News & Articles - Hall Morrice

12 December 2024

Key Tax Insights for the Non-Profit Sector At Hall Morrice, we provide specialised accounting, audit, and tax support for a number of charities and non-profit organisations. Read more »

9 December 2024

Protect Your Business with Hall Morrice’s Fee Protection Service If you don’t already have Fee Protection Service (FPS) in place, now is the perfect time to consider it. Read more »

5 December 2024

Scottish Budget 2025 to 2026: Key Measures and Strategic Direction On Wednesday, 4th December 2024, Finance Secretary Shona Robison revealed the Scottish Budget for 2025/26, detailing a series of decisions aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth, improving public services, and advancing climate action. Read more »

30 October 2024

Unpacking the Autumn Budget Announcement On Wednesday, 30th October, Chancellor Rachel Reeves presented the highly anticipated Autumn Budget, unveiling a series of significant changes that are set to impact individuals and businesses across the North East of Scotland. Read more »

29 July 2024

Further Strong Growth Through Job Creation We are welcoming a record fourteen new staff members to our team at Hall Morrice, this summer.The new positions reflect our continued commitment to providing high-quality accountancy and business advisory services to our clients across various sectors.Our new recruits include nine chartered accountant trainees – the firm’s largest intake ever - three accountancy placement students from Robert Gordon University (RGU), an audit/business advisory administrator and an intern.They will join our experienced and dedicated team of professionals, which offers a wide range of services including audit, tax, corporate finance, insolvency, payroll and bookkeeping.Our firm has experienced strong growth in recent months, securing new clients and increasing the volume of work from existing clients across various sectors, such as oil and gas, energy and renewables, business services, agriculture, health and medical, and construction.Louise Smith, audit and accounts director at Hall Morrice, who herself began at the firm as a CA trainee in 2007 said, "We are delighted to welcome our new staff members, who bring fresh talent and enthusiasm to our firm. Read more »

16 July 2024

Update on VAT Registration Changes Effective from 5th August 2024 Changes to VAT Registration ChangesAt Hall Morrice, we prioritise keeping our clients informed about crucial updates that impact their business operations. Read more »

1 April 2024

Chris Colville Partner Announcement Chris Colville has been appointed as a partner at Hall Morrice. Read more »

13 February 2024

New Appointment - Account Director We are delighted to announce the appointment of Jack Borg-Delaney in a newly created role of an additional Audit Director. Read more »

21 November 2023

Thriving Futures: Career Growth and Job Stability in Independent Accounting Firms Thriving Futures: Career Growth and Job Stability in Independent Accounting Firms By Des Petrie, Partner, Hall MorriceThe recent restructuring and job cuts in the Big Four accountancy firms reported nationally which some attribute to previous ‘overhiring’ following the pandemic, is surprising to some in a market which continues to grow.News that Deloitte is to shed 800 roles and EY is to cut 5% of its staff in its financial services practices, along with others in the Big Four, could prompt a closer examination of career development and job security in the accounting industry today.Amidst the shifting dynamics and challenges within the major firms, there's a notable contrast emerging in the landscape of the established, independent accountancy firm, which can offer increased structured career development and job security in this sector.While larger firms may be grappling with staff reductions due to excessive hiring and a slowdown in staff departures, independent accountancy firms, smaller in size and more specialised in their services, present a more promising scenario for career growth and stability for accountancy professionals at all stages of their career.Some may consider that a larger firm with a national or international presence may offer a more stable structure and security for professionals but there is undoubtedly fertile ground in independent accountancy firms for individuals seeking a robust career trajectory and job security.Independent firms often have a specialisation and niche expertise; often having a higher degree of specialisation in specific sectors or services, creating opportunities for professionals to develop expertise in niche areas. Read more »

Hall Morrice Sponsors Hall Russell United FC Under 18s We’re delighted to announce our sponsorship of Hall Russell United - a local junior football club which has its roots in the shipyard works team of the Hall Russell’s Shipyard in Aberdeen, which founded in 1915.We are sponsoring the new kit for Hall Russell United FC Development squad as they begin their first season in the Highland League Development League. Read more »

31 August 2023

Record Intake of Trainees We have recruited a record number of trainees from Robert Gordon University (RGU). Read more »

