Corporation Tax - Indexation Allowances and R&D Tax Creditors
The indexation allowance for companies’ capital gains is to be abolished, bringing the corporate tax system in line with capital gains tax for individuals. Companies have continued enjoyment of the indexation allowance since its introduction. The indexation allowance takes into account inflation when calculating the chargeable gains for companies.
The allowance will be frozen from January 2018. Buy-to-let investors who have set up as companies will face increased taxes when they eventually sell their properties, although the effects are unlikely to be felt for some years.
Corporation tax is falling to 17% by 2020 and the inability to offset the effects of inflation after January 2018 is expected to cost business owners selling property through a company £1.8bn over the next five years.
Tax relief for research and development ("R&D") is set to be increased from 11% to 12% from 1 January 2018. The measure increases the tax relief for large companies, along with small and medium sized enterprises, that carry out qualifying R&D and claim the credit.
The credit, also known as the “above the line credit”, is a standalone credit brought into account as a receipt in calculating profits. For tax purposes, R&D takes place when a project seeks to achieve an advance in overall knowledge or capability in a field of science or technology. R&D relief allows companies that carry out qualifying R&D relating to their trade to claim an extra Corporation Tax deduction for qualifying expenditure.
The content of this article is for general information only and does not constitute tax advice. It should not be relied upon and action which could affect your business should not be taken without appropriate professional advice.
Callum Somers FCCA
Senior Manager
Growing up on a Dairy farm in East Devon, Callum joined Evolution ABS in 2010 and qualified as a Certified Chartered Accountant in 2015. Callum looks after a wide variety of clients, helping them meet their accountancy, payroll and tax needs.
Outside of work Callum is a very keen sportsman and particularly enjoys a game of golf or playing football for his local club.