Catherine Heinen, FCCA
Catherine is a qualified accountant and technical content writer with experience working at mutliple accountancy practices in the UK top 50 accountancy firms according to Accountancy Age. Catherine has significant experience in accounts, tax returns and advising clients. Catherine ensures businesses, business owners and individuals are kept up to date and informed by providing concise and informative technical material.
Do I need to make a second payment on account in July?
My second payment on account is due by 31st July 2025, do I have to pay this?
Find out moreWhat are the changes for double cab pick-up trucks?
I own a pick-up truck for my business and I am not sure if the tax changes from April will affect me – what is changing?
Find out moreHow is National Insurance changing for directors?
I am a director and shareholder in my own company. Following the announcement of changes to National Insurance, what is the most tax-efficient method of profit extraction from my company?
Find out moreVAT on food sales: is it standard or zero rated?
VAT on food can be a complex area when it comes to VAT. You will need to consider the type of food you are selling, as well as the temperature, and whether it is eaten in or taken away.
Find out more10 year-end tax planning tips for individuals
As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect opportunity to take charge of your personal finances and reduce your tax liability.
Find out moreWhat are property taxes in the UK?
Property tax refers to the tax payable on the purchase of property and land in the UK. We look at which ones could apply to you.
Find out moreWill salary sacrifice save tax?
I am an employer, will I save tax if I introduce a salary sacrifice scheme for my employees?
Find out moreStarting a business: Why you need an accountant from day one
Whether you’re thinking of starting a new business, or you’re already making waves in the business world, this is an exciting time. Deciding to become your own boss is a huge step and knowing how to s...
Find out moreThe most common accounting mistakes and tax errors made
Tax return mistakes and accounting errors are common and can lead to devastating consequences for you and your business. Here we provide you with tips and information on avoiding mistakes.
Find out moreCapital Gains Tax receipts hit record high after Autumn Budget
The latest tax receipt figures for December 2024 show significant increases in Capital Gains Tax (CGT) revenues following recent changes announced in the Autumn Budget 2024.
Find out moreWhat are the penalties for tax return mistakes and errors
Accurate completion of a tax return requires attention to detail, and a good understanding of tax legislation in the UK. Some will enjoy the challenge, but others will find it overly complicated.
Find out moreCommon accounting mistakes to avoid
Accounting is a crucial part of the success of a business. Navigating this part of your business, alongside your other responsibilities can be challenging.
Find out moreCompanies House to provide option to hide residential addresses
Companies House has introduced a new form so that residential addresses do not have to be included in company details on the public register.
Find out moreCommon tax return mistakes to avoid
Completing a self-assessment tax return can create panic and stress for even seasoned taxpayers. Depending on your circumstances, it may be a laborious task or fairly simple yet could invoke high leve...
Find out moreHow do I upsell in my business?
My business is going well, I have a good local reputation and a loyal customer base. To grow my business, I am looking at sales strategies, would you recommend upselling?
Find out moreCommon bookkeeping mistakes to avoid
Business bookkeeping errors are more common than you might think and can impact your business operations and financial health.
Find out moreDo I need to sign up for Making Tax Digital?
I am employed and run a side hustle selling goods that I make. My income from the craft business is about £12,000 each year but I also have a salary of £45,000. As my total income exceeds £50,000 does...
Find out moreWhat are the tax implications of renting out a room?
My wife and I have decided to rent out a spare room in our house to give us a higher income. I understand that if I receive a rent less than £7,500, I will pay no tax. Is this correct?
Find out moreWhat is the Rent A Room Scheme?
I am looking for ways to earn more money. I have a spare room in my house and both my wife and I have considered letting this out. Is it true I can do this tax-free?
Find out moreCan I spread the cost of my tax bill?
I complete a self-assessment tax return, can I spread the cost of my tax bill so I don’t have to pay it all in January?
Find out moreHow can sustainability benefit your business
Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet; it can be great for business. From cutting costs to attracting customers and employees, looking at how you run your business more sustainably can boost y...
