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Posts by ByteStart

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.
vat threshold problems self employed

Why the VAT registration threshold is a problem for small businesses

August 7, 2025
The £90,000 VAT threshold often holds small businesses back. This guide explains why some avoid registering, and what the experts say.
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Team collaborating on office phone systems

How 4Com helps small businesses improve efficiency through smarter communication

August 7, 2025
4Com helps small businesses boost efficiency with HiHi3: streamline communication, reduce costs, and stay connected.
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bad credit business bank account

Can I open a business bank account with bad credit as a sole trader?

August 6, 2025
How to open a business bank account as a sole trader even with bad credit. Compare Tide and Zempler, see how their no-credit-check process works.
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questions accountant sole trader

15 smart questions to ask before choosing an accountant

August 6, 2025
Thinking of hiring an accountant? Here are 15 smart questions to help sole traders choose the right one - plus tips on fees, software, and switching.
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payment terms invoice

What payment terms should I use when invoicing clients?

August 5, 2025
Setting the right payment terms helps you get paid faster. Learn what terms to use, how to handle big clients, and what UK law says about late payments.
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overdue invoice sole trader

Chasing unpaid invoices as a sole trader: practical steps and your legal rights

August 5, 2025
Unpaid invoice? This guide for UK sole traders explains how to chase late payments, what the law says, and what to do if a client still doesn’t pay.
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flat rate vat self employed

How the Flat Rate VAT Scheme works (and the Limited Cost Trader rule)

August 5, 2025
Guide to the Flat Rate VAT Scheme for sole traders and small businesses. How it works, the latest HMRC rules, and when the Limited Cost Trader rate applies.
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subsistence expenses self employed

Claiming subsistence as a sole trader – meals, hotels, and what HMRC allows

August 1, 2025
Find out what meals, drinks and accommodation you can claim if you're self-employed. Includes HMRC rules, examples, and a clear table of what’s allowed.
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late payment 2026

Crackdown on late payments: key changes for small business owners

August 1, 2025
The government is cracking down on late payments from 2026. Learn what the new rules mean for small firms, and how to protect your business.
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professional indemnity sole trader self employed

Professional Indemnity Insurance for sole traders – do you need it?

August 1, 2025
Do you need Professional Indemnity Insurance as a sole trader? Learn what it covers, who it’s for, and how to get the right policy to protect your business.
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Qdos self-employed insurance

Qdos self-employed insurance
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Tide Bank Account – £50 Cashback
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Zempler Go Bank Account
Zempler business bank account

Free account – no credit check required

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Clever Accounts

From £37.50 + VAT/month

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Brand new ByteStart guides
  • What is the £120,000 FSCS and does it apply to business bank accounts?
  • Small company owners hit hard by April 2026 dividend tax increase
  • Autumn Budget ’25 – Chancellor hammers small business owners again



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