Coronavirus
Our coronavirus knowledge hub was designed to guide you through what support was available for your business as well as the latest news that may have affected you.
In the wake of the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak, the Government announced a series of measures to help businesses. Here is an archive of all the content we produced during the various lockdowns.
Our coronavirus hub was designed to provide you with information about what support has been made available for you and your business during 2020-22.
We've got you covered
Self Employment Income Support
Information about the Self Employment Income Support Scheme
Find out moreLatest News and Articles
The benefits of having your tax return filed early
Nearly 300,000 self-assessment tax returns were filed in the first week of the new tax year to take advantage of the many benefits of doing so sooner rather than later.
Find out moreWhat expenses to claim for when working from home
With many people still working from home, establishing what expenses can be claimed for is important and in this article, we look at what you may be entitled to.
Find out moreRecovery Loan Scheme extended for two years
The government-backed Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS), which offers loans to small businesses, will be extended for a further two years.
Find out moreCould your company be making a research and development tax relief cla...
Many companies are still surprised to learn they qualify for R&D tax relief, which can prove to be a valuable source of funding.
Find out moreNew rules and the Welsh Budget
There have been a number of recent announcements from the Welsh Government which have an impact on businesses and individuals in Wales.
Find out moreEligible businesses can now make claims for additional Statutory Sick...
Small and medium-sized business can claim additional support from the Government to help cover the cost of Statutory Sick Pay for employees who have been absent from work due to COVID-19.
Find out moreGrants announced for leisure and hospitality businesses
The Government has announced a series of additional grants to support businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors in England who have been impacted by the Omicron variant.
Find out moreRecovery Loan Scheme extended to June 2022
The Recovery Loan Scheme will provide Government-backed loans to businesses affected by COVID-19 until 30th June 2022.
Find out moreFurlough scheme ends on 30th September
After a year and a half of financial support for employers and employees, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) – commonly referred to as the furlough scheme – is set to close at the end of Sept...
Find out moreWhat options are available if a Bounce Back Loan cannot be repaid?
Bounce Back Loans were introduced in March 2020 at the start of the coronavirus crisis, to give many companies access to funds of up to £50,000 on extremely favourable terms to help them through the p...
Find out moreAdvice for businesses during the coronavirus outbreak
We look at what steps you may be able to implement to minimise the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on your business.
Find out moreFurloughing staff and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS, also commonly referred to as the furlough scheme) was originally introduced in March 2020 and allowed employers to access a grant covering a portion of thei...
Find out moreAdvice for the self-employed during the coronavirus outbreak
We look at what steps you may be able to implement as a self-employed individual to minimise the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on your business.
Find out moreFifth Self Employed Income Support Scheme grant to open for claims in...
The fifth Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grant is set to open for claims by the end of July 2021.
Find out moreBusiness rates holiday starts winding down
The extended 100% business rates holiday for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in England came to an end on 30th June. From 1st July, relevant businesses will pay a third of rates until 31st...
Find out moreCompany directors to be prevented from avoiding repaying Government-ba...
New legislation is set to be introduced to prevent company directors avoiding investigation into their conduct by informally striking off their company instead of entering an insolvency process.
Find out moreHMRC to adopt a cautious approach to COVID-hit firms with unpaid taxes
Insolvencies for small businesses affected by COVID-19 with overdue taxes will be a last resort, according to a HMRC spokesperson.
Find out moreFurlough scheme set to taper down in July
After 18 months of support for employers and employees, the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) – commonly referred to as the furlough scheme – is set to end at the end of September.
Find out morePreparing your business for a post-lockdown restart
With coronavirus restrictions easing across the UK, now is a perfect time to give your business the fresh re-start it deserves – here are our top business planning tips to protect your business for th...
Find out moreThe new rules for trade loss relief explained
A temporary extension to the rules for trade loss relief, both for individuals and companies was announced by the Government in its Budget on 3rd March 2021.
Find out moreSelf-employed given personal claim date for fourth SEISS grant
HM Revenue and Customs has started informing eligible self-employed professionals of their personal claim dates for the upcoming fourth Self Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grant.
Find out moreDirectors and the Job Retention Scheme
One of the key measures for employers was the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, allowing all UK employers to access a financial subsidy worth a proportion of their workers’ wage costs per month. Emplo...
Find out moreRestart Grants up to £6,000 announced for shops planning to reopen
Shops in England can apply for a grant of up to £6,000 to reopen from 12th April, while those businesses in the hospitality and leisure sectors could receive up to £18,000.
