Find taxes taxing? You're not alone! With rules and regulations constantly changing, and some of us having to work out our tax bill for ourselves, it's no wonder that three quarters of us pay too much tax every year. Help is at hand, however, as Tony Levene, a financial journalist with over 30 years experience, gives you the insider's guide to understanding tax, and paying less of it. This book outlines the basics of the tax system in plain English and shows you how you could save money by avoiding those tax pitfalls and reducing your tax bill. All aspects of tax are covered from child credit, to savings, to pay as you earn schemes, and practical advice is given to show you how your tax savings could soon add up. If you are looking for a light hearted and easy to understand introduction to keeping more of your hard earned cash, look no further! Inside you'll find information on: Getting real with your tax bill I'm the Taxman -- getting to know who you're dealing with Getting organized Tying the knot -- or not? Taxing from the cradle onwards Stopping work but continuing to pay tax Preparing for the inevitable Working for someone else Looking at the perks of the job Taking a share in your firm's fortunes Working for yourself can be less taxing Running a company -- and saving tax Taxing Your Savings Taxing stocks and shares Saving tax with bricks and mortar Understanding life insurance and tax Planning for your retirement -- with some help from the Inland Revenue Filling in and filing your self--assessment form Paying for outside help with your tax affairs Probing into your tax affairs -- the pain of an investigation