Category: Business


  • Expenses for the self-employed

    If you are self-employed, knowing which everyday costs you can legitimately claim can make a real difference to how much tax you end up paying. The question of which costs you can claim against your self-employed business is a common one. If you are

  • Pre-trading expenditure for companies

    Starting a new business can be expensive, but many of your pre-trading costs may qualify for tax relief if they meet the right conditions. There are special tax reliefs for pre-trading expenses that are incurred before a business starts trading.

  • HMRC contacting sole traders

    HMRC is currently contacting certain sole traders by email to reiterate the importance of adjusting business expenses for personal use.The email explains:why personal use must be adjusted on your self-assessment tax return; andwhat you need to do if

  • Building value in your business

    For many small business owners, the focus is on day-to-day operations. However, building long-term value is just as important, whether your aim is to sell in the future, attract investors, or secure better financing. Focus on profitability and cash

  • 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

  • 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

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 The world is unpredictable, and rigid plans can quickly become outdated.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

  • 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

  • Women in leadership roles

    The UK is making significant strides in promoting gender equality within its top companies. According to the latest FTSE Women Leaders Review, women now occupy nearly 43% of board positions across FTSE 350 companies, totalling 1,275 roles.

  • When is a hobby a business

    Not sure if your hobby is actually a taxable trade? HMRC uses ‘badges of trade’ to assess whether an activity is a business. Factors like profit motive, transaction frequency, and asset changes help determine if tax rules apply to your earnings. The