Find out moreHSBC launches new regional focused SME lending fund for businesses to...
Businesses across the UK can access a new SME lending fund from HSBC, with £10 billion ring-fenced to provide regionally focused support during the post-lockdown recovery.
Find out moreAlmost half-a-million new UK start-ups registered in 2020
The UK’s entrepreneurial spirit is very much alive and kicking if Companies House data for new start-ups in 2020 is to be believed.
Find out moreNew Recovery Loan Scheme launches in April
With applications for the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and Bounce Back Loans ended, eligible UK businesses can now apply for a new Recovery Loan Scheme.
Find out moreBudget 2021: Self-Employment Income Support Scheme extended
In the Budget on 3rd March, further extensions were announced to the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.
Find out moreFurlough scheme extended until the end of September
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has opted to extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough scheme) until the end of September, as part of the Budget 2021.
Find out more£1,000 bonus announced for businesses who employ new trainees
A new Traineeship Employer Incentive Scheme allows employers to apply for a £1,000 bonus towards the cost of taking on a trainee.
Find out moreCOVID-19 support for businesses in Scotland
During the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses and self-employed individuals in Scotland may be able to claim further support and funding in addition to that already available from the UK Government.
Find out moreHMRC announces new VAT deferral scheme for businesses
During the first lockdown, as part of its COVID-19 support, the Government allowed VAT-registered businesses to defer their VAT liabilities arising between 20th March and 30th June 2020 to help them w...
Find out moreSmall businesses given more time to start repaying Bounce Back Loans
Small businesses will be allowed more time to start repaying Government-backed Bounce Back Loans taken out to help them get through the coronavirus pandemic.
Find out more10 tips for your business for the year ahead
With the dawn of a new year, this is a perfect time to give your business the New Year start it deserves – here are our top business planning tips to protect your business in 2021.
Find out morePublic Accounts Committee quizzes HMRC over forgotten freelancers and...
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has turned up the heat on HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) over the forgotten limited company directors and freelancers who have not received the financial support the...
Find out moreScottish Government extends COVID-19 support for hospitality, retail a...
The Scottish Government has extended its grant support for businesses in the hospitality, retail and leisure sectors which have had to close because of level 4 restrictions.
Find out moreGovernment announces £4.6 billion in new lockdown grants for businesse...
The Government has announced a series of additional grants totalling £4.6 billion to help businesses through the latest lockdown.
Find out moreGrant available for eligible Tier 4 businesses in England
The Local Restrictions Support Grant (LRSG (Closed)) supports businesses that have been required to close due to temporary local restrictions in England.
Find out moreDetails of employers continuing to claim furlough scheme to be publish...
Details of small business owners claiming state-backed contributions for employees’ wages under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) for periods beyond 1st December 2020 will be published onlin...
Find out moreUK Government announces furlough scheme will now end on 30th April
The Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has announced that the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (aka Furlough Scheme) will now be extended until the end of April 2021.
Find out moreSmall Business Saturday 2020 breaks spending record with local busines...
Small Business Saturday 2020 was a record-breaker for small, independent businesses across the UK, with approximately £1.1 billion spent nationwide.
Find out moreHow to submit your third Self-employment Income Support Scheme claim
A step by step guide to submitting your third Self-employment Income Support Scheme grant claim.
Find out moreAll you need to know about claiming the latest Self-employment Income...
Self-employed individuals who are eligible for the latest cash grant under the Self-employment Income Support Scheme, will be able to make claims from 30th November.
Find out moreLocal independent stores set for Christmas boost as COVID-19 restricti...
The buying intent of consumers is leaning heavily towards independent retailers this Christmas, as two-thirds of shoppers plan to buy gifts from local shops and support their respective communities.
Find out moreWorkable scheme suggested for self-employed company directors
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has been lobbied to consider a workable scheme that provides financial aid to limited company directors frozen out of existing COVID-19 support.
Find out moreNorthern Ireland Executive announces new financial support for busines...
Ministers at Stormont have agreed a multi-million pound support package to help businesses that will be affected by stricter coronavirus lockdown restrictions.
Find out morePreventing abuse of R&D tax relief – new cap for SMEs from April 2021
The UK Government has published fresh draft legislation outlining a new cap on Research and Development (R&D) tax relief from April 2021.
Find out moreHow to support local independent businesses during the COVID-19 restri...
As the festive season inches closer, small local retailers need the support of their local communities more than ever to survive and look forward to a brighter future in 2021.
