📌 In This Month’s News
1. Autumn Budget News 2025: What You Need to Know
The Chancellor has confirmed that the Government is taking steps to stabilise the public finances, meaning several changes will start to affect businesses: The autumn budget news is here with access to the full budget and consider taking a read of our budget blog, with a summary relevant to our clients
- Minimum wage increases confirmed for April 2026 (affecting labour-heavy industries).
- Tax reliefs trimmed, particularly affecting landlords and higher-rate taxpayers.
- Possible increases to Income Tax and VAT still on the horizon as part of longer-term fiscal tightening.
- A renewed push for HMRC digital compliance, meaning more scrutiny on record-keeping and reporting.
You can read the full budget here
💡 Jenners Tip: If your margins are tight, review your 2026 staffing costs and pricing strategy now. Early planning avoids a cash flow crunch later.
2. Companies House: Mandatory ID Checks Rolling Out
From 18 November, Companies House introduced director and PSC (Persons with Significant Control) identity verification.
This is part of wide-ranging reforms aimed at reducing fraud and improving transparency in UK companies.
Directors will need to verify their identity either through:
- A third-party agent (e.g., your accountant), we can help with this here at Jenner’s Tax and Business Advisers or
- The Companies House portal using a digital ID process.
💡 Jenners Tip: If you’re a director of more than one company, check each profile to ensure compliance. Non-verification could lead to delays in filings or even penalties.
3. Budget Planning: December is Your Last Chance to Prepare
This is the month when smart tax planning really matters.
Areas worth reviewing include:
- Dividends vs. salary strategy before the rate changes expected next year
- CIS deductions ready to offset on January submissions
- Year-end cash flow to prepare for January tax deadlines
- Capital expenditure decisions (especially if reliefs tighten in 2026)
💡 Jenners Tip: A 30-minute planning call now can save you thousands in January. Don’t leave it until the Christmas break!
📅 Key Tax Dates for December
| Date | What’s Due |
|---|---|
| 1 December | Corporation Tax due for companies with 28 Feb 2025 year-end |
| 7 December | VAT return & payment due for period ending 30 October (if applicable) |
| 19 December | CIS, PAYE & NICs due (postal payments) |
| 22 December | CIS, PAYE & NICs due (electronic payments) |
| 30 December | Deadline to file an online Self Assessment return if you want HMRC to collect tax through your PAYE code |
| 31 December | Deadline for Corporation Tax returns for accounting periods ending 31 December 2024 |
💡 Jenners Tip: December’s deadlines often get overlooked due to Christmas shutdowns. Book your payroll and CIS early to avoid last-minute stress.
❓ This Month’s Questions & Answers
Q. I’ve heard tax bands and allowances may change next year should I take more dividends before April?
A. Potentially yes, but it depends on your total income and long-term plans. The expected tightening of higher-rate thresholds could make taking dividends earlier more tax-efficient, but it must align with your company profits and reserves. We can run the numbers for you.
Q. Does the minimum wage increase affect me now or next April?
A. The confirmed rise to £12.71 for ages 21+ comes into effect April 2026, not immediately. However, it’s wise to model the future wage bill now especially if your business is labour-intensive.
Q. How do I check if I need to verify my identity with Companies House?
A. You will receive communication from Companies House, but you can also log in via the new portal. All directors and PSCs must complete verification, even if nothing else is changing in the business.
Q. Should I adjust my pricing now that wage costs are increasing from 2026?
A. It’s advisable to review your pricing strategy early. With staffing costs rising, gradual adjustments now can prevent a sudden strain on profitability later.
Want Help Preparing for Year-End?
If you’re feeling unsure about how the Autumn Budget affects your tax bill, payroll, or business finances, we’re here to help.
Need personalised advice?
If any of this month’s topics affect you or your business, we’re here to help.
Contact our team at Jenners Tax & Business Advisers for tailored support and practical guidance.
Check out all of services pages today.
Call us on 01432 379988 or use the contact us page.
📞 01432 379988
🌐 www.jennersacc.co.uk