Freelancing gives you freedom. Tax deadlines do not. If you didn’t file or pay your Self Assessment by 31 January 2026, don’t panic. You are not the only one, and this is still very fixable. What matters now is what you do in February. Here’s how to reduce penalties, calm HMRC down, and set yourself …
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by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – Friendly Assist Accountancy If you live in the UK and have income from abroad, it can be hard to know what HMRC expects. Especially if your situation feels a bit messy or complicated. As a Newcastle‑based accountancy specialising in international and cross‑border tax, we help clients with overseas income, …
AI-powered bookkeeping tools are advancing quickly. Platforms such as Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and FreeAgent now automate bank feeds, VAT coding and transaction explanations at scale. Used well, they save time. Used badly, they accelerate errors. The issue is not the technology. It is the quality of the bookkeeping underneath it. Automation does not fix weak …
Read more “AI bookkeeping is only as strong as the habits behind it”
The Autumn 2025 Budget introduced several updates to the VAT system that will matter to many UK businesses. Some are helpful, some require attention, and all are worth understanding early. Below is a clear, client-focused overview that keeps things simple and practical. At Friendly Assist Accountancy, we combine local expertise with extensive international experience. Whether …
Read more “VAT Made Simple: How Friendly Assist Accountancy Helps You Stay Compliant and Save Time”
by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – Friendly Assist Accountancy If you are new to investing in small businesses or trying to understand how SMEs raise and use capital the rules in 2026 are very different from even a few years ago. SMEs are now operating in a tighter funding environment while investors are becoming far …
Read more “Investing for SMEs in 2026 A Simple Guide for Business Owners and Investors”
November 2025 version We work daily to keep our clients ahead of the curve on relevant regulatory changes. While there are no major tax or accounting rules kicking in today, several important changes are coming up — and your business (or your clients’) can benefit by getting ready now. What’s On the Horizon 1. Company …
Read more “Upcoming Business, Tax & Driving Rule Changes — What You Need to Know”
As charities prepare for the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) 2026, one of the most significant accounting changes is the new treatment of leases. This update impacts all charities with lease agreements—whether for premises, vehicles, or equipment—and especially those with income under £250,000. What is Changing? From 1 January 2026, the Charities SORP requires …
Read more “Unlock Affordable Lease Accounting Support for Small Charities Before SORP 2026 Hits”
by Steffen Kemmerzehl – Friendly Assist Accoutancy Running a small business is hard work whether you are based in the North East, working with overseas clients, or living in the UK with international income. When margins are tight and tax rules are complex, every pound really does count. At Friendly Assist Accountancy, we support sole …
Read more “Smart & Practical Ways for Local Businesses to Save Money”
Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – The Accounting Hub Running a successful business takes more than hard work. Whether you are a roofer replacing damaged roofs across Newcastle, a builder managing multiple projects, or a business owner in another industry entirely, strong financial management is what turns effort into lasting profit. Many business owners tell us …
Read more “Are Your Business Finances Built on Solid Foundations?”
If you run a business or work as a sole trader, you’re already familiar with payroll, tax, and compliance. But did you know that household benefits and tax-free schemes available to your employees or even to you can also impact your financial planning, payroll, and the advice you provide? If we talk about benefit it …
Read more “Maximise Income and be in the Know about Benefits”