5 April 2023

Internal Senior Management Promotions and Young Talent Recruitment We are delighted to announce a series of internal senior management promotions and graduate appointments following a sustained period of growth.Louise Smith, previously a senior manager now becomes audit and accounts director. Read more »

16 December 2022

Scottish Budget December 2022 Download your copy of our client briefing on the December Scottish Budget. Read more »

2 November 2022

Charity News Autumn 2022 Our Charity News includes the latest guidance and support available for the not-for-profit sector as the cost of living crisis starts to bite.Subjects included are the impact of recent legislative, reporting and tax developments and other pertinent issues, giving you the inside track on the sector's current hot topics and latest guidance.Our highly experiences charity and not for profit team are here to advise and guide you, especially at a time when maintaining income levels is going to be particularly challenging. Read more »

18 October 2022

The Growth Plan ... Update On 14 October, as an important deadline loomed for Bank of England support of the government bond markets to expire, the government’s political turmoil ratcheted up as the fallout from the ‘fiscal event’ of 23 September claimed its first scalp.A new Chancellor Jeremy Hunt replaced Kwasi Kwarteng as Chancellor, making him the fourth Chancellor in as many months.Chris Philp, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, was also sacked. Read more »

16 December 2021

Chris Colville takes up newly created position of tax director Chris Colville, originally from Turriff and a graduate of the University of Edinburgh, has been appointed to the new position of tax director based in our Aberdeen office. Read more »

23 September 2022

Comment on Chancellor's 'Mini Budget' Chris Colville, tax director at Hall Morrice says,“The changes to IR35 are key to the economy of the north-east in particular; we have a large contractor and self-employed community here which is vital to the energy sector. Read more »

12 September 2022

Energy Costs After a prolonged period of speculation, the new Prime Minister Liz Truss has announced preliminary details of how the government plans to deal with the energy price crisis.In late May this year, the then Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced a range of measures to reduce the impact of the anticipated October 2022 Ofgem utility price cap increase. Read more »

31 January 2022

Entrepreneurship - Historically Endemic In The North East By managing partner Robert Bain,A new year is usually a time for optimism. Read more »

8 December 2021

It’s easy to delete the email from the billionaire African prince… But not one from the boss asking for immediate action It’s easy to delete the email from the billionaire African prince… But not one from the boss asking for immediate actionJust how aware are we all of how easy it is to compromise our whole business with just one click of the mouse?Phishing emails have evolved since the first recorded use of the term in 1996 and we’ve evolved to spot some of them; from African princes who have a fortune they need your help to wire overseas to long-lost relatives in dire financial crisis and dating scams to money for medical emergencies. Read more »

20 October 2021

Business Transition Fund Open For Applications Businesses in Aberdeen City Aberdeen City Council has launched a new Business Transition Fund to provide grants support of up to £30,000 to local businesses with growth potential, to support their recovery by adapting their business to meet the challenges of the post Covid-19 economic landscape.This fund will assist businesses to develop new solutions to counter the economic impacts of the pandemic, including but not limited to digital adoption, energy efficiencies and Net Zero transition, building adaption and workforce development.Engagement with local businesses during the Covid restrictions has highlighted a number of areas of concern impacting their viability, immediate financial distress, changes to operating practices and additional regulations have left many businesses with inadequate financial power to adapt to the changing landscape. Read more »

26 August 2021

HMRC Serves Up Christmas Bonus For the Hospitality Industry If you run a hospitality business, then you may be in line for an early Christmas bonus this festive season thanks to … HMRC.Business which market their Christmas offering and secure Christmas deposits and payments soon stand to benefit from the current 5% VAT rate which applies to the sector until 30 September.This Christmas gift for businesses is wrapped up in the HMRC VAT reduction scheme.Mike Innes, business development director at Hall Morrice explains, “The VAT rate remains at 5% for hospitality businesses until the end of September when it rises to 12.5%. Read more »

26 August 2021

Life After Furlough – Can Your Business Afford It? With the job retention scheme currently due to come to close at the end of September, if you have staff still on the scheme, you will need to make sound conclusions for the future based on robust business scenario planning.Time is short if you think you may have to make redundancies so, if you are unsure of your business position, it’s time to start planning ahead.Download our guide to how to plan for the future through scenario planning.Too overwhelming?Although it may be an overwhelming thought, the end of the job retention scheme may mean that you have to take daunting decisions. Read more »

