Category Archives: Uncategorised

“Stamp Duty’s Double Take: The Price of a Second Home”

Owning a second property has long been a badge of honour—or a way to escape to the countryside for a cheeky weekend. But from 31 October 2024, the UK government is making it a little pricier to indulge in property number two (or three…or four). Let’s unpack the Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) changes, what counts as a […]

“Double Cab Pickups: From Workhorse to Tax Thoroughbred”

It’s a sad day for double cab pickups—or perhaps more accurately, a sad day for their drivers’ wallets. These trusty steads of the building site, farmyard, and family drive are facing a tax makeover that could have them feeling less like workhorses and more like expensive racehorses. Let’s break down what’s changing, why it matters, […]

“Tax Relief Blockbusters: The UK’s Big Film and TV Sequel”

Lights, camera… tax relief! The UK government has rolled out a shiny new script for the film and TV industry, with tax incentives so enticing they could rival any Hollywood blockbuster. Whether you’re a high-end drama producer, an indie filmmaker, or a wizard of visual effects (VFX), there’s something for everyone in this star-studded sequel […]

Non-Dom Tax Status: The New Rules Simplified (Well, Sort Of)

The UK’s Autumn Budget 2024 confirmed sweeping changes to non-domiciled (non-dom) tax status, marking a significant shift in how international wealth is treated. From April 2025, the UK is moving to a system based on residency rather than domicile, with major implications for foreign income, capital gains, and inheritance tax (IHT). Let’s break it down into plain English (with minimal jargon) […]

Capital Gains Tax Changes: The Budget That Could’ve Been Worse (But Let’s Not Jinx It)

If you were bracing yourself for a whopping Capital Gains Tax (CGT) hike in this budget, you can breathe a sigh of relief—at least for now. While the widely speculated eye-watering increases didn’t materialise, there are still some notable changes that could have you reaching for your calculator. And let’s face it, this is CGT we’re talking […]

Business Rates Relief: A Mixed Bag of ‘Help’ and Headaches

Business rates—a topic that makes most business owners roll their eyes and groan. Whether you’re running a bustling café, a high-street shop, or a quirky holiday let, the rollercoaster of reliefs and rate changes can feel more like an endurance test than a fair system. So, what’s the state of play now, and how will […]

“Wages Up, NI Up, and a Little Help on the Side”

Being an employer these days feels a bit like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle—you’re balancing payroll, compliance, and the occasional employee “emergency” (yes, another flat tire). Just when you thought you had the rhythm down, along come new changes to keep you on your toes. This year, it’s a trifecta: National Minimum Wage increases, a […]

Agricultural and Business Property Relief: The £1 Million Question

You’ve probably heard the rumblings about this one (if not the literal rumblings of tractors on their way to protests). Yes, the new £1 million cap on Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) has caused quite the stir. Farmers armed with pitchforks haven’t quite stormed Westminster yet, but there’s been plenty of talk about how these […]

Pensions and Inheritance Tax: From Safe Haven to HMRC’s Treasure Chest

Starting from 6th April 2027, pensions will no longer be the untouchable bastion of tax efficiency they once were. For the first time, unused pension funds will be included in your estate for Inheritance Tax (IHT) purposes, ending their historic exemption. This is a seismic shift in the world of tax planning—and one that’s bound to send ripples (and a […]

Inheritance Tax: The Freeze That Keeps on Giving (to HMRC)

Let’s talk about Inheritance Tax (IHT)—the “gift” that keeps on taking. The nil-rate band (NRB), the amount of your estate that can pass tax-free, has been frozen at £325,000 since 2009 and will remain that way until 2030. Meanwhile, house prices and asset values have done anything but freeze. Add to that the residence nil-rate band (RNRB), currently £175,000, and we […]