HLAS

As a pensioner, you might be concerned to learn that Winter Fuel Payments are now restricted to those receiving benefits and Pension Credit. Previously, this payment was available to all pensioners, but recent changes have made it means-tested and tied to Pension Credit eligibility. You might be eligible for Pension Credit but not currently claiming it. Here’s what you need to know to ensure you don’t miss out: Check Your Eligibility for Pension Credit Pension Credit is a crucial financial support for many pensioners, particularly those with low incomes. While around 1.4 million pensioners already claim it, an estimated 880,000 [...]

The Information Commissioner’s Office has introduced a new tool designed to help small businesses create a customised privacy notice that safeguards individuals' information rights. Under the law, businesses are required to explain why they collect personal information and how it will be used. This ensures that customers, suppliers, staff, and volunteers are informed about how their personal data is handled. Many businesses opt to display this privacy notice on their websites. The new tool is versatile and can generate a tailored privacy notice for various industry sectors, including finance, legal, insurance, education and childcare, health and social care, retail, and [...]

As GCSE results day approaches on 22 August 2024, many families are thinking about the next steps for their school-leaving children. If your child intends to continue with approved education or training, make sure to extend your Child Benefit claim before 31 August to ensure you continue receiving financial support. When Can You Extend Your Child Benefit? Child Benefit can continue if your child, aged 16 to 19, is enrolled in full-time non-advanced education or approved unpaid training. This includes: Non-Advanced Education: A levels or Scottish Highers International Baccalaureate T levels NVQs up to level 3 Home education (if started [...]

The Office for National Statistics has reported a rise in inflation for July, reaching 2.2%. This marks the first increase of 2024, following a period of decline earlier in the year when inflation settled at 2% for both May and June. This uptick was anticipated, as energy prices are now falling at a slower rate compared to a year ago. As a result, inflation has exceeded the Bank of England’s target once again. However, this was expected by the Bank, and many economic forecasters predict that inflation will remain above 2% for the remainder of the year. On a positive [...]

The economy continues to show growth, with the latest figures for the April to June quarter indicating a 0.6% increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This follows a 0.7% rise in the January to March quarter. After last year’s recession, this is encouraging news for businesses and the economy overall, creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs to launch innovative ideas. Every successful business starts with a compelling idea, but not all concepts translate into viable businesses. Whether you're starting from scratch or expanding an existing business, evaluating your idea is crucial to saving time, money, and effort. Here are five key [...]

Rural business owners across Britain are on the verge of a major digital transformation, thanks to a landmark agreement between the UK Government and Openreach. This deal is part of a broader initiative aimed at modernising outdated broadband infrastructure. With an investment of up to £800 million, this ambitious project aims to deliver ultra-fast gigabit-capable broadband to approximately 312,000 homes and businesses in some of the most remote areas, including parts of Wales, Scotland, and England. Current Broadband Challenges in Rural Areas Many rural businesses have long faced issues with slow and unreliable internet, which can hinder their ability to [...]

The recent riots have left many small businesses facing damage and disruption. In response, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) Insurance Service has provided guidance to assist those affected. The guide offers practical steps for businesses dealing with or anticipating issues. It also advises businesses to review their insurance coverage. Since all policies differ, it may be necessary to consult your broker to confirm what you are covered for. The Riot Compensation Act 2016 outlines the government compensation available, but not all instances of damage or loss during civil disturbances are covered. For government guidance on this, see here. To [...]

A recent case involving a former employee of Enterprise Rent-A-Car underscores the critical importance of robust data protection measures. Jonathan Riches, 46, was fined £10,000 and ordered to pay £1,700 in costs after admitting to illegally accessing motorists' personal details. This data breach, which took place between 2009 and 2011, involved Mr Riches using his former connections at Enterprise to obtain sensitive information for personal injury claims. According to the Information Commissioner’s Office, he made hundreds of thousands of pounds in financial gain as a result. After previously settling a civil case with Enterprise for £300,000, Mr Riches fled to [...]

The Department for Education released the latest annual update to Student Loan interest rates last week. Different rates and thresholds will apply depending on the type of student loan, with the new rates effective from 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2025. Payroll managers may want to take note of these changes, as staff with student loans may notice a difference in their deductions in their September pay packet and could raise queries. For full details of the rates, visit: Student Loans Interest Rates and Repayment Threshold Announcement

Andrew Paul Bird, a 60-year-old former investment firm director from Quarndon, Derbyshire, has been subjected to the maximum 15-year bankruptcy restrictions after being found guilty of defrauding investors. Mr Bird misled 13 individuals and couples into investing in a fraudulent scheme between 2011 and 2016, promising secure returns while exposing them to significant financial risks for his personal gain. Mr Bird was first declared bankrupt in November 2016 and became subject to an interim Bankruptcy Restrictions Order (BRO) in January 2018. This order was put in place to prevent further harm while he awaited trial. On August 1, 2024, Mr [...]