In a further, recent First-tier case the Tribunal considered the tax treatment of a businessman who was paid £123,750 on the termination of his employment. He dutifully deducted the usual £30,000 tax-free amount from this payment and declared the difference on his tax return.
Unfortunately, the termination payment was paid under the terms of his contract of employment. Payments made in this way are considered to be part of remuneration and therefore taxable in full.
The £30,000 deduction was not, therefore, available.
The case points to the need for constant vigilance when drafting contracts of employment to ensure that the £30,000 exemption is not invalidated. Even a “thank you for your services” letter can cause problems. Do seek our advice if you wish to make use of the exemption: either as an employee or employer.