Find out moreMillions of forgotten limited companies still without Government suppo...
As the Government opted to extend UK’s furlough scheme and the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) grants for small businesses and individuals hardest hit by the latest COVID-19 restrictions...
Find out moreSelf-employment Income Support Scheme – further increase to grant
The Government has announced increased support for the UK’s army of self-employed individuals, by raising the level of grant available under the Self Employment Income Support Scheme.
Find out moreMore shoppers choosing to buy local ahead of Small Business Saturday
Almost three-fifths (59%) of UK shoppers are now supporting local businesses more than they used to, according to research commissioned by Small Business Saturday UK and American Express.
Find out moreClaiming funds from the Bounce Back Loan Scheme
The Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) has been designed to ensure that small businesses who need financing to keep operating can get access to funding quickly, with the application window now extended un...
Find out moreSupport for Directors affected by the COVID-19 outbreak
A summary of the support available to directors can be found below.
Find out moreGuidance for landlords affected by the COVID-19 outbreak
Landlords should be aware of several changes introduced by the Government in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Find out moreGovernment puts Job Support Scheme on indefinite hold as furlough sche...
The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended until 31st March and the introduction of the new Job Support Scheme has been delayed.
Find out moreCoronavirus Restrictions Fund now available for businesses in Scotland
Applications for the Scottish Government’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Restrictions Fund can now be made by all businesses affected by the recent lockdown restrictions.
Find out moreNew COVID-19 support scheme announced for firms in Northern Ireland
The Northern Ireland Executive has confirmed that businesses forced to close or limit activities due to new COVID-19 restrictions will be able to access additional financial support.
Find out moreChancellor extends Job Support Scheme for businesses forced to close b...
Rishi Sunak has outlined the next stage of the Job Support Scheme to help firms that “may have to close in the coming weeks or months”.
Find out moreScottish Government announces additional £40m of COVID-19 support for...
The Scottish Government has announced that it has increased its Business Support Fund by £40 million to provide further support for key sectors during the coronavirus crisis.
Find out moreWelsh Government announces new COVID-19 aid packages for businesses an...
Following the UK Government’s Summer Economy Plan, The Welsh Government has unveiled £140 million in new funding schemes to help small businesses, as well as new grants for freelancers in the creative...
Find out moreChancellor unveils Winter Economy Plan to protect jobs and businesses
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has outlined the UK Government’s Winter Economy Plan, the next stage of the economic support offered to small businesses and self-employed individuals affected by the ongoing CO...
Find out moreCommercial tenants protected from evictions until 2021
Small businesses struggling to pay their commercial rent are to be protected from the threat of eviction from their commercial premises until the end of 2020.
Find out moreParliament debates lack of COVID-19 financial aid for small limited co...
Millions of small limited company directors who have missed out on financial aid from the Government during the COVID-19 crisis had their plight debated in the House of Commons after a petition launch...
Find out moreNew grants offered to small firms in England hamstrung by local lockdo...
Small businesses on England’s high streets forced to close their doors due to local COVID-19 lockdowns can claim up to £1,500 in new grants for every three weeks of closure.
Find out moreDeadlines loom for Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme and B...
Unless the Government announces otherwise, the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme will close for new applicants on 30th September – six months after the scheme was introduced to help busine...
Find out moreChancellor reassures MPs over the prospect of tax rises
Amid reports of potential ‘historic’ tax grabs, Chancellor Rishi Sunak has moved to reassure Conservative MPs that a “horror show of tax rises with no end in sight” is not on the cards, despite having...
Find out moreGovernment grants to cover accountancy services for small firms
Small businesses across England can apply for government grants to cover the cost of specialist professional advice, including accountancy services.
Find out moreMajor coronavirus business grant schemes in England to be wound up thi...
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has directed local authorities to close a trio of grant schemes – designed to support small businesses affected by the coronavirus crisis –...
Find out moreEverything you need to know about claiming a second Self-employment In...
From 10th August, HMRC began writing to self-employed individuals who may be eligible for a second cash grant in respect of the Self-employment Income Support Scheme, ahead of being able to make claim...
Find out moreTax Planning webinars
A series of tax planning webinars to help business owners, self employed individuals and personal taxpayers make the most of the tax saving opportunities available to them.
Find out moreGovernment confirms details about its Green Homes Grant scheme
The Government has confirmed more information about its £2bn Green Homes Grant Scheme which will help the construction industry by funding homes improvements in England
Find out moreTwo-fifths of small firms anticipate growth as lockdown restrictions e...
