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. …

Winter Fuel Payment scams are rising what you need to know

by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – see The Accounting Hub If you or someone close to you receives a Winter Fuel Payment, it is worth staying alert. Recently, HM Revenue & Customs warned that scammers are increasingly targeting pensioners with fake messages about repaying Winter Fuel Payments. You can read the official HMRC guidance here. …

Tax Changes Pensioners Should Know About (And How to Stay in Control)

by Steffen Kemmerzehl, MAAT, AATQB – see The Accounting Hub Retirement should be about peace of mind. Unfortunately, many pensioners tell us they feel confused or stressed when they hear about tax changes in the news. Frozen tax allowances, changes to savings rules, digital reporting requirements – it can all sound complicated. The good news …

New 40% First-Year Allowance: What UK Businesses Need to Know in 2026

Running a business is challenging, and paying less tax legally is always welcome news. From 1 January 2026, unincorporated businesses like sole traders and partnerships can benefit from a new 40% First-Year Allowance (FYA) on qualifying plant and machinery that aren’t fully covered by other allowances. At Friendly Assist Accountancy, we help businesses make the …

Tax Essentials for UK Residents with Foreign Income (And How I Can Help You Get It Right)

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 accountant specialising in international and cross‑border tax, I help clients with overseas income, EU connections and late returns understand their position …

Upcoming Business, Tax & Driving Rule Changes — What You Need to Know

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 …

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 …

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 …