Beware scams pretending to be HMRC
Fraudsters are continuing to target taxpayers with scam emails as the deadline for submission of self-assessment returns for the 2024-25 tax year gets ever closer. In the 12 months
Budget date announced
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves has confirmed, in a video message, that the next UK Budget will take place on Wednesday, 26 November 2025.
Details of all the Budget
Using the 159 helpline
If a call from your bank feels suspicious, just hang up and dial 159 to be connected safely to your bank’s fraud team.
The 159 helpline was launched in September 2021. The
What is Support for Mortgage Interest?
SMI loans can help pay mortgage interest for those on benefits, but repayment is due when the home is sold.
Support for Mortgage Interest (SMI) is a government-backed loan
Rules to protect effects of debanking
Banks must now give 90 days’ notice before closing accounts, giving customers more time to respond.
Since April 2026, new government rules strengthen protections for individuals
Pre-Budget tax planning – act now
With the next UK Budget approaching, there is speculation about changes to tax rates, allowances, and reliefs. Acting now can help secure current benefits before any new rules take
Challenging your Council Tax band
If your property has changed or seems mis-banded, you may have the right to request a Council Tax review.
Properties in England and Wales are assigned Council Tax bands based on
Bank Rate trimmed to 4%
The Bank of England has knocked the main interest rate down to 4% today, cutting it by a quarter‑point from 4.25%. It’s the fifth cut in a year and brings the rate to its lowest
Shared home ownership
Shared home ownership offers a more accessible route to owning a home for those who cannot afford the full deposit or mortgage on a property that suits their needs. Under this
The impact of frozen personal allowances
The impact of frozen personal allowances often leads to fiscal drag, a situation where individuals pay more tax as their earnings rise without a corresponding increase in