Category: News

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 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

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

The Pensions Tax Manual is HMRC’s comprehensive guidance document covering the legislation and regulations that govern the taxation of pension schemes in the UK. First introduced in 2015, it superseded the previous Registered Pension Schemes Manual and serves as the authoritative reference for how pension scheme tax rules are applied. The manual provides detailed information on compliance requirements and tax treatment for pension scheme administrators, trustees, and employers. This guidance is essential for understanding the current pension schemes tax regime and ensuring adherence to HMRC requirements.

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

Executors and administrators must submit form IHT400 to HMRC when applying for probate or confirmation if the deceased’s estate has Inheritance Tax due or does not meet the criteria for an excepted estate. This form is mandatory for estates that fall outside simplified reporting procedures, ensuring HMRC can assess the tax position before the court grants authority to deal with the estate. The requirement applies across all jurisdictions within the UK where probate or confirmation is needed.

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

HMRC has issued its August 2026 bulletin detailing modifications to how employment related securities net settlement transactions must be reported, alongside revised guidance for Save As You Earn schemes and Enterprise Management Incentive arrangements. The bulletin addresses compliance obligations for employers and participants dealing with share schemes and options. These updates affect businesses operating employee share plans and the individuals participating in such programmes across the UK.

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

HMRC is promoting the Tax-Free Childcare scheme, which allows eligible parents to save money on childcare costs through the government-supported programme. The scheme enables families to receive tax relief on childcare payments for children under 15 years old. Eligible parents can open an online account and receive government top-ups on contributions made towards registered childcare providers.

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

Payment providers offering Tax-Free Childcare services are required to complete a sign-up process with HMRC before processing customer accounts. The registration involves meeting specific requirements and fulfilling certain obligations as a designated payment provider within the scheme. Providers must ensure they have all necessary documentation and understand their responsibilities before commencing operations.

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