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News,May 2018

what is Carers Allowance

What is Carer Allowance?

25/01/2024Dividend Allowance

Today we will be discussing what is Carers Allowance, a benefit available in the UK to those responsible for providing care for someone who cannot look after themselves. Carers Allowance is an incredibly important benefit for those who provide vital care and support to others. It is designed to help those who qualify with modest financial support to help with the costs of their caring role. Whether you are a partner, parent, friend, or neighbour who helps others in need, Carer’s Allowance may be available to you if you meet several key criteria. So let’s get started! Are you ready to learn more about this valuable benefit and how to claim it?   Reach out to one of our professionals to get to know about your tax liabilities in the UK for your earnings. Get in touch and you will be provided instant professional help!   What is Carers Allowance? Carer’s Allowance is a means-tested benefit available to people who are not in paid employment or are not earning above a certain level. The current weekly Carer’s Allowance rate is £76.75, paid weekly in arrears. In addition to this, Carers may be entitled to a range of other benefits, including Tax Credits, Child Benefits, Housing Benefits, and Council Tax Reductions. This depends on their circumstances. To apply for Carer’s Allowance, individuals can either: Apply online using the Government Gateway; Call the Carer’s Allowance Unit on 0808 802 1646; Fill in a Carer’s Allowance claim form and return it to the Carer’s Allowance Unit.   Who can Claim the Carer’s Allowance? To be eligible for Carer’s Allowance, the claimant must be 16 years old or over, and not in full-time education. It provides care for at least 35 hours a week. It is for someone who receives a disability-related benefit, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or the higher or lower rate of the caregiver component. Carer’s Allowance is a means-tested benefit available to people who are either not in paid employment or are not earning above a certain level. To be eligible for this benefit, individuals must have been caring for at least one full year before making a claim, They must also have been receiving certain benefits related to their caring role. Such as the Carer’s Element of the Child Tax Credit, or the higher or lower rate of the caregiver component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).   How to Claim Carer’s Allowance? Claiming Carer’s Allowance in the UK is a straightforward process that can be done in a few easy steps. Here’s how you can apply for Carer’s Allowance: 1. Check if you’re eligible: The first step is to check if you’re eligible for Carer’s Allowance. To be eligible, you must be at least 16 years old, and not be in full-time education. It provides care for at least 35 hours per week for a person who receives a disability-related benefit, and not be earning above a certain level. 2. Find out how much you can claim: Once you’ve checked your eligibility, the next step is to find out how much you can claim. The current weekly rate of Carer’s Allowance is £76.75. 3. Apply for Carer’s Allowance: You can apply for Carer’s Allowance online using the Government Gateway, or you can call the Carer’s Allowance Unit on 0808 802 1646. If you’re struggling to apply online, you can also fill in a Carer’s Allowance claim form and return it to the Carer’s Allowance Unit. 4. Submit your application: You will need to provide the following information to submit your application: your National Insurance number, your bank details for payments and a copy of any supporting documents. This includes evidence of care, details of the care you provide and your pension information. 5. Attend an interview: If you’re a new claimant, you will need to attend an interview with a Carer’s Allowance Officer. This will allow you to explain your care arrangement in more detail and to answer any questions they may have. 6. Wait for your decision: Once you’ve submitted your application, you may have to wait for a decision to be made on your claim. You should receive a decision by letter within 10 working days of your interview, and you can expect your first payment to arrive within 4 to 6 weeks.   What if My Circumstances Change? If your circumstances change while you’re claiming Carer’s Allowance, it is important to let the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) know as soon as possible. This will help to ensure that your payments are accurate and that you’re receiving the correct amount of the carer’s allowance. When your circumstances change, you can inform the DWP by filling in a change of circumstances form. You can find these forms on the government website or by contacting the Carer’s Allowance Unit. You must return the form as soon as possible to avoid any delays in your payments.   What are Carers Allowance Overpayments? Overpayments of Carer’s Allowance in the UK occur when you receive more payments than you’re entitled to. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including mistakes in your application. A change in your circumstances that you fail to report or incorrect information provided to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is important to be aware of the potential for overpayments as they can have serious consequences, including having to pay back the overpaid amount. The most common reason for overpayments of Carer’s Allowance in the UK is not reporting a change in circumstances. For example, taking a full-time job while receiving Carers Allowance. This means you may no longer be eligible for the benefit. In this case, it is important to inform the DWP as soon as possible to avoid any overpayment. Another common reason for overpayments of Carers Allowance in the UK is a mistake in your application. For instance, if you provide incorrect information, you may receive more in payments than you are entitled to. In this case, it …

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parent learning allowance

What is Parent Learning Allowance?

