Aynesley Walters Cohen Ltd - Chartered Accountants Croydon

June 12, 2025

Do not forget to claim the marriage allowance

If one partner in a marriage or civil partnership earns under £12,570, you could save up to £252 a year, and up to £1,260 if you backdate your Marriage Allowance claim for the past four years. The Marriage Allowance can be claimed by married couples and civil partners where one...

June 12, 2025

Current IHT gift reliefs

Lifetime gifts can reduce Inheritance Tax, but survival for seven years and using key exemptions like the £3,000 annual allowance are crucial to making them fully tax-free. Most gifts made during a person’s lifetime are not immediately subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT). These are known as potentially exempt transfers (PETs)...

June 12, 2025

Business Asset Disposal Relief – forthcoming changes

The BADR Capital Gains Tax rate has risen to 14% from April 2025 and will increase further to 18% in April 2026. Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) offers a valuable tax advantage by applying a reduced rate of Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on the sale of a business, shares in...

June 12, 2025

New requirement – verifying ID at Companies House

Identity verification is now rolling out for directors, PSCs, and agents, with more filing roles to be included soon under new anti-fraud rules. Companies House is beginning to roll out mandatory identity verification. This is part of wider reforms introduced by the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act that was...

June 11, 2025

When changing a company’s name absolves a daughter company of its obligations

The Court of Appeal addressed the complexities of benefit scheme amendments and the lines of responsibility within corporate structures in a complex case surrounding post-employment entitlements. A Mr. Fasano had been an employee of RB Health Ltd., a member of the Reckitt Benckiser (RB) Group of companies, until the 13th...

June 9, 2025

Four critically important KPIs

Gross profit margin This measures the profitability of your core operations by comparing gross profit (sales minus cost of goods sold) to total revenue. A stable or improving gross margin indicates pricing, production, or service delivery is efficient. A declining margin may signal rising costs or pricing issues. Formula: (Gross...

June 9, 2025

The value of tax planning for high net worth individuals

For high net worth individuals (HNWIs), tax planning is not simply a compliance activity, it is a strategic tool to preserve and grow wealth. With rising scrutiny from HMRC, frozen allowances, and increasingly complex legislation, the value of well-structured planning has never been higher. HNWIs typically have multiple sources of...

June 6, 2025

Tax Diary July/August 2025

1 July 2025 - Due date for corporation tax due for the year ended 30 September 2024. 6 July 2025 - Complete and submit forms P11D return of benefits and expenses and P11D(b) return of Class 1A NICs. 19 July 2025 - Pay Class 1A NICs (by the 22 July...

June 5, 2025

Tax write-offs for an electric car with zero emissions

Buying a zero-emission electric car through your limited company could mean 100% tax relief in year one. Understand the capital allowances and boost your business’s tax efficiency with smart vehicle choices. If you are considering purchasing a company car through a limited company, it’s important to understand the tax implications,...

June 5, 2025

Can you reduce your 31 July tax payment on account

Expecting lower profits 2024-25 compared to 2023-24? You can ask HMRC to reduce your 31 July 25 tax payment on account. Act early to manage cash flow. Use your online account or we can handle it for you. Self-assessment taxpayers normally pay their income tax in three instalments each year....

June 5, 2025

VAT – advantages of the VAT Flat Rate Scheme

Small business? The VAT Flat Rate Scheme could cut paperwork and improve cash flow. Pay VAT as a set percentage of turnover and enjoy simpler admin, budgeting ease, and even a 1% discount in year one of your registration for VAT. The VAT Flat Rate Scheme is designed to simplify...

June 5, 2025

IHT exemption – normal expenditure out of income

Make regular gifts from your income and avoid inheritance tax. If structured properly, surplus income gifts can support loved ones and stay outside your estate without the seven-year survival rule. Wealthier individuals can benefit from a lesser-known but highly effective IHT exemption for gifts made out of surplus income. This...

June 3, 2025

How working capital is funded

Working capital refers to the day-to-day funds a business uses to manage its operations. It is the difference between current assets (such as cash, stock, and trade debtors) and current liabilities (such as trade creditors and short-term loans). Efficient working capital management is crucial for the smooth running of any...

June 3, 2025

Government sells last Nat West shares

The UK government has officially concluded its involvement with NatWest Group, formerly known as the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), by selling its remaining shares. This move ends nearly 17 years of public ownership that began during the 2008 financial crisis. In 2008 and 2009, the government injected £45.5 billion...

