This week we bring you information on HMRC’s plans for dealing with post from agents which is more than a year old and how you can get this actioned. Updated guidance for full expensing has been published and a reminder has been issued for the new alcohol duty system which commences next month. We also feature key updates for employers and news that from next month any agent claiming a PAYE income tax refund for a client must have an Agent Services Account. HMRC has also sent an email updating agents on the correction of national insurance records and state pension entitlement.
HMRC’s plans for dealing with agent post more than a year old
On 10 July, HMRC began to implement its plans for dealing with agent post which is more than one year old. Essentially this involves an extension to the work of the Agent Account Manager Service on a trial basis. Read more about how you can contact HMRC to action post which has not been responded to and which is more than a year old.
HMRC’s plan is in response to continued feedback from this Institute and the other Professional Bodies on unacceptable service levels including long post and phone waiting times.
Alcohol duty reform and full expensing for capital allowances
HMRC has issued a reminder that the new alcohol duty system commences next month from 1 August 2023, and a reminder email is also available. The guidance on full expensing (capital allowances) for companies has been updated.
Employer updates
The June 2023 issue of Employer Bulletin has been published which contains articles, amongst others, on:-
- paying PAYE and Class 1A in July;
- an update on the National Minimum Wage for interns and work experience; and
- employer direct debits.
Agents making PAYE repayment claims need an Agent Services Account
From 2 August 2023, agents that claim PAYE income tax repayments on behalf of clients must have an Agent Services Account. (“ASA”). Note that this change does not affect repayments claimed through Self-Assessment. HMRC is currently updating any relevant forms for such repayments which will include a box for the ASA account reference to be added.
As it can take time to set up an ASA, agents who do not currently have one are recommended to apply for one as soon as possible.