13/11/2023Dividend Allowance , employment allowance

This discussion revolves around the financial support provided to parents in the form of parent learning allowance, who are pursuing higher education. The Parents’ Learning Allowance acknowledges the unique challenges faced by parents who strive to balance their parental responsibilities with the pursuit of academic goals. By offering financial assistance for expenses such as childcare, travel, and study materials, this allowance aims to create a more equitable learning environment for parents. Throughout our conversation, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria, application process, and the overall significance of the Parents’ Learning Allowance in supporting parents’ educational journeys. So, let’s get started and uncover all the key aspects of this valuable support.   Reach out to our smart and clever-minded guys to get an understanding of the tax set of rules in the UK queries answered quickly. We will help to understand your queries instantly.   What is Parents’ Learning Allowance? The Parents’ Learning Allowance is specifically designed to assist with the additional expenses that come with being a student and a parent, such as childcare, travel, study materials, and other related costs. This allowance can provide extra financial support to make it easier for parents to pursue their educational goals while balancing their parental responsibilities. To qualify for the Parents’ Learning Allowance, you typically need to be a full-time undergraduate student in receipt of other student funding, such as the Maintenance Loan. The amount you receive will depend on your financial circumstances, including your household income and the number of dependent children you have. It’s worth noting that eligibility criteria and allowances may vary, check with your university or the relevant government authorities for the most up-to-date information. Helping to alleviate some of the financial burden associated with being a student and a parent, it plays a crucial role in promoting access to education and enabling parents to enhance their skills and knowledge for a better future.   What are the Benefits of Parents’ Learning Allowance? This allowance provides several significant advantages for parents who are studying to further their education. These expenses can often be substantial and may pose a financial burden, so the Parents’ Learning Allowance offers relief by providing financial support. By offering this financial assistance, the allowance helps level the playing field and eliminates some of the obstacles that parents may face when balancing their educational pursuits with their parental responsibilities. It allows parents to focus on their studies without worrying about the financial strain and the impact it might have on their families. Lastly, the Parents’ Learning Allowance recognises the value of education and supports parents in enhancing their skills and knowledge. Overall, the Parents’ Learning Allowance in the UK offers valuable benefits that empower and support parents on their educational journey.   What You’ll Get in the Form of Parents’ Learning Allowance? With regards to the Parents’ Learning Allowance in the UK, the specific amount you receive will depend on various factors, including your financial circumstances and the number of dependent children you have. The allowance is designed to assist with the additional costs associated with being a student and a parent. This can include expenses like childcare, travel, and study materials. By providing this allowance, the government aims to ensure that parents have equal opportunities to access and succeed in their academic endeavours. Note that eligibility criteria and the amount of the allowance can vary, so it’s advisable to check with your university or the relevant government authorities for precise information. The Parents’ Learning Allowance plays a crucial role in supporting parents in their educational journey and helping them provide for their families while pursuing their academic goals.   What are the Eligibility Criteria for the Parents’ Learning Allowance? To be eligible for the Parents’ Learning Allowance in the UK, there are a few criteria that need to be met. First, you must be a full-time undergraduate student. Second, you must have dependent children who rely on you for financial support. The number of children you have can affect the amount of allowance you receive. Additionally, your eligibility depends on your household income. There is an income threshold, and if your household income exceeds this level, you may not be eligible. Exact eligibility criteria may vary, so it’s best to check with your university or the relevant government authorities for the most up-to-date information. The Parents’ Learning Allowance is designed to provide financial support to parents who are studying, ensuring that they have the resources they need to balance their educational pursuits and parental responsibilities.   How to Apply If You are Eligible? If you meet the eligibility criteria for the Parents’ Learning Allowance and are ready to apply, the process is relatively straightforward. You can start by reaching out to your university’s student support services or financial aid office. They will provide you with the necessary application forms and guidance on how to complete them. Make sure to gather all the required documentation, such as proof of your student status, details of your dependent children, and any income-related information. Fill out the application forms carefully, ensuring that all the information is accurate and up-to-date. Once you’ve completed the forms, submit them as per the instructions provided by your university. Ask for any additional supporting documentation or information that may be required to support your application. Each university might have slightly different application processes and deadlines, follow their specific instructions and stay within the designated timeframe.   The Bottom Line In conclusion, the discussion on the Parents’ Learning Allowance has provided valuable information about the eligibility criteria, application process, and the overall purpose of this financial support. We’ve learned that this allowance is specifically designed to assist parents who are pursuing higher education by helping alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with being a student and a parent. By providing support for expenses like childcare, travel, and study materials, the Parents’ Learning Allowance aims to ensure that parents have equal opportunities to access and succeed in their educational endeavours. Eligibility criteria and the …

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second-hand vans qualify for AIA

Does a Second Hand Van Qualify for AIA?