The latest Q2 2020 Small Business Index has been published by the Federation of Small Businesses, providing a snapshot of confidence among small businesses and sole traders nationwide.
Find out moreRedundancy pay safeguarded for furloughed workers
From 31st July, employees who are furloughed and face losing their jobs will be eligible for a redundancy pay-off based on their normal wages – not their furlough salary.
Find out moreBusinesses urged to reinstate VAT Direct Debits
Businesses should reinstate their Direct Debit mandates after the VAT payment deferral introduced due to the COVID-19 outbreak came to an end on 30th June.
Find out moreHow to register your business for the Eat Out to Help Out scheme
The Summer Economic Statement saw Chancellor Rishi Sunak announce the Eat Out to Help Out scheme, aimed at helping eat-in food establishments by providing a discount up to 50% for diners, which can be...
Find out moreCould Online Accounting Benefit Your Business?
Our free webinar will help you understand what online accounting software is, what it is capable of, the benefits of online accounting and whether it may be the right option for your business.
Find out moreWhat COVID-19 support is available for you and your business
Since the coronavirus outbreak began in March, the Government has regularly announced a series of measures to help businesses across many sectors.
Find out moreCampaigners present petitions on excluded millions to the Treasury
A group of cross-party MPs and campaigners presented a series of petitions to the Treasury asking for the “excluded” three million taxpayers to receive vital financial aid.
Find out moreHow to get receipts to your accountant during the COVID-19 pandemic
As many businesses are reopening following the coronavirus lock down, they will have started to accumulate receipts for work they have done or services that they have delivered.
Find out moreTemporary cut to the Land Transaction Tax in Wales
The Welsh Government announced on the 14th July a temporary increase to the nil rate band of Land Transaction Tax for residential property transactions in Wales.
Find out moreTemporary cuts to Land and Buildings Transaction Tax in Scotland
The Scottish Government has followed suit with the UK Government by announcing a temporary cut to the country’s Land and Buildings Transaction Tax in a bid to stimulate Scotland’s housing market.
Find out moreEmergency grants yet to be deployed to businesses in urgent need of fi...
Around £1.7 billion of the funds set aside for the Small Business Grant Fund (SBGF) and the Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grants Fund (RHLGF) has yet to be deployed to businesses in urgent need of f...
Find out more'Eat Out to Help Out' discount aimed at creating demand for hospitalit...
Employers in the hospitality sector have been given a “creative” boost by a new ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ discount.
Find out moreGreen Homes Grant unveiled in Summer Economic Statement
In a ‘win win’ move for homeowners and local businesses in England, Sunak also announced a new Green Homes Grant which will apply from September.
Find out moreStamp duty cut announced in Summer Economic Update
In the Summer Economic Update the Government announced a temporary change to the stamp duty rules in England and Northern Ireland, which will mean anyone purchasing a main home for under £500,000 will...
Find out moreVAT cut aimed at stimulating hospitality and tourism sectors
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has opted to cut the tax on sales in the UK’s hospitality and tourism sectors until 12th January 2021.
Find out moreEconomic plan for jobs and employers released
The Summer Economic Update was an opportunity to chart the course to recovery for tens of thousands of businesses, supporting existing jobs and incentivising the creation of new roles in the difficul...
Find out moreSummer Economic Update to drive new jobs and stimulate the economy
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak gave his Summer Economic Update to the House of Commons on 8th July, outlining a string of measures designed to stimulate and revitalise the UK economy followin...
Find out moreDon’t miss the deadline for the first Self-Employment Income Support S...
If you have trading income and are planning on applying for a first grant under the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme be aware the Monday, 13th July deadline is fast approaching.
Find out moreMPs urge Government to reach out to forgotten millions
MPs across the House of Commons are leading the calls for the UK Government to provide much-needed support to professionals excluded from the multiple support schemes during the coronavirus crisis.
Find out moreEmergency VAT cut in the offing to turbocharge the economy
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is mulling over the prospect of an emergency VAT cut, with a reduction in the sales tax thought to be an effective way of mitigating part of the economic fallout from the corona...
Find out moreMeasures extended to halt evictions on the high street this summer
The UK Government has published a new code of practice, designed to offer clarity for high street firms when discussing commercial rent with landlords as the coronavirus lockdown begins to ease.
Find out moreMajority of consumers keen to shop locally post-lockdown
80% of shoppers who used the services of local retailers during the coronavirus lockdown plan to continue to shop locally once the pandemic subsides.
