Small and medium-sized hospitality businesses across the UK are set to benefit from a new government-backed scheme designed to cut energy costs and support net zero ambitions. The initiative, unveiled as part of the wider Plan for Change, will provide free energy and carbon reduction assessments to over 600 venues, including pubs, caf�s, restaurants, and…
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When can you reduce your July 2025 Self-Assessment payment?
Many individuals and business owners in the UK pay their tax under the Self-Assessment system, which often involves two payments on account due each year - the first in January and the second in July. These advance payments are calculated based on your previous year's tax bill. But what if your income has fallen and…
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Statutory Sick Pay reform- a growing concern for small businesses
A proposed change to the way Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) is charged is causing growing concern among UK small business owners. Under current rules, employers are only required to pay SSP from the fourth consecutive day of absence due to illness. However, upcoming reforms suggest that SSP will become payable from the very first day…
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How to check employment status
HMRC's CEST tool gets a revamp from 30 April 2025, with clearer questions and updated guidance to help users decide employment status for tax-plus stronger backing from HMRC.In a Written Ministerial Statement delivered on 28 April, the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury announced a series of administrative and simplification measures designed to advance the government's…
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