• 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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 The world is unpredictable, and rigid plans can quickly become outdated.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

  • Self-Employed National Insurance Contributions

    Self-employed individuals earning £12,570 or more annually must pay Class 4 National Insurance Contributions (NICs). For 2024-25, rates are 6% on profits up to £50,270 and 2% above this. Certain groups are exempt, and voluntary Class 2 NICs may be

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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