House of Commons releases Council Tax FAQs and Empty Property briefing papers

The House of Commons has recently published two briefing papers; one regarding empty property council tax legislation and the other an updated list of council tax frequently asked questions.

Temporary COVID-19 changes to rules on notification of an option to tax land and buildings

To help businesses continue to meet their obligations during the current crisis HMRC is temporarily changing the rules on how options to tax are notified.

MHCLG requests QRC4 data for billing authorities

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has requested the completion of QRC4 data for council tax and non-domestic business rates from all billing authorities.

HMRC issues guidance for local authorities and NHS trusts supervising unpaid volunteers during coronavirus

HMRC has issued information for NHS trusts and local authorities who are supervising volunteers who've signed up to support people affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19).

MHCLG releases Q&As following announcement of £500m hardship fund

The Local Taxation Division of the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government has written to all local authorities in England setting out the departments views on common queries from authorities and organisations following its announcement of the £500m hardship fund at the Budget on 11 March.

Local authority accounting requirements not being simplifed in light of COVID-19 pressure

CIPFA/LASAAC considered radical proposals to streamline the 2019/20 accounts in order the ease the burden on practitioners as they respond to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) emergency. However, after extensive discussions it has been concluded that the simplification proposed is not possible.

House of Commons library releases briefing on household finances support during COVID-19 pandemic

The House of Commons library has published a briefing paper which outlines the measures introduced by the government and other authorities to provide support for household finances during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chancellor sets out a package of measures to support businesses throughout period of disruption caused by COVID-19

The UK government has introduced a package of temporary, timely and targeted measures to support businesses throughout the period of disruption caused by COVID-19.

Government confirms £500m hardship fund will provide council tax relief for vulnerable households

Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick has confirmed the government’s £500m hardship fund will provide council tax relief to vulnerable people and households to help those affected most by coronavirus.

The council tax levels for 2020-2021 have now been set by local authorities in England and Wales.