May 29, 2025

Rolling Over Capital Gains

Business Asset Rollover Relief, allows taxpayers to defer Capital Gains Tax (CGT) on gains arising from the sale or disposal of certain business assets, provided the proceeds are reinvested into new business assets. Rather than paying CGT immediately, the gain is "rolled over" into the cost of the new asset,...

May 29, 2025

Employers, don’t forget to pay Class 1A NIC

Employers must pay Class 1A NICs for 2024–25 benefits by 19 July (post) or 22 July (electronic). These apply to perks like company cars and private health cover—late payment risks penalties from HMRC. Class 1A NICs are payable by employers on the value of most taxable benefits offered to employees...

May 29, 2025

Repay private fuel provided for company cars

Employees using company fuel for private journeys can sidestep a hefty benefit charge by repaying the full private fuel cost to their employer by 6 July 2025. Miss the deadline, and tax becomes unavoidable. This repayment process is known as "making good," and requires the employee to repay the employer...

May 29, 2025

Company changes you must report

Certain company changes—like a new registered address, email, or director—must be reported to Companies House promptly. Failure to update records risks penalties and non-compliance with UK company law. These include the following: Updating the registered office address If you change your company’s registered office, you are required to notify Companies House. Note...

May 27, 2025

A return to gender rationality in the office? What does the Supreme Court ruling mean for trans people in the workplace?

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court clarified the legal interpretation of the words ‘sex’, ‘woman’ and ‘man’ in Sections 11 and 212(1) of the Equality Act (EA) 2010 with respect to gender reassignment and sexual discrimination following a challenge by For Women Scotland (FWS), a leading feminist organisation. FWS...

May 27, 2025

Top 10 skills every business owner should acquire

Running a business involves wearing many hats. Whether you are just starting out or looking to grow, developing the right skills can make all the difference. Here are ten practical skills that will help you manage your business with greater confidence and success. 1. Financial literacy Understanding your numbers is...

May 27, 2025

Buying a business – a simple due diligence checklist

Before you agree to buy a business, it is essential to carry out due diligence. This means carefully checking the facts and risks so that you can make an informed decision. Here is a basic checklist to guide you through the process. 1. Review financial records Ask for at least...

May 22, 2025

Changes to tax status of non-UK domiciles

From 6 April 2025, the remittance basis for non-doms is abolished. A new UK tax regime now applies to non-domiciled individuals, focused solely on residence. New arrivals can benefit from a 4-year exemption on foreign income and gains, but action is needed. CGT rebasing, Overseas Workday Relief, and a limited-time...

May 22, 2025

Changes to IHT from April 2025

From April 2025, Agricultural Property Relief from Inheritance Tax now extends to land under qualifying environmental agreements. This means landowners entering long-term stewardship schemes will not lose IHT relief. From April 2026, a new £1 million limit will apply to combined APR and BPR claims—making timely planning more important than...

May 22, 2025

How should multiple self-employed incomes be treated

Running more than one self-employed business? HMRC will not always treat them as separate. Whether they are taxed as one combined trade or multiple depends on how your activities relate to each other. It is not a matter of choice, it is about how your business is run in practice....

May 22, 2025

Could you extend Child Benefit claim?

Parents of 16–19-year-olds: confirm your child’s continued education or training by 31 August 2025 to keep Child Benefit payments going. Last year, over 870,000 families updated HMRC, most online. It only takes a few minutes and helps avoid missed payments. If your child is still in approved education, act now...

May 19, 2025

The legal responsibilities of directors

When someone agrees to become a director of a UK limited company, they take on a set of legal responsibilities defined under the Companies Act 2006 and other relevant legislation. These duties are not just symbolic – directors have a legal obligation to act in the best interests of the...

May 19, 2025

The value of applying for trade marks

A trade mark is a vital tool for protecting the identity and reputation of your business. It can take the form of a name, logo, slogan, shape, or even a sound, and once registered, gives you exclusive rights to use that mark in connection with specific goods or services. In...

May 15, 2025

The importance of discretion – don’t send inappropriate messages during working hours!

An Employment Tribunal confirmed that using an employer's preferred method of communicating with employees to send offensive messages can serve as a ground for dismissal. A claimant was employed from September 2017 as a graduate trainee and then as a software developer until April 2021, at which juncture he was...

