Latest News - June 2009
National Minimum Wage Increases
The adult rate of the National Minimum Wage (NMW) will rise to £5.80 (£5.73) an hour in October 2009. This is payable to those age 22 and over.
Tips and the National Minimum Wage
HMRC have won their case in the Court of Appeal as to the treatment of tips and service charges for bar and restaurant workers.
UK Opt Out on 48 Hour Working Week
The ability of UK employers to allow employees to opt out from the European Working Time Directive is set to continue. This means that, where employees wish, they will still be able to work more than 48 hours a week.
Financial Services Compensation Scheme
The Financial Services Authority (FSA) have provided a table listing the largest UK deposit takers. The list shows how the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) limits would apply for most customers but is not a complete list of deposit takers covered by the FSCS.
P11D Deadline Looming
The forms P11D and where appropriate P9D, which report employees and directors benefits and expenses for the year ended 5 April 2009, are due for submission to HMRC by 6 July 2009. The process of gathering the necessary information can take some time so it is important that this process is not left to the last minute.
Landlords and Gas Safety
Landlords letting property equipped with gas appliances need to ensure that they comply with the law relating to gas safety. As a landlord it is their responsibility to ensure that any pipe work, appliances and flues provided for tenants are maintained in a safe condition.
Furnished Holiday Lettings
The Budget 2009 contained announcements about significant changes to the rules for furnished holiday lettings (FHL) but those who are affected may have to act fast.
HMRC Warn of Email Scam
HMRC are warning that they have become aware that a large number of individuals are receiving emails offering tax rebates. These emails, which are being sent from HMRC Tax Refunds Online and HMRC Tax Refunds On-line, are not genuine.
Vehicle Scrappage Scheme
The vehicle scrappage or discount scheme is a voluntary scheme for motor dealers. Participating dealers will give buyers a £2,000 discount off the purchase price of a new car or small van in exchange for scrapping their old qualifying vehicle which must, amongst other criteria, be registered on or before 31 August 1999.
