Alcohol Duty freeze and Fuel Duty freeze extended
The freeze on Alcohol Duty has been extended from August 2024 to February 2025. Similarly, Fuel Duty will remain frozen for another 12 months.
These extensions aim to alleviate economic pressures in these industries and ease costs for consumers.
VAT Registration threshold increase to £90,000
The VAT registration threshold is set to be increased from £85,000 to £90,000, marking the first increase in 7 years.
The increase will come into play in April 2024, meaning businesses won’t be required to become VAT-registered until their taxable turnover reaches this new threshold. This aims to support smaller businesses and economic growth.
Introduction of a £5,000 British Investment ISA
An increase to the savings allowance was announced, with the creation and introduction of a new £5,000 British Investment ISA which will have all the same benefits as current ISAs and create a further £5,000 of tax-free savings on top of the current ISA limits. This offers individuals more flexibility in their investment choices.
Furnished Holiday Let tax relief and Stamp Duty relief abolished
The tax relief regime for Furnished Holiday Lets is to be abolished, making it less attractive for second homeowners to let their properties to holidaymakers over long-term residential tenants. There hasn’t yet been a date announced for this change, but we update this page when we know more.
Additionally, Stamp Duty relief for multiple dwelling transactions will also be abolished.
Capital Gains tax higher rate reduced to 24%
It was announced that the higher Capital Gains tax rate of 28% will be reduced to 24%.
This reduction aims to enhance investing and boost the movement of month, hopefully leading to more economic activity.
Changes to Child Benefit and High Income Child Benefit tax charge
From April 2024, the High Income Child Benefit tax charge will increase from those who earn £50,000, to those that earn over £60,000, aligning with a long-term view to make the system fairer relative to total household income.
National Insurance cuts for Employees and Self-Employed
From April 2026, Employee National Insurance will see a further reduction of 2p, from 10% to 8%. This means the average employee will take home around £400 more per year.
Additionally, for self-employed individuals, Class 4 National Insurance will decrease from 8% to 6%, providing additional relief.
We hope this budget breakdown helps provide some clarity and consistency over the coming months, offering flexibility for individuals and businesses to plan for the future.
We will update this page as further guidance is released. Stay tuned for more insights.
If you have any questions, give us a call on 01872 267 267, or email us at contact@whyfield.co.uk.