Private Client Issues – August 2020

Welcome to this month’s edition of Private Client Issues, Blake Morgan’s monthly round-up of the topics you may find of interest. It features insight and advice on developments affecting private individuals.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the way we work and live, we wanted to take this opportunity to remind you about some of the things we’re doing to help. As always, our focus is on providing you with a high-quality service, while working to keep our staff, clients and contacts safe. Our employees are working from home where possible, and happy to meet with you virtually, or in person where this is necessary and can be done safely. We are really proud of the way that our staff have risen to the challenge to do this without impacting the service we provide.

The situation continues to be fast moving, with new measures being announced as the Government addresses the key issues facing both individuals and businesses. Our team are here to help you, with the advice and support you need at this difficult time. Please access our COVID-19 hub for up to date information on key issues and please look after yourselves and those close to you.

Benefit from the stamp duty holiday in England

Reduced rates of stamp duty land tax (SDLT) lasting until 31 March 2021 were announced on 8 July 2020 with immediate effect. The holiday applies to all residential property, whether liable at standard rates or at higher rates, where completion occurs within the period 8 July 2020 to 31 March 2021.

Read more to find out how you could benefit.

New EPC ratings guidance for landlords and residential properties

Ways to improve energy efficiency in households, including Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings guidance, are being reviewed with homeowners and landlords having responsibility to reduce carbon footprints.

Read more for the new guidance on EPCs.

Electronic deed signing during the pandemic

The Land Registry have announced that with effect from 27 July 2020 and until further notice, as well as ‘Mercury’ signing being an approved method of signature, electronic signatures are also now an acceptable method for deeds and registration purposes.

Read more about electronic signatures.

More details announced on the new points-based immigration system

In July, the Government published ‘The UK’s Points-Based Immigration System Further Details’, clarifying points for individuals and employers.

Read more about the skilled workers category, graduate route and more.

Flexible furlough

Find out more on the complexities of flexible furlough, the calculations for working out pay and the latest guidance from the Treasury and HMRC.

Read more about flexible furlough.

If you are impacted by any of the above topics or you would like further information on how we can help you, please contact your usual Blake Morgan adviser.