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Although it looks like the next Budget will be pushed back to spring 2022, several tax changes are already on the cards, some more certain than others. The government’s fast progress with reform of the basis period rules for unincorporated businesses has taken some by surprise.

The off-payroll working (IR35) tests are still relevant despite the blanket approach often in place regarding contractors’ employment status. They must always be applied if you are contracting for a small organisation.

The pilot scheme for Making Tax Digital (MTD) for income tax is now open for self-employed workers and landlords. The scheme becomes mandatory for accounting periods commencing on or after 6 April 2023, so those who join now will get ahead of the game.

The bounce back loan scheme (BBLS) has kept many businesses afloat over the past year, but, with the first repayments now starting to become due, many of the 1.5 million businesses that borrowed money could fall into difficulty.

A recently released report on capital gains tax (CGT) by the Office of Tax Simplification (OTS) has made several recommendations on the future of a tax, about which it says many people have limited awareness or understanding. The 30-day reporting and payment deadline for residential property disposals comes in for particular criticism.

Contractors have turned to umbrella companies as a hassle-free way of providing their services to clients following the recent changes to the off payroll working rules. They receive no tax savings, but pass on some administration and pay less than a standalone limited company would charge. However, not all umbrella companies are equal.

HMRC’s official rate of interest has been cut from 2.25% to 2% from 6 April 2021. This will affect any directors or employees who have a beneficial loan from their employer, as well as directors who have an overdrawn current account with their company. The official rate is also used in some other tax calculations.

Some tax planning should happen before the end of the tax year; but the start of a new tax year also presents opportunities. With many people experiencing a drastic change to their circumstances due to the pandemic, it is more important than ever to keep on top of your tax affairs.

As making tax digital extends to businesses and landlords from April 2023, the government is considering whether to increase the frequency of tax payments, both for the self-employed and companies.

Among the development measures the Chancellor announced in the March Budget were eight new freeports in England. These are due to enter operation in late 2021, with each freeport including a defined tax site within which a range of tax incentives and reliefs for businesses will apply. These tax breaks will mostly last for five years.