Taxation is an important consideration for UK consumers. It influences spending habits, provides support for public services, and determines the amount of money that can be kept or spent. By understanding the types of taxes, the tax rates, and the tax deductions available, consumers can make informed decisions when it comes to personal finances.
Types of Taxes
There are various taxes that UK consumers are subject to, including income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and value-added tax.
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Income Tax: This is the most widely recognised and collected tax and is payable on wages, pensions, savings, and interest earned. The amount of tax due depends on the amount of taxable income earned during the year, which is based on the personal tax rate and a personal allowance of £12,570.
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Capital Gains Tax: This is a tax on any profits made from the sale of assets such as shares, property, or other investments. It is calculated as a percentage of the profits made from the sale and is applied to all assets regardless of whether they have been held for a long or short period of time.
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Inheritance Tax: This tax is applicable when an individual passes away and their estate is left to their beneficiaries. The amount of tax payable depends upon the size of the estate as well as the beneficiaries’ status.
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Value-Added Tax: This is a tax on the purchase of goods and services. The only goods and services exempt from VAT are rent, fuel and power, and postage stamps. VAT is charged at the standard rate of 20%.
Tax Rates
The extent to which a UK consumer is taxed depends upon their situation. Personal income tax is dependent upon a person’s taxable income and is calculated based upon how much an individual has earned in a tax year. It applies to single individuals, married couples, and those in a civil partnership.
The tax rates for income tax in 2021/22 are as follows:
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0% on earnings up to £12,570;
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20% on earnings between £12,571 - £50,270;
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40% on earnings between £50,271 - £150,000;
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45% on earnings above £150,000.
The tax rates for capital gains tax are applicable to both short-term and long-term investments. Short-term investments, those held by an individual for between one and twelve months, are taxed at a flat rate of 10%, while long-term investments, holdings that are held for more than twelve months, are taxed at 20%.
Inheritance tax is applicable on estates of more than £325,000, with a flat rate of 40% of the total value of the estate over this threshold. The rate increases to 45% for estates valued above £2 million.
Tax deductions
Individuals can deduct a certain amount of their income from their taxable income, thereby reducing the amount of tax due. Common examples of tax deductions include:
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pension contributions;
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charitable donations;
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investments in an ISA;
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expenses incurred while working;
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student loan repayments.
It is important to note that any deductions not claimed in the current tax year cannot be claimed in a later year.
Conclusion
Taxation is an important consideration for UK consumers and can have a significant impact on personal finances. By understanding the various taxes, tax rates, and tax deductions, consumers can make informed decisions when it comes to managing their money.