Find out moreGetting ready for changes to the Furlough Scheme
Changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from 1st July will allow employers to bring back staff who have been furloughed previously on a part time basis, but still class them as furloughed and...
Find out moreSmall firms step up to support local communities
A new report published by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), titled ‘New Horizons’, indicates that businesses are ramping up their efforts nationwide to aid their local communities through the...
Find out moreSelf-employed claiming SEISS must be mindful of tax liabilities
Chancellor Rishi Sunak recently confirmed an extension to the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), with a second cash grant due to be provided to eligible self-employed applicants in August.
Find out moreStaff on parental leave can still be put on furlough after deadline
Employers with staff who are on parental leave and who are set to return to work in the coming weeks will still be able to be put on furlough despite the scheme being closed on 10th June for new appli...
Find out moreSelf-employed targeted in latest HMRC phishing scam
Self-employed professionals utilising the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme are the latest target of cyber-criminals.
Find out moreSecure your business’ future and plan your cash flow today
As the Government begins to reduce its support for businesses impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown, Richard Simms of FA Simms explains how using this time to plan your cash flow now will help you in the...
Find out moreUK sees e-commerce start-up boom during COVID-19 pandemic
The coronavirus crisis may have affected many well-established businesses, but it has also encouraged a new wave of fledgling entrepreneurs across the UK, creating an e-commerce ‘boom’.
Find out moreGovernment postpones VAT changes for the construction industry
The government has delayed the implementation of VAT changes for the construction industry for the second time, due to concerns about the impact of Coronavirus on the sector.
Find out moreManaging your business' cashflow during COVID-19
To help business owners control their cashflow and protect their businesses during COVID-19, we have developed the following 6 step plan
Find out moreDecision time for employers as 10th June furloughing deadline nears
Employers will only be able to qualify for furlough grant payments if they have claimed under the old rules which applied before 1st July. This means employees must have been furloughed by 10th June t...
Find out moreEmergency coronavirus budget statement pencilled in for early July
Chancellor Rishi Sunak is preparing to unveil an emergency budget statement next month to tackle the threat of millions of job losses due to the coronavirus crisis.
Find out moreEmployers to contribute to furloughed staff costs from August
The Government has announced that employers will be expected to contribute to their furloughed workers costs from August under changes to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
Find out moreWhy it is important to manage your cash flow in a crisis
Watch our free webinar explaining the importance of managing your cashflow during the COVID-19 outbreak
Find out moreTaxAssist Accountants urges Chancellor: “review the support schemes no...
TaxAssist Accountants has written to The Chancellor again urging that he reviews the support measures in place for businesses and self-employed so all small firms receive the aid they urgently need du...
Find out moreMortgage payment holiday set to be extended
Mortgage payment holidays were due to cease at the end of October, however the Government has now announced that these will be extended.
Find out moreMajority of small firms ready to reopen with social distancing measure...
The latest tracker poll from the British Chambers of Commerce suggests most small businesses are prepared for the steady reopening of the UK economy.
Find out moreStatutory Sick Pay Rebate Scheme launches on 26th May
HM Revenue and Customs has announced that it will be launching its new online Statutory Sick Pay claim service on 26th May.
Find out moreHardship Fund announced for small businesses in Northern Ireland
The NI Executive has introduced a new Hardship Fund to help those Northern Ireland based businesses that are unable to access other regional and national coronavirus support measures.
Find out moreCOVID-19 Business Impact Survey
In May, we surveyed our 77,000 strong client base to help reinforce our message to the government about our continued concerns over the directors, self-employed individuals and independent businesses...
Find out moreLocal businesses offered advertising campaigns free of charge
In recognition of the UK’s small business community that’s worked tirelessly to evolve their services in light of the coronavirus crisis, local firms have been offered professional advertising campaig...
Find out more7 reasons why you should shop locally in the post-coronavirus climate
Making the choice between buying locally or with bigger brands elsewhere and online is more critical today than ever before.
Find out moreCoronavirus Job Retention Scheme extended until October
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has confirmed the UK Government’s intentions to extend the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme for furloughed employees until the end of October.
Find out more59,000 small company directors sign petition as the #ForgottenLtd move...
The Government response to a petition signed by over 58,000 small company directors of limited companies has not addressed the concerns of the petition so far and suggests a lack of understanding of t...
Find out moreOne-in-ten Britons plan start-ups during COVID-19 pandemic
Despite the economic uncertainty resulting from the coronavirus crisis, a new survey found that a 10th (11%) of Britons are planning to start their own business.
