Helen Wood, CA
Helen is a qualified chartered accountant (CA) and joined TaxAssist in 2025 following three years as a freelance content writer for clients in the tax and accounting publishing sector. Prior to this, She spent 17 years at Big Four and Top 10 accountancy firms. Helen writes clear and helpful articles on tax and accounting for businesses and individuals.
Learn more at Helen's LinkedIn profile.
How can technology drive efficiencies for my business?
With recent research showing that embracing digital tools could reduce rather than increase overall costs for Small and Medium Sized Businesses (SMBs), we look at why online accounting solutions are a...
Find out moreHow to protect yourself from tax and company filing scams
With tax scams becoming more common around Companies House filings and the self-assessment tax return filing deadline, HMRC is urging taxpayers to stay vigilant.
Find out moreYour guide to auto-enrolment pensions
Automatic-enrolment into workplace pension schemes was introduced to encourage individuals to save for retirement. Statistics from 2023 show an additional 10 million people save into a pension because...
Find out moreChanges at Companies House – what this means for you
The changes to the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCTA) received Royal Assent on 26th October 2023 and the new powers have been introduced in stages since then.
Find out moreHow do the Companies House reforms affect my business?
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 became law on 26th October 2023 and triggered a series of Companies House reforms which affect small businesses.
Find out moreA guide to accounts and tax for new businesses
Thinking of starting a business in the UK or have you already started the process? In this guide we look at the accounting and tax essentials you need to consider when starting a new business.
Find out moreThe digitisation of tax: what does it mean for my business?
Big changes continue with Making Tax Digital for income tax, the Companies House reforms and more HMRC services being online by default.
Find out moreSole trader or limited company – which structure is best for my busine...
Choosing a legal structure is one of the most important decisions for a new business owner, and understanding the options can be challenging.
Find out moreWhat your accountant needs to file your tax return
Providing your accountant with everything they need to prepare your tax return ahead of the self-assessment tax return deadline will mean your tax return is processed smoothly. Our guide explains what...
Find out moreThe benefits of filing your self-assessment tax return today
The deadline for self-assessment tax returns is 31st January. Instead of waiting until January, here are some reasons why you should file your tax return early.
Find out moreCapital gains tax on second homes - what you need to know
If you own multiple properties, you need to be aware of the capital gains tax rules and reporting which may be required should you sell one of your properties.
Find out moreWorking From Home Relief abolished – What can employees claim instead?
With the abolition of the flat rate working from home allowance from 6th April 2026, we explain what other options employers can offer to their home workers and hybrid-working staff.
Find out moreWhat expenses can I claim for when working from home?
What are the rules for business owners and employees who work from home? Here we set out the rules to help you claim everything you’re entitled to and keep you compliant.
Find out moreMaking Tax Digital for landlords
Discover when Making Tax Digital for income tax comes into effect and what you will need to do if you are a landlord.
Find out moreTax relief on donations to charity
Donating to charity helps you support causes most important to you. It can also mean you make tax savings and using gift aid can mean the charity receives more money from your donation.
Find out moreThree quarters of eligible businesses still need to register for Makin...
With Making Tax Digital for income tax now in place for the first intake of sole traders and landlords in the UK, figures from HMRC show that eight days after the 2026/27 tax year began, only 25% of t...
Find out moreHow much National Insurance do I pay?
Individuals in the UK make National Insurance Contributions based on their employed or self-employed status. Our guide looks at NIC rates and how much you have to pay.
Find out moreEmployment Allowance – What is it and are you eligible?
The Employment Allowance is a valuable relief provided to eligible businesses in the UK. It enables them to reduce their annual National Insurance Contributions (NIC) bill by up to £10,500 for the tax...
Find out moreYour guide to landlord tax and allowable expenses
Landlords letting residential property need to be aware of their tax reporting requirements throughout ownership.
Find out moreHow much National Insurance do I pay as an employer?
Employers in the UK pay National Insurance Contributions (NICs) based on the amount you pay your employees. These NICs contribute to the National Insurance Fund, which pays for benefits such as the st...
Find out moreWhat employers need to know about the National Living and Minimum Wage
The different rates of National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage can be tricky to keep on top of. We give you the details to keep your compliant and feel confident.
