Introduction

The end of a tax year is always a good time to look at tax saving ideas. Whether you are in business, an investor or an employee, there may be measures you can take to save tax. And don't leave your plans to the last moment – it may be too late. Sometimes the law changes on Budget Day itself, which is usually in March, so you might be safer acting before then.

Inheritance tax planning has become more important than ever. Complicated schemes may be risky but there are many straightforward steps you can take. You should also look for ways to reduce income tax and capital gains tax, especially at the higher tax rates. For example, you might be able to transfer income to a spouse or civil partner who would pay less tax on it than you, or save tax by altering the timing of your income and gains.
Inside you will find ideas for saving tax on salary and employment benefits, business and investment income and capital gains. We also explain how you can get tax relief on payments into a pension or make other tax-favoured investments, how you can use tax relief to boost your donations to charity, and lots more.

It is always a good idea to try and look at your tax planning in the overall context of your general investment, insurance and financial planning and what you are trying to achieve.