12/10/2023Dividend Allowance , employment allowance

Let’s dive into the discussion of whether a second-hand vans qualify for AIA or not. Then, we will shift gears and explore how AIA works and who can actually make a claim. This guide will help to delve into the topic of the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) and how to calculate it to keep the facts right in the UK. Throughout this discussion, we’ll cover various aspects of these topics, providing information and insights to help you navigate the complexities of allowance and relevant financial matters.   Talk to one of our intelligent and clever professionals to get your further queries about the second-hand vans qualify for AIA in the UK. We will ensure to come up with the best possible solution.   What is Annual Investment Allowance? The Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) is a tax relief measure in the UK that allows businesses to deduct the full cost of qualifying capital expenditures from their taxable profits. It’s a great incentive for businesses to invest in assets like machinery, equipment, and vehicles. The AIA provides a generous limit on the amount that can be claimed each year, allowing businesses to accelerate their tax relief and reduce their overall tax liability.   Who can Claim an Annual Investment Allowance? The AIA in the UK is available for a wide range of businesses. Sole traders, partnerships, limited liability partnerships, and companies can all potentially claim the AIA if they meet the eligibility criteria. The key requirement is that the business incurs qualifying capital expenditures on eligible assets. These assets can include machinery, equipment, vehicles, and even certain building improvements. The AIA allows businesses to deduct the full cost of these qualifying expenditures from their taxable profits, which can significantly reduce their tax liability. It’s important to note that there are certain exclusions and limitations to the AIA, such as cars, gifts, and assets used for leasing. Additionally, the AIA limit may vary over time, so it’s essential to stay updated with the latest rules and regulations from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or consult with a tax professional.   How Much Annual Investment Allowance Can I Claim? In the UK, the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) allows businesses to claim a deduction for qualifying capital expenditures. The current AIA limit is £1 million, which means that businesses can potentially claim up to £1 million in capital expenditures as a deduction from their taxable profits. This can be a significant tax relief for businesses, as it encourages investment in assets like machinery, equipment, and vehicles. However, it’s important to note that the AIA limit may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to stay updated with the latest rules and regulations from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).   How to Calculate Annual Investment Allowance? Calculating the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) in the UK is relatively straightforward. To calculate the AIA, you need to determine the total amount spent on eligible assets within a specific accounting period. This includes expenses on machinery, equipment, vehicles, and certain building improvements. Once you have the total amount, you can claim up to the AIA limit.   Second-Hand Vans – Can You Claim AIA? You can claim the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) on second-hand vans in the UK. The AIA applies to both new and used assets if the eligibility criteria are met properly. So, if you purchase a second-hand van for your business, and it qualifies as an eligible asset, you can include it in your AIA claim. This will help a lot in order to bring a reduction to your tax liability and encourage investment in your business. Just make sure to keep proper documentation of the purchase and consult with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or a tax professional to ensure that the van meets the necessary requirements.   Got Second-Hand Assets – Can You Claim AIA on it? Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) claims can be done on second-hand assets in the UK. The AIA applies to both new and used assets. So, if you purchase second-hand machinery, equipment, vehicles, or other qualifying assets for your business, you can include them in your AIA claim. This allows you to deduct the full cost of these assets from your taxable profits, providing significant tax relief and encouraging investment.   The Bottom line In order to conclude the discussion regarding the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) in the UK is that it plays a crucial role in determining how much you need to pay, and understanding this can help you manage your tax obligations effectively. It’s important to stay updated with the latest rules and regulations from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re making the most of available tax benefits.   Our team of professional members loves to hear out your problems and find out the possible and suitable solutions quickly for small businesses’ accounting problems. Call us or email us today.   Disclaimer: The general information this blog provides about whether second-hand vans qualify for AIA for includes text and graphics. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice in the future as well.

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claim guardian allowance

How to Claim Guardian Allowance in the UK?

10/10/2023Dividend Allowance , Finance , Taxation

If you are raising a child whose parents have passed away, then you can claim a guardian allowance. The UK government understands that bringing up a child is expensive. So to ensure they get the right upbringing after their parents pass away, they provide their guardians with an allowance. You can claim a guardian allowance in addition to the child benefit, and it’s completely tax-free. In this blog, we will look at guardian allowance in detail and tell you why you should be claiming it. We will also provide you with the eligibility criteria set by the UK government. Lastly, you will be given a step-by-step guide so you can easily claim a guardian allowance. Read till the end so you don’t miss anything.   If you require personal financial advice, contact us!   What is Guardian Allowance? Guardian allowance is a state benefit provided to legal guardians who are looking after a child under the age of 16. The payments are paid to the guardian on a weekly basis. The current guardian allowance rate in the UK is £20.40 per week, and it’s not taxed under your personal income. In addition, you can claim this on top of the child benefit. However, this policy varies from region to region, so if you are living in Wales, this may not apply.   Why Should You Claim Guardian Allowance? The guardian allowance is accounted for weekly and paid every 4 weeks. However, it can be every week if you are a single parent. The money is easily transferred to any bank account, excluding a Nationwide Building Society account in someone else’s name. In addition, there are some more reasons why you should claim a guardian allowance: Reduce the overall costs of raising a child. Improve your financial situation to increase your income. Become eligible for other benefits, such as free school meals. Ensure that the child is brought up and becomes a valuable member of society. Reduce the financial pressure by having a consistent income. Now that we know what guardian allowance is and why you, as a guardian, should apply for it, let’s look at the eligibility criteria.   Are You Eligible? Guardian allowance, as the name suggests,  is only provided to legal guardians who are bringing up someone else’s child. In addition, the UK government categorises the requirements into two distinct methods. The first case is when both parents have passed away, and the other is when there is a surviving parent.   When Both Parents Have Passed Away: The following are the requirements in case both of the child’s parents have passed away: You are taking care of their child The child’s parents are dead You must have already qualified for child benefit One of the deceased parents must have been born in UK, EEA or Switzerland The parent must have lived in the UK for 52 weeks in a 2-year period since the age of 16   When There is a Surviving Parent: However, the condition changes if there is a surviving parent of the child and you are the guardian: You have no information about the whereabouts of the surviving parent The parents were divorced or separated, and there is no legal obligation on the surviving parent. The parents were unmarried and the mother died with the father unknown The surviving parent is serving a sentence of at least 2 years at the time of the partner’s death The surviving parent is hospitalised by court order   We at CruseBurke can help you apply for a guardian allowance. Get in touch now!   How to Claim Guardian Allowance in 5 Steps Now let’s see how you can apply for and claim guardian allowance in 5 easy steps. These steps should be followed thoroughly, and if you have any questions, you should contact an expert. Let’s begin:   1. Check Your Eligbility Before you start the process, it’s always better to see whether you qualify for the allowance. The eligibility criteria have been mentioned above in detail. Read it thoroughly to ensure that you fulfil all the requirements of a legal guardian before moving on to the next step.   2. Ensure You Have All the Documents Next, it’s time to check what documents you will need while applying. You will need to carry out the research and may also have to contact the guardian’s allowance unit. Ensure that you have all the documents before you move on to the next step.   3. Complete a Claim Form Now, it’s time to fill out a claim form. Make sure that you are using the information and details from verified documents, such as the government-issued ID. Do not misspell anything or write an inaccurate date.   4. Submit the Form Now it’s time to submit your form. You can submit the form to the nearest guardian’s allowance unit. In addition, you can post it to the address mentioned on the firm. Remember that you will receive a confirmation letter once the claim is received by the authority.   5. Prepare for an Interview This is not a necessary step, as the UK government does not carry out interviews for every application. Interviews are only done on a case-by-case basis. So if you feel that you will be doing an interview, start preparing for it.   If you are concerned about your claim, click here for an expert consultation session.   A Quick Summary Guardian allowance is a weekly allowance paid over 4 weeks by the UK government. To be eligible, you must be taking care of someone else’s child. In addition, there are many other specific requirements that you must also fulfil. Before starting the claim process, ensure that you are eligible and gather the required documents. Then you can fill out a form and post it to the address mentioned. But the form can also be submitted to a local representative. Lastly, get an expert opinion if you feel that your case might be weak.   …

