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About ByteStart
ByteStart is one of the most popular growth business sites in the UK. We publish no-nonsense guides and practical help for start-ups and growing businesses, with a focus on the self-employed (sole traders). The site was set up by James Leckie and Emyr Williams in 2004. Over the past 25 years, the team behind ByteStart has also developed some of the most popular business sites in the UK. For more details, see the About ByteStart page.
personal bank account for business

Can you use a personal bank account for your business – and should you?

July 16, 2025
Sole traders can use a personal bank account, but should they? Here’s what HMRC says, the risks involved, and when to switch to a business account.
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xero freeagent accountant

Do you still need an accountant if you use FreeAgent or Xero?

July 16, 2025
Using FreeAgent or Xero for your accounts? Find out if you still need an accountant, what software can’t do, and how to get the best of both worlds.
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accountant mistake tax return

What happens if your accountant makes a mistake on your tax return?

July 16, 2025
If your accountant makes a mistake on your tax return, HMRC will hold you responsible. Here’s what to do, how to challenge penalties, and protect yourself.
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tools equipment expenses

How to claim for equipment and tools as a sole trader – what HMRC allows

July 16, 2025
How to claim for laptops, tools, phones and other business equipment as a sole trader – including capital allowances and HMRC rules on personal use.
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switch accountants sole trader

How to switch accountants as a sole trader (without the stress)

July 16, 2025
How to switch accountants as a sole trader – what to check, how the process works, and tips for choosing the right new accountant.
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how much accountant self employed

How much should you pay for an accountant if you’re self-employed?

July 16, 2025
If you’ve reached the point where you’re thinking about hiring an accountant - whether that’s for ongoing support or just to sort out your tax return — one of the…
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succession planning sole trader

What happens to your business if you die – planning ahead as a sole trader

July 15, 2025
If you're a sole trader, your business doesn’t automatically continue when you die. This guide explains what happens next – and how to prepare.
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email a quote sole trader

How to write a quote email – template for sole traders and freelancers

July 15, 2025
How to respond to client enquiries with a clear quote. Includes a free email template for sole traders, freelancers and small business owners.
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limited company annual accounts micro entity

Micro-entity annual accounts – what small limited companies must file

July 14, 2025
When are your limited company accounts due? Learn what to submit to HMRC and Companies House, key deadlines, and what counts as a micro-entity.
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close business self employed sole trader

Closing down your sole trader business? What to do step by step

July 8, 2025
Stopping self-employment? Here’s how to close your sole trader business properly, from tax and HMRC to bank accounts and records.
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Brand new ByteStart guides
  • Accounting deadlines every self-employed person should know
  • Public liability insurance for sole traders (when you need it and when you don’t)
  • How to successfully start a small business in the evenings



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