Business rates update New 20% business rates cut announced for pubs, clubs and live music venues. Eligible properties in England are expected to receive a new reduction from April 2027, although several important eligibility and implementation details are still to be confirmed. Quick answer The Government has announced a 20%…

Self Assessment | Company directors New Director Tax Reporting Rules: What Business Owners and Company Directors Need to Know. From the 2025/26 tax year, directors who already complete a Self Assessment return must provide more detailed information about their directorships and, where relevant, their close company interests. Quick answer This…

Self Assessment Payment on Account Deadline: What You Need to Know Before 31 July. The second Self Assessment payment on account deadline is approaching. Here is who needs to pay, how the amount is calculated and what you can do if your income has fallen. Quick answer If you make…

Employer Update Youth Jobs Grant 2026: Could your business receive £3,000 for hiring a young person. If you are planning to recruit this year, the new Youth Jobs Grant could help reduce the cost of taking on a young employee. But employers need to check the conditions carefully before relying…

Payroll & employer National Insurance Employment Allowance – Eligibility & Exclusions. A practical guide for employers on what Employment Allowance is, how it works, who can claim it and what may prevent a claim. Quick answer Employment Allowance can reduce an eligible employer’s Employer’s National Insurance bill by up to…

Business finance and cashflow Late Payment Reforms: Will Small Businesses Finally Get Paid on Time? Late payment is not just an admin problem. For many small businesses, it is the difference between confident cashflow and constant firefighting. Quick answer The government has introduced the Commercial Payments Bill, also referred to…

Start-ups & Business Setup Starting a Business in Wiltshire? What You Actually Need to Set Up Properly A practical guide for new business owners who want to get the basics right from day one, from structure and HMRC registration to VAT, payroll, bookkeeping and when to involve an accountant. 9…

“`html HMRC Mileage Rates 2026/27: What Business Owners Need to Know After years of rising fuel, insurance and running costs, HMRC has finally increased the approved mileage rate for cars and vans. From the 2026/27 tax year, the approved mileage rate for cars and vans is now 55p per mile…

Late Payment Reform: What the 2026 King’s Speech Could Mean for Small Businesses The 2026 King’s Speech confirmed plans for new legislation aimed at tackling late payments to small businesses. For SMEs, this could become one of the most practical business changes to watch over the coming months. Late payment…