21 June 2021

P11D Deadline Is Approaching P11D Deadline Is ApproachingDo you offer your employees fringe benefits? Read more »

18 June 2021

Employment Related Securities Return If you provided your employees with shares or share options during the 2020/21 tax year, then there are just a few months to go before you need to file the 2020/21 details with HMRC.The deadline for completing the Employment Related Securities (ERS) return is 6 July. Read more »

3 May 2021

Fall in exports to the EU – Just Teething Problems? Following an unprecedented 40.7% dip in UK exports to the EU back in January, the latest monthly figures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) now show signs of a tentative recovery. Read more »

30 April 2021

Pent Up Desire for Retail Therapy As we tentatively prepare for a post-Covid world, the re-opening of non-essential shops on 26 April represented another big step towards much-needed ‘normality’. Read more »

6 April 2021

Covid-19 Support Measures Read more »

1 April 2021

IR35 Deadline Looms After a year-long delay due to the Covid pandemic, the new IR35 off-payroll working rules are set to come into play on the 6 April. Read more »

2 April 2021

How will the personal tax thresholds freeze affect you? Read more »

15 February 2021

£20 million SME Brexit Support Fund The Government has launched a £20 million support fund for SMEs to help support them through the changes to trade rules with the EU.Traders will be able to apply for a grant of up to £2,000 to pay for practical support for importing and exporting. Read more »

7 January 2021

Covid-19 Measures As the third Covid-19 lockdown took effect on 5 January 2021, the Chancellor announced a further £4.6 billion in grants to the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. Read more »

11 December 2020

We’re Going “Card-Free” This Christmas In Support Of Three Local Charities It’s been a particularly difficult year for local charities as their services are needed more than ever but their fundraising has been severely curtailed. Read more »

6 November 2020

Extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) Yesterday (5.11.20) the Chancellor announced that CJRS will be extended until the end of March‌‌‌ 2021 for all parts of the UK. Read more »

3 November 2020

Child Benefit Tax Charge You may have been paying the tax charge known as the High Income Child Benefit Charge if your income is over £50,000 and you or your partner get Child Benefit or someone else gets Child Benefit for a child living with you and they contribute at least an equal amount towards the child’s upkeep.However, your income may have changed throughout 2020 ,especially if you have been furloughed or suffered loss of business due to the COVID crisis.You will not have to pay the tax charge if your income for the whole of a tax year is less than £50,000.You can choose to stop or restart your Child Benefit at any time. Read more »

2 November 2020

Furlough Scheme Extension November 2020 Furlough Scheme Extension – November 2020It has been confirmed that the extension to the furlough scheme, which was announced on Saturday evening (31.10.20), applies to all UK nations. Read more »

26 August 2020

Hall Morrice CAs Reach Top 100 Of ICAS Young CAs For Third Consecutive Year Two of our accountants have been named in the annual Institute of Chartered Accountants Scotland (ICAS) Top 100 Young CAs.Peter Cowan and Aileen Rollo have been recognised on the 2020 list which is compiled following a global competition. Read more »

27 August 2020

Powering ahead - what’s the buzz around electric cars? Forget ‘range anxiety’ or running out of charge, the capabilities of electric cars have made huge strides and when it comes to company car tax breaks - they’re streets ahead of petrol or diesel guzzling alternatives. Read more »

18 August 2020

Reminder of changes to CJRS Reminder of changes to CJRSFrom 1 Au‌gu‌st 2020 CJRS continue to provide grants for furloughed employees but no longer funds employers’ National Insurance (NI) and pensions contributions. Read more »

18 August 2020

Job Retention Bonus Job Retention BonusEmployers will be able to claim a one-off payment of £1,000 for every employee they have previously received a grant for under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and who remains continuously employed through to the end of Ja‌nu‌ar‌y 2021.To be eligible, the employee must have received earnings in November, December and January, and must have been paid an average of at least £520 per month, and a total of at least £1,560 across the three months.As the employer, you will be able to claim the bonus after you have filed PAYE information for Ja‌nu‌ar‌y 2021, and the bonus will be paid from Fe‌br‌ua‌ry 2021. Read more »

The Move to Flexible Furlough The Chancellor has announced changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS), which mean that from 1 July employers will be able to bring previously furloughed workers back to work part time. Read more »

