Construction Industry Scheme deductions are 20%, 30% or 0% depending on your registration and verification status with HMRC. Here's exactly how contractors determine which rate to apply to a subcontractor.
Making Tax Digital for Income Tax phases in based on qualifying income, with the £50,000 threshold now live and the £30,000 tier following. Here's exactly who's in scope and when.
HMRC's simplified expenses let sole traders use flat mileage and home-use rates instead of calculating actual costs. Here's every flat rate for 2026/27 and when actual costs work out better.
The Structures and Buildings Allowance gives businesses a straight-line 3% annual deduction on qualifying commercial construction costs, but it's widely under-claimed. Here's exactly how it works.
If your business spends very little on goods, the VAT Flat Rate Scheme forces you onto a 16.5% rate regardless of your trade sector — often wiping out the scheme's benefit entirely. Here's the exact test.
For UK self-employed in 2025/26, sole trader is simpler but limited company saves tax above ~£35-40k of profit. Worked comparison at £30k, £50k, £80k profit — plus IR35 and admin trade-offs
CIS subcontractor gross payment status explained: 3 tests, 20% standard deduction vs 30% higher-risk, qualification process via Government Gateway, and losing status. Cash flow benefit analysis.
Complete guide to self-employed pensions 2026/27: no auto-enrolment, SIPP contributions up to 100% earnings or GBP 60k AA limit, tax relief, and Class 4 NI savings strategies.
Avoid costly mistakes on your first sole trader Self Assessment: accounting basis, pre-trading expenses, payment on account, mileage relief, capital allowances, home-as-office, late penalties, and more.
The Annual Investment Allowance lets sole traders and partnerships deduct up to £1,000,000 of qualifying plant and machinery in the year of purchase. Here's exactly what qualifies and what doesn't.
If you're self-employed and buy equipment, vehicles or fixtures for your business, capital allowances let you deduct the cost from your profits. This guide covers AIA, WDA, and the special rules for cars.
If you sell on eBay, Vinted, Etsy or do gig work in the UK, the £1,000 trading allowance lets you earn up to £1,000 gross tax-free. Here's exactly how it works, when it applies, and the new platform reporting rules.