May 15, 2025

HMRC interest rates following Bank of England rate cut

Following a Bank Rate cut to 4.25%, HMRC late payment and repayment interest rates will drop from 19 and 28 May 2025. Check which taxes this affects. The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) met on 8 May and, in a narrow 5–4 vote, decided to reduce the interest...

May 15, 2025

MTD for Income Tax deadline is approaching

MTD for Income Tax starts 6 April 2026 for the self-employed and landlords with £50k+ income. Plan early to stay compliant and avoid disruption. MTD represents one of the most significant overhauls to the self-assessment regime since its introduction in 1997. This includes new requirements to keep digital records, using...

May 15, 2025

Save up to £2,000 a year on childcare costs

Is your child starting school this September? Tax-Free Childcare could save you up to £2,000 a year. Check your eligibility now and start planning ahead. Working families whose children are starting school for the first time September 2025 could save up to £2,000 a year per child on their childcare...

May 15, 2025

Why filing early makes sense

Filing your 2024-25 Self-Assessment return early means faster refunds, better budgeting, and no deadline stress. Do not delay, start gathering your tax details today. The 2024–25 tax year officially ended on 5 April 2025, with the new 2025–26 tax year beginning on 6 April 2026. While many taxpayers may be...

May 12, 2025

Still recording your accounts on spreadsheets?

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), adopting accounting software offers a range of practical benefits that help streamline financial management, reduce errors, and improve decision-making. Here are the key advantages: Time-Saving Automation Accounting software automates routine tasks such as invoicing, bank reconciliations, VAT calculations, and payroll processing. This reduces manual...

May 12, 2025

Landmark economic deal with United States

On 8 May 2025, the UK government announced a landmark trade agreement with the United States, aimed at reducing tariffs and bolstering key British industries. This deal is projected to save thousands of jobs, particularly in the automotive and steel sectors, and marks a significant step in strengthening UK-US trade...

May 8, 2025

Income reporting threshold increased

The £3,000 reporting threshold for trading, property, and other income will simplify tax returns—300,000 people could be freed from filing. A digital alternative is also coming. As part of the Spring 2025 Tax Update: Simplification, Administration and Reform, the government confirmed changes to the Income Tax Self Assessment (ITSA) reporting...

May 8, 2025

Mandating the Payrolling of benefits in kind update

HMRC has delayed mandatory payrolling of benefits in kind by a year to April 2027, giving employers and software providers more time to prepare. Penalties will be eased in the first year. The requirement to report Income Tax and Class 1A National Insurance Contributions for most BiKs and expenses through...

May 8, 2025

Reversal of requirement to report more detailed employee hours paid

The government has scrapped plans for detailed PAYE reporting of employee hours from April 2026, citing concerns over cost, complexity, and practicality. Employers will stick with current rules. As part of the Spring 2025 Tax Update: Simplification, Administration and Reform summary, the government confirmed that it will no longer proceed...

May 8, 2025

How to check employment status

HMRC’s CEST tool gets a revamp from 30 April 2025, with clearer questions and updated guidance to help users decide employment status for tax—plus stronger backing from HMRC. In a Written Ministerial Statement delivered on 28 April, the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury announced a series of administrative and simplification...

May 7, 2025

Fresh Ideas for Additional Revenue Streams

For many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the core business keeps the lights on, but additional income streams can provide much-needed stability and growth. Whether you're a service provider, a retailer, or run a niche consultancy, diversifying your revenue can cushion seasonal dips, economic shocks, or customer churn. Here are...

May 7, 2025

How to Increase Gross Profit Returns

Gross profit is one of the clearest indicators of how well your business is performing. It’s the money left after deducting the direct costs of producing goods or services from your turnover. If your gross profit margins are tight, your business will struggle to cover overheads, let alone make a...

May 1, 2025

Tax refunds for dissolved companies

Dissolving a company ends its legal existence — but unresolved assets become property of the Crown under bona vacantia. Directors must act carefully to settle assets and liabilities before dissolution, avoiding costly mistakes and lost opportunities. Dissolving a company is a formal legal process that marks the end of its...

May 1, 2025

Tax relief if required to work from home

If employees must work from home and their employer does not reimburse certain costs, they may be entitled to claim tax relief. Understanding the rules for household expenses, business travel, and equipment purchases is key to making a successful claim. Eligibility to claim tax relief applies when homeworking is a...