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care to learn scheme

What is Care to Learn Scheme?

08/08/2023Business Growth Ideas , Dividend Allowance , Finance , Insurance

If you aim to avail the benefits of the Care to Learn scheme in the UK, this is imperative to know that it provides financial assistance to young parents who are still in education. In this guide, we will talk about the eligibility criteria for the scheme, which requires parents to be under the age of 20 or have a child under the age of 15. Moreover, we will hold a discussion on the application process for the scheme, which involves filling out an application form and waiting for approval from the Care to Learn team. If you are seeking help to find the answers to your basic queries about care to learn scheme, this guide is designed for you. Further in the discussion, you will get to know all the relevant facts.   Reach out to our smart and clever-minded guys to get an understanding of the care to learn scheme. We will help to understand your queries instantly.   What is the Care to Learn scheme in the UK? The Care to Learn scheme in the UK is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to young parents who are still in school or college. The scheme is designed to help parents with childcare and education expenses, including transport, books, and equipment. As mentioned earlier to be eligible for the scheme, parents must be under the age of 20 and have a child under the age of 15. The scheme aims to help young parents stay in education and achieve their goals while ensuring that their children are well-cared for. The scheme covers up to £180 per week for childcare if you are residing other than London, and a certain amount for travel expenses. Overall, the Care to Learn scheme is an important resource for young parents who are looking to further their education and provide a better life for themselves and their children.   What You’ll Get if You are in a Better Position to Avail the Benefits? The Care to Learn scheme in the UK provides many benefits to young parents who are still in school or college. One of the main benefits of the scheme is that it helps parents with the cost of childcare, which can be a major barrier to education for many young people. The scheme also covers expenses like transport, books, and equipment, which can help parents stay on track with their studies. By providing this financial assistance, the scheme helps young parents stay in education and achieve their goals, which can lead to better job prospects and a better life for themselves and their children.   What are the Qualifying Criteria for the Sake of Eligibility? To be eligible for the Care to Learn scheme in the UK, parents must be under the age of 20 and have a child under the age of 15. Parents must also be living in England and be studying at a school, college, or training provider that is participating in the scheme. The scheme is available to parents who are studying full-time or part-time and can be used to cover the cost of childcare, travel, and other expenses related to education. Moreover, the eligibility criteria for the Care to Learn scheme are designed to help young parents who are still in education and need financial assistance to achieve their goals.   How to Apply for the Care to Learn Scheme in the UK? To apply for the Care to Learn scheme in the UK, parents can contact their school, college, or training provider to request an application form. The form will ask for information about the parent’s course of study, their childcare provider, and their financial situation. Once the application has been submitted, it will be reviewed by the Care to Learn team, who will determine if the parent is eligible for financial assistance. If the application is approved, the parent will receive a letter confirming the amount of financial assistance they will receive, which can be used to pay for childcare, travel, and other education-related expenses. The application process for the Care to Learn scheme is straightforward and designed to help young parents access the financial assistance they need to stay in education.   What will Happen After You’ve Applied for the Care to Learn Scheme? After you’ve applied for the Care to Learn scheme, the team will review your application to determine if you are eligible for financial assistance. If your application is approved, you will receive a letter confirming the amount of financial assistance you will receive. This funding can be used to pay for childcare, travel, and other education-related expenses. Once you receive your letter, you can start using the funding to pay for your expenses. If your application is not approved, you will receive a letter explaining why you were not eligible for the scheme. In this case, you may want to explore other options for financial assistance, such as scholarships or bursaries. This Care to Learn team is committed to helping young parents stay in education and achieve their goals and will do everything they can to support you throughout the application process.   The Bottom line To sum up the discussion of what is Care to Learn scheme and how it works, we can say that this scheme in the UK provides financial assistance to young parents who are still in education, helping them to cover the cost of childcare, travel, and other expenses. The scheme is open to parents who are under the age of 20 and have a child who is under the age of 15 and can be used to cover the cost of full-time or part-time education. To apply for the scheme, parents can contact their school or training provider to request an application form and will be notified if they are eligible for financial assistance. The Care to Learn scheme is an important resource for young parents who are looking to further their education and build a better future for themselves …