12 May 2020

Furlough Scheme Update The government has extended the coronavirus job retention scheme until October, an extension of four months, with the current format of the scheme remaining the same until the end of July.The Chancellor of the Exchequer also indicates that the scheme will become more flexible from August to October.He is expected to unveil what this flexibility will look like later in May, but it is likely that employers will be able to bring furloughed employees back part time. Read more »

30 April 2020

Additional Small Business Support Launched The Scottish Government has today (Thursday 30 April 2020) announced an additional multi million-pound suite of measures to support small businesses in Scotland; in particular, for those businesses which may not have previously qualified for any grant support. Read more »

28 April 2020

Government Bounce Back Loan Scheme Launched The Chancellor has announced a new Bounce Back Loan scheme to help small business access credit during the lockdown which will launch on Monday 4 May.The scheme is aimed at UK based SMEs who will be able to apply for a loan up to the value of 25% of the business turnover. Read more »

16 April 2020

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (Furlough) Portal Due To Open 20 April The HMRC portal, to which employers will upload their furloughed employees’ details to claim 80% of their gross salary of wages up to £2,500, is due to open on 20 April 2020.HMRC has indicated that the first claims will be paid six days after this and, that in future, claims will be paid within four to six days.It appears that, following the initial backdated claims, further claims can be made no more than 14 days before payrolls are run.Tax agents who are authorised to act for PAYE matters will be able to file claims for their clients. Read more »

13 April 2020

Support for north east charities and third sector organisations We have rounded up some of the support and advice available for charities and third sector organisations in the north east to help during the COVID 19 pandemic. Read more »

31 March 2020

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Coronavirus Job Retention SchemeThis scheme is available to any size of business (including charities), in any sector but they must have created and started a PAYE payroll scheme on or before 28 February 2020 and have a UK bank account.It will take the form of a grant to cover 80% of wages (up to £2,500 per month), for employees who are not working due to the impact of Coronavirus but are retained on the payroll.The 80% is based on the higher of (i) the earnings in the same pay period in the previous year; or (ii) the average earnings in the previous 12 months (or less, if the individual has worked for less time).Should businesses wish to top up the additional 20% of salaries they can.The scheme will be backdated to 1st March 2020 and will be open initially for a three-month period and will be further extended if necessary.Employees taken on after 1st March 2020, are excluded from the scheme.Businesses can re-employ people who have been made redundant since 1st March, and then furlough them.To claim the grant businesses should designate affected employees as ‘furloughed workers’ and notify employees of this change. Read more »

31 March 2020

Help for Self-Employed Individuals During Coronavirus Help for Self-Employed Individuals During CoronavirusThis scheme enables the self-employed to claim a grant through the coronavirus (COVID-19) Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.The grant will be a maximum of £2,500 per month for three months.To qualify for this SE grant your self-employed trading profits must also be less than £50,000 and more than half of your income come from self-employment. Read more »

31 March 2020

VAT - support during Coronavirus VAT - support during CoronavirusNo business will have to pay any VAT to HMRC from now until 30 June 2020.The VAT payment will be deferred, and businesses will have until the end of the 2020-21 tax year to settle any liabilities that have accumulated during the deferral period.The deferral applies automatically and businesses do not need to apply for it.On the 25th March HMRC confirmed that it will not automatically cancel collection of VAT payments by direct debit. Read more »

31 March 2020

Business Rates Holidays and Cash Grants Business Rates Holidays and Cash GrantsThe Scottish Government Coronavirus Business Support Fund is being administered by Local Authorities.The ratepayers of businesses located in a non-domestic property that is on 17 March;1) in receipt of the Small Business Bonus Scheme (SBBS)2) in receipt of Rural Relief or3) eligible for SBBS but in receipt of Nursery Relief or Disabled Reliefcan apply to access a support fund and receive a one-off small business support grant of £10,000. Read more »

31 March 2020

HMRC Time to Pay HMRC Time to PayHMRC’s ‘Time to Pay’ scheme can enable firms and individuals in temporary financial distress as a result of Covid-19 to delay payment of outstanding tax liabilities.HMRC’s dedicated Covid-19 helpline provides practical help and advice on: 0800 0159 559 (lines are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 20:00 and on Saturday, 8:00 to 16:00). Read more »

31 March 2020

Mortgage Holidays for Individuals Mortgage Holidays for IndividualsMortgage borrowers can apply for a three- month payment holiday from their lender.Residential and buy-to-let mortgages are eligible for the holiday. Read more »

