Welcome to our monthly newswire designed to keep you informed of the latest business and tax issues. Please contact us if you have any questions. Remember, we’re here to help. Dividend Allowance and rates of tax Further details have been provided of the new rates of income tax on dividends and the new Dividend Allowance which will apply to dividends received on or after 6 April 2016. National Living Wage – employers advised to get ready The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) is advising employers to begin preparing for the introduction of the National Living Wage (NLW) which comes into effect from 1 April 2016. Scottish Budget – income tax and LBTT The Scottish Government set out tax and financial plans for the future in their draft Budget on 16 December 2015. Self assessment deadline approaching HMRC have published some interesting statistics to remind taxpayers to complete their tax returns on time. HMRC introduce Advance Assurance for R&D HMRC have introduced Advance Assurance for companies that claim Research and Development (R&D) tax relief. Tax helpline for those affected by severe weather and flooding HMRC have set up a helpline and will enable anyone affected to get practical help and advice on a wide range of tax problems they may be facing. Nuisance call companies warned to expect more fine The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is warning companies making nuisance calls to expect more fines in 2016. |