One of the significant announcements in the Pre-Budget Report is a further increase in national insurance contributions (NIC) which is to take effect from 6 April 2011.

To reflect the increase in fuel prices, HMRC have issued new advisory fuel rates for employees driving employer provided cars. These take effect for all journeys undertaken from 1 December, so employers using the advisory rates should advise affected employees and update any expense forms as soon as possible.

HMRC are reminding taxpayers to be vigilant as scam emails have been reported. For details of their latest guidance on scam emails, more information on this and other scams together with a copy of the latest example visit the links below.

Gordon Brown had revised his proposal to withdraw the income tax and NI exemption on employer provided childcare vouchers.

HMRC issued some important guidance regarding the changes in the place of supply of services rules which take effect from 1 January 2010.

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) are warning people to be prepared for poor weather conditions when travelling. They have produced a few tips to help ensure that travel, whether it is for work or pleasure, remains safe despite the weather.

In the Pre-Budget Report last month, changes were announced to the complex rules for the Special Annual Allowance (SAA) charge which affects those with substantial income who make significant pension contributions. The current rate of the SAA charge is 20% on excess pension contributions. The aim of the charge is to discourage individuals from making significantly higher pension contributions in anticipation of the removal of higher rate tax relief which will occur in 2011.