Latest News

The Triple Lock State Pension – what does it mean for pensioners?

The ‘triple lock’ was introduced in 2010 and its purpose is to ensure that state pension benefits rise by the highest measure of price inflation (CPI), earnings growth or 2.5%.  

New advisory fuel rates for company cars

HMRC has published updated advisory fuel rates effective from 1 December.  The old rates could continue to be used until the end of last year, but any calculations from January must utilise the new amounts. 

Becky Bowness promoted to Head of Tax

Armstrong Watson is delighted to announce that Corporate Tax Partner Becky Bowness has taken on the role of Head of Tax and leads the firm’s tax service lines across all 18 offices throughout the North of England and Scotland.

Spreading the cost of your tax bill

As we approach the tax return deadline, businesses are faced with the cash flow challenge of having to settle their upcoming tax bill. While most will settle in full and on time, there are plenty of reasons why businesses may be unable to settle their tax bill in full.

How do I plan for retirement?

The key is to try and get a picture of what your retirement might look like. From the outset, it is important to understand what level of income you will require after tax in today’s terms, or looking at it from another angle, what your outgoings will be

Win-Win for employers & employees

It's well known that emotional and financial wellbeing are connected. Difficult financial situations can lead to feelings of stress, worry, and sleepless nights, and have a negative impact on performance at work.

Is 2023 the time to give your finances a health check?  

As the cost of living crisis continues to put pressure on budgets across the country it is worth looking at ways to get more for your money and review different areas of your personal finances. 

Not only has the cost of all areas of living soared, but Jeremy Hunt’s tax threshold freezes mean more people will end up being dragged into a higher tax bracket.  

Good financial planning, especially in light of the chancellor’s Autumn Statement, could put you in a stronger position during these uncertain times. 

Cash is back! How can you get the most from your savings as interest rates continue to rise?

Interest rates have rapidly increased since the start of the year, with the most notable indicator being the base rate which has increased from 0.10% to 3% since December 2021.

Armstrong Watson helps to secure future of longstanding Cumbrian law firm

Legal Sector Partner Andy Poole and his team supported Bleasdale & Co by arranging and securing an acquisition of the business by Bendles Solicitors, another local law firm which covers similar areas of law.

New penalties for late VAT returns and payments

In the new year businesses and individuals who submit VAT returns late or miss their payment deadlines could be fined £200.