Find out moreHow much tax do you pay on rental income?
Having a buy-to-let property, property portfolio or holiday let can be a lucrative way to earn, either as your main income or on the side. Here we cover the basics of tax on rental income.
Find out moreTax relief on pension contributions
I’m self-employed and looking for ways to save tax. One recommendation I have received is to invest into a pension. Can you advise on the current savings available?
Find out moreWhy would I buy a property through a company?
I want to expand my investment in property with a view to making it my main job. I am wondering whether setting up a company to do this would be more tax efficient. Is this true?
Find out moreThe A to Z of income tax
Your A to Z guide to income tax in the UK. It’s short, simple and to the point.
Find out moreBusiness Asset Disposal Relief – effective tax rate rises to 18%
From 6th April 2026, the effective capital gains tax rate rises from 14% to 18% for those claiming this relief. So, what do business owners need to know?
Find out moreTips for managing multiple rental properties
In 2024, the English Private Landlord survey stated that almost half of landlords (45%) have one rental property. Another 38% have between two and four properties, and 11% have five or more properties...
Find out moreKey tax dates you need to know if you are self-employed
Staying on top of key dates will ensure your business stays on track, meets deadlines and avoids paying penalties and interest. We list the key dates sole traders need to be aware of in this concise g...
Find out morePeople with Significant Control explained
Company directors and business owners may be aware of the need to understand and file updates on their company People with Significant Control (PSCs). But how do you identify the PSCs for your company...
Find out moreWhat is business asset disposal relief?
In an evolving tax landscape business owners seek strategies to optimise their tax position, Business Asset Disposal Relief – formerly entrepreneurs’ relief – is a Capital Gains Tax relief that may re...
Find out moreWhat is going to change in the Construction Industry Scheme?
Changes have been made to the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) from 6th April 2026, after a consultation which ended in February 2026. But what are the proposed changes?
Find out moreThe Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) – what you need to know
The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) is a framework in the UK that governs how contractors pay subcontractors for construction work.
Find out moreWhat tax do you pay on dividends?
Company profits can be distributed to shareholders as dividends. This guide explains what dividends are and how they are taxed.
Find out moreSpring Statement 2026 summary and highlights
The Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered her 2026 Spring Statement to the House of Commons on Tuesday 3rd March 2026.
Find out moreWhat is the High Income Child Benefit Tax Charge?
If you are the parent of a child who lives with you, you may receive Child Benefit for them. But if your income exceeds a certain level you may need to pay a tax charge against that benefit. We explai...
Find out moreWill I need to pay tax on child benefit income?
My husband and I both work and I am receiving child benefit for our son. Someone has told me about the ‘High Income Child Benefit Charge’. I’m worried I’m going to have to pay tax on the income, pleas...
Find out moreHow to reduce the impact of the April tax increases
At the start of a new tax year, it is critical to be aware of the tax changes being introduced from April 2026, so you can prepare your business and personal finances for the months ahead. We have put...
Find out moreHow do I register for self-assessment?
I need to let HMRC know about some property income I started to receive in the 2025/26 tax year. How do I do this?
Find out moreContractor: Limited Company or Sole Trader?
As a Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) contractor, on top of the standard question for self-employed workers of whether to set up as a limited company or a sole trader, are there any CIS specific is...
Find out moreA guide to company secretarial duties and responsibilities
The company structure offers businesses the benefit of limited liability protection with the company being a separate legal entity to the individuals who own and run it.
Find out moreCompanies House ID verification – dealing with non-compliance
Company directors and People with Significant Control (PSCs) must now verify their identities (IDs) to continue filing company documents with Companies House. We explain what happens if companies don’...
Find out moreWhat counts as qualifying income for Making Tax Digital for income tax...
If you are self-employed or a landlord, you will need to join Making Tax Digital for income tax shortly, and your start date depends on your level of ‘qualifying income’. But what is qualifying income...
Find out moreWhat are the consequences if I pay tax late?
I am newly self-employed and have been rather unorganised this year. I have just managed to get my tax records in order and arranged to have my tax return filed by the deadline, but I haven't set enou...
Find out moreOur guide to understanding P60s
A P60 shows your earnings for the tax year and the income tax you have paid on your employment or pension. You can use it as evidence to third parties who may ask to see it. Our guide will explain you...
