How Is Your Business Performing?
The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics suggest that conditions remain challenging for many UK businesses. In July 2026, 15% of trading businesses reported an increase in turnover
Evidence required to support business expense claims
Self-employed individuals can deduct allowable business expenses from their income when calculating taxable profits. However, businesses must keep accurate records and evidence to support the costs
Have you reviewed your workers’ employment status?
Businesses should regularly review whether individuals working for them are correctly classified as employees, workers or self-employed. Getting employment status wrong can result in unexpected tax
Benefits of claiming the Annual Investment Allowance
Businesses investing in qualifying assets may be able to claim the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) and deduct the full cost of eligible purchases from their profits before tax. This can help by
Tax relief for uniforms and protective clothing
Employers providing uniforms or protective clothing to employees need to understand the tax and National Insurance rules that apply. The treatment depends on whether the clothing is required for the
What is a reasonable excuse for missing a tax deadline?
Missing a tax deadline can result in penalties from HMRC, but a taxpayer may be able to appeal if they have a genuine reasonable excuse. Whether an excuse is accepted depends on the individual facts
Recovering VAT on pre-registration costs
Businesses that register for VAT may be able to reclaim VAT paid on certain goods and services purchased before VAT registration. There are specific time limits for claiming pre-registration VAT.
Are your employment policies ready for workplace reforms?
Employment law continues to evolve, and businesses should keep a close eye on forthcoming changes that may affect the way they recruit, manage and retain staff. Although many of the proposed reforms
Could your business survive a cyberattack?
Cybercrime is no longer a problem that only affects large organisations. Increasingly, small and medium-sized businesses are becoming targets because criminals often see them as having weaker security
All online harassment is unacceptable, in any context
A recent ruling has determined that targeting individuals online, even on a private group chat, can lead to a loss of employment. A Mr. Y was employed by the Royal Mail as a delivery driver with an
When to register for Corporation Tax
Companies and other organisations that are liable for Corporation Tax must ensure they register with HMRC at the correct time. Failing to register when required could result in missed filing
Benefits of SEIS and EIS Advance Assurance
Businesses seeking investment through the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) or Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) can benefit from obtaining advance assurance from HMRC before approaching
Official rate of interest for beneficial loans
Employers providing loans to employees or directors need to ensure they correctly calculate any taxable benefit using HMRC’s official rate of interest. Where a loan is provided at no interest or at a
Incorporation Relief may reduce your CGT bill
When a sole trader or partnership transfers a business to a limited company, a chargeable gain may arise. This is usually calculated by comparing the market value of the business assets at the date of
HMRC penalties for failing to notify a tax liability
If you become liable to pay a tax or register for a tax that HMRC has not already been informed about, you must notify HMRC within the relevant time limit. Failing to do so can result in a financial
Tax relief on pension contributions for employees
Receiving tax relief on pension contributions into a workplace pension is a great way to help prepare for retirement. In addition, contributions from your employer can make the pension savings even
Why successful businesses prepare before conditions improve
Economic uncertainty has affected the confidence of many small business owners. Rising costs, changing customer demand and pressure on cash flow have led some businesses to postpone investment until
Could better digital skills transform your business?
Technology is changing the way businesses operate, and the pace of change is only increasing. While large organisations often have dedicated IT departments, many small businesses still rely on
Tax Diary September/October 2026
1 September 2026 - Due date for corporation tax due for the year ended 30 November 2025. 19 September 2026 - PAYE and NIC deductions due for month ended 5 September 2026. (If you pay your tax
Amending a mistake on your tax return
What happens if you discover a mistake on your tax return? The good news is that errors can usually be corrected, but it is important to take action as soon as possible to avoid paying the wrong
Tax breaks for company bikes
Employers can usually provide bicycles and cycling equipment to employees as a tax-free benefit. The Cycle to Work scheme can help employees save tax and National Insurance on the cost of providing