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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.
work clothes business expenses

Can I claim clothing as a business expense if I’m self-employed?

July 17, 2025
Find out when you can claim clothing as a self-employed business expense, including uniforms, PPE and what HMRC allows (and doesn’t).
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31st july payment account

Self-employed? 31st July Payment on Account tax deadline looms

July 17, 2025
Payment on Account tax is due by 31 July. Learn who it applies to, how to pay, and what happens if you miss the deadline. Includes guides and links.
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hire employee sole trader

Checklist for hiring your first employee (for UK sole traders)

July 17, 2025
Hiring your first employee in the UK? A step-by-step guide for sole traders and small companies covering legal checks, PAYE, NI, pensions and contracts.
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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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Brand new ByteStart guides
  • Subsistence expenses for sole traders: meals, hotels and what you can claim
  • Can sole traders claim insurance premiums as a business expense?
  • Can sole traders claim car or van repair costs as a business expense?
bright ideas sole trader accountant



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