Chancellor U-turns on top rate of tax
The decision to scrap the 45% tax rate has been widely criticised amid a cost-of-living crisis. This morning the Chancellor has announced a U-turn. What's the latest?
The Chancellor has confirmed that the tax cut will not go ahead, due to the distractions this policy has caused. From 6 April 2023 those earning over £150,000 will continue to pay the top rate of 45% income tax. However, due to other planned tax cuts, those with income over £150,000 will pay just 38.1% income tax on dividends from 6 April 2023 (currently 39.35%), meaning there will still be an incentive (albeit a smaller one) to delay dividends until on or after 6 April 2023.
The Chancellor is set to announce his medium-term fiscal plan on 23 November.
Related Topics
-
Tribunal rejects reliance on adviser as reasonable excuse
A recent First-tier Tribunal decision has confirmed that relying on an accountant does not automatically amount to a reasonable excuse for missing a self-assessment deadline. The case highlights the limits of delegating tax responsibilities. What does this mean in practice?
-
HMRC issues new wave of offshore “nudge” letters
HMRC has issued a further round of “nudge” letters targeting individuals it believes may have undeclared offshore income or gains. The letters form part of HMRC’s ongoing use of data from international information exchange agreements. What should you do if you receive one?
-
Payroll changes for 2026/27
As the end of 2025/26 draws closer, HMRC has published a raft of updates and reminders for employers. Which changes do you need to be aware of that might impact your payroll in 2026/27?





This website uses both its own and third-party cookies to analyze our services and navigation on our website in order to improve its contents (analytical purposes: measure visits and sources of web traffic). The legal basis is the consent of the user, except in the case of basic cookies, which are essential to navigate this website.