31 March 2020

Law At Work Resources Law At Work ResourcesLaw At Work has made all of its guidance available free to all employers to help employers navigate employment issues during the pandemic.You can access these resources here. Read more »

24 March 2020

Coronavirus - help for business in times of crisis The far-reaching effects of COVID-19 could result in the worst crisis that the UK economy has faced in generations. Read more »

18 March 2020

IR35 Off-Payrolling Reform Update IR35 Off-Payrolling Reform UpdateThe government has announced that IR35 off-payrolling for the private sector tax reforms will be pushed back by one year. Read more »

16 March 2020

Tax planning – it’s a marathon, not a sprint Tax planning – it’s a marathon, not a sprintBy Shona DuncanAs accountants, we often find ourselves using analogies to explain or illustrate a topic. Read more »

3 March 2020

Change is on the way for Principal Private Residence Relief Change is on the way for Principal Private Residence ReliefBy Richard StephensonAs safe as houses, firm foundations, bricks and mortar investments; property has long been considered a sound investment and Hall Morrice offers a range of property tax advice specifically for landlords or those with second properties.That’s why we’re speaking up about changes to tax breaks that are looming large. Read more »

24 February 2020

After the divorce: tips for businesses with the EU post-Brexit After the divorce: tips for businesses with the EU post-BrexitBy Shona Duncan, senior tax managerIt was a long time coming, but Britain’s divorce from the EU has been finalised and we’ve now been flying solo for several weeks. Read more »

8 January 2020

Marriage Allowance – sharing the love Marriage Allowance – sharing the loveBy Andrew Laurie, tax managerAs Valentine’s Day approaches don’t miss out on a tax break. Read more »

8 January 2020

Be smart – and safe – with your money in the digital age Be smart – and safe – with your money in the digital ageBy Mike Innes, business development directorAs accountants, we encourage our clients to be smart with their money. Read more »

16 December 2019

Trio of charities reap rewards of Christmas cash boost from Hall Morrice Trio of charities reap rewards of Christmas cash boost from Hall Morrice A hat-trick of charities have enjoyed a festive windfall after receiving a share of £3,000 from Hall Morrice. Read more »

4 December 2019

Prepare for off-payrolling in the private sector now Prepare for off-payrolling in the private sector nowBy Shona Duncan, senior tax managerChanges to off-payroll working (IR35) rules come into effect from 6 April 2020 impacting on contractors working through a personal service company (PSC), recruitment agencies, and large and medium-sized enterprises as well as charities in the private sector.The nature of employment within North Sea energy businesses means this sector could be most greatly affected by the changes.Medium sized and large businesses and charities in the private sector will be required to assess whether the IR35 rules apply to any consultants, contractors and freelancers who are being paid via invoice from their limited company or partnership.IR35 requires to be paid in respect of a person who provides services through a PSC, if that person would have been regarded as an employee of the end user, had engaged directly with the business, and would have been on the fee payers payroll and taxed and NIC accordingly.Currently, where a private sector business engages a contractor through a PSC, liability to decide whether IR35 applies and to pay any employment taxes rests with the PSC.Large and medium end users will be required to assess whether the IR35 rules apply to any consultants, contractors and freelancers who are being paid via invoice from their limited company or partnership.This is a reversal of the current situation in the private sector, where the consultant has the responsibility to decide if IR35 applies when preparing their accounts.The reformed rules have been in place for public sector organisations contracting workers supplied through their own personal service companies since 2017.These latest changes are a marked difference in the way organisations in the private sector employ and pay contractors.A recent poll showed three-quarters of UK organisations are not ready for changes to off-payroll working rules, leaving the business exposed to potential rising costs and a significant skills shortage in the future.Failure to fully comply or to correctly assess contractors could lead to backdated demands for unpaid PAYE tax and NIC, and fines for delays and late submissions issued to the fee payers. Read more »

7 November 2019

A self-assessment tax return is not just for Christmas A self-assessment tax return is not just for ChristmasBy Andrew Laurie, tax managerWhat makes your perfect Christmas Day? Read more »

29 October 2019

Time to speak up – charities can make their voices heard with HMRC Time to speak up – charities can make their voices heard with HMRCBy Shonagh Fraser, partnerDealing with the taxman can be a daunting experience, not least if you volunteer with a charity and don’t have much direct experience of HMRC. Read more »