Find out moreMy company is being struck off, what should I do?
I have a limited company and have received notice from Companies House that it is proposing to strike off my company.
Find out moreAn overview of company car benefits
In this guide, we look at when a company car benefit may arise and what the consequences are. We also summarise how company car benefits are calculated, to assist directors in making a more tax-effici...
Find out moreScottish Budget 2025-26
Shona Robison, Scotland’s Finance Secretary, has presented the Scottish Government’s proposed tax and spending plans for the 2025-26 fiscal year.
Find out moreEffective ways to boost your business' profits
Running a business in the UK is a rewarding and challenging journey. One of the most significant hurdles entrepreneurs face is maintaining and increasing profitability.
Find out moreHow to know if you need to register for VAT
Unsure if you need to register for VAT? Learn the key thresholds, rules, and steps to determine if VAT registration is required for your business.
Find out moreWhat is business rates relief for retail, leisure and hospitality in E...
For 2024/25, the temporary business rates relief scheme for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties in England was extended, with 75% relief, up to a cash cap of £110,000 per business.
Find out moreWhat is the Marriage Allowance?
What is Marriage Allowance and how do I know if my partner and I qualify?
Find out moreHow the Autumn Budget changes affect employers
Some of the biggest changes announced in the Autumn Budget will affect employers. With changes to the employers National Insurance Contributions (NICs) rate, the secondary threshold and the National L...
Find out moreNew Companies House ID check to crack down on fraud
Companies House has released timescales for the introduction of “a new identity verification process to help deter those wishing to use companies for illegal purposes.”
Find out moreDouble cab pick-ups to be taxed as cars
More details are starting to emerge following the Autumn Budget, including changes to double cab pickup legislation.
Find out moreChanges in company size thresholds on the horizon
The Secretary of State for Business and Trade has confirmed the Government will make changes to UK company size thresholds.
Find out moreI am completing my first self-assessment tax return - where do I start...
Filing your tax return for the first time can be scary. The risk of getting it wrong, exposure to tax investigations and not knowing where to start can be overwhelming.
Find out moreHow do I maximise my National Insurance record and increase my state p...
I am reaching state pension age and I’m not sure if I have paid enough National Insurance to get a full state pension, what can I do?
Find out moreWhat to expect from the Autumn Budget 2024
We look at what could be included on 30th October, when Rachel Reeves announces her first Budget as Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Find out moreWhat can high earners do to save tax?
I am a high earner and am looking at a large tax liability to pay in January. How can I make changes to reduce my tax liability and save tax?
Find out moreE-invoicing consultation to be launched
The Government has announced the launch of a consultation on the wider use of electronic invoicing ‘e-invoicing’ in UK businesses.
Find out moreLarge businesses told to include payment reporting in their annual rep...
With the late payment of invoices having such a significant impact on small businesses, the Government is introducing a Fair Payment Code later this year to crackdown on late payments.
Find out moreTop challenges for business owners and tips to help overcome them
Business owners can face various challenges while trying to grow their business. Chasing late payments, managing deadlines and ensuring a healthy work/life balance are only some of the many plates bus...
Find out moreEssential updates for employers: Autumn 2024
As an employer, keeping to date with the latest changes in employment law and regulation is ongoing and crucial to ensure you’re acting as you should be.
Find out moreHow to find the right local bookkeeper
Managing your business’ books is important for business owners, freelancers, and individuals. Finding good and local bookkeepers that are trustworthy and professional is essential for success.
Find out moreAre payments in kind taxable?
I am a social media influencer and as well as being paid in cash I also get discounted or free products and services. Do I have to tell HMRC about these items?
Find out moreKey dates all employers need to know
Staying on top of dates for employers will ensure you keep on track and meet deadlines. With lots more to remember, including dates for self-employed and dates for limited companies, we’ve listed date...
Find out moreShould I get a PAYE settlement agreement?
As an employer, I am looking at providing gifts to employees; should I get a PAYE settlement agreement?
