National Minimum Wage – What counts as working time?

A number of workers are not being paid the National Minimum Wage (NMW). Often, this isn’t intentional, it’s because the NMW is more than just a pay rate, it’s a calculation. The main reason why so many companies accidentally underpay their workers is because they do not know about the calculation. Here is the HB overview of the NMW – our payroll team is always on hand if you need advice.

Continue reading

Most tax effective director’s salary and dividends for 2025-2026

You may wish to change how you pay a director’s salary and dividends due to the changes to Employer’s National Insurance Contributions (NICs) announced in the October budget. NICs are not payable on dividends so despite salaries being tax deductible, the optimum balance between paying a salary and a dividend may have shifted – depending on how many directors are in your business. If you are a director or shareholders of a small, limited company, read on to find out more.

Continue reading

HMRC Advisory Fuel Rates (AFRs) from 1st December 2024

Advisory fuel rates (AFRs) are recommended reimbursement figures for drivers reclaiming business mileage, usually for those in company vehicles. The advisory fuel rate is updated by HMRC based on fuel prices every quarter, and publish revised figures if required in late February, May, August and November each year

Continue reading

Solving a Finance Director’s Worst Nightmares: Strategies to mitigate or prevent them from occurring

Finance professionals are not only responsible for financial transactions and reporting, they are directly involved in the operation of their organisations; providing strategic direction and high-level decision making. However, with this expanded responsibility and new technology, there comes new challenges.

Continue reading

Budget Breakdown: Insights for Self-Employed, Companies, and Everyday Earners

On 30th October, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has presented Labour’s first Budget since their election. Understanding how their changes to the UK tax system impacts on your business and personal affairs is paramount. Get budget clarity here.

Continue reading

Navigating IR35 Rules: A Guide for Businesses

The IR35 off-payroll working rules have seen significant changes in recent years. Historically, this has impacted public companies but since 2021, this is also an issue for all businesses. This is a brief overview of the current IR35 situation and how it may impact your business if you employ contractors.

Continue reading

General Election 2024: Key Tax Policies from Major Parties

HB Accountants has created a clear, impartial summary of the main tax policies proposed by major parties for the 2024 general election. This guide highlights the key tax changes each party plans, helping you understand the potential impact on businesses and individuals

Continue reading