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dividend allowance

What is the Dividend Allowance 2023-2024?

18/07/2023Dividend Allowance

An inevitable source of income is known as dividends in the UK. However, there is a tax to be paid on the earnings coming from the dividends but the tax rate implemented on this is different from the income tax rate. Which makes things a little confusing for common people to understand. This guide will help to cater for the frequently asked questions in this regard. This includes the discussion of what is dividend allowance, who is in a position to receive the dividend allowance, and how much is the dividend allowance. Let us get further delved into the discussion to know more.   Reach out to our smart and clever-minded guys to get an understanding of the tax set of rules in the UK queries answered quickly. We will help to understand your queries instantly.   What is a Dividend Allowance? A dividend allowance is a tax-free allowance that allows individuals to receive a certain amount of dividend income each year without paying tax. In the UK, the dividend allowance was introduced in April 2016 and is available to all taxpayers, regardless of their income. Moreover, the company’s board of directors determines the dividend amount which can vary depending on the company’s financial performance and other factors. Dividends are usually paid on a regular basis, such as quarterly or annually, and are taxable income for the shareholders who receive them.   Who can Receive a Dividend Allowance? In the UK, the dividend allowance is available to all taxpayers, regardless of their income. This means that anyone who receives dividend income from UK companies or from overseas companies that are based in countries that have a tax treaty with the UK can benefit from the allowance. However, it’s important to note that the dividend allowance is a personal allowance, which means that it cannot be transferred between spouses or partners. Each individual is entitled to their own dividend allowance, and if they receive dividend income above this amount, they may be liable to pay tax on the excess.   How Much Tax will I Pay on my Dividends? In the UK, the amount of tax you will pay on dividend income above the dividend allowance depends on your income tax band. For the 2021-22 tax year, the rates are: Basic rate taxpayers pay 8.75% on dividends, higher rate taxpayers pay 33.75%, and additional rate taxpayers pay 39.35%. It’s important to note that tax rates and allowances can change from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest information from HMRC.   What Tax-Free Allowances Can I Use Against Dividends? In the UK, you can use the following tax-free allowances against dividends: 1- Personal Allowance: This is an allowance that everyone is entitled to, which is currently £12,570 for the tax year 2023-24. This means that you can earn up to £12,570 in dividends tax-free. 2- Dividend Allowance: This is an allowance specifically for dividends, which is currently £1,000 for the tax year 2023-24. This means that you can receive up to £1,000 in dividends tax-free.   What is the Tax-Free Personal Allowance in 2023-24? The amount of personal allowance is known to be the extent of earnings that is tax-free and you do not have any tax implications for such an amount of earnings. Moreover, in the tax year 2023-24, the amount of personal allowance is £12,570 before you come under the liability to pay tax on your earnings. Moreover, this kind of tax is allowed once within the duration of a tax year. Let us take the example of the amount of income you are getting is £10,000, if it is the only amount of income you have earned within one tax year, you are not liable to pay tax on it.   How Much is the Dividend Allowance in the Tax Year 2023-24? A dividend allowance is known to be the amount of dividends that you can earn within the limit of one tax year without paying any tax on it. If the dividends are not reached the limit of the allowance threshold, the amount of money you are earning will be tax-free.   How and When Do I Pay Dividend Tax? In the UK, you need to pay tax on dividends if they exceed your tax-free allowances. The tax rates for dividends depend on your income tax band. For the tax year 2023-24, the tax rates for dividends are: 0% on the first £1,000 of dividends 8.75% on dividends within the basic rate band (£12,571 to £50,270) 33.75% on dividends within the higher rate band (£50,271 to £125,139) 39.35% on dividends within the additional rate band (over Over £125,140) To pay dividends tax, you will need to report the dividend income on your tax return. If you’re employed and pay tax through PAYE, you may need to pay additional tax on your dividend income through a Self Assessment tax return. The deadline for filing your tax return is usually the 31st of January following the end of the tax year.   The Bottom Line Now that you have gathered a fair amount of information regarding the dividend allowance in the tax year 2023-24, we can bring the discussion towards wrapping up. As you need to pay tax on dividends if they exceed your tax-free allowances, and the tax rates for dividends depend on your income tax band. To pay dividends tax, you will need to report the dividend income on your tax return and pay any tax due. The deadline for this act of filing the tax return is usually the end of January.   Our team of professional members loves to hear out your business problems and find out the possible and suitable solutions quickly to the reporting in the UK. Contact us now.   Disclaimer: The information about the dividend allowance provided in this blog includes text and graphics of general nature. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.

