Good News for York Business Owners: HMRC Increases Mileage Rates from April 2026
In a welcome change for business owners, employees and the self-employed, the Government has increased the approved business mileage rates for cars and vans from 45p to 55p per mile for the first 10,000 business miles travelled each tax year. The change is backdated to 6 April 2026, meaning it applies for the whole of […]
Key Tax Changes Business Owners Should Be Aware of for the 2026/27 Tax Year
As the 2026/27 tax year begins on 6 April 2026, several tax changes and continuing measures may affect how business owners extract profits and plan their finances. Reviewing these changes early can help avoid surprises and allow time to adjust remuneration strategies where necessary. One of the most notable changes is an increase in dividend […]
When a Business Needs to Register for VAT — and When Voluntary Registration Can Make Sense
VAT registration is a key consideration for growing UK businesses. A business must register for VAT when its taxable turnover exceeds the VAT registration threshold in any rolling 12-month period, or if it expects turnover to exceed the threshold in the next 30 days alone. Once the threshold is breached, registration must be completed promptly […]
Companies House Fees Increase from 1 February 2026: What Small Businesses Need to Know
From 1 February 2026, Companies House will introduce new filing fees following changes brought in under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency framework. This is the first major fee update in several years and will affect most UK companies, including small businesses and startups in York and across the UK. Two of the most common […]
Bookkeeping Software Setup: Sole Traders vs Limited Companies
Online bookkeeping software such as Xero, QuickBooks and QuickFile can significantly improve record keeping for small businesses. However, the benefits of these platforms depend heavily on how they are set up at the outset — particularly whether the business operates as a sole trader or a limited company. Today’s software solutions also come with a […]
Year-Round Tax Planning for Small Businesses in 2026
For many small businesses, tax planning is often left until deadlines approach. However, taking a year-round approach to tax planning can provide greater clarity, improved cash flow management and fewer surprises when payments fall due. This remains especially relevant for small businesses across the UK, including those based in York. Understanding key tax obligations early […]
Key Financial Focus Areas for Small Businesses in 2026
2026 is a transitional year for small businesses across the UK — including those operating in York — as they continue to adapt to an environment where accurate financial information and timely compliance are becoming increasingly important. One of the most practical steps for owner-managed businesses is improving the quality and frequency of financial reporting. […]
Spring 2026 Tax Updates: What Business Owners Should Be Aware Of
As the new tax year approaches, a number of UK tax changes are coming into effect from April 2026 that may be relevant to business owners, landlords and company directors. These include changes to dividend taxation, National Insurance thresholds and the ongoing expansion of Making Tax Digital (MTD). Understanding how these changes apply in practice […]