Pre-budget planning update…..what to consider before 27th October 2021

Posted on 22nd October 2021 by Dominique Childs

Rishi Sunak will stand and present his second budget for 2021 on 27^th October 2021.

This short update summarises some of the speculated changes to tax and other matters that he might be considering, and if appropriate, action you could take before budget day to pre-empt these possible changes.

Inflation, Interest Rates and Caution

Inflation is predicted to rise to 4% this year and if supply issues continue into 2022, this level of inflation is unlikely to fall. At some point, the Bank of England may have to consider interest rate increases.  This points to an uncertain year ahead, this could be the time for caution, and hanging on to any surplus cashflow.

Planning Note: If you have loans – say a government-backed Bounce-Back loan – where interest charged is fixed at low rates (Bounce-Back loans are fixed at 2.5%), you may be wise to resist any temptation to pay off these loans from present surplus cash-flow as further disruption to activity and interest rate hikes are both possible.

Capital Gains Tax change

There is a possibility that capital gains tax (CGT) rates will be increased by aligning them with income tax rates.

Planning note: If you are considering the disposal of an asset that will create a CGT liability, you might be advised to complete the sale before budget day, 27^th October. Very few tax changes apply from Budget day but disposals after the 27^th may attract a higher tax charge.

Contributions into pension funds

There has been speculation for some time that tax relief for higher rate income taxpayers will be either scrapped or reduced based on payments into qualifying pension funds. With pressure on to reduce borrowings the Chancellor may be tempted to act on this issue.

Planning note: Have a conversation with your independent financial adviser before Budget day and consider bring forward contributions to secure existing higher rate tax relief.

Budget update

Keep an eye open for our Budget Impact Statement that we will be distributing on or shortly after the 27^th. And don’t forget to call if you would like to discuss any of the above issues. And please, don’t take any action without calling us in the first instance. This update can only provide you with generalised comments, we need to discuss any actions you may make before budget day based on your individual circumstances.

Finally…

The Steven Burton & Co team are here to help you.  If you need a sounding board, some business advice or a steer in the right direction, then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

This material has been prepared for informational guidance purposes only.  Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the contents are accurate, information contained may not be comprehensive.  Furthermore it is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax or accounting advice.  Steven Burton & Co Limited can not accept any liability for any errors or omission or for any person acting on or refraining from acting on the information provided.