The government has published its response to the consultation on the future delivery of the Help to Save scheme. Most respondents supported the proposed reforms and a move to a multi-provider model. The government has confirmed that Help to Save will become a permanent scheme and will be offered through multiple providers from 2028.
HMRC have published a progress update to their 2025 Transformation Roadmap. The update shows how changes are being made to allow HMRC to collect more of the tax that is due through automation.
The Consultative Committee of Accountancy Bodies (CCAB) has unveiled a new 'AI hub' for accountants, including a draft statement and case studies on the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The CCAB emphasises that an accountant remains responsible for work produced by AI. The committee provides some practical tips on using AI tools and systems.
In HMRC v BlueCrest Capital Management (UK) LLP [2026] UKSC18, the Supreme Court upheld the Court of Appeal's decision that in assessing Condition B for the partnership salaried members rules, only 'influence' deriving from legally enforceable rights and duties should be taken into account and not 'de facto' influence arising from other arrangements.
The government is consulting on potential measures that target Electronic Sales Suppression (ESS). Proposals include the introduction of new software standards for Point of Sale systems.
HM Treasury has opened a consultation on a proposed First Time Buyer ISA (FTB ISA). The intention is that this new ISA product will support people to buy their first home and replace the Lifetime ISA (LISA).
HMRC have opened a consultation 'Proposed offence for reckless untrue statements - direct taxes'. This seeks views on proposals to introduce a new criminal offence for making reckless, untrue statements or declarations in direct tax.
In Swiss Centre Limited v HMRC [2026] UKUT 00227, the Upper Tribunal (UT) disallowed a payment made in connection with loans secured on a property. It was not directly connected to the relevant loan relationship.
More updates to HMRC's ‘List 3’, its list of approved professional organisations and learned societies, have been made over the last six months. Several new organisations have been added.
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Following on from HMRC’s 2026 Tax Update last week, we take a closer look at several of the consultations and proposals. There are a lot of potential developments for tax agents and taxpayers to examine, including proposals that will require most VAT-registered businesses and employers to pay VAT and PAYE liabilities by Direct Debit.
