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 …

Vaping Duty 2026: What UK businesses need to know

by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – see The Accounting Hub If your business manufactures, imports, stores, or distributes vaping products, an important change is coming. HM Revenue & Customs has opened applications for the new Vaping Products Duty (VPD), which comes into force later this year. This introduces a new duty on vaping liquids and …

AI bookkeeping is only as strong as the habits behind it

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 …

Investing for SMEs in 2026 A Simple Guide for Business Owners and Investors

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 …

Unlock Affordable Lease Accounting Support for Small Charities Before SORP 2026 Hits

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 …

Smart & Practical Ways for Local Businesses to Save Money

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 …

Are Your Business Finances Built on Solid Foundations?

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 …

Why Choosing the best Accountant Matters

12 September 2026 new – written by Steffen Kemmerzehl – Friendly Assist Accountancy – The Accounting Hub Choosing an accountant often starts with something very ordinary. You need a tax return filed, your business has grown beyond what you can comfortably manage yourself, HMRC has sent a letter you do not quite understand, or perhaps your tax affairs …

Hidden Accounting Pressures Behind Great Food

Food Industry battling Costs and Tax 03 July – written by Steffen Kemmerzehl – Friendly Assist Accountancy – Blog Many restaurants begin with a passion for great food and excellent service, but staying profitable depends on much more than a busy dining room. Food businesses often operate on tight margins, making it essential to keep …

Business Is Busy, So Where Is the Money Going?

Ways to Unlock Hidden Cash in Your Business 26 Sept. 2025 – written by Steffen Kemmerzehl – Friendly Assist Accountancy – Blog Cash flow remains one of the biggest challenges facing UK businesses in 2026. Rising costs, economic uncertainty, late customer payments and increasing tax obligations continue to place pressure on businesses of all sizes. …