May 1, 2025

Is income from hobbies taxable?

Not every money-making hobby counts as a business for tax purposes. Knowing when a hobby crosses into trading territory is vital to avoid unexpected tax bills. If your side project is growing, it might be time to check your tax position and stay compliant. For instance, HMRC manuals provide the...

May 1, 2025

State Benefits – What is taxable and what is not

Not all state benefits are tax-free! Some, like the State Pension and Carer’s Allowance, are taxable, while others, like PIP and Universal Credit, are not. Knowing the difference can help you stay on top of your tax responsibilities and avoid surprises. HMRC’s guidance outlines the following list of the most...

April 28, 2025

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity might sound like something only big corporations need to worry about, but in truth, small businesses are increasingly in the firing line. In fact, many cyber criminals deliberately target smaller firms, knowing they often lack the resources and expertise to protect themselves properly. The most common threat is phishing....

April 28, 2025

Access to Funding and Credit

For many small business owners, getting access to funding feels like trying to squeeze water from a stone. Traditional banks have always been a bit cautious when it comes to lending to smaller enterprises, but over the past few years, it’s become even tougher. With the economic uncertainty lingering after...

April 24, 2025

Reminder of Employer NIC changes from April 25

A reminder that increases to the rate of National Insurance contributions (NICs) that are paid by employers came into effect on 6 April 2025. The main rate of secondary Class 1 NICs has increased to 15% (from 13.8%). This applies to earnings above the secondary threshold for employees. In addition,...

April 24, 2025

Less than a year before MTD for Income Tax starts

MTD for Income Tax kicks off in April 2026 for those earning over £50k. Digital records, quarterly updates, and tougher penalties are on the way. If this affects you, it’s time to get ready. Designed to modernise the tax system and improve accuracy, MTD will significantly change how Income Tax...

April 24, 2025

Have you set up your Personal Tax Account yet?

Skip the phone queues. Your Personal Tax Account lets you manage everything from tax codes to refunds online. Quick, secure, and all in one place. If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s the time. Your Personal Tax Account (PTA) is a simple and secure way to manage your tax affairs online....

April 24, 2025

April 23, 2025

The innocent touch – where a lack of clear guidelines and policies makes a dismissal more likely to be unfair

A school inspector dismissed for brushing water off a pupil’s head won his unfair dismissal claim against OFSTED. Mr. Hewston worked as a Social Care Regulatory Inspector and, on the 8th of October 2019, during a school inspection, he brushed water off the head and touched the shoulder of a...

April 16, 2025

Tax and employee suggestion schemes

Have you set up a suggestion scheme for ideas that could save or earn you money? Employee suggestion schemes can offer up to £5,000 tax-free for valuable input — and even £25 for smaller efforts. A win for innovation and your employee payslip! An employee suggestion scheme can offer many...

April 16, 2025

Still time to repay private fuel costs and avoid tax charge

Use a company car for personal trips? Avoid a hefty tax charge by reimbursing your employer for private fuel by 6 July 2025. It’s called “making good” – and it could save you a chunk in tax if your private mileage is low. To avoid the car fuel benefit charge,...

April 16, 2025

Understanding VAT Bad Debt Relief

Struggling with unpaid invoices? If you've paid VAT to HMRC but never received payment from your customer, you may be able to reclaim that VAT. Learn how bad debt relief works and whether switching to cash accounting could ease your VAT woes. The VAT bad debt relief provisions enable businesses...

April 16, 2025

Higher rate tax relief on pension contributions

Want to make the most of your pension savings? You could claim up to 45% tax relief on contributions, plus carry forward unused allowances. Here’s how to boost your retirement pot with generous HMRC incentives. Tax relief on private pension contributions is generally available up to 100% of your annual...

April 14, 2025

£13.9bn of R&D funding

The UK government has announced a record-breaking £13.9 billion in research and development (R&D) funding for the coming year. This major investment is designed to drive innovation, create quality jobs, and support long-term economic growth across the country. A large share of the funding, amounting to £8.8 billion, has been...

April 14, 2025

UK Responds to New US Tariffs

The UK’s Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, has set out the government's position following the United States' recent imposition of new tariffs on UK exports. These include a 10% reciprocal tariff on British goods and a separate 25% global tariff on cars — moves that have prompted concern among...