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what is trading income allowance

New Allowances for Trading and Property Income

11/10/2022Dividend Allowance

As we all are aware of the fact that the requirement of registration of self-assessment is only mandatory when the amount of money you earn is more than £1,000 within a period of 12 months. This is a specified case for the sole traders as well. The same condition is to pay income tax on the amount of your business income. Are you wondering what is trading allowance and how is it relevant to the discussion of paying income tax? Well, a trading allowance is a kind of allowance that is beneficially available for sole traders who are earning to a certain limit. If the amount of your income is £1,000 or more than that within the period of a year, the scenario of registration with HMRC will be different for you. You will either be allowed to use the trading allowance or capital allowances and actual business expenses. This means you are not allowed to use both the beneficial factors of trading allowance and actual business expenses at the same time. Moreover, it is imperatively realised that the trading allowance is not applicable to individuals who are associated with limited companies, partnerships, and partners. Further in the discussion of this guide, we will delve into the explanation of the basic understanding of trading allowance, what happens when your income fluctuates more or less than £1,000.   Reach out to one of our professionals to get to know what is trading income allowance is for your business. We will love to offer instant help!   What is Trading Income Allowance? The trading income allowance refers to the kind of allowance that is available for individuals who are associated with the trading market as sole traders or in relation to miscellaneous income. The popular name for this kind of allowance is trading income allowance, however, it is also known by the name of miscellaneous income at times. Moreover, going through the process of applying for this allowance makes it necessary for you to be aware of the eligibility criteria to realise exactly when you can be entitled to get the trading allowance and what is the procedure to apply for this. The way trading allowance works for exempting national insurance contribution and income tax from your miscellaneous income or casual income to a level of amount £1,000 within the period of a tax year. The income from sharing economy is also included. Car sharing and the income that is coming from your extra hobbies and activities can also be included in this list. The condition that applies here is that your side business or activity must turn into an income-raising source for commercial purposes. The case will remain the same for the individuals who are earning through their side gigs.   What Will Happen If My Income is £1,000 or Less? If the sum of your gross trading income is  £1,000 or less than this amount in a tax year, the amount of trading allowance will help to cover this matter. This is considered a full relief. You will require your records of the business to make an accurate calculation of your total income. This will happen in the basis period as well. Let’s take the example of an individual who is selling homemade jams and earning an amount of £250. Now the individual is in need of garden tools for this purpose and has spent the amount of £125. Due to this step now the total of your casual and trading income becomes  £375. We all know the trading allowance limit is  £1,000. It will be suggested to use £375 as a part of your allowance.   What Will Happen If My Income is £1,000 or More? Just before any deductions and business expenses, if your trading income is more than the amount of £1,000 during the basis period of your tax year. This will allow you to choose the deduction from your trading allowance. This means you will only deduct from the trading allowance and not from the business trading expenses. If such a practice is chosen by you, this means that the taxable profit amount will be considered as total income. Here we will take the example of an individual who is carrying out a home baking business. The total monthly income earned from the home-based business is  £1,700. If the seller now makes a decision to claim the trading allowance, the taxable profit will be an amount of £700 in this case.   Multiple Sources of Trading In the case the type of trading is more than one, even then you will be allowable to claim one trading allowance. No matter if it’s casual income or miscellaneous income. Moreover, there is a choice for you to make a decision about how will you like to allocate the amount of allowance because of your multiple income sources. This is imperative to remember here that when you decide to claim the trading allowance, you will not be allowed to claim the tax relief for the expenses of your business. It is wise to consider the effects to get the most benefits from the trading allowance.   The Bottom Line Now that you have gathered a fair amount of information about what is trading income allowance, we can bring the discussion towards wrapping up. We can say that new alliances for trading and property are quite beneficial if you follow the relevant terms and conditions of the process. However, if you do not have an idea of claiming the allowance or if you are already getting the benefits of tax relief for your business expenses, you will be in trouble. We hope these few minutes of reading about the trading facts will help you to make the right business choices in the future.   Get in touch with our young, clever and tech-driven professionals if you want to choose the best golden rules of accounting for your business.    Disclaimer: The information about what is trading income allowance provided …

