Tax News

Directgov explains Pre-Budget Report 2009 on web, mobile and TV

What will the Chancellor’s announcements in today’s Pre-Budget Report (PBR) mean for you? People including environmentalists, motorists, parents and pensioners can all find clear, concise information about this year’s Pre-Budget Report (9 December 2009) by visiting the Nation’s Official Website, Directgov.

Pre-Budget Report should signal annuities shake up

Ahead of next week's Pre-Budget Report, Age Concern and Help the Aged is calling for changes to tax rules and a radical shake up of the annuities market to give hundreds of thousands of people with small pension funds a better deal.

Childcare vouchers debate - campaigners issue warning

Following yesterday's announcement by the Government on tax relief for childcare vouchers, campaigners for people on low incomes have warned that many people are losing out by taking up vouchers when they would be better off taking up tax credits.

Backdating of claims - another tax credits scandal?

Many tax credit claimants are missing out because of a failure by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to operate the rules correctly, say low income campaigners.

Will Darling pull a rabbit or a rat out of his hat?

Next week's pre-Budget Report takes place against the backdrop of spiralling public debt and a fast-approaching General Election, prompting fears that Chancellor Alistair Darling may be set to further squeeze high earners until their pips squeak.

Student Christmas workers could get a tax gift

As many full-time students prepare to find temporary work over the Christmas period, they may find that they are in line for tax free income.

Rise in VAT to hit consumers’ wallets in 2010

New research from Auto Trader reveals that the imminent rise in national VAT will have a significant effect on consumers in 2010, with 30% of people admitting they will be forced to reconsider their spending habits.

VAT online alert for businesses

VAT-registered businesses are being urged to get ready now for major changes to VAT return filing and payment coming in next April.

Online tax return reminder

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is issuing a reminder to anyone who hasn't yet submitted their 2008-09 Self Assessment tax return - don't forget, your return must be both on time and online.

Telephoning HMRC? Keep a careful note

When ringing HMRC, it is essential to keep a careful note of the date and time of the call, to whom you spoke, and what was said.

Fidelity calls on Darling to make ISAs tax free

As the Chancellor of the Exchequer prepares his pre-budget report, Fidelity International, UK ISA provider, is calling for Mr Darling to make ISAs completely tax free in a bid to jump-start the nations' savings and help people better prepare for their retirement and other financial needs.