Supply Chain Disruptions
Many UK small businesses rely on imported goods, materials, and components. Trade disruptions-whether due to geopolitical tensions, shipping crises, pandemics, or regulatory changes-can lead to: Delays and shortages, making it harder to meet customer demand. Increased costs, as businesses may need to source alternative, often more expensive, suppliers. Stockpiling and cash flow pressure, where businesses […]
What will Rachel Reeves unpack in her Spring Statement
As we approach the end of March 2025, anticipation builds around Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s upcoming Spring Statement. Given the current economic landscape, it’s insightful to consider the potential measures she might introduce and their implications for businesses and individuals alike. Economic Context The UK economy faces several challenges: sluggish growth, elevated borrowing costs, and persistent […]
Wish for the Best and Plan for the Worst
As an accountant, we’ve seen businesses thrive-and seen them struggle. One key difference between those that weather storms and those that flounder is simple: planning. It’s great to be optimistic. No one starts a business expecting it to fail. But while optimism fuels ambition, realism ensures survival. That’s why the old saying holds true: wish […]
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 ‘badges of trade’ tests, although not definitive, serve as important tools for HMRC […]
Is your extra income taxable?
HMRC has launched a new “Help for Hustlers” campaign to help people who are earning extra income, figure out if they need to pay tax on the additional earnings. The campaign runs until the end of March and focuses on five key areas where tax might apply: I’m buying or making things to sell. I’ve […]
Health services exempt from VAT
Health professionals providing medical services may be exempt from VAT if their work falls within their registered profession and primarily protects, maintains, or restores health. HMRC outlines specific exempt services, including diagnosis and treatment. The VAT liability of goods and services provided by registered health, medical, and paramedical professionals, can be a complex area of […]
Tax-free redundancy payments
If redundancy strikes, you could receive up to £30,000 tax-free. Whether it’s statutory or a more generous employer offer, understanding your entitlements and the latest caps on weekly pay can make a real difference to your finances. There is a tax-free threshold of £30,000 for redundancy payments, regardless of whether the payment is your statutory […]
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 income received by […]
Tax Diary March/April 2025
1 March 2025 – Due date for Corporation Tax due for the year ended 31 May 2024. 2 March 2025 – Self-Assessment tax for 2023-24 paid after this date will incur a 5% surcharge unless liabilities are cleared by 1 April 2025, or an agreement has been reached with HMRC under their time to pay […]
Progress in gender equality in top companies
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 over 43% of board positions across FTSE 350 companies, marking a notable increase from previous years. This progress underscores the UK’s commitment to fostering inclusive leadership and harnessing the diverse […]
