August 2026 UK payroll employment and earnings data released from HMRC PAYE records

HMRC and the Office for National Statistics have jointly published monthly payroll employment figures and wage data for August 2026 derived from Real Time Information submitted through the PAYE system. The accredited official statistics provide current estimates of payrolled employee numbers and their earnings across the UK economy. This regular monthly release offers businesses and compliance professionals up-to-date labour market insights based on actual PAYE submissions.

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

Parents must extend Child Benefit for teenagers by 31 August deadline

Families need to notify HMRC before 31 August if their 16 to 19-year-old children are staying in non-advanced approved education or training, or their Child Benefit payments will stop. This extension requirement ensures continued eligibility for families whose teenagers are not leaving education after age 16. The deadline applies to all parents receiving Child Benefit for young people in qualifying education or apprenticeships.

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

ACTS Location Codes Released for Customs Declaration Service Data Element 5/23

HMRC has published a reference list of location codes for Data Element 5/23 in the Customs Declaration Service, enabling traders to specify examination locations for goods held under Authorised Consignee Temporary Storage arrangements. The codes are contained in Appendix 16N and allow consignees to designate where their stored goods may be inspected by customs authorities. This guidance applies to operators using the CDS system for ACTS declarations.

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

HMRC Publishes Privacy Notice on Data Protection Procedures

HMRC has released formal guidance outlining its data protection policies and procedures for handling personal information. The notice explains how the tax authority collects, processes, and protects data in accordance with privacy regulations. This guidance applies to all individuals and businesses interacting with HMRC services, helping them understand their rights and how their personal data is managed.

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

HMRC publishes regulated aerodrome location codes for customs declarations

HMRC has issued guidance setting out the specific codes that must be used to identify regulated aerodromes in Data Element 5/23 of the Customs Declaration Service. The codes are listed in Appendix 16B and indicate the locations where goods may be subject to customs examination at regulated aerodromes. This guidance applies to traders and customs agents submitting declarations for goods handled at these facilities.

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

How to Apply for Making Tax Digital Income Tax Exemption

HMRC has published guidance on the process for traders and individuals seeking exemption from the Making Tax Digital for Income Tax requirements. The exemption application allows eligible parties to continue using traditional record-keeping methods rather than submitting quarterly tax updates through digital channels. Businesses and self-employed individuals who believe they qualify should follow HMRC’s specified application procedure to request relief from these obligations.

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

Railway Safety 2002 Act Commences in Northern Ireland

The Department for Infrastructure has issued a commencement order to bring provisions of the Railways Safety Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 into force. This first commencement order activates elements of the 2002 Act that govern railway safety requirements across Northern Ireland. The order marks the implementation of safety standards and regulations established under this legislation for rail operators and infrastructure managers in the region.

Source: legislation.gov.uk – Read the original

HMRC Opens Voluntary Disclosure Window for Overstated R&D Tax Relief Claims

Businesses that have claimed excessive Research and Development tax relief and cannot correct the error through standard Company Tax Return amendments can now make a voluntary disclosure to HMRC. This route allows companies to report historical R&D relief claims made in error outside the normal amendment timeframe. The disclosure process provides an alternative compliance pathway for businesses seeking to rectify prior-year submissions without waiting for HMRC enquiries.

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

HMRC App Now Available for Mobile Users to Access Tax and National Insurance Information

HMRC has released a mobile application that allows users to access information about their tax affairs, National Insurance contributions, and benefits directly from their mobile devices. The app provides a convenient way for individuals to check their personal tax and benefits details without needing to use a computer or contact HMRC directly. Users can download the app on their smartphones to manage their tax-related information on the go.

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

HMRC Launches Updated Tax Calculators and Tools for Traders and Businesses

HMRC has made available a range of digital tools and calculators designed to assist businesses and traders in determining their tax obligations. These resources cover various tax scenarios relevant to customs, duty, and trade compliance matters. The tools are accessible through HMRC’s online platform to help users accurately calculate liabilities without requiring professional assistance for straightforward calculations.

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