Find out moreHow do I amend my tax return?
I have received a letter from HMRC stating that I may not have told them something and owe tax. I am not sure what to do, please could you help?
Find out moreI can’t file my self-assessment tax return by 31st January, will I get...
I should have filed a 2024/25 self-assessment tax return, but I was not able to get it filed by 31st January 2026, will I get a penalty if I file it by the end of February 2026?
Find out moreEmployees working abroad – what are the tax issues?
With the rise of remote work and hybrid arrangements, many businesses are fielding requests from employees to work from overseas. But some serious tax and compliance risks can arise if this isn’t cons...
Find out moreWhat is a payment on account?
If you are self-employed or have income that is not taxed before you receive it, you may have a tax bill to pay, but are you aware how the tax stage payments can impact your cashflow?
Find out moreLate tax returns and reasonable excuses
The filing deadline for 2024/25 self-assessment tax returns is 31st January 2026 for returns filed online. Find out what you should do if your tax return is late and what reasonable excuses could help...
Find out moreBusiness rates cut for pubs and live music venues
The Government has announced a 15% business rates cut for the struggling pub and music venue sectors in England.
Find out moreHow are self-assessment tax return penalties changing?
From April 2027, automatic time-based penalties for late filing of self-assessment tax returns will be abolished and replaced with a points-based system.
Find out moreWhat is the 60% tax trap?
With more people falling into or approaching the so-called ‘60% tax trap’, who is paying tax at 60% and getting caught in the tax trap and why?
Find out moreWhen is the tax return deadline?
I have heard that the deadline for submitting my self-assessment tax return to HMRC is the end of January. What should I do if I have not sent my tax return information to my accountant yet?
Find out moreSalary sacrifice for pensions explained
The Government announced in the November 2025 Budget that, from 2029, pension contributions made under salary sacrifice arrangements would only be free of National Insurance Contributions (NICs) up to...
Find out moreScottish Budget 2026-27
Shona Robison, Scotland’s Finance Secretary, has presented the Scottish Government’s proposed tax and spending plans for the 2026-27 fiscal year. The Scottish Budget unusually took place after Christm...
Find out moreDo I have to complete a self-assessment tax return?
I have heard that I may need to complete a self-assessment tax return, but how do I know?
Find out moreWant to become a residential landlord? Here is how to start the right...
Whether you’ve decided that a property business is for you, or you’ve become a landlord by circumstance alone, it can be daunting knowing where to start. Our guide gets you on the path to being a conf...
Find out moreHow much does a self-assessment tax return cost?
A self-assessment tax return can be simple or very complex, depending on the types of income you are receiving and your personal circumstances.
Find out moreWhat are the penalties for filing a late tax return?
The deadline for filing your 2024/25 self-assessment tax return online is 31st January 2026. The paper tax return deadline is 31st October 2025.
Find out moreTop five tips for becoming an online seller
Whether a side hustle or a full-time business, setting up as an online seller can be an attractive option with potentially great earnings. We share some of our top tips to get you started while stayin...
Find out moreSeven New Year’s resolutions for your business
New Year’s resolutions aren't just about personal commitments such as signing up for a gym membership or reading more books; you can make plans for your business too. Here are seven goals to consider...
Find out moreCan you payroll benefits in kind?
I am an employer and offer certain taxable benefits to my employees. I am wondering if I can put these through the payroll so I don’t have to prepare P11Ds for all my employees.
Find out moreCan I register for VAT when I incorporate to reclaim sole trade expens...
I am presently a sole trader and not VAT registered. I am intending to incorporate and, at the same time, register for VAT. Am I able to recover any of the VAT I incurred on expenses in the sole trade...
Find out moreWill my new limited company need a new VAT number?
I currently have a VAT number as a sole trader but I am going to start trading as a limited company soon. Will the company need to apply for its own VAT number?
Find out moreChanges to business rates announced in the Budget 2025
As business rates are a devolved tax, these changes only apply to England. We round up those that will affect your business.
Find out moreHow will the changes to pensions salary sacrifice in the Budget 2025 a...
I understand there were changes to the rules on using salary sacrifice to make pensions contributions in the Budget 2025. What do they mean for me and for my business?
