With colder days on the horizon, many pensioners will soon receive their Winter Fuel Payment, a vital support when heating bills start to rise. But as that help rolls out, fraudsters are ramping up efforts to exploit it. Recent data shows scam referrals have leapt by a staggering 153 per cent over the last week […]
Beat the Budget, what to do before November
The Chancellor’s Autumn Budget is only weeks away, and there is growing speculation that key tax reliefs and allowances could soon be reduced or restricted. Reports suggest that higher-rate pension relief, capital gains tax rates and dividend allowances may all come under review. For business owners and higher-rate taxpayers, this could be a good time […]
The benefits of effective succession planning
For many business owners and high value individuals, protecting family wealth is as important as creating it. Succession planning, deciding how ownership and control will pass on to the next generation, is no longer just a matter for the future. With possible changes ahead to inheritance tax (IHT) and Business Property Relief (BPR), this is […]
Managing debt and making cash work harder
Interest rates have now settled at levels many business owners and investors have not seen for over a decade. Even if the Bank of England begins to trim the base rate later this year, most commentators expect the cost of borrowing to remain well above the ultra-low rates of the past. That means every small […]
Optimising Your Savings: A Guide to Tax-Efficient ISAs and Pensions in the UK
In the United Kingdom, effectively managing your savings and investments is key to building long-term wealth. With a complex tax system, understanding how to leverage tax-efficient wrappers like Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) and pensions can make a significant difference to your overall financial growth. This guide will delve into the benefits of these popular savings […]
The basics of double entry bookkeeping
Even the most advanced accounting software is built on a principle that has stood the test of time: double entry bookkeeping. First described more than 500 years ago, it remains the foundation of every set of accounts today. For business owners, understanding the basics can make reports and figures much easier to follow. What is […]
The UK Landscape: Key Tax Updates Affecting Your Personal Assets In 2025/2026
In today’s dynamic economic climate, staying informed about tax changes is crucial for maximising your personal asset growth. The UK tax system is continually evolving, with new legislation and adjustments introduced regularly. This blog post will navigate you through the significant tax updates for the 2025/2026 period, helping you to understand their implications and plan […]
Steps to take before working with a new customer
Winning new business is always positive, but before you commit to a new customer it is wise to carry out some checks. A little time spent at the start can save trouble later if the customer is unable, or unwilling, to pay. We often advise business owners to put a simple process in place for […]
Lower business rates for retail for hospitality and leisure
The government has announced permanent changes to business rates that will benefit thousands of small firms in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. From April 2026, qualifying businesses will see their bills reduced, with some enjoying discounts of up to 40%. What has changed? Business rates have long been a concern for high street shops, […]