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Roger Eddowes

Essendon Accounts & Tax

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Having been on hold myself for hours on end, I welcome HMRC's voice recognition upgrade!
HMRC to Implement Voice Recognition for Enhanced Customer Service

HMRC has announced a transformative plan to integrate voice recognition technology into its customer service framework. This approach seeks to streamline security checks and improve the overall customer service experience for ...

The importance of a Certificate of Good Standing cannot be overstated!
Understanding the Certificate of Good Standing

Credibility is the cornerstone of any successful business operation and helps to improve growth. One pivotal document that aids in establishing credibility is the Certificate of Good Standing from Companies House ... ...

When it comes to HMRC Tax Investigations, preparation will always be your strongest ally!
How to Prepare for an HMRC Tax Investigation

The thought of an HMRC tax investigation can stir up feelings of anxiety and uncertainty within any business owner. However, understanding how to prepare for an HMRC tax investigation can significantly reduce these fears ... ...

Trying to game the system with the Employment Allowance will likely backfire!
Employment Allowance: Can It Be Claimed For A Temporary Hire?

If you’re a sole director running a limited company, you’ve probably heard that you can’t claim Employment Allowance (EA), and in most cases, that’s true. HMRC’s rules say that companies where the only person on the payroll i ...

What threats are there to your business? Which strategy should you use? Which door to open?
Navigating Uncertainty: 5 Strategies for Business Owners

Uncertainty is an ever-present challenge for business owners that can dictate the course of strategic decision-making. As tariffs rise and supply chains are disrupted, many now find themselves in a precarious situation ... ...

The journey of Making Tax Digital has been one of both promise and challenge!
Marking The 10th Anniversary Of Making Tax Digital

As we mark the 10th anniversary of Making Tax Digital (MTD), it is an opportune moment to reflect on its progression, the transformative changes it promises for the tax landscape, and the obstacles that lie ahead ... ...

The incorporation of Yoga mats and VR headsets into the inflation basket reflects much more than trends in spending!
Inflation: The Role of Yoga Mats and VR Headsets

Inflation acts as a barometer for measuring the rising cost of living and the Office for National Statistics (ONS) recently made some interesting changes to the basket of goods they use for calculating inflation ... ...

Tax compliance is about to witness a significant shift, reflecting HMRC's dedication to making the tax system more accessible for all!
Thousands No Longer Need to Submit Tax Returns

The government has revealed significant changes to the tax system. One of the most noteworthy announcements is the increase in the income tax self-assessment (ITSA) reporting threshold from £1,000 to £3,000 ... ...

The implications of the Economic Crime And Corporate Transparency Act for directors and PSCs are significant!
Understanding The Economic Crime & Corporate Transparency Act

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) introduces transformative changes to corporate law in the UK, targeting the prevention of economic crime through increased transparency and accountability ... ...

Understanding the full scope of these late tax payment adjustments is essential for adept tax management!
HMRC's Increase in Interest Rates for Late Tax Payment

Businesses are encouraged to understand the significant changes in HMRC's approach to late tax payments. The interest rate charged by HMRC for late tax payments, specifically for most taxes and duties have risen from 7% to 8. ...

The broader implications of these tariffs cannot be underestimated!
US Tariffs Threaten UK Growth Projections

The UK's economic landscape is intricately woven with threads of global trade, innovation, and growth. Recently, however, a new threat has emerged: the blanket tariffs announced by President Trump ... ...

With these important tax changes happening in April 2025 the Business Godparent stands ready to advise you!
Important Tax Changes Happening In April 2025

As we step into a new financial year, tax changes are rolling in - some subtle, some significant, but all requiring attention. Whether you’re an employer, landlord, sole trader, or investor, these updates will impact your tax ...

The economy is balancing on a fiscal knife edge!
Why the Economy Is Balancing on a Fiscal Knife Edge

The Chancellor’s Spring Statement this year wasn’t the grand reveal of sweeping reforms or dramatic U-turns. It was something far more familiar to anyone in finance: a calculated manoeuvre along a fiscal knife edge ... ...

What did the Chancellor announce at the Spring Statement 2024?
Get Our Spring Statement 2025 Summary

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has set out her plans for our country's economic future during the Spring Statement 2025. With stagnant growth, a massive public sector bill and a belligerent Russia, what did she announce, and did sh ...

Plan accordingly and you'll be well-equipped to handle the Stamp Duty Land Tax changes that will take effect in April!
Residential Property to Face Increased Stamp Duty Land Tax

Buyers of residential properties in the UK have been advised to brace themselves for significant increases in Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) liabilities. This change is set to take effect from the 1st of April 2025 ... ...

Most double-cab pickups are predicted to qualify as cars under this new assessment method!
The Taxation Of Double-Cab Pickups Is Changing

The Autumn Budget 2024 was a significant moment for drivers of double-cab pickups (DCPUs). With HMRC recently releasing new guidance, a transformation in how these vehicles are classified for tax purposes is on the horizon .. ...

