The government is pressing ahead with Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax – and it will affect many sole traders and landlords over the next few years. Here’s what’s changing, when it’s changing, and how to get ready. What is MTD for Income Tax? Under MTD, sole traders and…
The government has launched its Small Business Plan which it believes will help small businesses to grow and encourage entrepreneurs to start businesses. The plan recognises that small businesses make a vital contribution to the economy, employing 60% of the UK’s workforce and generating £2.8 trillion in turnover. Here is…
More Car Models Now Included The government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG) is now up and running, with more vehicle models eligible for discounts. Initially launched in July, the £650 million scheme offers savings on new electric cars priced at or below £37,000. The discount is either £3,750 or £1,500, depending…
New Government Reforms Aim to Revive High Streets with Easier Rules for Cafés, Bars and Venues New government reforms will make it quicker and cheaper for small businesses to turn empty shops into cafés, bars and music venues, as part of a wider push to bring life back to high…
Google is launching a new AI-powered search feature that could change how people find information online – and how they find your business. The update, known as ‘AI Mode’, offers users a conversational-style summary instead of the familiar list of blue links. It will be optional for users, but this…
Welcome to the August Tax Update. In this issue we take a look at the government’s Legislation Day’, HMRC’s Transformation Roadmap, what’s new in Making Tax Digital, proposed changes to Inheritance Tax, Class 2 NIC, and dates on the Accounting Horizon. LEGISLATION DAY 2025 – WHAT WAS PUBLISHED? On ‘Legislation…
On 21 July 2025, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) announced its Transformation Roadmap – a plan to modernise the UK’s tax and customs systems by 2030. HMRC have said that the aim of the Transformation Roadmap is to make the tax administration system more automated, more focused on self-service and…
New guidance on using an agent to manage your business rates has been published by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). Many business owners choose to manage their own business rates, but others prefer the convenience of appointing an agent to help them. The VOA are keen to make sure that…
“Look after the pennies and the pounds will take care of themselves” Wise old words If you’ve ever reached the end of a busy month wondering where your profits have gone, you’re not alone. For many small business owners, cash seems to disappear faster than it arrives. While sales are…
There are new grants available now for SME businesses in the West Midlands region. The Grant Programmes are open to businesses meeting the following requirements: SMEs (Less then 250 employees) Spend on the project(s) must NOT already have been incurred Existing profitable businesses (min. 12 months trading) Energy saving grant…