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tax treatment of dividends

Tax Consequences of ‘Illegal’ Dividends

04/10/2022Accounting , Bookkeeping , Dividend Allowance

When we are associated with the business world, we all know that the undistributed profits of a business can help to declare dividends. It is required to follow the accurate procedures well in order to make all the relevant payments legal. If there is a scenario where a director tends to sanction illegal dividends, the concerned individual and the director both will be associated with a significant tax. This will be applicable if the director was not aware of the non-validity in this process. Tax treatment of dividends is important to understand here, this will allow you to know that the credits in a company’s account do not specify that the earned profits are enough for the business. Moreover, when it comes to the declaration of dividends for a company, the calculations must belong to retained profits.   Reach out to one of our professionals to get to know what is the best way to handle tax treatment of dividends for your business in the UK.    Tax Treatment of Dividends vs Salary People often wonder about the directors and their salaries. The director of a company that is carrying out a business owned by another individual, the role of the director becomes a shareholder as well. There is always a beneficial factor involved when there is a split observed in the salary and dividends and the benefits are mostly related to the tax affairs. Such an arrangement achieves the following beneficial factors: There is no factor of attraction involved in the dividends for the national insurance contributions. The tax charges will be low because the rate of tax is lower on dividends as compared to the PAYE income. There is a separate allowance for dividends that is tax-free. Moreover, these benefits allow you to become more and more tax efficient. This is why the directors tend to take a tax-free amount of the salary and the rest of it goes to them in form of dividends.   When is the Right Time to Pay the Dividends? By now you must be wondering about the dividend payments and when is the most suitable time to pay. See the following listed factors to define when is the right time to pay the dividends. There should not be any duplication in the payment. This means that you have not paid any dividends already in any form. This is also applicable when your company profits exceed the limit of business losses in the same period.   What are the Consequences of Illegal Dividends? There are common problems that come across the way of directors that result in the form of illegal dividends. They include the followings: When you do not pay the same amount of money to all the shareholders who belong to the same class. When you fail to make a declaration of the dividends through accurate paperwork. When you fail to ensure that adequate reserves are there to support the payments of dividends. When you are not able to assess the solvency of the company. If your accounts are not prepared enough to play a supporting role for interim dividends. If you are not aware or self-assured about the declaration of your dividends, it is wise to reach out to an expert for help and suggestions. This will allow you to realise whether you can pay the dividend and how will it help you with the relevant paperwork. If you are not well aware of the dividend process, you will fall into illegal dividends and lack of knowledge will not be a justified reason for that.   The Bottom Line Now that you have gathered a fair amount of information about the tax treatment of dividends for your business, we can say that illegal dividends can make you suffer serious consequences, so it is better to realise how imperative it is to be well aware of the dividend process. We hope these few minutes of reading will help you to develop a better understanding of the tax treatment of dividends and you will be able to handle the dividend process efficiently.   Get in touch with our young, clever and tech-driven professionals if you want to choose the best guide for the tax treatment of dividends for your business in the UK  for your business.    Disclaimer: The information about the tax treatment of dividends for your business in the  UK provided in this blog includes text and graphics of general nature. It does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.

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types of capital allowances

What are the Different Types of Capital Allowances?

19/09/2022Dividend Allowance

The tax is a serious affair that keeps a non-stop communication and relation between the people who are carrying out business and the government in the UK. The good news for the business people here is that if your business is eligible enough and you can claim the tax relief as well. Any product or tool that is used for the benefit of your business, in the long run, can be considered a part of the capital allowance. This tells us that such items are treated as a business expense and this will be able to reduce the taxable profit. You must be aware of the multiple types of capital allowances. Moreover, in today’s guide, we will help you to develop an understanding of the set of rules that you must consider before you plan to write off the business expenses in the form of the asset cost. This will be against your taxable profits. Further in this guide, you will gather more about the types of allowances and what is there for you to claim for tax relief in the process.   Reach out to one of our professionals to get to know what is the best way to use types of capital allowances UK  for your business. We will love to offer instant help!   What is the Capital and What are the Different Types of Capital Allowances? We all are well aware of the fact that the eligible capital of a business must be under the ownership of the business and its usage as well. The asset must be in the use of the business for a long period. The minimum period in the business is considered a period of more than one year. In the case of the leased or hired asset, there can not be a claim for capital allowance. However, this still allows you to enjoy the benefits of the relief on the assets of the business. Machinery and plant are the usual examples of capital. The cost you spent on the property or the building is not allowed to claim. Some parts of the property and building can be considered in some circumstances. The usual examples that easily qualify for capital allowances include the following: Machinery and specialised equipment Equipment like saws and other tools Vans and the cars Moreover, some parts of a building that is used for business purpose can be considered for capital allowance. These are called fixtures and integral parts. You must be wondering what exactly are the fixtures and integral parts. Well, the parts of a property that are not removed easily are in the list of fixtures and integral parts of the building. The heating system, ventilation system, and electrical system are a few such examples of the integral parts of the building that is used for business purpose. Moreover, the multiple types of capital allowance are listed and explained below.   1- Annual Investment Allowance An annual investment allowance gives you the opportunity to claim 100% cost that you spent on the machinery and plant for business purposes. However, there is an annual limit to this type of allowance. You are not allowed to claim for the annual allowance when it comes to your car, however, your work van can come into the list of eligibility and qualifies for the claim. The process must be completed within the same financial year in which you bought the plant or machinery. In the case the total cost is exceeding a certain limit, it will then fall into writing down allowance.   2- Writing Down the Allowance When the limit of your business expense exceeds the certain limit of the annual investment allowance, you will be guided to claim for the writing-down allowance. This type of allowance allows you to make a deduction of the qualifying assets cost from your business profits annually. The rate is depending on the asset type. You are required to make groups that are according to the qualifying factors and rates. When items are not qualified for annual investment allowance, you are allowed to add them to the writing-down allowance. Your car and vans that you used to own before the business also are a few such examples.   3- First-Year Allowance Just the way you do in the annual investment allowance, qualifying asset costs can be claimed 100%. Just ensure that you do it in the same accounting year of the purchase. This case is applicable for a few expenditure types that are listed below: Refuelling equipment of vehicles Machinery and plant used for the enterprise zone. The machinery that is used for water and energy saving. Zero emissions vehicles CO2B emission cars. Moreover, there are exceptions for the cases of prior used items, gifts and other such item stat are in the use of sole traders prior to incorporation.   4- Small Pool Allowance Once you have reached the annual investment allowances limit, you are allowed and suggested to make a small pool allowance. This way you will be able to make a claim for the whole amount rather than going for the writing down allowance.   The Bottom Line Now that you have gathered a fair amount of information about the types of capital allowances, we can say that you can get the benefits of allowances only when you know the professional procedure to make a claim for the assets and capital you are using for business purposes. There are a few exceptions that are needed to be considered as mentioned above. We hope these few minutes of reading have helped to develop a better understanding of how to make a successful claim and keep yourself gaining the most benefits from the suitable type of allowance.   Get in touch with our young, clever and tech-driven professionals if you want to choose the best types of capital allowances for your business.    Disclaimer: The information about the types of capital allowances provided in this blog includes text and graphics of …

