Contracting often means travelling to different workplaces. During the winter months, this can be especially tough as there’s no guarantee that the place you’re visiting is actually going to be warm. What can you do during the winter months when the journey to and from, and even being on site can feel freezing cold? There’s…
Off-payroll is currently in full-effect in the Public sector. However, following consultation, the government has delayed implementation of the Off-payroll rules until April 2020. It has also limited the new rules to medium and large-sized end-user businesses. Small businesses will not be required to apply the new rules. The Off-payroll amendments were introduced by the…
With the current political and economic uncertainty 2019 could be a turbulent year for the UK. However, there may be opportunities and developments that small business owners in the UK may be able to take advantage of. As a small business accountant, our team are specialists who are fully-equipped to help you overcome any challenges…
One of the most important aspects of being a contractor is marketing yourself. The better you are at networking, the more opportunities you have to find new clients. Today, one great way of networking is via social media. LinkedIn is one of the best social networks to focus on if you are a contractor. It…
There are two major VAT system changes coming around April 1 2019. The first is the the UK’s withdrawal from the EU, which means we have yet to establish the implications of cross border trade and VAT accounting. The second is prevention of the ability to submit VAT returns via the government gateway for most…
As a contractor, you can operate two different ways: as your own limited company or under a PAYE umbrella. Both options have a number of pros and cons depending on your contracted situation and your level of willingness to take on responsibility. If you are unsure about which route is right for you, contact Aston…
Are you struggling to fully understand IR35? You’re not alone. However, it’s important to understand the basics of IR35 as the rules can seriously impact your income if you get caught in it. Reach out to Aston Black for any advice regarding IR35 and its ramifications to ensure that you can be aware of everything…
The HRMC recognises that Christmas parties are a great way to reward your employees for an entire year of hard work. Therefore, no matter the size of your business, you can claim for some Christmas party expenses to be exempt from your National Insurance and tax. As the Limited Company director, you can claim expenses…
Working as a contractor gives you significant freedom over working as an employee. As a contractor, you will benefit from having more control of the work that you do, as well as having flexible working hours, being your own boss, and potentially receiving higher earnings. However, there are also issues that you will likely face…
Philip Hammond shared the Autumn Budget at the end of October. As well as thanking the British public for their hard work, he made a few announcements for small businesses. This varied from personal tax allowance to business rates. He said that it was a “Budget for hard-working families…the strivers, the grafters, and the carers…