April 10, 2025

Tax Diary May/June 2025

1 May 2025 - Due date for corporation tax due for the year ended 30 July 2024. 19 May 2025 - PAYE and NIC deductions due for month ended 5 May 2025. (If you pay your tax electronically the due date is 22 May 2025). 19 May 2025 - Filing...

April 10, 2025

Employment Restrictions After Termination: Be Cautious

Kau Media Group (KMG) Ltd. sought to enforce two post-termination employment restriction (PTRs) contained in a contract of employment to restrict Mr. Hart, a former employee, from working for his proposed new employer, MiSmile Media Ltd. (MML). Mr. Hart had worked for KMG from November 2020 to late 2024 as...

April 10, 2025

Checking your tax code for 2025-26

Do you know what your 2025–26 tax code means? It affects how much tax is taken from your pay or pension. Check now to make sure you're on the right code and not overpaying! Here's what the letters and numbers really mean. You can find your tax code: by checking...

April 10, 2025

Frozen tax allowances and fiscal drag

Tax thresholds frozen till 2028? That’s fiscal drag in action – more tax paid without rate rises. It’s a stealthy revenue boost for HM Treasury, projected to bring in £38bn a year by 2029. Inflation and pay rises make it worse. The freezing of tax thresholds often results in a...

April 10, 2025

Don’t forget to update your NMW and NLW wage rates

Minimum wage rates rose on 1 April 2025. NLW now £12.21, and big increases for younger workers too. Make sure you're compliant – underpayment can cost up to £20K per worker and a director ban. Time to check your payroll! Employers must ensure they are paying staff at least the...

April 10, 2025

Child Benefit increases April 2025

Child Benefit has risen for 2025–26: £26.05 for eldest, £17.25 for others. Claim continues to age 20 in approved education. HICBC still applies for incomes over £60K – but PAYE option coming this summer! The child benefit rates for the only or eldest child in a family increased to £26.05...

April 7, 2025

Managing gross profit returns

Gross profit is one of the clearest indicators of how well your business is performing. It’s the amount left after deducting the cost of goods sold (COGS) from your sales revenue. Managing your gross profit returns well is crucial because it directly affects your bottom line and helps you understand...

April 7, 2025

Dealing with supply line interruptions

Supply line interruptions can be a nightmare for any business. Whether it’s a delay in deliveries, a shortage of materials, or problems with international shipping, things can grind to a halt fast. But with a bit of planning and a calm approach, you can keep things ticking over and reduce...

April 3, 2025

Verifying identity at Companies House – From April 2025

New rules under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act mean identity checks will soon be required at Companies House. From directors to agents, all those running UK companies will need to verify who they are as part of tougher anti-fraud measures. This Act enhances Companies House's powers to combat...

April 3, 2025

R & D clearance consultation

Following the Spring Statement, HMRC is inviting feedback on the idea of expanding the use of advance clearances for R&D tax reliefs, aiming to reduce errors and fraud, provide businesses with more certainty, and make the overall process smoother for taxpayers. This R & D clearance consultation will explore whether...

April 3, 2025

Registering informal money transfer businesses

HMRC has launched a campaign targeting informal money transfer networks like Hawala, aiming to combat money laundering and protect communities. Businesses must register for AML supervision or risk fines, prosecution, or closure. It is estimated that some £2 billion is laundered annually through these networks in the UK. This is...

April 3, 2025

HMRC interest rate increases

HMRC has announced that interest rates for late payments will increase by 1.5% for all taxes starting 6 April 2025. This change, which was first announced at Autumn Budget 2024, will raise the late payment interest from the current base rate plus 2.5% to base rate plus 4.00%. This adjustment...

March 31, 2025

Pubs and premises insurance

In March 2025, the Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA) wrote to all pub-owning businesses to reinforce the importance of complying with Regulation 46 of the Pubs Code. This regulation focuses on how premises insurance is handled and, crucially, the tied tenant’s right to seek a price match on insurance premiums. Under...

March 31, 2025

Recycling changes

As of 31 March 2025, new regulations have come into effect in England, requiring workplaces to adopt simplified recycling practices. These measures aim to eliminate confusion over waste sorting, enhance recycling rates, and reduce waste sent to landfills or incineration. Key Requirements for Workplaces: Separation of Waste Streams: Workplaces...

