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Accounts & Expenses

Keeping on top of your accounts is a key part of running a small business.

In this section, you’ll find practical guides on recording expenses, tracking your income and expenditure, choosing the right accounting software, and keeping accurate records for self assessment time!

Whether you manage the accounts yourself or hire an accountant, understanding how accounts work will save you time, money, and stress.

  • Find the best self-employed accounting software
  • Compare sole trader accountants
  • How HMRC simplified expenses work
  • What expenses can you claim as a sole trader
personal expenses self assessment hmrc

Business owners warned as HMRC cracks down on personal expense claims

August 15, 2025
HMRC is cracking down on personal expenses claimed as business costs in Self Assessment returns. See what you can claim and the mistakes to avoid.
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simplifed expenses

Simplified expenses – how to claim flat-rate business costs as a sole trader

August 14, 2025
Practical guide to HMRC simplified expenses for sole traders, with flat rates, examples, and links to related tax guides.
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sole trader invoice vat no vat template

How to invoice as a sole trader – with VAT and non-VAT templates

August 7, 2025
Learn how to write an invoice as a UK sole trader, what to include, and how to handle VAT if needed - plus download free templates to get started.
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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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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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pre trading backdate expenses sole trader

Can I backdate business expenses before I registered as self-employed?

August 1, 2025
Can you claim business expenses before registering as self-employed? Find out what HMRC allows, the time limits, and how to record pre-trading costs.
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claim mileage self employed

Mileage allowance for sole traders: HMRC rules and rates (2025/26)

July 31, 2025
G-uide to mileage allowance for sole traders in 2025/26 – including HMRC rates, what journeys qualify, how to keep records, and the best tracking tools.
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home expenses self employed sole trader

Home office expenses for the self-employed: what you can claim

July 27, 2025
Self-employed and working from home? Learn how to claim household expenses, including rent, utilities, and simplified flat rates.
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