IR35 Explained for UK Contractors

by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – see The Accounting Hub Many UK contractors operate through a limited company without fully understanding how IR35 works or why it matters. A software developer working remotely for a large pharmaceutical company. An engineering contractor on a long term project. An IT consultant billing through their own company while …

International Tax Rules Are Changing. What UK Businesses Need to Know

by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – see The Accounting Hub Many UK businesses now have international connections without thinking of themselves as “international businesses”. A freelancer in Newcastle working remotely for a company in Germany. A self employed designer invoicing clients in Dubai. An Amazon seller shipping products across Europe. A landlord living abroad while …

What Recent UK Policy Changes Could Mean for Expats, International Clients and Small Businesses

by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – see The Accounting Hub Over the past few years, the UK tax and business landscape has become increasingly complex for internationally connected individuals and small business owners. Changes around immigration, overseas income, compliance and business regulation are already affecting many people, even before some proposed policies officially become law. …

Smart & Practical Ways for Local Businesses to Save Money

See our weekly workshop Tax made Simple 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. Get our Tax Savings Guide here. …

Why Choosing a Qualified Accountant Matters: AAT, ACCA and ICAEW Warn Against Unregulated Tax Advisers

Why Qualified Accountants Matter More Than Ever Across the UK, small businesses and individuals are being targeted by unregulated tax advisers promising quick refunds or cheap returns. While the offer sounds appealing, many clients are later discovering missing refunds, unexpected HMRC penalties, or even fraud. Recent warnings from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England …

When Growth Plans Fall Through: What Newcastle’s Earl of Pitt Street Can Teach Every Small Business About Financial Planning

In business, every set of accounts tells a story.Sometimes it’s one of steady growth and smart planning. Other times, it’s a warning about challenges just around the corner. Recently, a well-known Newcastle city-centre venue, The Earl of Pitt Street, closed its doors after more than ten years of trading. For many locals it was more …

How to get Greater Savings and Peace of Mind

Common Tax Mistakes and Forensic Accounting Implications for Sole Traders If you are a sole trader, researcher, founder, or entrepreneur managing your own tax returns and bookkeeping, you may be at risk of accidental errors and potential fraud. HMRC compliance checks often uncover misreported income, missing receipts, and mixed-use expenses. This situation highlights the value …

Avoiding HMRC Self-Assessment Penalties: What You Need to Know

Filing your Self-Assessment tax return on time is crucial to avoid escalating penalties and interest charges. At Friendly Assist Accountancy, we understand the complexities of the UK tax system and are here to help you navigate it effectively. Key Deadlines Note: If you register for Self-Assessment after 5 October 2025, your filing deadline will be …