With inflation cooling, interest rates nearing their peak, and a new government in place, the UK economy is showing signs of cautious recovery. However, not all sectors are moving in the same direction. Some industries are bouncing back strongly, while others continue to lag. Here is a snapshot of the three best-performing and three worst-performing […]

With the public finances showing structural cracks, thanks to an estimated £20 billion to £30 billion hole in next year’s budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing an unenviable challenge. The Office for Budget Responsibility has flagged rising debt, pension obligations, and hefty costs associated with the climate transition as daunting risks to Britain’s fiscal health. […]

Is your child starting school this September? Tax-Free Childcare could save you up to £2,000 a year. Check your eligibility now and start planning ahead. Working families whose children are starting school for the first time September 2025 could save up to £2,000 a year per child on their childcare bills, thanks to the government’s […]

Proposed changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) are causing alarm in the UK farming community. If introduced as expected from April 2026, new rules could see agricultural estates over £1 million subject to 20% IHT, even when the land or business is still being farmed by the next generation. This potential shift in the tax regime […]

The UK economy is showing signs of fatigue. Figures released at the end of June confirm that economic growth slowed to 0.7% in the first quarter of 2025. For small business owners, this is more than just a headline as it signals a shift in consumer behaviour, business confidence, and access to finance. The Office […]

From 2025, Companies House is rolling out new identity verification requirements for directors, people with significant control (PSCs), and anyone forming or managing a UK company. These changes form part of the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act and are designed to reduce fraud and increase confidence in UK companies. If you are involved in […]

Side income over £1,000 may mean filing a tax return. HMRC is urging part-time earners to check their tax position for 2024-25, especially if they earn from casual work, renting, or crypto. If you are earning extra income it is important to be aware of the tax implications. The good news is there are two £1,000 […]

Registering for payroll is essential when hiring staff. From HMRC registration to legal compliance, getting payroll processes right ensures your team is paid correctly and your business avoids penalties. When starting a business and hiring employees for the first time, one of the most important administrative steps is setting up a payroll scheme. This process ensures […]

HMRC missed out on £46.8bn in tax last year. Small businesses and Corporation Tax make up the biggest share of the shortfall. The tax gap for the 2023-24 tax year has been published and is estimated to be 5.3% of total theoretical tax liabilities. The tax gap is basically the difference between the amount of […]

The government has announced the reinstatement of Winter Fuel Payments for pensioners in England and Wales for winter 2025-26, reversing the previous year’s cuts. Around nine million pensioners are expected to benefit from this decision, with payments of £200 per household or £300 for households where someone is aged 80 or over. Eligibility will be […]