Find out moreAre you paying the right crypto tax?
If you have dabbled with crypto currency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, you may not have been aware that your crypto trading could have resulted in a tax bill.
Find out moreHow an accountant can help your start-up
As a start-up, it is important to manage your finances from the start. This is key for a successful business and for funding your future. Discover how accounting for start-ups works and how an account...
Find out moreWhat is a simple assessment tax bill?
I have received a simple assessment from HMRC that has asked me to pay tax. I do not usually prepare a tax return so why do I need to pay this tax?
Find out moreHow to run a successful and effective business partnership
Discover our tips on how to run a successful business partnership, including managing finances and understanding profit sharing.
Find out moreWhat expenses can performers claim?
As a musician I have many expenses when performing including travel and make up. Please could you clarify what expenses musicians and performers can include on tax returns as business claimable expens...
Find out moreWhat is the Tipping Act
I run a restaurant and I want to know how the changes being introduced to tipping will affect me and my workers.
Find out moreThe Government to remove exemption of VAT on private school fees
The Government has confirmed that from 1st January 2025, VAT will apply to private school fees and boarding fees, including the pre-payment of fees.
Find out moreShould I register for VAT?
I have just started my own business and I have paid a lot of VAT on the purchase of a van and other start-up costs. I am considering whether I should register for VAT so that I can get this VAT back.
Find out moreWhat to do when an employee leaves
When an employee hands in their notice, it can come as a shock. It's essential you handle the situation smoothly so that the business continues to excel, and the other members of the team aren’t affec...
Find out moreYour guide to directors’ pay in the UK
Understanding the various ways directors can be paid is essential for maximising earnings and managing tax liabilities both personally and for the company.
Find out moreYour guide to Capital Gains Tax for landlords
The buy-to-let market in the UK has been an appealing side-hustle or main business venture for many landlords. With fluctuating property prices, the cost-of-living crisis and changes to tax legislatio...
Find out moreHow do I get a tax refund?
I am an employee and have received a letter from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) saying I have a PAYE overpayment. How do I get a tax refund?
Find out moreUnderstanding Capital Gains Tax for individuals
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax on the profit/gain from selling, transferring, gifting or otherwise disposing of certain assets.
Find out moreGrowth Guarantee Scheme launched to help 11,000 smaller businesses in...
The British Business Bank has released details about the new Growth Guarantee Scheme which will support around 11,000 UK small businesses over the next two years.
Find out moreEssential updates for employers: Summer 2024
In the dynamic world of UK employment, the only constant is change. Staying abreast of the latest updates is imperative for employers.
Find out moreWhat are the tax consequences of selling shares at a loss?
I bought some shares in a company listed on the London Stock Exchange a few years ago. Due to unforeseen circumstances I now have to sell them and have made a substantial loss. Can I get tax relief on...
Find out moreShould I use the VAT flat rate scheme?
I run a self-employed business as a builder, my annual turnover is approximately £100,000. I am registered for VAT as my turnover exceeds the threshold, and I wonder if I should use the flat rate VAT...
Find out moreA third of businesses targeted by invoice fraud
In the past 12 months, nearly a third (31%) of businesses in the UK have been the targets of invoice fraud.
Find out moreWhat are the VAT changes to Amazon fees?
What do I need to do to be prepared for the changes to Amazon fees?
Find out moreWhen do I need to sign up for Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-A...
I know Making Tax Digital (MTD) for income tax self-assessment is on the way. What do I need to do and when will I need to sign up?
Find out moreWhat you need to know about HMRC tax investigations
A tax investigation can also be referred to a compliance check or enquiry. A tax investigation is when HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) checks your financial records to make sure everything is correct.
Find out moreDoes my P11D have to go on my tax return?
I am employed and I also have rental income so I need to complete a tax return. Does my P11D need to go on my tax return?
Find out moreAccounting and tax tips for motor repair businesses
The motor retail and repair sector is one of the largest sectors in the UK economy. Understanding accounting in the motor repair industry is crucial for achieving financial success. This guide provide...