8 October 2019

Business planning can keep property developers on solid foundations despite shaky trading ground Business planning can keep property developers on solid foundations despite shaky trading groundBy Shona Duncan, senior tax managerWith only a matter of weeks to go until the UK’s exit from the European Union, the ramifications of our departure continue to be subject to much deliberation, hypotheses and conjecture. Read more »

27 September 2019

ICAS Top 100 Young CAs Profile: Peter Cowan ICAS Top 100 Young CAs Profile: Peter CowanPeter Cowan, named at one of the ICAS Top 100 Young CAs 2019, shares his thoughts on his career and what it takes to be a leading CA.NamePeter CowanPositionSenior Audit and Accounts Analyst When did you join Hall Morrice?I joined the fun in June 2015.What does your role involve?My time is split between preparing companies’ and individuals' year end accounts and auditing larger companies, as well as preparing tax computations for clients. Read more »

19 September 2019

Mind the gap – partnership approach could ease post-Brexit dentist skill shortage Mind the gap – partnership approach could ease post-Brexit dentist skill shortageBy Lorna Jackson, senior managerAlmost a third of EEA qualified dental professionals working in the UK are considering leaving, with Brexit uncertainty blamed as the main reason, research by from the General Dental Council (GDC) indicates.Therefore, it’s an obvious time for dental practices to look at bolstering their teams. Bringing in a new partner could be an attractive option to retain - and incentivise – professionals and deliver many other benefits.A new partner can support overheads and manage the business during a time away; they can motivate and help grow the business; and generate new ideas, as well as bringing capital investment.If bringing in a partner does appeal, be sure to carry out careful due diligence before making any offers. Read more »

16 September 2019

Collaboration is key to innovation Collaboration is key to innovationBy Andy Bell, corporate tax managerThe north east is a region of invention and has produced some of the world’s greatest innovators. Read more »

5 September 2019

Deadline day is looming for self-assessment Deadline day is looming for self-assessmentBy Shona Duncan, senior tax managerBusiness confidence in Aberdeen and the surrounding area has taken a battering as a result of the downturn in North Sea oil production, with many businesses directly and indirectly involved in the energy sector facing very challenging economic times.But, as the saying goes, necessity is the mother of invention and many innovators are finding new customers for their skills outwith traditional oil and gas markets. Read more »

3 September 2019

There are no shortcuts to finding an exit There are no shortcuts to finding an exitBy Derek Petrie, director of audit and accountsAberdeen and the north east has faced some challenging economic times as a result of the energy sector’s most recent slump. Read more »

27 August 2019

ICAS Top 100 Young CAs Profile: Richard Stephenson ICAS Top 100 Young CAs Profile: Richard StephensonRichard Stephenson, named at one of the ICAS Top 100 Young CAs 2019, shares his thoughts on his career and what it takes to be a leading CA.NameRichard StephensonPositionSenior ManagerWhen did you join Hall Morrice?February 2015What does your role involve?Managing a mixed portfolio of over 130 clients, providing business advisory, VAT, accounts and audit services. Read more »

22 August 2019

Sell, sell, sell…how turning a profit on your possessions can impact on tax liabilities Sell, sell, sell…how turning a profit on your possessions can impact on tax liabilitiesBy Andrew Laurie, tax managerHave you ever sold an item on an online auction site like eBay? Read more »

19 August 2019

Restoring public trust – or more red tape for charities? Restoring public trust – or more red tape for charities?By Lorna JacksonIt’s been billed as a move that will improve public trust and confidence in the third sector – but will the Scottish Government’s transform charity law place unnecessary burdens on grassroots volunteers?A consultation on the biggest shake-up of charity law in Scotland in over a decade proposes a number of new regulations, including charities being struck off if they repeatedly fail to publish their accounts.There is absolutely nothing wrong with this suggestion, but I can see that it would result in volunteers - many of them already stretched – facing up to additional regulations.Over many years we have established ourselves as one of the leading accountancy firms for charities and community organisations, with a real depth of understanding of the third sector.Many of these organisations don’t start out with charitable status: they decide to go down that route as their groups grow and evolve.If the proposals in the consultation do reach fruition, I would be advising, more than ever, to give careful consideration as to whether charitable status is the right option.I agree that in order to increase public confidence in the activities of charities there needs to be greater transparency: a survey by Scottish charity regulator OSCR last year showed 88% of people would be more trusting if they could see how much of their donation went directly to good causes.But the impact of the proposed changes is that grassroots volunteers would need to ensure their organisation follows legislation to the absolute letter – or their activities and all the good they do in communities would cease.It is already very difficult for many local community groups to find volunteers that are willing to take on specialist roles such as that of treasurer. Read more »

