Smart business insights
10 ways to improve cash flow management
To keep your business in good financial health and ride out the turbulence of current global uncertainty, staying on top of your cash flow management is key. Apply these 10 techniques to get started: 1. Be selective Turning down new business is not easy and needs steely resolve, but doing your research and turning down […]
How do I get a government grant for my small business?
Whether you are starting a new business or have your sights set on growth, chances are at some stage you will need a cash injection to support your business. A business loan might seem an obvious choice. However, before you go down that route, you may benefit from learning about the different government grants on […]
How to start an Etsy store
What is Etsy? Etsy is an online marketplace where independent designers, artists, crafters and collectors can set up shop and sell what they make. It’s an easy and quick way to start a business from home. Etsy is probably best known for selling unique pieces that you wouldn’t find elsewhere. Whether it’s vintage, handmade or […]
Small business guide to accounting
There’s nothing more exciting in life than chasing after your dreams. For many, that means taking something they love and turning it into a business. Accounting may not be the most thrilling part of that journey, but it certainly becomes one of the most important. It might seem a lot to take in at first. […]
Nailing small business cybersecurity basics
Did you know that 54% of UK organisations have put preventing data breaches and cyberattacks at the top of their IT priority list? But, staggeringly, 43% of small businesses still don’t have any type of cyber security defence plans. Keeping a small business afloat is a big achievement, which is why you don’t want to […]
7 things small business owners need to know about MTD VAT
Making Tax Digital (MTD) is the UK government initiative that aims to make it easier for people and businesses to “get their tax right”. HMRC wants to become one of the world’s most digitally advanced tax authorities, and through MTD it’s trying to make tax admin simpler. In this article, you’ll learn: • The essentials […]
The ultimate MTD Income Tax guide for sole traders
If you are a contractor, self-employed or running your own limited company, MTD, short for ‘Making Tax Digital’ is going to become more and more important in the coming months. In this article, you’ll learn what it is, how it will affect you and how to register for MTD. What is MTD? MTD is HMRC’s […]
How to register as a sole trader
All you need to know before setting up as a sole trader Running a small business and considering whether to register as a sole trader? In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about setting up as a sole trader, including the pros and cons, costs and more. Sole trader definition Sole traders […]
Do I need an accountant for my limited company?
If you are a director of a limited company you are not legally required to appoint an accountant. However, there are many benefits to doing so. In this article, you will learn how an accountant can help improve your business, what accountants don’t do, costs, and how to choose the right one. Let’s start with […]
5 reasons why you need to separate business from personal expenses
Getting organised when it comes to your finances is an important part of running a successful business. However, many self-employed small business owners fall into the trap of using one current account, which means that their personal and business expenses are mixed in together. Although you are not legally required to open a separate business […]