Since the start of the new financial year in April 2026, what should have been a 'reboot' for the economy and public finances has instead evolved into a silent but widespread upward trend in the tax burden.

Reform UK has pledged to raise the VAT registration threshold to £150,000; calls are mounting to double the tax-free allowance for pensioners; and more than 1.5 million people have been drawn into legal proceedings over unpaid Council Tax

New HMRC customers can access digital services using GOV.UK One Login; Significant regional differences in UK income tax; Amazon pays £1 billion to the UK tax authorities

UK high-income earners consider cutting their salaries by 25% to reduce tax; HMRC tightens scrutiny of “speculative” stamp duty refund claims; pubs in England to receive a 15% business rates relief.

The 2025 Autumn Budget is scheduled for 26 November, more than a month later than last year. The following are among the most discussed possibilities.

Millions of UK social media users may face £100 tax penalty risks; HMRC is reviewing the suspension of 23,500 child benefit payments; and the Bank of England expects inflation has peaked while maintaining current interest rates.

Today, we provide a guide detailing who must register for a self-assessment tax return, deadlines, and associated penalties.