14 August 2019

Our graduate programme is the best possible start to an accountancy career Our graduate programme is the best possible start to an accountancy careerBy Shonagh Fraser, PartnerIf you are due to graduate from university in 2020, then our graduate programme could be right for you. Read more »

13 August 2019

ICAS Top 100 Young CAs Profile: Melanie Clark ICAS Top 100 Young CAs Profile: Melanie ClarkMelanie Clark, named at one of the ICAS Top 100 Young CAs 2019, shares her thoughts on her career and what it takes to be a leading CA.NameMelanie ClarkPositionAssistant Director – Hall Morrice Corporate FinanceWhen did you join Hall Morrice?We set up HMCF in April 2017What does your role involve?HMCF covers a wide range of CF services, from running a sale process for a company whose shareholders wish sell all or part of the company, to providing financial due diligence to Private Equity Houses, and on to building financial models to assist companies with their forecasts.What made you want to become an accountant?Since university, I knew I wanted to work in corporate finance as it was the aspect of finance that interested me the most.What do you enjoy most about your job?I enjoy building client relationships. Read more »

25 July 2019

Too much room at the inn? Too much room at the inn?By Rhys Jones, manager business advisoryScottish government ministers say there will be no compulsion for local authorities to implement a so-called tourist tax, but in a climate where councils are facing the squeeze on budgets, it could be eyed as a means to raise revenue to help balance the books.With the number of beds continuing to rise in Aberdeen as new hotel openings come on stream, it remains a challenging time for the hospitality businesses.So, the spectre of the tourism visitor levy (TVL), and how this might affect the value of visiting a region to visitors, may quite rightly be viewed as frightening.The process to introduce the tourist tax in Edinburgh is going through the motions.It may not be on the table here in the Aberdeen region, but cash strapped councils could be waiting to see how it rolls out.There can be no ruling out that other areas could look on it as a method to generate income in the future.Concern of having to foot extra costs to visit an area could impact on a region’s attractiveness to holiday makers.We don’t have a crystal ball to predict the future but it’s always important to be aware of the potential threats that might be looming on the horizon.That’s why we recommend taking steps to ensure your tax position is optimised. Read more »

18 July 2019

Clock is ticking on scheme pays deadline Clock is ticking on scheme pays deadlineBy Shona Duncan, senior tax managerIn recent years the government has introduced pension annual allowance and in circumstances where income exceeds £100,000 this can be tapered to a maximum of £10,000. Read more »

15 July 2019

Be outstanding in the field of farm diversification Be outstanding in the field of farm diversificationBy Derek Mair, partnerClay pigeon shooting, brewing, cheese shops, camping barns, golf driving ranges, renewable power and riding centres – farm diversification comes in many different forms.Diversification has a crucial role to play in the modern agriculture and rural business sector and is an increasingly likely consideration to future-proof businesses from market and economic changes.Getting the right structure for the diversified business could help preserve important Inheritance Tax reliefs.The right advice allows opportunities to maximise the reliefs available when there is a mix of trading activities within the business.Additional thought must be taken around setting up the new diversified enterprise as a separate entity because of the financial implications of such a move.Agricultural property can qualify for relief from inheritance tax at 100% or 50%, both on death and in respect of lifetime transfers. Read more »

10 July 2019

Trio of staff from Hall Morrice named among 2019’s Top 100 Young CAs Trio of staff from Hall Morrice named among 2019’s Top 100 Young CAsThree talented young accountants from Hall Morrice LLP have been recognised as some of the brightest in the industry after being named in 2019’s Top 100 Young CAs list. Read more »

29 May 2019

Top of the Shops – Helping Independent Retailers Survive on the High Street Top of the Shops – Helping Independent Retailers Survive on the High StreetBy Louise Smith, senior managerWith an estimated 7,500 stores bringing down the shutters in 2018 and as many as 175,000 retail jobs expected to be lost in 2019, the High Street is not a happy place.Online shopping – often more convenient and cheaper than bricks and mortar stores – is shouldering a significant amount of the blame.But, in reality, there are many reasons why the High Street is struggling. Read more »

