Why Choosing a Qualified Accountant Matters in 2026

As HMRC and Companies House continue introducing new compliance requirements, choosing a qualified and regulated accountant has never been more important. Recent warnings from the AAT, ACCA and ICAEW highlight the risks posed by unregulated tax advisers and refund agents operating across the UK. At the same time, the introduction of identity verification requirements and …

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 17 Oct 2025 – written by Steffen Kemmerzehl – Friendly Assist Accountancy – Blog Many sole traders make simple tax mistakes without even realising it. If you manage your own bookkeeping or complete your own Self Assessment tax return, small errors can quickly lead to …

HMRC Self Assessment Penalties and how to avoid them

The Mistakes That Could Cost You Hundreds 13 Oct 2025 – written by Steffen Kemmerzehl – Friendly Assist Accountancy – Blog Most people who receive an HMRC penalty never expected it to happen. They are not trying to avoid paying tax or hide their income. In many cases, the problem starts with a simple oversight, such as missing a …