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Home / Latest News And Updates / Dext Insights: Navigating the Basis Period Reform

Dext Insights: Navigating the Basis Period Reform

29 Aug 2023

The reform impacts sole traders and partnerships. However, limited companies remain unaffected. Transitioning to the new rules will involve specific regulations for the years 2022/23 (old rules), 2023/24 (transitional rules), and 2024/25 (new rules).

Practical Examples of BPR Impact

To get a clearer understanding of the BPR, consider the following scenarios:

  • 31 March year-end business: Businesses with their year-end on 31 March or 5 April will not see any changes in how their profits are assessed for 2022/23, 2023/24 or 2024/25.
  • 30 June year-end business: The transitional year, 2023/24, presents a mix of factors affecting taxable profits. By 2024/25, they will be taxed on the proportion of profits spanning two years.
  • 31 January year-end business: This scenario comes with a unique challenge. By the tax return deadline in January 2026, businesses will lack the year's exact profit figures, prompting estimates.

Transition Challenges

The transition year, 2023/24 involves several key elements which will require careful handling. Detailed calculations of the transitional year can be found here.

Future Implications

BPR also intersects with Making Tax Digital (MTD). There are discrepancies in how the quarters are aligned between the MTD ITSA and the new BPR rules. This could add another layer of complexity and hinder accurate tax estimates.

Furthermore, while there's no immediate change to tax payment dates, the alignment of tax due with actual profits suggests potential adjustments later on.

Lastly, it's essential to remember that the BPR primarily affects sole traders and partnerships. Each partner will need to calculate their tax position using their individual overlap profits.

With so many intricacies to the process, it’s clear that clarity and simplification can become our best allies. At Dext, we offer tools to streamline accounting processes — and to further assist, we’ve thoughtfully written a guide to help you navigate the BPR, ensuring a smoother path for all those involved. Download your free copy today.

You can find out more about Dext via their Partner Resource Centre page.