Latest Payroll

Auto-Enrolment: Are you prepared? Auto-enrolment is looming for many small employer’s now, with the next staging date of 1 October 2016 fast approaching. Are you prepared for the complexities that come with Auto-enrolment?  Although many software providers cater for this now, often understanding the legislative details can be a minefield. Through our Ely Payroll department…

Builders: Problems obtaining CIS refunds from HMRC ? Over recent years many limited company subcontractors working in the construction industry have experienced problems and delays in obtaining their CIS refunds from HMRC, due records not matching, i.e. the contractor who made the deduction has not correctly reported this on their monthly CIS returns. Subcontractors who…

CIS: Big administration changes. With effect from 6 April 2016, a lot has changed within the CIS processing sector: The abolishment of the paper return, Amendment to the nil return obligation, Changes to the Compliance and Turnover tests when applying for Gross status. Paper seems to be a thing of the past and so HMRC…

Self-Employed Lorry Drivers: Beware HMRC crackdown. HMRC have written to the RHA about the tax status of lorry drivers. The letter outlines the key points of HMRC rules in this area and suggests that a lorry driver is unlikely to be self-employed unless he is an owner driver. HMRC is particularly concerned about some ‘avoidance…

ECJ Ruling: Holiday pay must be calculated based on all elements of normal earnings. A new case (British Gas v Lock) has confirmed that holiday pay calculations should take account of commission earnings as well as overtime. Mr. Lock, a salesman for British Gas received a basic salary plus commission on a results based. The commission element…

Examining whether it is best to run the business as a limited company or otherwise (sole trader, partnership or LLP), If operated as a limited company: Looking at the combined business and personal tax ‘picture’ and optimising the mix of retained profits, salary, bonus and dividends (for the business owner and, where relevant, immediate family…

IR35: CIOT and HMRC both suggesting changes required. The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT) has suggested a new approach to tackle those who are ignoring or manipulating IR35 rules so they can avoid tax payments to HMRC. HMRC have recently suggested transferring the IR35 compliance obligation from the worker and his/her personal service company (PSC) to…