24/11/2024
Autumn Budget 2024: What Business Owners Need to Know
The Chancellor has unveiled the first Labour budget since 2010, promising to “invest, invest, invest.” While there’s a lot for small business owners to consider, not all of the details made it into the televised speech. Here are the key takeaways:
📈 Big Changes to Employers’ National Insurance (NI):
• From April 2025, employers will pay NI at a higher rate (15%, up from 13.8%) and on earnings above £5,000 (currently £9,100).
• Good news: The Employment Allowance, which reduces NI for small employers, will increase from £5,000 to £10,500.
💻 Making Tax Digital (MTD) Expansion:
• From April 2026, businesses and landlords with incomes over £50,000 must maintain digital records and submit quarterly updates via compatible software. Lower income brackets will follow in subsequent years.
💰 Capital Gains Tax (CGT):
• As of October 30th, the CGT rate has risen from 10% to 18%.
👶 Simplifying the High-Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC):
• From 2025, employed individuals can pay the HICBC via their tax code, potentially removing the need to file a tax return. For others, pre-populated data will help reduce missed payments.
With so many changes on the horizon, it’s important to plan ahead. If you have questions about how these updates might impact you or your business, let’s chat!