Find out moreDo you have to report UK property income to HMRC?
I let out my property through Airbnb on an occasional basis. At what stage do I have to report this income to HMRC?
Find out moreYour guide to sole trader travel and subsistence expenses
For sole traders it’s important to make sure you’re claiming all allowable expenses in your accounts and on your tax return. One type of expense you may be able to claim against taxable income is trav...
Find out moreMaximising allowable expenses for limited companies
As a limited company owner, understanding, claiming and managing your allowable business expenses helps your business run efficiently and pay the right amount of tax.
Find out moreFraudsters use fake Companies House letters to target directors
Directors and business owners are being warned about a scam that is using letters claiming to be from Companies House asking for money.
Find out moreWhat is the tax return threshold for high earners?
I am employed and my salary is £120,000. I have had to complete a tax return before, but this year HMRC have told me I do not need to file a tax return. Is this true?
Find out moreBasis period reform – what are transition profits?
The basis period reform affects self-employed, sole traders and partnerships that do not have an accounting year end between 31st March and 5th April. Incorporated businesses such as limited companies...
Find out moreDo you need an accountant? Here’s what you need to know
An accountant is more than someone who submits your tax return. Accountants can also be business advisers, tax planners, bookkeeping support and payroll preparers.
Find out moreHow bookkeeping services can save you time and money
Running a business can be incredibly rewarding, but it is not without its challenges, especially when it comes to managing finances.
Find out moreHow do I register as self-employed with HMRC?
Learn how to register as self-employed with HMRC in 10 simple steps. From creating a Government Gateway account to receiving your UTR, our checklist ensures you meet all requirements.
Find out moreWhat you need to know when completing a P11D form
Understanding the intricacies of the P11D form can be a daunting task for UK employers. This guide demystifies the P11D form so you can prepare your business ahead of the deadline.
Find out moreIs the state pension taxable?
Is the income I receive as part of my state pension taxable and when do I need to report it to HM Revenue & Customs?
Find out moreWhat is a tax code?
I have received a tax code notice. What is it and how do I know if it's right?
Find out moreShould I use the cash basis for my accounts?
With the restrictions to the cash basis being removed from 6th April 2024, should I change the way I am accounting?
Find out moreThe benefits of having your tax return filed early
Getting ahead with your taxes means you can take advantage of the many benefits of doing your self assessment tax return sooner rather than later.
Find out moreWhen to incorporate your sole trader business
When starting a business, thinking about business structure is an important conversation. For some, the choice is to start as a sole trader or partnership then, as your business expands, look at incor...
Find out moreWhat are the changes to company size classifications?
I have heard that the size classifications of companies between small and medium are changing. Is this correct?
Find out moreWhat has changed for the new tax year?
The new tax year starts on 6th April. This is often the date that new tax rates and rules come into force. So, what does the new tax year have in store for you and your business?
Find out moreHow bookkeeping works for a sole trader
Unsure what accounting records you need to keep for your business? Learn more about your business bookkeeping responsibilities as a self-employed person, and what information your accountant needs fro...
Find out moreHMRC makes cuts to helpline access permanent
HMRC has announced changes to its helplines from 8th April 2024, to encourage customers to use their online services.
Find out moreIs Capital Gains Tax reducing?
I am getting ready to sell a property that I’m renting out and I know that I may need to pay Capital Gains Tax. I’ve heard that it is going down, is this correct?
Find out moreChanges to landlord Capital Gains Tax rules
We look at changes to landlord Capital Gains Tax rules effective from 2024, and how they impact your property investments in England and Northern Ireland.
Find out moreWhat does the abolishment of Furnished Holiday Lets mean for me?
I have a property that I let out as a Furnished Holiday Let (FHL). With the abolishment of the FHL scheme from April 2025, what does this mean for me?
Find out moreNational Minimum Wage Rate Changes
I’ve heard the national minimum wages figures are changing from April, what will they be?
