Scammers already targeting pensioners over winter fuel payments
Phishing attacks are already being sent to pensioners purporting to be from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). What’s going on and how can you avoid becoming a victim?
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New HMRC guidance on winter fuel payments
HMRC has released new guidance on the recovery of winter fuel payments. What do you need to know?
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Festive tax breaks for remote workers
You’re familiar with the tax break for Christmas parties but you now have a few remote workers, and the company will need to reimburse their travel and accommodation costs if they attend an event. Which costs count towards the tax-free limit and how can you manage any overspend?
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New process for some exports starting in Northern Ireland
Starting next month, businesses that import goods via Northern Ireland will need to change their processes. What do you need to know?
Last week we reported on the government’s announcement on winter fuel payments for 2025/26. According to a report by the ICAEW, it appears that scammers began targeting pensioners almost immediately. The winter fuel payment will be paid to state pension recipients and is worth £200 per household, or £300 if you’re over 80. In an attempt to defraud state pensioners, criminals are sending a text message that claims to be from the DWP. The recipient is asked to click on a link by a specified date to apply for an energy support grant. It comes with a warning that they will lose out if they do not apply in time. As the government has confirmed that the winter fuel payments will be made automatically, any attempt to get you to apply for it should be ignored. No application process exists, and no action needs to be taken.
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