George Osborne presented his Budget on Wednesday 19 March 2014.

In his speech the Chancellor set the scene for the announcements stating that ‘If you’re a maker, a doer or a saver: this Budget is for you.’

Towards the end of last year the Government issued the majority of the clauses, in draft, of Finance Bill 2014 together with updates on consultations. The publication of the draft Finance Bill clauses is now an established way in which tax policy is developed, communicated and legislated.

The Budget updates some of these previous announcements and also proposes further measures. Some of these changes apply from April 2014 and some take effect at a later date.

Our summary focuses on the issues likely to affect you, your family and your business. To help you decipher what was said we have included our own comments. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us for advice.

Main Budget tax proposals

• The starting rate band for savings will be increased from April 2015 and the current 10% tax rate reduced to nil.

• Individual Savings Accounts are to be simplified by merging the cash and stocks ISAs together with a significant increase in the investment limit from 1 July 2014.

• Radical changes are to be made to the pensions regime including removing the restrictions on access to pension pots so there will no longer be a requirement to buy an annuity.

• The Annual Investment Allowance is to be doubled to £500,000 until 31 December 2015.

• An increase will be made in the R&D tax credit available to loss making SMEs to 14.5%.

• Those using tax avoidance schemes may be required to pay tax upfront.

The Budget proposals may be subject to amendment in a Finance Act. You should contact us before taking any action as a result of the contents of this summary.