A D E P T

Key Tax Updates for December 2025 & Budget

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  • VAT
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  • December 10, 2025

Introduction

As we approach the end of 2025, many individuals, families, and business owners are reviewing tax updates and and their financial position and preparing for the year ahead. The recent Autumn Budget announcement introduced several important changes that could impact your tax liabilities, payroll planning, business operations, and personal finances in 2026 and beyond.

At Adept Accountax, our goal is to simplify complex tax updates and help you make informed, confident decisions. Below, we break down the most important developments—from personal and business tax updates to VAT compliance, CIS requirements, and key deadlines you need to prepare for.

Autumn Budget 2025 – Key Highlights

The Autumn Budget delivered a number of significant updates across personal tax, wages, pensions, property, and environmental policy. Here are the key points affecting taxpayers and employers:

1. Personal Tax

The income tax bands and personal allowance have been frozen until 2031, meaning millions will gradually pay more tax through “fiscal drag.” Effective tax planning is now more important than ever to manage your income, allowances, and reliefs efficiently.

2. Corporation Tax

There is no change to Corporation Tax:

  • Main rate: 25%
  • Small profits rate: 19%

This provides stability for companies as they plan for the next financial year.

3. National Minimum Wage

From 1 April 2026, the new rates will be:

  • £12.71/hour for ages 21+
  • £10.85/hour for ages 18–20

Employers should update payroll systems and budget for increased staffing costs.

4. Pensions & NICs

From April 2029, salary-sacrificed pension contributions above £2,000/year will attract both employer and employee National Insurance contributions. Now is a good time to review pension strategies with a tax specialist.

5. Dividend Tax

Dividend tax rates will rise from April 2026:

  • Basic rate: 10.75%
  • Higher rate: 35.75%

This may affect owner-managed businesses and investors who rely on dividend income.

6. High-Value Property Council Tax

Owners of residential properties valued over £2 million will face an additional council tax surcharge from April 2028.

7. EV & Hybrid Vehicles

Starting April 2028, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles will incur a new mileage-based charge, shifting towards usage-based taxation.

8. Sole Traders & MTD

Sole traders with turnover above £50,000 must file tax digitally under Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules.

Adept Accountax can help set up compliant digital bookkeeping systems before the deadline.

Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) – Made Simple

CIS continues to be an area where HMRC increases compliance checks. At Adept Accountax, we help contractors and subcontractors stay compliant and avoid costly penalties. Our support includes:

  • Fast CIS tax refunds
  • On-time monthly CIS submissions
  • Full subcontractor verification
  • Accurate deductions & reduced HMRC risk

Whether you’re a contractor or subcontractor, our team ensures that your tax position is optimised, all paperwork is handled promptly, and you remain fully compliant throughout the year.

VAT & HMRC Compliance Updates

Some important VAT and compliance reminders for 2026:

  • VAT registration threshold remains £90,000
  • HMRC is increasing audits on online sellers and marketplace traders
  • Ensure accurate tracking of turnover, fees, and allowable expenses

If you sell through platforms such as Amazon, eBay, Etsy, TikTok, or Shopify, maintaining clear records is essential. Our bookkeeping team can assist in preparing accurate VAT returns and avoiding penalties.

Key Tax Deadlines to Prepare For

As the year closes, keep the following dates and responsibilities firmly in view:

31 January 2026 – Self-Assessment Filing & Payment

Ensure all documents are submitted as soon as possible to avoid last-minute delays, penalties, or interest charges.

Pension Contributions – Before 5 April

Make personal pension contributions before 5 April to maximise tax relief for the current tax year.

Landlords – MTD for Income Tax

From April 2026, landlords must comply with Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (MTD ITSA). Digital record-keeping will become mandatory.

Monthly VAT Returns

Keep monthly bookkeeping accurate and ensure VAT payments are made on time to avoid surcharges.

CIS Compliance

Verify subcontractors before assigning any work to ensure correct deductions and prevent HMRC exposure.

We’re Here to Support You

Tax changes can feel overwhelming, especially when multiple updates happen at once. Whether you need help with tax planning, compliance, bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, or understanding how the Autumn Budget affects you or your business, Adept Accountax is here to guide you every step of the way.

We wish you a smooth and successful end to the year.

Contact Us:
📞 0203 488 3736
✉️ info@adeptaccountax.com
🌐 https://adeptaccountax.com
📍 95 Miles Road, Mitcham, Greater London, CR4 3FH

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