Find out moreFive reasons to outsource your payroll
If your business is expanding and you’re thinking of taking on employees or already have employees but are after some assistance with your payroll look no further. It's understandable to feel daunted...
Find out moreCompanies house to increase fees
Companies House has announced that it will be increasing company registration fees from 1st May 2024.
Find out moreHMRC backtracks on tax changes for double cab pickups
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has reversed its changes to the classification of double cab pickups from 1st July 2024.
Find out moreCan electric cars be used in a salary sacrifice scheme?
I am a business owner and I want to improve my green credentials. I have heard that a way to reduce the emissions is to consider providing a salary sacrifice scheme for employees wanting to buy an ele...
Find out moreThe tax benefits of electric vehicles
The Government is delaying the ban on new petrol and diesel cars by five years. This delay is causing setbacks in the transition to electric vehicles. The requirement is now for all new cars to be zer...
Find out moreWhat is the Confirmation Statement?
Every company is required to complete a confirmation statement at least once a year. This includes dormant and non-trading companies. Find out more in our simple guide.
Find out moreEight steps to making your Payroll Year End easier
The payroll year ends on 5th April, here is our eight-step guide to help you put your payroll in order.
Find out moreChanges coming to reporting employment benefits from April 2026
The reporting and payment of income tax and Class 1A NICs on benefits in kind (BIK) will be made through payroll software from April 2026
Find out moreHow long do I need to keep my tax records?
Now that I’ve submitted my tax return, can I throw my documents away? I’ve got a lot of paperwork from over the years and it’d be great to have a sort out!
Find out moreWhat you need to know about associated companies
From 1st April 2023, new associated company rules were introduced, replacing the old rules. We look at what has changed.
Find out moreIs the threshold for filing a self-assessment tax return changing?
I have heard that HMRC will be changing the threshold for taxpayers who pay tax through PAYE to complete a self-assessment tax return. Could you please confirm what the new threshold is and when it wi...
Find out more10 things you need to know if you are self-employed
As a self-employed individual you’re paramount to your business. Whether you’re new to self-employment, or you’d like a refresher, check out our top 10 key points in this article..
Find out moreHow do I claim child benefit?
I claimed for child benefit using paper forms and the postal service for my previous children, but I hear there’s an online service now available. How do I claim child benefit for my new baby?
Find out moreReduced National Insurance Contributions – what should I expect on my...
Will I get more take home money this month, following the changes to National Insurance rates?
Find out more5 things you need to know about limited companies
Many see running their business as a limited company as a tax advantageous business structure. We’ve summarised the top 5 insights that you need to know about limited companies.
Find out moreMore businesses turn to their accountants to help navigate the cost-of...
The cost-of-living crisis has resulted in businesses needing more services from their accountants.
Find out moreWhen is my company accounts filing deadline?
I run a company with the 31st March year-end, is my deadline the same as the 31st January tax return filing deadline?
Find out moreCan I claim for working from home tax relief?
As a self-employed builder I am mostly working elsewhere but I do work from home to do my books. Am I able to claim for use of home on my tax return?
Find out moreHMRC targets the self-employed for side hustle tax
Self-employed individuals with side hustles are the focus of a new HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) initiative to improve tax collection and regulation management with digital platform reporting rules.
Find out more5 things directors need to know
As a director, we understand you're busy, so here are five quick points you should be aware of.
Find out more5 things landlords need to know
Being a landlord can be difficult and it’s important to prioritise what you need to know. These top tops for landlords will help stay on top of your game, whether being a landlord is new to you or you...
Find out moreTop expenses for your self-assessment tax return
As a business owner, or self-employed individual, the last thing you want is to pay more tax than you need to. Knowing what allowable business expenses you can include on your self-assessment tax retu...
Find out moreThe Cash Basis: What did the Autumn Statement change?
The Government has considered feedback in relation to its consultation on the expansion and simplification of the cash basis for accounting.
Find out moreMaking Tax Digital for Income Tax: What did the Autumn Statement chang...