Find out moreBusiness rates revaluation in England postponed
The planned business rates revaluation for 2021 has been postponed as a result of the economic impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.
Find out moreHow to claim for the Self-employment Income Support Scheme grant
How to claim and find out if you are eligible for the Self-employment Income Support Scheme
Find out moreHMRC starts contacting self-employed eligible for COVID-19 support
HMRC announced on 4th May that it has begun contacting self-employed individuals who may be eligible for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme.
Find out moreLocal grant fund top-up to help small businesses in England
A top up of £617 million to the Small Business Grant Fund and Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Grant Fund in England has been announced.
Find out moreBounce Back Loan Scheme for small businesses launches
The Government has opened its new Bounce Back Loans scheme to applications from small businesses needing financial help during the coronavirus pandemic.
Find out moreStruggling sectors may get further furlough extensions
HM Treasury has suggested that employees in sectors hit hardest by the coronavirus crisis may be given furlough extensions as the nation prepares to embark on phase two of the pandemic.
Find out moreFreelancer ‘boom’ amid the COVID-19 lockdown
The number of professionals turning to freelance work during the coronavirus lockdown has risen four-fold, according to leading freelance platform.
Find out moreFree Webinar: COVID-19 Survey Results and News Round-up
Watch our free webinar on 4th May, explaining the latest COVID-19 support available to businesses
Find out moreSmall businesses to receive 100%-taxpayer-backed Bounce Back Loans
Small business will be able access to 100% taxpayer-backed micro loans after concerns were raised about the speed of access to existing COVID-19 rescue schemes.
Find out moreNew measures help shops with their rent during coronavirus pandemic
Commercial landlords will be stopped from using aggressive methods to collect rent from High Street retailers during the coronavirus lockdown following new measures announced by the Government.
Find out moreMore than £6bn in coronavirus support grants still available to busine...
The Government has confirmed that more than £6 billion in grant funding is still available to help businesses in England during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Find out moreNew support package for innovative businesses unveiled
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has confirmed a new £1.25 billion support package, designed to steer businesses that drive innovation and development through the coronavirus lockdown.
Find out moreWho can claim Universal Credit during the coronavirus pandemic?
While the Government has set up several support packages including the Job Retention and Self-Employed Income Support schemes, there are still thousands who cannot apply for these. However, many of t...
Find out moreFree Webinar: COVID-19 Support for Businesses Update
Watch our free webinar on 27th April, explaining the latest COVID-19 support available to businesses
Find out moreFurlough scheme extended until the end of June
The Government has extended its Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which allows businesses to furlough employees, until the end of June at least.
Find out moreClaiming under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme
HMRC has confirmed that an online service has been developed to allow businesses to make claims relating to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme. This is due to be launched on 20th April 2020
Find out moreTreasury Select Committee pressures Chancellor to revisit eligibility...
The Chair of the Treasury Select Committee, Mel Stride, has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer appealing for more help for the self-employed and small businesses who have been overlooked by th...
Find out moreScottish Government announces extra funding during COVID-19 outbreak
The Scottish Government has confirmed that the self-employed and small businesses will have access to a further £220 million worth of additional grants during the coronavirus pandemic.
Find out moreFree Webinar: COVID-19 Support for Directors
Advice on the support available for Directors during the Coronavirus outbreak
Find out moreWatchdog announces loan freeze to help businesses through coronavirus
The Financial Conduct Authority has introduced a series of measures to help customers with loans and credit cards during the coronavirus outbreak.
Find out moreHMRC issues further advice about the Self-employment Income Support Sc...
After weeks of waiting, HMRC has announced further guidance detailing how it will work out total income and trading profits for the Self-employment Income Support Scheme.
Find out moreThe importance of diversification: How agile small firms are adapting...
Some entrepreneurs are seeking to remain positive and reach for the light at the end of the tunnel by reframing the pandemic. Agile small firms are turning it into an opportunity to help their local c...
Find out moreSmall firms struggling to access bailout grants
Many thousands of the UK’s smallest businesses are at risk of missing out on vital bailout grants from the Government because local councils are unable to contact them to distribute the funds.
Find out moreGuidance for furnished holiday lets affected by the COVID-19 outbreak
A number of tax changes over the years have led to a number of landlords abandoning traditional long term letting of their properties. As an alternative, some landlords have instead looked at the holi...
Find out moreFree Webinar: COVID-19 Support for the Self Employed
Advice on the support available for the self employed during the Coronavirus outbreak
Find out moreChancellor overhauls emergency loan system for small firms
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has scrapped a key feature of the Business Interruption Loan Scheme, giving small businesses easier access to vital loans from high street banks.
