United Kingdom: Sales Taxes: VAT, GST

The most significant development this quarter is arguably the Government's updated roadmap, which provides a fresh indication of when the various reforms under the Pension Schemes Act 2026 and beyond are likely to take effect.

HMRC has updated its VAT Input Tax Manual and VAT Notice 700/17, introducing significant changes to how employers and trustees can recover VAT on services provided to funded occupational pension schemes. While some changes reflect previously announced policies, the updates appear to narrow the circumstances for VAT recovery on administration services and remove guidance on tripartite agreements, creating uncertainty about the path forward for pension scheme arrangements.

HMRC has quietly updated its guidance on input tax recovery for defined benefit pension schemes, introducing significant changes that improve recovery for asset management costs but appear to eliminate the previous concessionary treatment for administration costs.

It is often said that those with the broadest shoulders should bear the heaviest loads. This principle is clearly reflected in the UK tax system, where individuals with a greater ability to pay, contribute a larger share of the overall tax burden.

As we approach the end of the 2025/26 tax year, now is the ideal time to review your personal tax position and assess whether you are making full use of the reliefs and allowances available.

AI adoption coupled with developments in robots and other technology means many are predicting a medium-term future of reduced job opportunities, whatever the long-term outcome.

After all the leaks and speculation, the Autumn Budget 2025 is here, bringing with it a forecast that promises an all-time high tax take of 38% of GDP in 2030/31.

On 26 November 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her Autumn Budget, following an intense period of speculation. Although personal tax measures took centre stage...

The Budget was relatively quiet on corporate tax. That reflects the Government's Corporate Tax Roadmap (the Roadmap)...