In November 2023, the Chancellor announced the Autumn Statement. While he did not mention Making Tax Digital in his speech, there have been some changes announced in the executive summary.
Find out moreKey dates limited companies need to know
Staying on top of key dates will ensure you stay on track, meet deadlines and avoid paying penalties and interest. We list the key dates sole traders need to be aware of in this concise guide.
Find out moreThe Minimum Wage and the pursuit of a Real Living Wage
Employers must pay their employees at least the hourly rate known as the National Minimum Wage (NMW). The latest Budget has announced an increase to the rates and upcoming changes to the way these are...
Find out moreIs my bank interest income taxable?
I have received a lot more interest from my bank this year because of the increase in savings interest rates. I am a higher rate taxpayer and earned almost £1,000 of interest across my accounts. Pleas...
Find out moreSmall and micro companies face accounts reporting changes
The Government is planning to introduce new filing requirements for small and micro businesses to “make the filing requirements easier to understand, reduce fraud and error, and improve transparency”.
Find out moreFive questions you should ask your accountant
As a business owner you want your business to be a success and so should your accountant. The relationship with your accountant is important. They are offering a service and you should be satisfied th...
Find out moreCan I pay my underpaid income tax through my PAYE code?
I’ve just finished my self-assessment tax return and have tax to pay. I don't have the money to pay my tax on time, what should I do?
Find out moreCan I claim mortgage interest as a deduction on my rental property acc...
I have a portfolio of four rental properties and I want to ensure that I am claiming all relevant expenses against the income. I am a little confused over the changes to the claim of mortgage interest...
Find out moreA guide to crypto tax
Learn everything you need to know about paying tax on gains and income made from the buying, selling and investing in cryptoassets.
Find out moreWhat you need to know when filing your tax return and paying your tax...
Approximately 12 million people are expected to file a self-assessment tax return for the current tax year.
Find out moreTax saving tips for you and your business
Delving through the array of allowances and reliefs available to help minimise your tax liability can be a daunting process. It can be tricky for small business owners to establish what's available an...
Find out moreWhy and how sole traders can become VAT registered
As a sole trader, when you reach the VAT threshold you will have to register for VAT, it may also be advantageous in certain circumstances to register for VAT voluntarily.
Find out moreBasis period reform – what do I need to do?
I am self-employed and my accounts have a September year end. I keep hearing about the changes to basis periods do I need to do anything
Find out moreWhat tax does a business have to pay?
To help you determine what tax you and your business may be liable for, read this guide.
Find out moreAre flu vaccines for my staff tax free?
I’m a director of company and - to reduce staff sickness - I want to offer to pay for the flu vaccination for my employees. What tax implications do I need to consider?
Find out moreSold a property? You may need to tell HMRC
If you’ve sold a UK residential property since 27th October 2021, and it wasn't your main residence the whole time you owned it, you may have 60 days from the date of completion to let HMRC know.
Find out moreA guide to paying Corporation Tax
Corporation tax is the tax paid by incorporated businesses in the UK, the rates changed from 1st April 2023 with the main rate of corporation tax now 25%.
Find out moreWhen is the tax return deadline for the 2022-23 tax year?
I have heard that the deadline for submitting my self-assessment tax return to HMRC is the end of October. What should I do if I have not sent my tax return information to my accountant yet?
Find out moreWhat is the VAT threshold?
I am an electrician and my income has increased compared to last year. How do I know if I should register for VAT?
Find out moreAre furnished holiday lets treated differently to standard let propert...
I am considering purchasing a rental property as an investment and have heard Furnished Holiday Lets are treated differently for tax compared to a standard let property. Can you explain some of these...
Find out moreChanging from sole trader to limited company
Find out how to change from being a sole trader to being a limited company, including related costs and transferring property ownership.
Find out moreThe benefits of online accounting in a changing business climate
Although manual records, spreadsheets and desktop accounts software have done the job for many years, the evolving needs of small and medium-sized businesses require a more agile bookkeeping solution.
Find out more