Atholl Scott

HMRC ups game with state-of-the-art AI

HMRC is investing £175 million in new data and AI technology to help identify tax at risk, tackle fraud and improve it’s services.

With a clearer, more connected view of its data, HMRC will be better equipped to spot patterns and potential non-compliance.

Want to know more about what this could mean? Read our latest newsletter for the full story 👉https://www.athollscott.co.uk/uploads/July-2026.pdf

Research and Development: errors to avoid

R&D tax relief can offer valuable savings, but getting the claim wrong can be costly.

A recent case saw a business left with a tax bill of over £500,000 after an R&D claim was rejected by HMRC.

Click here to read our latest newsletter for the full story and key points to consider 👉https://www.athollscott.co.uk/uploads/July-2026.pdf

Inheritance Tax Update

There are several IHT exemptions that can help reduce the tax due - but getting the rules right is key.

Recent guidance highlights why careful planning and keeping clear records are so important when making gifts from your income.

Find out more about the exemptions here 👉https://www.athollscott.co.uk/uploads/July-2026.pdf

Whether you're a farmer, hairdresser, entrepreneur or business adviser, our expert accountancy services are designed to support businesses of all sizes - from sole traders to growing companies with a large team.

Let us take the stress out of your finances. Get in touch today to find out how we can help your business thrive.

Aberdeen: 01224 640227
Banff: 01261 815525
Inverurie: 01467 629888

www.athollscott.co.uk

For over 50 years we have developed close working relationships with our clients, supporting and advising them on all their business needs.

Get in touch and see how we can help you.

www.athollscott.co.uk

Aberdeen - 01224 640227
Banff - 01261 815525
Inverurie - 01467 629888

HMRC Sees More Than Ever 👀💻

HMRC’s Connect system uses advanced algorithms and vast data from tax returns, banks, pensions, property, social media, and more to spot errors, hidden relationships, and potential tax fraud.

Since 2010, it’s been bringing in billions extra each year - £4.6bn in 2024/25 alone!

Keep accurate records to stay compliant.

👉 Full details:https://www.athollscott.co.uk/uploads/February-2026.pdf

Attention Charities & CASCs! ⚠️

From April 2026, HMRC is tightening rules on donations, investments, and legacies. Most charities and community amateur sports clubs won’t be affected, but keeping accurate records and following Gift Aid rules is crucial.

👉 Full info:https://www.athollscott.co.uk/uploads/February-2026.pdf

We have a vacancy for an experienced payroll administrator/bookkeeper in our Inverurie office working Monday to Friday, 35 hours per week. Part time would be considered.

Please see the jobs section on our website for more information and how to apply.

https://www.athollscott.co.uk/jobs

New process for reporting VAT errors

The old VAT652 form has been withdrawn - most VAT errors now need to be notified online via your Government Gateway.

Why it matters: Penalties for careless errors can reach 30%, deliberate errors 70–100%.
Taking reasonable care with records and compliance is your best defence.

👉 Read the full details here:https://www.athollscott.co.uk/uploads/February-2026.pdf

Paying High Income Child Benefit Charge via PAYE

HMRC now lets you pay the High Income Child Benefit Charge (HICBC) through PAYE by adjusting your tax code - no need for a self assessment return if that’s your only reason to file. Act before 31 January after the relevant tax year.

Start the process online via the HMRC app or Government Gateway.

👉 Full details:https://www.athollscott.co.uk/uploads/February-2026.pdf