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married persons allowance

Claiming Marriage Allowance – Are You Eligible?

05/09/2022Dividend Allowance , Misc

It will be beneficial for you to know exactly how a married person’s allowance works if you are residing in the UK. This allowance for married couples tends to increase every year. As soon as the new tax year begins on the 6th of April, the increased implications are also working with the date. Whether you are living in a civil partnership or a married relationship, you will find yourself entitled to the marriage tax allowance. Several couples nowadays are missing out on this beneficial opportunity due to the lack of awareness. The way to access this allowance and get yourself and your spouse advantageous is possible through an easy way. If you are still wondering how? We have got you covered here as this guide will help you to develop an understanding of the basics of a married person’s allowance, how to apply for it, and what happens if your spouse or civil partner dies.   Do get in touch with one of our experts to get your queries answered quickly. We will help you decide about a married person’s allowance with a clear mind.   What is a Married Person’s Allowance? If you are residing in the UK and living in a married relationship or a civil partnership, the personal allowance can transfer up to  £1,260 for one of you to your partner. In the tax year 2022-23 where your allowance is  £12,570, the transferred amount is just 10% over the regular allowance. Your basic personal allowance refers to the amount of money you are earning on which you do not have to pay any tax. The marriage allowance is also known by the name Marriage Tax Allowance. There are a few conditions on which you can make yourself entitled to getting the marriage allowance. These include the following: You are living in a married relationship or a civil partnership and have not yet applied for any marriage allowance. You are not entitled to pay income tax because your income is less than the personal allowance and you do not have to pay. This means your income is less than the amount of  £12,570 in the tax year 2022-23. The income of your partner or spouse is between £12,571 and £50,270. So he has to pay the basic rate of income tax.   Learn How to Apply for the Marriage Allowance The method to apply for the marriage tax allowance is simple and easy. All you have to do is apply online and for this purpose, you can go to the website GOV.UK. To complete the process, you will have to provide your national insurance number and the basic documentation to prove your identification. The other accessible option is to reach out to HMRC by phone call. The calling number for this regard is 0300 200 3300. This you can do between Monday to Friday. The working hours are 8 AM to 6 PM. There are call charges applicable on this as well. You can seek more information from the government website also and see the convenient option for yourself.   How to Claim the Marriage Allowance for the Previous Years? If you have missed out on the marriage tax allowance in the previous years and now you are looking for ways to make a claim. For each year to make a successful claim, you are required to meet certain criteria. This is imperative for you to understand here that the threshold limit varies from one person to another and it depends on whether you are a basic taxpayer or a non-taxpayer. Also, consider the tax year you aim to claim the marriage allowance. Your backdate claim is possible for up to four years only. You have the opportunity to apply online here as well on the website of the government.   How to Claim the Marriage Allowance After Your Spouse’s Demised? In case your partner was demised after the year 2016, but you meet all the criteria standards of the marriage tax allowance, you are entitled to apply for the allowance still. You even have a chance to apply to backdate but only for four years. You can make a call on the number 0300 200 3300 to make approval of your application. Consider the days and timings open for the phone call service as mentioned above. Your claim will still be considered if you can prove that you meet the required criteria which will make you entitled to the allowance easily and you will start to get the benefits once you are approved.   The Bottom Line Now that you have gathered a fair amount of information about a married person’s allowance, we can say that the marriage allowance turns out to be beneficial for married couples or civil partners in the UK if they meet the criteria and their income is as low as they do not have to pay the income tax for that. Even if your partner has died after 2016, you can still be entitled after considering the required criteria. If you have missed out on the allowance in the previous years due to unawareness, you have the opportunity to claim backdates up to four years. We hope these few minutes of reading have helped to develop an understanding of how to get the benefits of the marriage tax allowance if your income is low and you are living in a marriage relationship or a civil partnership in the UK.   Our team of professional members loves to hear about your business problems. Call us on 02086868876 or email us today. We will come up with fine solutions.   Disclaimer: The information about a married person’s allowance provided in this blog includes text and graphics that are general. This does not intend to disregard any of the professional advice.

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