lenders to agree a package of commitments to support households through thdifficult time. the Chancellor met the UK's principal mortgage lenders and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to agree support for people struggling … Continue reading Support measures for mortgage holders →

42 of 202 shamed employers breached minimum wage for apprentices!

In the shaming list of 202 employers who had failed to pay minimum wage to their employees and workers, 42 (21%) failed with regards to their lowest paid group of apprentices. HMRC published as part of round 17 shaming list the main reasons why failures are occurring with apprentices. Just because an employer may badge … Continue reading 42 of 202 shamed employers breached minimum wage for apprentices! →

Help to Save extended to April 2025

Please share this message with your networks, to help raise awareness of the Help to Save scheme with those who may be eligible The governments’ Help to Save scheme for those on low incomes, has been extended until April 2025. The scheme offers a bonus of 50p for every £1 saved. Savers can deposit between … Continue reading Help to Save extended to April 2025 →

Cost of Living Payments 2023 to 2024

Getting extra payments to help with the cost of living if you’re entitled to certain benefits or tax credits. You may be entitled to up to 3 Cost of Living Payments of £301, £300 and £299 if you get any of the following benefits or tax credits on certain dates: income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) income-related … Continue reading Cost of Living Payments 2023 to 2024 →

‘Hop Around for £2’ bus fare cap extended until end of June 2023

Government invests £75 million to provide discounted bus travel for another 3 months across 5,000+ routes from over 140 bus companies. millions of passengers and commuters can continue to get on the bus for £2 as fare cap is extended until 30th June 2023 almost a third off bus tickets as government invests up to … Continue reading ‘Hop Around for £2’ bus fare cap extended until end of June 2023 →

National Minimum Wage Rise 1st April 2023

For pay periods starting on or after Saturday 1st April 2023, the National Living Wage and Nation Minimum Wage are rising significantly. For many receiving minimum pay amounts this sees a 9.7% pay increase being applied at some point over the month of April. For those aged 21 and 22 the increase is more as … Continue reading National Minimum Wage Rise 1st April 2023 →

Spring Budget 2023 – energy support extended 3 months

Millions of households will get more support with high energy bills to help ease the cost of living, the Chancellor has announced today ahead of the Spring Budget. The Energy Price Guarantee (EPG) will be kept at £2,500 for an additional three months from April to June 2023, saving a typical household £160. Energy prices … Continue reading Spring Budget 2023 – energy support extended 3 months →

UK Payroll numbers hit new record

HMRC Real Time Information submission have indicated a new record number of people on payroll according to the Office For National Statistics (ONS). The UK employment rate was estimated at 75.7% in November 2022 to January 2023, 0.1 percentage points higher than the previous three-month period. The increase in employment was driven by part-time employees … Continue reading UK Payroll numbers hit new record →

Income tax relief for employment expenses

Employers are being encouraged to communicate where there are work associated expenses and allowances with their Employees so that they can quickly claim tax relief on expenses they are entitled to such as on work uniforms, clothing, tools, professional fees and subscriptions. The P87 form changed on 21st December 2022, and any claims must be … Continue reading Income tax relief for employment expenses →

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s speech at Bloomberg

In his speech Friday 27th January 2023, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt set out his vision for long-term prosperity in the UK. Good Morning Thank you for that welcome, thank you all for joining us at Bloomberg. From the way we communicate and collaborate, to the way we buy and sell goods and services, digital technology has … Continue reading Chancellor Jeremy Hunt’s speech at Bloomberg →

Cost of living boost for students

Financial package to help students with living costs and a further freeze on tuition fees. Students in need are to benefit from additional financial support designed to ease cost of living pressures and help them to meet everyday costs whilst they are completing their studies. In recognition of the challenges some students have faced due … Continue reading Cost of living boost for students →

Take the bus – Get around for £2

millions across England can travel by bus for £2 due to a £60 million government fund to bring down the cost of single tickets until 31st March 2023 passengers can save almost a third off tickets on average to help with the cost of living, with savings of more than 75% on some of the … Continue reading Take the bus – Get around for £2 →

Plan to build an innovative economy

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's plan to build an innovative economy delivering more jobs and higher pay. In the short time I have been Prime Minister, we have made progress: We’ve protected the most vulnerable and lowest paid with cost-of-living support worth £26 billion. Stabilised the economy and people’s mortgage rates. A better future is one … Continue reading Plan to build an innovative economy →

