The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has upgraded the UK’s 2025 GDP growth forecast to 1.2 per cent, citing a strong first-quarter performance and signs of a recovering economy. The official figures indicate that increases in customer spending and business investment … Continue reading
Identity crisis – Companies House begins to verify identities
On 8 April 2025, Companies House introduced identity verification for those who make filings on behalf of a business. It is currently a voluntary process, but will become mandatory for new businesses by the end of the year and mandatory … Continue reading
Too many sole traders are still missing out on their State Pension
How much State Pension you get depends on your National Insurance (NI) record when you reach the State Pension age. Gaps in your NI record could affect how much you receive. Unfortunately, too many sole traders are still missing out … Continue reading
Three easy ways to manage your directors’ loan accounts
It is not uncommon for directors of a company to take loans from the business during each financial year, often to cover unexpected bills. However, you must keep track of any directors’ loans – money withdrawn from the company that … Continue reading
How to maximise tax relief on losses to offset higher employment costs
The recent rise in employers’ National Insurance Contributions (NICs) to 15 per cent will lead to a 60 per cent increase in NIC costs for a business employing minimum wage staff, according to the Centre for Policy Studies. With no … Continue reading