Day: 5 August 2026

HMRC has released updated local reference rent data effective July 2026, setting rent levels for residential properties across England organised by broad rental market areas and number of rooms. The reference rents serve as benchmarks for determining housing benefit entitlements and rental payments across different regions. This quarterly update provides landlords, tenants, and benefits administrators with current rental guidance for properties ranging from one to four-plus bedroom units.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC has released a reference list of legitimate emails it sends to help businesses and individuals distinguish genuine communications from fraudulent phishing attempts. The list shows recent authentic HMRC email subjects and content, enabling recipients to verify whether messages claiming to be from the tax authority are genuine. This resource is particularly valuable for customs and logistics professionals who may receive trade-related communications from HMRC and need to confirm their authenticity before providing sensitive information or taking action.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC VAT Notice 700/1 sets out the circumstances under which businesses must register for VAT and the registration process they need to follow. The notice covers eligibility criteria based on turnover thresholds and business type, as well as the steps required to complete registration. This guidance applies to all UK businesses that meet VAT registration conditions and need to understand their compliance obligations.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC has confirmed that its next set of official statistics covering Individual Savings Accounts, Child Trust Funds and Help to Save accounts will be published in September 2026. The release will provide data on these three UK savings products and their uptake among account holders. This announcement establishes the publication schedule for the annual savings statistics that HMRC monitors and releases to track participation in these government-backed savings schemes.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original

HMRC has archived its ATA/CPD Carnets Manual, which previously provided guidance on the international customs documentation system used for temporary importation of goods. Businesses requiring information on carnets should refer to current HMRC resources or contact customs directly for up-to-date procedural guidance.

Source: HMRC (GOV.UK) – Read the original