Find out moreWhat were the changes for company cars and vehicles in the Budget 2025...
My company has several business vehicles. What was announced in the Budget 2025 that I need to know about?
Find out moreDo I need to pay tax on my Christmas side hustle?
I make Christmas cards and decorations every year to sell online and at craft fairs. Do I have to think about tax and tax returns?
Find out moreHow to save money on your Christmas party
Although there is no specific allowance for a Christmas party, HMRC does offer companies tax relief for the cost of hosting an annual event if certain criteria are met.
Find out moreHow do I verify my identity online for Companies House?
My accountant has advised me that as a company director, I need to verify my identity online before any more company documents can be filed with Companies House. They say I need a personal code. How d...
Find out moreUnderstanding cash basis accounting: A simple guide
As a business owner, choosing the right accounting method is crucial for managing your finances effectively.
Find out moreIs HMRC monitoring on my emails?
I am a business owner and have been told that HMRC has an AI system which can read my emails and trawl my personal social media to make me pay more tax. Is this true and what can I do about it
Find out moreWho needs to file a tax return?
As your circumstances change, you must keep in mind that you may now be required to submit a tax return. The onus is on you to let HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) know that you need to file a tax return....
Find out moreWhat is HMRC’s Connect AI System?
HMRC’s Connect system analyses Government and third-party data sets to identify where to target resources and campaigns to close the tax gap. Here we look at what Connect does – and doesn’t – do.
Find out moreFive tax benefits available to your business for going green
Going green isn't just good for the planet - it's good for your bottom line too. As the UK government continues to support sustainable business practices, here are several tax reliefs and incentives a...
Find out moreSole trader vs limited company – Which is better?
Choosing a business structure is one of the most important decisions a new business owner needs to make, but it can be difficult to understand your options. This guide outlines the differences between...
Find out moreIs Companies House ID verification a benefit for tax purposes?
I’m a director and my company has paid for me to verify my identity for Companies House. Is this taxable?
Find out moreDirectors – How to verify your identity for Companies House
A key change to Companies House rules is the need for certain key people within a company to verify their identities. We explain how to do this.
Find out moreIf my side hustle makes less than £3,000, is it true that I don’t need...
I have heard that soon any businesses with income below £3,000 won’t have to complete a tax return or pay any tax. This sounds too good to be true – what’s the full story?
Find out moreSole trader vs business partnership – which one is right for you?
Have a great business idea but unsure whether to go it alone or set up alongside a friend or associate? We help you understand the pros and cons of going solo or in partnership for your business struc...
Find out moreAccounts and tax guide for the hospitality industry
The hospitality industry is a dynamic and competitive business environment for hotels, restaurants, pubs, and bars. Effective financial management is crucial for success and growth.
Find out moreWhat happens if I do not register for self-assessment in time?
If you do not register for self-assessment by 5th October, you could face a penalty for 'failure to comply'.
Find out moreDo you need to complete a self-assessment tax return?
Several situations could require the completion of a self-assessment tax return, as they are not just for self-employed individuals. Employees, property owners and individuals who receive untaxed inco...
Find out moreChancellor Rachel Reeves announces 2025 Budget date
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, has announced the date for the Autumn Budget 2025.
Find out moreWhat are the top eight Capital Gains Tax reliefs you can claim?
Whether you are selling a property, business or shares, here are the top eight Capital Gains Tax (CGT) reliefs you should know about.
Find out moreWhat tax relief can I claim on property repairs?
I have a rental property that I bought four years ago, I have carried out extensive repairs in that time and I am confused as to what I can and can’t claim as tax relief. Please could you clarify what...
Find out moreHMRC to lower interest rates on late payments
HMRC has announced that from 27th August 2025 it will drop interest rates payable on late payments of tax due to HMRC and repayments to taxpayers to 8% and 3% respectively. This means a drop of 0.25%...
Find out moreHow is AI changing accounting for smaller businesses?
Accountancy is in the midst of a cultural shift thanks to Artificial Intelligence (AI). Here we outline what this means for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the changes to expect and the adva...
Find out morePre-start-up financial checklist: 10 tips for new businesses
Always wanted to start your own business but not sure if you know your business plan from your balance sheet? We share a financial checklist for new start-ups to take you from a good idea to a growing...