March 27, 2025

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD for IT) will become mandatory in phases from April 2026. If you’re self-employed or a landlord earning over £50,000, get ready for quarterly updates, digital record keeping, and a new penalty system. Initially, MTD for IT will apply to businesses, self-employed individuals, and...

March 27, 2025

Beneficial interests in jointly held property

Couples who jointly own rental property are usually taxed 50:50, even if they own different shares. But if you're married or in a civil partnership, Form 17 lets you split income based on actual ownership—provided you meet HMRC's rules. The standard tax treatment for couples living together, whether married or...

March 27, 2025

Childcare grants

Juggling higher education and parenting? Childcare Grants can ease the pressure by covering up to 85% of your childcare costs. If you're a full-time student with young children, this grant could make a real difference—and it doesn’t need to be repaid. Childcare Grants provide financial support to help students cover...

March 27, 2025

Applying for student loans

Student Loans help cover the cost of university or college in the UK. Whether you're full-time, part-time, or heading into postgrad study, here’s what you need to know about applying for 2025–26 funding—even if your plans aren’t final yet. Student Loans are an essential part of the government’s financial support...

March 26, 2025

Spring Statement Summary March 2025

Spring Statement 2025: Key Tax Measures and Modernisation Initiatives Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Statement 2025, delivered on 26 March, arrived at a critical point for the UK economy. With the Office for Budget Responsibility downgrading growth forecasts to just over 1% for the year and borrowing costs climbing, the tone...

March 24, 2025

How to Approach Your Bank for a Business Loan

Asking your bank for a business loan can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right preparation, you can give yourself the best possible chance of getting a positive outcome. Start with a clear purpose Banks want to know why you need the money. Are you looking...

March 24, 2025

How Small Businesses Can Survive a Recession

Recessions can be tough on small businesses, but they do not have to spell disaster. With some smart thinking and a bit of planning, many firms can keep going and even emerge stronger once the economy picks up. Here are some practical ways to stay afloat when times are hard....

March 20, 2025

VAT if you sell your business

When selling a business, the Transfer of a Business as a Going Concern (TOGC) rules can allow the transaction to be VAT-free if key conditions are met. This prevents unnecessary VAT charges and ensures compliance with HMRC. Learn how TOGC applies to your sale. A TOGC is defined as "neither...

March 20, 2025

Records you must keep if self-employed

If you are self-employed as a sole trader or a partner in a business partnership, you are required to maintain suitable business records as well as separate personal income records for tax purposes. For tax compliance, these business records must be kept for at least five years from the 31...

March 20, 2025

Tax liability if you sell a business asset

When selling assets on which capital allowances were claimed, you may need to adjust your taxable profits with a balancing charge or allowance. Understanding these rules ensures you don’t face unexpected tax liabilities. Learn how to handle asset disposals correctly. Typically, the value of the asset sold is considered to...

March 20, 2025

Requesting evidence of earnings

If you're self-employed, lenders may require an SA302 and tax year overview as proof of earnings for mortgages or loans. These documents verify income declared on your self-assessment tax return and are easily accessible via HMRC. Learn how to obtain them. The use of these forms has become more widespread...

March 17, 2025

Why Adequate Business Insurance is Essential for Small Businesses

For small business owners, especially those operating as sole traders or in partnerships without limited liability, having adequate business insurance is not just a safeguard—it’s a necessity. Without the legal protection of a limited company structure, personal assets such as your home and savings are directly at risk if the...

March 17, 2025

Business Advice: An Investment, Not a Cost

Flexible planning is essential for adapting to uncertainty, responding to challenges, and seizing new opportunities. The world is unpredictable, and rigid plans can quickly become outdated. Whether in business or personal life, flexibility ensures resilience and long-term success. Unexpected events such as economic shifts, technological advancements, or personal changes can...

March 13, 2025

Tax and Maintenance Payments

Maintenance Payments Relief reduces Income Tax for those making court-ordered payments to an ex-spouse or civil partner. To qualify, one party must have been born before 6 April 1935. The relief is 10% of payments, up to £428 per year. To qualify for this relief, all of the following conditions...

March 13, 2025

How VAT Payments on Account Work

Businesses owing over £2.3 million in VAT annually must make advance payments on account. These are based on the previous year’s VAT liability and paid in instalments. Late payments incur penalties, but adjustments may be possible for fluctuating liabilities. The payments are usually based on the previous year’s VAT liability,...