Find out moreFree Webinar: COVID-19 Support for Businesses
Advice for business owners during the COVID-19 outbreak
Find out moreTaxAssist Accountants urges Chancellor to take action to support self...
TaxAssist Accountants has written an open letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, to highlight the lack of help and funding for large sections of the self-employed and the small busine...
Find out moreFile your late tax returns now to be eligible for Self-Employed Income...
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has called upon all self-employed taxpayers yet to submit their 2018/19 self-assessment tax return online to do so by 23rd April to ensure they do not miss out on eligibility fo...
Find out moreChancellor announces Self-Employed Income Support Scheme
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, has announced the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme, which aims to protect self-employed professionals and members of partnerships.
Find out moreCoronavirus scams targeting businesses and individuals
As the nation continues its lockdown to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, many unsavoury individuals are taking advantage of under-pressure businesses and self-employed professionals using online scams a...
Find out moreCoronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme available now
The Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS) is now available to businesses who are struggling with their cashflow as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
Find out moreVAT Payment Holiday
On Friday 21st March, Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced that The Government will be supporting businesses by allowing them to defer VAT payments for three months.
Find out moreInitial support for self employed individuals
There was relatively little content relevant for self-employed individuals and the Chancellor has suggested that specific measures will be introduced in the coming week.
Find out moreGovernment pledges to help businesses by paying up to 80% of employee...
Government pledges to help businesses by paying up to 80% of employee wages
Find out moreBusiness Rate Relief and cash grants to bolster firms during COVID-19...
To support businesses in the UK, the Governments of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have announced a series of Business Rate and Cash Grant packages to help them through the coronavirus...
Find out moreIR35 changes delayed for a year due to coronavirus
The Government has announced that it will be deferring new rules affecting contractors working for the private sector, directly or through an agency, that were due to come into force from 6th April 20...
Find out moreChancellor announces £350 billion COVID-19 aid package to help busines...
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak has unveiled a war chest worth up to £350 billion, designed to save the UK economy and give businesses certainty over the coming months.
Find out moreHMRC launches new helpline for taxpayers affected by coronavirus
HMRC has launched a new helpline to support businesses and self-employed people concerned about not being able to pay their tax because of COVID-19.
Find out moreRead our expert answers to your Coronavirus questions
Where do I find my UTR number?
Where to find your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number or Corporation Tax UTR number.
Find out moreWhat tax is due if you supply your staff with a mobile phone?
My employees now largely work from home and I need to supply them with a mobile phone, what tax will be due on this benefit?
Find out moreWhat is a UTR number?
A Unique Taxpayer Reference number (UTR number) is a ten-digit number that is used by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to identify taxpayers.
Find out moreHow do I work out turnover to allow me to claim a fifth SEISS grant?
I complete my own books and I’m eligible to make a fifth Self-employment Income Support Scheme claim but HMRC have contacted me and said I need to have turnover figures to make a claim. Where do I fin...
Find out moreChanges to the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from 1st July
I’ve heard the furlough scheme has changed from 1st July 2021, how does this impact me as a business with furloughed employees?
Find out moreExtended Furlough Scheme
I have heard that the furlough scheme has been extended, how does this affect me and my employees?
Find out moreClass 2 National Insurance Contributions and state benefits
I’m self-employed and haven’t paid all of my tax due for 2019/20, will this affect my entitlement to state benefits?
Find out moreI have the second payment on account of my tax due on 31st July but mo...
One of the measures that the Government has put in place to help throughout this pandemic is to allow people the option of deferring this payment, without incurring any interest or penalties.
Find out moreWill I be able to claim the second self-employed support grant?
"I previously didn’t claim any self-employed grant (SEISS) as I wasn’t affected by COVID-19, will I be able to claim the second support grant?"
Find out moreIs takeaway food subject to VAT?
The VAT rules surrounding food can be rather complicated, however in general the majority of hot takeaway food will be subject to the standard rate of VAT at 20%.
Find out moreI am a subcontractor in the construction industry and unable to work d...
Providing you filed your tax return for 2018-19 by 23rd April 2020, you may be able to benefit from the Self-Employed Income Support Scheme (SEISS).
Find out moreAm I eligible for furloughing?
You and your employer must agree to put you on furlough in the first instance.
Find out moreHow do I check that I can claim my employees’ wages through the furlou...