Intervention to keep rail fares down

rail fare increases for 2023 to be capped at 5.9% – 6.4 percentage points below July 2022’s RPI biggest ever government intervention will help reduce the impact of high inflation for commuters and passengers a rise is necessary to support crucial investment and the financial stability of the railway The government has acted with the … Continue reading Intervention to keep rail fares down →

Spring Budget 2023 – 15th March 2023

Today I can inform the House that I have asked the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) to prepare a forecast for 15 March 2023 to accompany a Spring Budget.Jeremy Hunt Money 19th December the government have announced that the Spring Budget will take place on 15th Match 2022. The Treasury have opened their Spring Budget … Continue reading Spring Budget 2023 – 15th March 2023 →

Get Around for £2 by bus

New scheme to help passengers save on bus fares launched across over 130 bus operators. millions of people across England will be able to travel by bus for £2 from 1st January 2023 to 31st March 2023, thanks to £60 million in government funding to cap single tickets people can save almost a third of … Continue reading Get Around for £2 by bus →

Cost of living – Mortgage lenders’ commitments to borrowers

The Chancellor met with major lenders, Martin Lewis, and the FCA to discuss how lenders can support those who may encounter problems paying their mortgage Rising costs and interest rates across the economy are a cause of concern for consumers in many areas of their lives, but the government understands that mortgage borrowers may be … Continue reading Cost of living – Mortgage lenders’ commitments to borrowers →

Significant minimum pay rise may impact employer reward strategies

Employers may need to review their reward strategies! With the proposal of the Low Pay Commission (LPC) for a significant rise in the National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW), low paid employees are set to see rises exceeding 9%! And the future prospect of seeing the NLW starting point drop to 21 … Continue reading Significant minimum pay rise may impact employer reward strategies →

Statutory Sick Pay increases from April 2023 to £109.40

Following the government Autumn Statement on 17th November 2023 and the indication that benefits would rise by 10.1%, the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) weekly rate is to increased by 10.127% from £99.35 to the higher weekly amount of £109.40. The new rate will s applicable to relevant qualifying sickness days from 6th April 2023. The … Continue reading Statutory Sick Pay increases from April 2023 to £109.40 →

Autumn Statement 2022

Dear PAYadvice.UK, The Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP, made his Autumn Statement speech. The Chancellor set out the government’s plan to put public spending on a sustainable footing and get debt falling, while protecting vital public services and prioritising the needs of the most vulnerable. Full details are set out … Continue reading Autumn Statement 2022 →

Time’s up for rogue landlords

Government toughen inspection of failing landlords and improve support for residents in supported housing. Rogue landlords who exploit the supported housing system at the expense of vulnerable residents could be banned from operating or fined up to £30,000 as enforcement is stepped up across the country. A £20 million government fund will support councils to … Continue reading Time’s up for rogue landlords →

19 million plus households have received council tax rebates

The government is extending the deadline for claims as over 99% of households receive the payment. 99% of eligible households have received £150 council tax rebate The government is extending the deadline for councils to ensure as many eligible households as possible receive the payment Council tax rebate forms part of £37 billion package rolled … Continue reading 19 million plus households have received council tax rebates →

Free legal advice pilot helping people facing financial difficulties

Around 20,000 people facing debt difficulties will be invited to receive free early-stage legal advice through a new pilot launched by the government 31st October 2022. Free early legal advice for thousands facing debt, housing and welfare benefit difficulties Legal advice to help stop people falling into further debt and having to appear in court … Continue reading Free legal advice pilot helping people facing financial difficulties →

Families claiming tax credits to receive second Cost of Living Payment from 23rd November 2022

Tax credits only customers will receive their second Cost of Living payment from 23rd November 2022. More than one million claimant families receiving tax credits, and no other means-tested benefits, will get their second Cost of Living Payment from Wednesday 23rd November 2022, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has confirmed. This £324 government payment will … Continue reading Families claiming tax credits to receive second Cost of Living Payment from 23rd November 2022 →