22 May 2019

EMI Share Option Scheme Explained EMI Share Option Scheme ExplainedBy Andrew Laurie, tax managerEnterprise Management Incentive (EMI) is a share option scheme that is perfect for small and growing companies.It’s well worth considering the benefits that EMI could bring to your business.Research shows that companies that offer employees share incentives are more likely to outperform those that do not.EMI share options are a cost-effective and tax efficient way to retain and motivate your team, incentivising them to drive your business growth and profit.Here’s what you need to know.What is EMI?Growing companies can face more challenges when it comes to encouraging staff to remain with the company and work towards its growth compared to their larger counterparts.HMRC recognises that staff recruitment and retention can be harder for smaller companies to achieve because they cannot offer the same breadth of rewards as larger companies, so have provided the EMI share option scheme to assist.The scheme enables employees to participate in the growth of a company without having to ‘buy’ shares initially. Read more »

16 May 2019

Small Business Tax – What You Need to Know Small Business Tax – What You Need to KnowBy Andrew Laurie, tax managerAt the onset businesses may find they are making losses with all the start up cost but with growth that loss can soon turn into a profit, and it’s almost inevitable that you will have to start paying taxes. Read more »

8 May 2019

Flying Solo – Is a One-Man Limited Company Right For You? Flying Solo – Is a One-Man Limited Company Right For You?By Shona Duncan, senior tax managerWhen working in a specialised sector – such as the oil and gas industry here in Aberdeen - opportunities for work and the nature of employment contracts are diverse. Read more »

1 May 2019

How Forgotten Bank Accounts are Helping the Third Sector Flourish How Forgotten Bank Accounts are Helping the Third Sector FlourishBy Lorna Jackson, senior managerPicture the scene. Read more »

25 April 2019

Diversification: The Changing Face of the Energy Mix Diversification: The Changing Face of the Energy MixBy Derek Petrie, director, audit and accountsThe effects of the slump in North Sea production – and the associated drop in the price of oil – continue to reverberate across the Granite City. Read more »

28 March 2019

MTD for Farming Businesses: The Changes and Challenges Ahead MTD for Farming Businesses: The Changes and Challenges AheadBy Derek Petrie, director, audit and accountsThe move to Making Tax Digital for VAT (MTDV) has proved to be a testing time for those in business as they face up to taxation in a digital age. Read more »

21 March 2019

Planning for the End of the Tax Year – Are You Prepared? Planning for the End of the Tax Year – Are You Prepared?By Shona Duncan, senior tax managerThe tax year ends on April 5, and with just a few weeks to go, time is flying by. Read more »

20 March 2019

HMRC Investigations: Steer Clear of a Taxing Situation HMRC Investigations: Steer Clear of a Taxing SituationBy Shona Duncan, senior tax managerA tax investigation is costly, time-consuming and, if you’ll pardon the pun, taxing. Read more »

14 March 2019

The Move to Payrolling Benefits – Have You Registered Yet? The Move to Payrolling Benefits – Have You Registered Yet?By Shona Duncan, senior tax managerIf you are an employer, you are probably all too familiar with the red tape that comes with reporting taxes. Read more »

8 March 2019

Start-ups: Navigating through the tax maze Start-ups: Navigating through the tax mazeBy Shona Duncan, senior tax managerEstablishing your own start-up is an exciting time: your dreams are finally being realised and you’re doing the job you love. Read more »

5 March 2019

Andy turns up the heat on London Marathon Andy turns up the heat on London MarathonAfter completing the 2018 London Marathon in record-breaking temperatures, accountant Andy Bell is once again pulling on his running shoes to show that the 26.2-mile route is far from too hot to handle.Although he managed to complete the course in sweltering 23.2C temperatures, Andy was disappointed that the heat contributed to a slower than anticipated finishing time in his debut marathon.So, when his chosen charity – MS Society – asked if he would once again join the MS Superstars Team to pound the streets of the capital on April 28, Hall Morrice corporate tax manager Andy didn’t have to think twice.“I finished in around five hours last year, which was about an hour slower than I had hoped. Read more »

22 April 2024

Trio of Promotions Three of our team have recently been promoted. Read more »