Research and development (R&D) by UK companies is being actively encouraged by the government through a range of tax incentives. The government views investment in research and development (‘R&D’) as a key to economic success. It is therefore committed to encouraging more smaller and medium sized (‘SME’) companies to claim R&D tax relief.
Continue readingThe General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) replaced the existing Data Protection Act and applies from 25 May 2018. The GDPR requires all organisations that deal with individuals living in a EU member state to protect the personal information belonging to those individuals and to have verified proof of such protection. Failure to comply with the regulation will result in significant fines.
Continue readingIf you’re carrying out work or earning money independently (i.e. not as an employee), you need to register as self-employed. You could be a plumber or electrician, someone who sells on eBay or Etsy, or a virtual assistant. However you’re earning money, if it’s not being taxed through PAYE, it needs to be taxed through self-assessment.
Continue readingHaving the right payroll system is imperative to ensure you are paying your staff accurately, on time, and in-keeping with the law. The law states how things like national insurance must be deducted, how payslips are issued, and records kept/returns to the tax man. These things all come under ‘payroll’ and must be taken care of for the million or so UK businesses that employ staff.
Continue readingHealth and Safety Checklist…If not already in place, the following are practical steps you should take today.
Continue readingIt is very likely that owners and managers of many smaller businesses are not aware of just how demanding health and safety regulations can be. We provide an overview of these below and highlight some practical tips and processes on how your business can remain (or become!) compliant.
Continue readingThe end of the financial year is a big moment for any company and having everything organised ahead of time can save you a lot of stress and worry. Too many businesses go into crunch time, desperately working to get everything they need to be done before that year-end. Here, we’re going to look at a year end accounting checklist of accounting tasks you have to complete, so you can get to work on them in advance.
Continue readingValue-added tax (VAT) is charged on most goods in the UK. Some goods are exempt, and others have lower rates added to them, but most are charged at the standard VAT rate of 20%. Many very small businesses don’t need to register for VAT, but once your annual turnover passes the threshold, which is currently £85,000, it’s compulsory. You can also voluntarily register before reaching the threshold, which is useful for some businesses so they can get in the habit of charging VAT. If you’re wondering how does VAT work, take a look at the information below.
Continue readingHMRC have introduced a number of VAT schemes over the years designed to reduce the administrative burden on small businesses. One such scheme is the annual accounting scheme. The annual accounting scheme helps small businesses by allowing them to submit only one VAT return annually rather than the normal four. During the year they pay instalments based on an estimated liability for the year with a balancing payment due with the return. The scheme is intended to help with budgeting and cash flow and reduce paperwork.
Continue readingAre you wondering when is the earliest you can file taxes in 2019? The majority of people in the UK pay income tax through the PAYE system. If you’re employed, a portion of your salary will be taxed, and your tax contributions will usually be deducted from your monthly wage packet.
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