Find out moreGovernment announces major strategy to help small businesses
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has published a new plan to support small businesses.
Find out moreSelf-Assessment Tax Return: Missed your second payment?
I did not pay my second payment on account in July, what should I do?
Find out moreHow do I calculate a Section 455 tax charge?
My director’s loan account was overdrawn for too long and now my company has to pay a Section 455 tax charge. What is this and how do I calculate it?
Find out moreHow should my employee’s double cab pickup truck be taxed?
Tax rules on double cab pick-ups changed recently. What are the tax implications and when do they kick in? We explain the changes to the tax rules and how they may affect companies providing these ve...
Find out moreCan I remove my date of birth from public records on Companies House?
I noticed that new directors at our company do not have their full date of birth included when documents are uploaded to Companies House, whereas my full date of birth is showing. Can I ask for this t...
Find out moreWhat happens if you don’t repay a director’s loan account?
Directors loan accounts are an essential way to balance the financial requirements of both directors and limited companies. But what happens if a loan account is overdrawn indefinitely?
Find out moreWhat is Adjusted Net Income and why do I need to know?
Adjusted Net Income is used to calculate whether you need to pay tax on Child Benefit, are eligible for Tax-Free Childcare, and several other tax reliefs and benefits.
Find out morePubs call for urgent business rates reform
The British pub faces an uncertain future without meaningful change, according to many in the hospitality industry.
Find out moreSuccession planning for your business – why does it matter?
Thinking about how you may want to sell or pass on your business in future is important both for your finances and legacy.
Find out moreWhat does relief at source mean on pension contributions?
My employer has enrolled me into a pension scheme. When I looked through the paperwork, it said I could get tax relief on the pension contributions I make via relief at source. What does this mean?
Find out moreHow can I minimise the employer’s national insurance rises in my busin...
Employers' national insurance contributions (NICs) increased on 6 April 2025. This change also affected the NICs thresholds, creating a double burden for many employers. We explore ways to offset this...
Find out moreWhat are income tax payments on account?
My tax return has been submitted and I have been advised that I need to make payments on account. What does this mean; and how do I work them out?
Find out moreHMRC’s side hustle campaign – do I need to pay tax on my side hustle?
Many people think of money made from selling items on eBay, Vinted or other websites as cash in their back pocket, but there can be tax consequences as HMRC’s Help for Hustles campaign aims to explain...
Find out moreSeven common director’s loan account mistakes to avoid
It is surprisingly easy to make costly mistakes with your director’s loan account, but with the right support and preparation, you can get it right first time.
Find out moreLandlords: Do recent tax and legal changes mean I should sell my prope...
Are changes to tax and legislation making you consider a step away from property investment? We explain the tax changes affecting landlords, as well as proposed changes to the law to help you make an...
Find out moreWhat happens if you miss the P11D deadline?
6th July is the deadline for P11D employee benefits reporting, as well as Employment Related Security (ERS) returns, which report share awards to employees. We look at what steps you can take if you m...
Find out moreTax tips to help make your hospitality business a success
We look at several tax tips to help your hospitality business save money, reduce risk and stay compliant.
Find out moreHMRC to stop sending most letters to taxpayers
HMRC has announced that it will stop sending communications to taxpayers through the post unless it is for ‘revenue generating’ letters, such as tax demands.
Find out moreCan I pay my employees early at Christmas?
I am going to pay my employees early this year, so they have their wages before Christmas instead of waiting until the end of the month. Do I need to consider anything?
Find out moreNew advisory fuel rates
My employees have company cars, what are the latest advisory fuel rates that they should be using to repay private fuel costs?
Find out moreYear-end tax planning tips for UK businesses
As the 2025/26 tax year draws to a close, it's crucial for UK businesses to prepare for the tax year-end to maximise efficiencies. Take a look at our UK business tax planning ideas ahead of this year...
Find out moreChristmas Party Costs
My staff will be attending a Christmas party that I have organised for them. Will the cost be an allowable deduction for my business?
Find out moreAre Christmas gifts from customers allowed?
With Christmas coming up my staff tend to receive gifts from our customers, for example one of my senior staff members has already received a luxury hamper from one of our clients. Are there any impli...
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