March 13, 2025

Child Benefits for over 16s

From April 2025, Child Benefit increases to £26.05 for the eldest child and £17.25 for others. Payments stop after a child turns 16 unless they continue in approved education or training. Parents must update HMRC by 31 August to avoid disruptions. Taxpayers entitled to the child benefit should be aware...

March 13, 2025

Government backed Start-Up Loans

The Government-backed Start-Up Loans scheme offers unsecured loans of £500 to £25,000 per person (up to £100,000 per business) to help entrepreneurs grow. With a fixed 6% interest rate and mentoring support, it's a great funding option for new businesses. Securing financing to start or grow a business is one...

March 10, 2025

Changes to online filing of accounts at Companies House

The Online Accounts and Company Tax Return (CATO) service is scheduled to close on 31 March 2026. This service has enabled businesses to file their company accounts and tax returns simultaneously with both Companies House and HMRC. However, due to its outdated nature and misalignment with modern digital standards...

March 10, 2025

Why flexible planning is advisable

Flexible planning is essential for adapting to uncertainty, responding to challenges, and seizing new opportunities. The world is unpredictable, and rigid plans can quickly become outdated. Whether in business or personal life, flexibility ensures resilience and long-term success. Unexpected events such as economic shifts, technological advancements, or personal changes can...

March 7, 2025

Tax Diary April/May 2025

1 April 2025 - Due date for corporation tax due for the year ended 30 June 2024. 19 April 2025 - PAYE and NIC deductions due for month ended 5 April 2025. (If you pay your tax electronically the due date is 22 April 2025). 19 April 2025 - Filing...

March 6, 2025

Inheriting spouse’s State Pension

If your spouse or civil partner has passed away, you may inherit part of their State Pension, depending on when you reached pension age. Find out what you could claim, from basic pension boosts to deferred benefits and top-ups. If you reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016, you...

March 6, 2025

Letting out part of your home – claiming lettings relief

Renting out part of your home may affect Capital Gains Tax when you sell. While Private Residence Relief applies, Letting Relief can reduce taxable gains. Learn how PRR, Letting Relief, and exemptions impact your tax liability. If you have tenants in your home, it is essential to understand the Capital...

March 6, 2025

More tax on business disposals from April 25

From April 2025, the Capital Gains Tax rate on Business Asset Disposal Relief rises from 10% to 14%, increasing to 18% in 2026. Business owners planning to sell may benefit from acting before these changes take effect. Currently, Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) provides a reduced Capital Gains Tax (CGT)...

March 6, 2025

Making a negligible value claim with HMRC

A negligible value claim lets taxpayers declare an asset worthless for tax purposes, realising a capital loss without selling. This can be backdated up to two years, offering flexibility in managing tax liabilities. A negligible value claim is a claim made by a taxpayer when an asset they own has...

March 4, 2025

Year-end payroll chores 2024-25

As the UK tax year ends on 5 April, employers must complete several key payroll tasks to stay compliant with HMRC. Processing the final payroll run is essential, ensuring all pay, deductions, and benefits are correctly recorded. The final Full Payment Submission (FPS) must be sent to HMRC on or...

March 3, 2025

Essential Credit Control for SMEs

A well-structured credit control system is crucial for small businesses to maintain cash flow and reduce the risk of bad debts. Without proper controls, late payments can disrupt operations and put financial strain on the business. Clear Credit Terms Setting clear credit terms at the outset ensures customers understand their...

March 3, 2025

Sources of funding for small businesses

Starting or growing a small business often requires capital, but securing the right funding can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are various funding sources available to entrepreneurs, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Personal Savings Many small business owners start with their own savings. This avoids debt and interest...

February 27, 2025

How far back can HMRC assess under-declared taxes?

From income tax to VAT, HMRC has specific time limits for issuing tax assessments. Depending on the circumstances—whether it’s standard, careless, offshore, or deliberate behaviour—these limits can stretch from 4 to 20 years. HMRC’s time limits apply in different ways to various taxes, including income tax, capital gains tax, corporation...

February 27, 2025

UK residence and tax issues

The UK's shift to the Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) regime from April 2025 changes how foreign income is taxed. If you are a UK resident, get ready to possibly pay UK Income Tax on all foreign earnings—no more non-dom remittance basis. UK Income Tax is generally payable on taxable...