Chancellor Statement – 17th October 2022

Speech to the House of Commons as delivered by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. Mr Speaker, The central responsibility of any government is to do what is necessary for economic stability. Behind the decisions we take and the issues on which we vote are jobs families depend on, mortgages that have to be paid, savings for pensioners, … Continue reading Chancellor Statement – 17th October 2022 →

PM press conference: 14th October 2022

Prime Minister Liz Truss's opening remarks: Good afternoon, My conviction that this country needs to go for growth is rooted in my personal experience. I know what it’s like to grow up somewhere that isn’t feeling the benefits of growth. I saw what that meant and I am not prepared to accept that for our … Continue reading PM press conference: 14th October 2022 →

Chancellor accepts request to stand aside

Friday 14th October 2022 saw one of the shortest service Chancellor of the Exchequer as Kwasi Kwarteng stands aside at the request of the prime minister Liz Truss. Following the Growth Plan 2022 announcements in cuts to both income tax and Corporation tax, the value of government gilts has been under significant market pressure along … Continue reading Chancellor accepts request to stand aside →

Over eight million households to receive second Cost of Living Payment from 8th November 2022

The £324 Cost of Living Payment, which follows on from a £326 payment made from July, is part of £1,200 support package for millions this year The £150 Disability Cost of Living Payment was provided in September, with a £300 additional pensioner payment to come in the Winter Millions of households across the UK will … Continue reading Over eight million households to receive second Cost of Living Payment from 8th November 2022 →

The Growth Plan 2022 speech

The Growth Plan 2022 speech as delivered by Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng. Mr Speaker, Let me start directly with the issue most worrying the British people – the cost of energy. People will have seen the horrors of Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. They will have heard reports that their already-expensive energy bills could reach as … Continue reading The Growth Plan 2022 speech →

£150 Disability Cost of Living Payments begin

Six million people who are paid certain disability benefits will begin to receive a one-off payment of £150 from Tuesday 20th September 2020 Payments are part of the government’s wider £37 billion support package, including the Energy Price Guarantee and cost of living payments totalling £650 Those who had confirmed payment of their disability benefit … Continue reading £150 Disability Cost of Living Payments begin →

Who is Kwasi Kwarteng?

Chancellor of the Exchequer - The Rt Hon Kwasi Kwarteng MP It is increasingly looking as if the government will hold a mini emergency budget later this week probably on Friday 23rd September before the parliamentary recess. This will be there first for the Liz Truss government and the first for the new Chancellor. What … Continue reading Who is Kwasi Kwarteng? →

Uprated real Living Wage rate imminent

The Living Wage Foundation has brought forward the announcement of the new Living Wage Rates (and London Living Wage rate from its tradition November announcement point at the beginning of the Living Wage week, to the earlier date of 22nd September 2022 as part of an initiative to support employees with the cost of living … Continue reading Uprated real Living Wage rate imminent →

Over 16 million households receive cost of living council tax rebate

Around 90% of eligible households have received the government’s £150 council tax rebate to help with the cost of living. Around 9 out of 10 of eligible households have received £150 cost of living rebate Anyone yet to receive the rebate can make a claim to local authority Rebate part of £37 billion of government … Continue reading Over 16 million households receive cost of living council tax rebate →

Preparing for the 3rd National Insurance payroll change!

With the resignation of Boris Johnson and the ongoing election of a new Prime Minister with announcements to be made Monday 5th September 2022, will payroll see it’s third change to National Insurance in one year? With candidates vying for election, promises of changes are frequent and sometimes a little reactionary. With the cost of … Continue reading Preparing for the 3rd National Insurance payroll change! →

Rent cap on social housing to protect millions of tenants from rising cost of living

Under the proposals being consulted on, a cap on social housing rent increases would be put in place for the coming financial year, with options at 3%, 5% and 7% being considered. Social rent cap proposed to support tenants with cost of livingMove could save households £300 per year and provide financial stability for 4 … Continue reading Rent cap on social housing to protect millions of tenants from rising cost of living →

£400 energy bills discount this winter

The UK government sets out further details of the Energy Bills Support Scheme. Households to start receiving £400 off their energy bills from October 2022, with the discount made in 6 instalments to help families throughout the winter periodgovernment confirms important details of the Energy Bills Support Scheme, which will provide energy bill discounts to … Continue reading £400 energy bills discount this winter →