Self-Employed
May 2026 Newsletter
As we move deeper into the 2026/27 tax year, May is often the month when April’s changes stop feeling theoretical and start becoming practical. The rush of year-end processing may have eased, but employers are now focused on issuing P60s, checking that payroll has rolled over correctly and getting ahead of benefits reporting before summer…
Read MoreApril 2026 Newsletter
As the 2026/27 tax year begins, April is one of the busiest and most important months in the tax calendar. This year, the timing feels even more pronounced because Easter falls right at the start of the new tax year, with Good Friday on 3 April and Easter Monday on 6 April in England and…
Read MoreAugust 2025 Newsletter
As summer moves into its final stretch, now is an opportune moment to take stock of the latest tax developments and legislative updates. In the August edition of the Mercian Accountants newsletter, we unpack the key announcements from Legislation Day 2025, including measures aimed at closing the tax gap, proposed changes to inheritance tax reliefs,…
Read MoreEffortless Sole Trader Accounting: Streamlined Strategies for Self-Employed Finances
Master your sole trader accounting with ease. This article takes you straight to the essentials – tax obligations, efficient expense tracking, and robust financial management. Equip yourself with the knowledge to handle your finances confidently and avoid common pitfalls. Key Takeaways Understanding Sole Trader Accounting Embarking on a journey as a small business owner and…
Read MorePool Cars – Benefits and Tax Traps
Are you a business considering the use of pool cars for your employees? Pool cars can provide numerous benefits, such as cost savings, increased efficiency, and improved flexibility. However, it’s essential to understand the tax implications associated with pool cars to ensure compliance and make informed financial decisions. In this post, we’ll explore the key…
Read MoreHMRC Basis Period Reform for Sole Traders & Partnerships
Mandatory basis period reforms have been announced by HMRC for unincorporated businesses, including sole traders, irrespective of their involvement with Making Tax Digital (MTD). This article delves into the details of these reforms and how sole traders and partnerships need to adapt. Starting from the 2024/25 tax year, affected businesses must use the tax year…
Read MoreGuide to Self-Assessment tax returns
Welcome to Mercian Accountants’ comprehensive guide to Self-Assessment tax returns in the United Kingdom. Navigating the complexities of the UK tax system can be challenging, but our team of experienced accountants is here to help you through every step. Self-Assessment is an essential aspect of the UK tax system that requires individuals with more complex…
Read MoreTime to ditch the job and work for yourself?
If you are currently employed and considering becoming self-employed, there are many factors to consider. Switching from being an employee to being self-employed can be a big decision that requires careful planning and preparation. As experienced accountants based in Shrewsbury, we at Mercian Accountants understand the challenges of starting your own business. In this article,…
Read MoreHMRC Chases 4,300 Influencers and Content Creators Over Tax
To keep up with the rapid expansion of the digital economy, HMRC is chasing thousands of influencers and content creators, including gamers and retailers, for taxes that haven’t been paid on income or gifts received online. This includes people who earn money in exchange for product promotion, as well as those who are paid by…
Read MoreTax Guide for Content Creators and Social Media Influencers
Introduction Are you a digital entrepreneur who’s unsure about their tax responsibilities? Whether your hobby is vlogging, blogging, reviewing, or streaming, if you earn money (e.g., royalties and advertising fees) or receive gifts (e.g., products, holidays, or accommodation) from it, then HMRC could class you as having taxable income, and require you to submit a…
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