Close company anti-avoidance measure

As part of the Autumn 2024 Budget measures, the government introduced new anti-avoidance provisions to prevent the abuse of the existing close company anti-avoidance rule. The measure will have effect for any tax avoidance arrangements falling within the scope of the announcements that are made on or after 30 October 2024.

The government has said they are introducing this new measure as they have become aware of arrangements using a group of companies or amongst associated companies, so that new loans are made and then repaid in a chain such that no s455 charge arises on the increasing amounts extracted. Chapters 3A and 3B cannot catch the behaviour.

It will be clear under new legislation in Finance Bill 2024-25, that where the TAAR applies (where companies and their shareholders are attempting to avoid the s455 charge on any extractions), tax is payable whether or not there has apparently been a repayment, or a repayment is subsequently made. Section 464B of the CTA 2010, which currently provides relief from the charge in cases where a return payment is made (even if the payment is made for avoidance purposes), will be repealed and relevant amendments will be made to Section 464D.