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
-
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?
-
Can you beat the bonus tax trap?
A fellow director has asked whether his bonus payment can be delayed until after 5 April 2026 to reduce his personal tax bill. Does his plan work and, if so, how does it impact the company’s tax position?
-
HMRC publishes penalty guidance for MTD IT
HMRC has published guidance on how penalties will apply under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD IT). With mandation approaching from April 2026, what do you need to know about the new regime?

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.