UK Tax Strategy

In accordance with paragraph 22 of Schedule 19 of the Finance Act 2016, Guidewire Software (UK) Limited is required to publish our UK business’s tax strategy. The tax strategy described in this publication relates to the year ended 31 July 2024 and has been approved by the Board of Directors. This strategy applies from the date of publication until it is superseded.

Tax risk management and governance

We actively seek to identify, evaluate and minimise tax risks while ensuring that we are fully compliant with all relevant tax regulations. 

The role of the Board is to oversee the performance of senior management in the competent and ethical operation of the Company on a day-to- day basis and assure that the long-term interests of stockholders are being served. 

The Senior Director of Tax manages an in-house team of appropriately qualified and experienced tax professionals. The responsibility of the day-to-day management of the company’s tax affairs in the UK and globally rests with our in-house tax team. Where necessary, we engage external tax advisors and legal counsel to assist with ongoing tax compliance and tax strategy matters, as well as technical support for complex tax issues.

To manage the tax risk of the Company, we engage in internal reviews, and we have established policies and procedures to ensure that our tax obligations are met in a timely and accurate manner and to identify and minimise any tax risks.

Attitude to tax planning

Guidewire UK and the wider group is committed to carrying on its business in good faith and in line with current tax legislation, with respect to both the letter and the intention of the law. 

Our position is that of zero tolerance towards tax evasion. We are not party to any contrived or artificial tax arrangement nor participate in tax avoidance schemes. We endeavour to minimise the risk of uncertainty or disputes and seek professional advice where necessary. 

All transactions between the companies within the Guidewire group are on an arm’s-length basis and in accordance with current OECD guidelines and principles. 

Level of tax risk that Guidewire UK is willing to accept

While we have no set threshold for the level of acceptable risk, it is our aim to minimise the level of tax risk in all our dealings and conduct ourselves in accordance with the relevant legislation and in line with our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. 

The Board of Directors is responsible for the management of tax risk and this forms part of the overall commercial evaluation of any action to be taken by the company. The board will seek advice from the tax team and external advisors as part of their decision-making process to best minimise the level of tax risk.

Relationships with tax authorities

We are committed to maintaining an open and transparent relationship with HM Revenue & Customs (“HMRC”). We will ensure the fair, accurate and timely submission of returns, comply with all tax obligations and cooperate fully with any enquiries or other correspondence.