In order to be eligible for the scheme as an employer you must have: created and started a PAYE payroll scheme on or before 19th March 2020; enrolled for PAYE online; a UK bank account.
Find out moreIs help with furloughing claims available?
If you use an agent (such as an accountant) who is authorised to do PAYE online for you, they will be able to claim on your behalf.
Find out moreHow do I receive the furlough grant?
If you are an employer, you will need to apply for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme through HMRC’s online portal, which went live on 20th April.
Find out moreWhat does HMRC mean when they ask has my business been adversely affec...
HMRC advise your business could be adversely affected by coronavirus if you meet any of the following criteria
Find out moreIs there a deadline to claim a Self-employment Income Support Scheme g...
We expect most clients will want to claim their grants as soon as possible. After completing the eligibility checker, you will be allocated a date and time from when you can make the claim.
Find out moreHow much will I get from the Self-employment Income Support Scheme?
You will get a taxable grant based on your average trading profit over the three tax years.
Find out moreI am about to claim my grant, can you check the figure is correct for...
HMRC does all the calculations, using the information in your submitted tax returns.
Find out moreWhy can’t I make an SEISS claim?
We are concerned that large sections of the business community have been overlooked and will not receive government support to deal with Coronavirus.
Find out moreHow do I make a Self-employment Income Support Scheme claim if I don’...
We expect HMRC to allow those who are ‘digitally excluded’ to be able to make a claim through the Self-employment Income Support Scheme by telephone.
Find out moreWhy can I only claim Self-employment Income Support Scheme up to the e...
At the moment the Government scheme only covers the period until the end of May
Find out moreI have checked my eligibility and have been told I am not eligible to...
You may be able to make an eligibility appeal to HMRC.
Find out moreHow do I use the Government Gateway to claim the self-employed grant?
To claim the self-employed cash grant you will first need to register with the Government Gateway, to create a Personal Tax Account.
Find out moreHow do I check my eligibility for the self-employed grant?
HMRC has provided an online eligibility checker to help you confirm whether or not you are eligible for a cash grant, as part of the self employed income support scheme.
Find out moreWhat to do if your claim for a Self-employment Income Support Scheme g...
I am planning on making a claim for a grant through the Self-employment Income Support Scheme but what should I do if it is rejected?
Find out moreCan overtime, commission and bonuses be claimed for when staff are fur...
I am looking to make a claim under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, however some of my staff are paid overtime, bonuses, and commission. How do I work out the amount to claim? Can my accountant...
Find out moreCan a partner claim a grant through the Self-employment Income Support...
I am a partner in a small business and our income has fallen because of the coronavirus. I would like to claim a grant through the Self-employment Income Support Scheme, however I’m told that this is...
Find out moreCan I carry out work during the coronavirus pandemic and invoice clien...
I’m a director who is thinking of furloughing myself. What if I do client work now but invoice them later?
Find out moreIs there COVID-19 Government support to help pay Corporation Tax?
My company is struggling with the funds to pay its corporation tax liability. HMRC has announced support for other taxes, but I can’t find anything in relation to corporation tax. Is this correct?
Find out moreCan a furloughed director send posts on social media?
I am a furloughed director but can I still post on my company's social media channels during the COVD-19 pandemic?
Find out moreMust I stop working if I am covered by the Self-Employment Income Supp...
If I wish to claim support under the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme. Does this mean that I must stop working?
Find out moreHow to claim help under the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme?
When and how can I claim support under the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme?
Find out moreSelf-Employment Income Support Scheme: what is meant by profits?
I think I may be eligible for the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme, as the guidance says my trading profits must be less than £50,000. What is meant by ‘profits’? Are these the sales that I make...
Find out moreCan I claim for Job Retention Scheme if I am an employee and self-empl...
I am self-employed (less than 50% of my income) as well as being in full-time permanent employment. It is possible that I’ll be furloughed from my day job very soon, and I am wondering if my self-empl...
Find out moreCOVID-19: Can I claim for company pension contributions if I am a dire...
I’m a director who receives a basic salary, can I also claim for any pension contributions the company pays into my pension scheme?
Find out moreCoronavirus: I employ people, what help is available to them and my bu...
I employ people and want to know what support my staff and I will receive during the coronavirus outbreak.
Find out moreWhat help do I get during the COVID-19 outbreak if I am self-employed?
I am self-employed and will see a downturn in my income due to the coronavirus, what support is available to me?
Find out moreWhat are furloughed workers?
I run a business but am having to put it on hold as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. I have a small team working for me and have read that a Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme is available, so this wi...
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