Let's embrace these tax return changes and equip ourselves with the knowledge needed for successful compliance!
New Tax Return Requirements for Sole Traders and Directors

As a taxpayer, changes in regulations can often seem daunting, especially with new tax return requirements for sole traders and directors of close companies coming into effect for the 2025/26 tax year ... ...

Ultimately, the complete outcome of Trump's tariff wars hinges on multiple unknowns!
Trump, Tariffs And Trade Wars

When you look at the state of global trade, it’s impossible to ignore the influence of Trump's policies. His administration's assertion to put 'America first' has led to a series of tariff impositions that are shaking up econ ...

Leveraging advanced payroll software can help you prepare for mandatory reporting in 2026!
How Employers Should Prepare for Mandatory Reporting in 2026

With HMRC set to introduce mandatory reporting of Payrolling Benefits in Kind (PBIK) by April 2026, employers are urged to prepare in advance to ensure a smooth transition. Understanding the intricacies involved in this shift ...

Adapt to the ECCTA now and you'll be ready for the future!
ECCTA: The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) is bringing the biggest shake-up to Companies House since it was first established in 1844. If you’re a company director, a person with significant control (PSC), or s ...

The Government's recycling reforms mark a significant shift in how we approach waste in our businesses!
Understanding the Government's Recycling Reforms

As a business owner, you might be feeling the winds of change as the Government's recycling reforms take shape. Aimed at streamlining waste management and promoting a more sustainable future, these reforms affect every workpl ...

Conduct a financial review before the end of the tax year and remove any lingering fiscal concerns!
Essential Steps to Take Before the End of the Tax Year

The UK's tax year draws to a close on the 5th of April, so individuals and families must focus on taking strategic actions to optimise their financial affairs. This critical period compels taxpayers to evaluate their income, ...

Ensure you're prepared for the changes to company size thresholds happening in April 2025!
Changes To Company Size Thresholds

Understanding the intricacies of company size thresholds is essential for businesses navigating corporate compliance. The recent announcement regarding the amendment of size thresholds heralds a significant transformation in ...

Addressing the exorbitant annual compliance costs for UK businesses is imperative!
Understanding the £15bn Annual Compliance Cost of Business Tax

Navigating the intricate landscape of taxation is a daunting challenge businesses face annually. With a collective cost exceeding £15 billion per year, this staggering figure embodies the burden that companies bear while stri ...

Here's hoping for a more harmonious balance that allows growth to take root soon!
The Contradictory Imperatives of Labour's Growth Agenda

Since the general election, the conversation surrounding economic growth in the UK has taken centre stage, yet it is fraught with contradictions that raise eyebrows ... ...

Remember, addressing any uncertainties promptly is always preferable to leaving matters with HMRC unresolved!
HMRC's Latest Nudge on Property Income and Gains

As a property owner, it's essential to stay informed about your tax obligations, particularly concerning taxable income from lettings and gains from property sales ... ...

The increase in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage are an opportunity to foster a more engaged workforce!
Key Updates for National Living Wage & National Minimum Wage

As you prepare for the upcoming legislative changes, it's crucial to grasp the implications of the revised National Living Wage (NLW) and National Minimum Wage (NMW) rates that will come into effect on the 1st of April 2025 . ...

The wait for the Spring Statement may soon be over, but uncertainty very much remains!
Anticipating Changes In The Spring Statement

As the Spring Statement approaches, many are left wondering if the Chancellor will u-turn this spring? The pressure is mounting on Reeves following a tumultuous Autumn Budget that left both businesses and economists scratchin ...

One of HMRC's key anticipated strategies includes the expansion of 'one to many' campaigns!
Understanding HMRC's strategy in 2025

As the government prepares for the anticipated compliance activity from HMRC in 2025, taxpayers must stay vigilant and aware of how these initiatives could affect their obligations ... ...

Embrace these changes and ensure your actions align with the new requirements for EU-GB imports!
Essential Updates For Your Business Imports

If you import from the European Union, you'll need to be aware that significant changes are coming into effect on the 31st of January 2025. So what's the current situation, and what's going to change? ...

Being chased by angry cows isn't a good enough excuse for missing your self-assessment filing deadline!
Quirky reasons that won't cut it with HMRC

As the deadline for tax returns approaches, HMRC cannot help but share the absurdity of some taxpayers' reasoning behind late submissions ... ...

Remember, being proactive and informed about your expenses will always pay dividends in the end!
Expenses: Navigate Your Tax Relief With Ease

As you work, it's not uncommon to incur expenses. Whether that's for travel, tools, or work clothing, these costs can add up quickly. Fortunately, tax relief for such employment expenses often provides a financial cushion ... ...

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