How to Reduce Your Corporation Tax Bill in the UK
At Payless Accountants, we help clients make the most of every allowable relief and deduction while staying fully compliant with HMRC regulations.
Although the focus is on corporation tax, understanding your Personal Tax Return can also help you balance your overall tax position more effectively.
1. Claim All Allowable Business Expenses
You can deduct any “wholly and exclusively” business-related expenses from your profits before calculating your corporation tax.
These may include:
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Office rent and utilities
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Travel and mileage costs
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Staff wages and pensions
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Marketing and professional fees
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Equipment and software purchases
Accurate record-keeping ensures you don’t miss out on legitimate deductions that lower your taxable profit.
2. Use Capital Allowances Wisely
If you’ve purchased assets like computers, vehicles, or machinery, you can claim capital allowances.
The Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) currently allows most businesses to deduct up to £1 million on qualifying equipment, reducing taxable profits significantly.
3. Pay Into a Pension Scheme
Employer contributions to a director’s pension are tax-deductible, meaning your company can reduce its corporation tax while also building long-term personal wealth. It’s a win-win strategy often overlooked by small business owners.
4. Take Advantage of R&D Tax Credits
If your business invests in innovation, research, or new product development, you could qualify for Research & Development (R&D) tax relief.
This can either reduce your tax bill or, in some cases, result in a cash payment from HMRC.
5. Review Your Salary and Dividends Mix
Many company directors choose a combination of salary and dividends to stay tax-efficient.
Optimising how you withdraw profits from your company helps reduce both your corporation tax and your Personal Tax Return liabilities. Payless Accountants can help you plan the most tax-efficient structure for your income.
6. Make Charitable Donations
Donations to registered UK charities are tax-deductible for companies. Not only do you support a good cause, but you also lower your overall tax burden.
7. File and Pay on Time
Filing your corporation tax return late can result in penalties and interest, which increases your total costs unnecessarily. Similarly, keeping your Personal Tax Return up to date ensures there’s no overlap or confusion with your individual income reporting.
Final Thoughts
Reducing your corporation tax bill isn’t about finding loopholes—it’s about smart tax planning and understanding what reliefs you’re entitled to. At Payless Accountants, we combine corporate tax advice with Personal Tax Return management to ensure you pay only what’s due—nothing more.
Let our experts help you stay compliant, reduce your tax burden, and plan for a stronger financial future.
Disclaimer:
This content is for general information purposes only and should not be taken as financial or legal advice. For tailored tax planning, please contact Payless Accountants directly.