HMRC publishes latest alcohol duty receipts and production data to autumn 2026

HMRC has released its Accredited official statistics bulletin on alcohol, presenting provisional duty receipts figures through October 2026 alongside production and clearances data extending to September 2026. The bulletin provides up-to-date insights into alcohol sector activity and tax revenues for businesses and trade professionals monitoring market trends. This statistical release forms part of HMRC’s regular reporting on alcohol duty performance across the UK.

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

Universal Credit two-child limit exemptions explained for families with multiple children

HMRC has clarified the rules governing Universal Credit entitlements for households with more than two children where claims were made before 6 April 2026. The guidance outlines specific exceptions and circumstances that may apply to families exceeding the standard two-child limitation within the Universal Credit system. This information is relevant to claimants managing benefits for larger households during the specified period.

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

Valuation Office Technical Manual for Business Property Ratings Part 1 Released

The Valuation Office has published Part 1 of its technical manual, which sets out the methodology and standards for assessing rateable occupation of non-domestic business properties in the UK. This guidance document provides practitioners and property professionals with the official framework for determining whether a property qualifies as rateable and how occupation is evaluated for rating purposes. The manual serves as the definitive reference for consistent application of rating principles across different types of business premises.

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

HMRC October 2026 Employer Bulletin Released with Latest Payroll Updates

HMRC has published its October 2026 edition of the bi-monthly Employer Bulletin, providing employers and payroll agents with current information on payroll compliance matters. The bulletin covers topical payroll issues and regulatory developments relevant to UK employers managing their tax obligations. This publication forms part of HMRC’s regular guidance programme to keep the employer community informed of changes and best practice in payroll administration.

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

Business Rates Exemptions for Properties Used by Disabled Persons Outlined in Valuation Office Manual

The Valuation Office has published technical guidance on how properties used for disabled persons qualify for business rates exemptions. The manual sets out the criteria and conditions that must be met for non-domestic properties to receive relief from business rates on the basis of their use by or for disabled individuals. This forms part of the comprehensive rating valuation manual that governs how local authorities assess and value business properties across England for tax purposes.

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

Employment Protection Code of Practice on Trade Union Time Off Comes Into Effect October 2026

A revised Code of Practice governing time off for trade union duties and activities will take effect on 30 October 2026. The Code, issued by ACAS under the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992, provides guidance for employers and employees on time off entitlements for trade union representatives, learning representatives and equality representatives. This update replaces the previous version of the Code.

Source: legislation.gov.uk – Read the original

Import VAT Manual: Comprehensive Guidance on VAT Treatment of Imported Goods and Available Reliefs

HMRC has published the Import VAT Manual, which provides detailed guidance covering VAT obligations on goods entering the UK and the various relief mechanisms available to importers. The manual explains how import VAT is calculated, charged and recovered, alongside eligibility criteria for different types of VAT relief schemes. This resource serves as the authoritative reference for businesses handling imported goods to ensure correct VAT compliance at the border.

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

Using Customs Value to Calculate VAT on Imported Goods

HMRC has published guidance on how importers and clearing agents should calculate VAT liability on goods entering the UK by using the declared customs value. The guidance covers the methodology for determining the VAT assessment base when goods cross the border, which differs depending on whether the transaction involves a sale, a gift, or goods imported for other purposes. This process is essential for customs declarations and affects the total import duty and tax payments required when goods arrive in the UK.

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

HMRC Opens Dedicated Channel for Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism Queries

HMRC has established a dedicated service enabling businesses to submit questions about the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which imposes carbon charges on imported goods. This facility allows traders to seek clarification on how CBAM requirements apply to their operations and customs procedures. The service is designed to help importers and other supply chain participants understand their compliance obligations under the new mechanism.

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

UK Government Revenue Statistics from Oil and Gas Production Released

HMRC has published official accredited statistics detailing government revenues generated from UK oil and gas production activities. The statistics encompass revenue data across all producing fields, with particular focus on those liable to Petroleum Revenue Tax (PRT). This dataset provides businesses and compliance professionals with comprehensive information on government take from the oil and gas sector for monitoring and reporting purposes.

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