Author Archives: Gillian French

Bookkeeping Mistakes Every Small Business Owner Should Be Aware Of

bookkeeping mistakes

Bookkeeping is one of those tasks that is crucial to get right for any business, From start-ups to small businesses that have been running for years, the problem of doing it all yourself remains. Margins are often tight, meaning as the owner, you try to do as many administrative and day-to-day tasks as possible. Not

Corporation Tax – Changes are coming

corporation tax

Corporation Tax MUST be paid on the earnings of a limited company, Corporation Tax is not billed to you. To work out, pay, and submit your taxes, you must do certain things. In last year’s budget announcements (March and October 2021), the Chancellor announced a variety of company tax reforms, some of which are already

As a sole trader, how do I pay myself?

As-a-sole-trader-how-do-I-pay-myself-scaled

If you are a sole trader, you can simply take money from your business bank account to pay yourself as a sole trader (we strongly recommend that you use a separate business bank account for your sole trader finances). And you need to make sure that you keep a record of these drawings, along with

Do you NEED to complete a self-assessment tax return?

self assessment-tax-return

Although not everyone is required to file a self-assessment tax return, there are a few circumstances in which you may be compelled to do so, even if you are an employee who has tax taken at source from your salary. It’s crucial to be aware of scenarios where a tax return is required because HM

Limited company director’s responsibilities: What you need to know…

When you decide to form a limited company you are creating a separate legal entity with its own legal framework and accountabilities. Any profits or losses incurred belong to the company. So, when you’re managing the company you need to treat it as a separate entity. Even if you’re the sole director and sole shareholder,

How long do I need to keep business invoices?

invoices

“How long do I need to keep business invoices?” This is a question that new sole traders and company directors often ask. Before we answer that question, we think it is probably more important to clarify just what invoices you need to keep! Keeping hold of invoices issued by your business is necessary for a

Do you know your numbers?

numbers

As a freelancer, sole trader or small business owner, other than knowledge of your own trade the most important thing to keep on top of in your business are the numbers. Income, expenses, cashflow, projections, first-hand knowledge of these will prove to be the most important information you will have to hand and without them,

Get those invoices paid quicker!

invoices

The problems faced by small business due to late payments have been very much in the news lately, as a business owner you are very aware of the importance of getting paid on time and that payment delays can seriously disrupt cash flow. When searching for ways to speed up payment, keep in mind that

Start-Up Advice: Choosing a Business Entity

start-up

So you’ve decided to Start-Up that business idea floating about in your head, and turn it into a reality; you’ve got a name, now you just need an Entity- but which is right? Limited Company, Sole Trader or Partnership? You should assess the types based on your available time, commitment and resources, and consider long-term