You only have until 5 April 2025 to check your National Insurance record to enable you to fill in any gaps in your NI contributions from 2006 to 2018. If you have a shortfall in your record you have a few days to 5 April 2025 to buy back missed years to qualify for a full state pension – from 6 April you will only be able to fill in gaps for the last six tax years
When starting a business, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to operate as a sole trader or set up a limited company. Both options has its own advantages and drawbacks. From taxation and liability to administrative responsibilities and credibility. Choosing the right option depends on factors like the nature of the your business, your long-term goals and how much risk you are willing to take. Here we will explore the key differences between being a sole trader and running a limited company to help you make an informed decision.
Significant changes are due to come into effect for non-UK domiciled individuals – also known as non-doms. From 6th April 2025, the current rules for the taxation of non-UK domiciled individuals will end to be replaced by a new residence-based foreign income and gains (FIG) regime. There is a transition provision for those already working under the existing rules.
We know that it’s tough for small businesses and sole traders right now, and it’s more important than ever for businesses to access the advice and support they need. Whilst every business is different, we recognise that there are actions that every business can take to help mitigate the cost of doing business.
Unintentionally making an error that is picked up by the financial regulator or other authorities can damage a business, damage a Financial Director’s reputation and is likely to be costly. Find out the most common major regulatory breaches and our top tips to help keep your business compliant
An audit is an independent review of your company’s accounts to ensure that the business has been maintaining proper financial records and completing financial reporting requirements. An audit gives you peace of mind but it can feel quite traumatic to have external experts reviewing your finances. As ICAEW registered auditors, we have audited many businesses, subsidiaries and charities. Following are our tips about how to prepare for an audit to ensure that everyone involved has a relaxed and profitable experience.
From 6th April 2025, HMRC’s definition of a double cab pick up (DCPU) is changing. From this date, most double cab pickups are likely to be classed as cars rather than vans. This is what you need to know.
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.
From 6 April 2026, Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD ITSA) will transform the way self-employed individuals and landlords manage their tax affairs. If you earn income through self-employment or property rentals, you’ll need to keep digital records and submit updates to HMRC every quarter. While payment deadlines remain the same, the shift to more frequent reporting means you’ll need to stay on top of your bookkeeping because the way you report your earnings is changing – are you prepared?
This National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we’re celebrating T Level Thursday by shining a light on the incredible value that T Level placements bring to businesses, just ask Alice, our fantastic T Level student! At HB Accountants, we are passionate about nurturing the next generation of professionals, and Alice’s journey with us perfectly showcases why T Level placements are a win-win for both students and businesses.
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