Investing in companies can be risky. However, the tax incentives available under certain schemes can often turn a risky venture into a tax efficient opportunity.

The enterprise investment scheme (EIS) has been around for a number of years but the tax incentives that are available mean that it is still an efficient method of investment. In addition, the recent proposed changes will make it even more appealing to those looking for ways to make their money work harder.

The rules are complex and the comments below are only a high level summary, and should not be taken as specific advice. All prospective investors should seek their own professional advice.

The incentives

In summary the key incentives for the 2012/13 income tax year are:

  • 30% income tax relief, set off against your income tax liability
  • one year carry back of the income tax relief
  • capital gains tax exemption on the disposal of the shares
  • tax on current gains can be deferred against the amount invested in EIS shares (until the shares are disposed of).

Additionally, if the shares were to be sold at a loss, the capital loss (less the income tax relief already given) would be available to offset against income in the current and/or prior tax years.

If the shares are retained, the shareholding should attract business property relief at 100% for inheritance tax purposes.

How does it work?

The individual

The investor must be an individual in order to qualify for these reliefs. Furthermore, to qualify for the capital gains deferral relief the individual must also be UK resident and ordinarily resident. The following criteria (again for the 2012/13 income tax year) must also be met.

  • The individual cannot be connected with the company invested in for a five-year period (starting two years before the share issue and ending three years after the issue or commencement of trade):
    • any holding (including associates) must not equate to more than 30% of the ordinary share capital, total shares, voting rights or assets available for winding up
    • the individual cannot be a director unless in limited circumstances, nor an employee of the company or any controlled subsidiary.
  • The maximum investment, with effect from 6 April 2012, is £1m (previously £500,000). There is also now no minimum investment

The company

The company must be a trading company carrying on qualifying activities. There are also a number of other criteria. In summary, these are broadly as follows.

  • The gross assets of the company (or group) must not exceed £15m immediately before investment and £16m immediately after.
  • The company must have fewer than 250 employees at the time of the proposed investment.
  • A maximum of £5m from all venture capital schemes can be raised in any rolling twelve month period.
  • The company must not be 'in difficulty'.
  • The company must be unquoted (this includes AIM-listed companies).
  • The investment must be into newly issued ordinary shares.
  • The company needs a UK fixed place of business and must not undertake an excluded trade (property development, dealing companies, insurance and banking, legal and accountancy, to name but a few).
  • The company cannot be controlled by another company.

Is it for me?

This is not for the risk-averse. However, it is ideal for those individuals who have excess cash and are subject to the higher rate of tax or even the additional tax rate of 50%. It is also suitable for anyone, with gains carrying large liabilities, who would benefit from a deferral.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.