Thompson Elphhick News
How a business grows financially by retaining profits
Many business owners focus on sales as the main driver of growth. Sales matter, but they are only part of the story. Real financial growth happens when a business retains profits. Keeping a portion of
The link between planning and progress
Most business owners know that progress matters, but many still hesitate when it comes to planning. It can feel like an extra task or something that only large companies need to worry about. Yet, in
Claim flat rate expenses for work clothing and tools
If you use your own money to buy items for work, you may be eligible to claim tax relief as long as the items are essential for your job and are used solely for work purposes. Flat rate expenses
National Insurance credits and Child Benefit
Claiming Child Benefit can provide an important benefit by granting National Insurance credits. If you claim Child Benefit and your child is under 12, you will automatically receive National
Taxable & tax-free state benefits
While there are many state benefits available, it is not always clear which of these are taxable and which are tax-free. HMRC’s guidance outlines the following list of the most common state benefits
What is a demerger?
A demerger involves splitting the trading activities of a single company or group into two or more independent entities. This can be facilitated by distributing the assets of a holding company to its
Christmas crafters and tax
If you earn fees or sell goods as a side hustle, you may need to pay tax on your profits. HMRC has launched a new press release encouraging Christmas crafters and anyone with a fee earning hobby to
MTD – qualifying income
Making Tax Digital for Income Tax (MTD for IT) will become mandatory in phases from April 2026. If you are self-employed or a landlord and have over £50,000 in qualifying income you need to start
Early termination of probation can constitute wrongful dismissal
The claimant began employment as a Contracts Coordinator on 23 January 2023, subject to a contractual 6-month probationary period, one which required 5 weeks' notice for termination. The contract
Preparing for tighter credit conditions in 2026
Many small businesses rely on a mix of overdrafts, card facilities and short term loans to maintain day to day cash flow. During the past year banks and alternative lenders have become more cautious,
Increase in the London congestion charge from January 2026
The daily charge for driving within the London Congestion Charge zone will rise from £15 to £18 from 2 January 2026. This is the first increase in several years and forms part of Transport for
Penalty points for late filing of VAT returns
Many businesses are still unaware that the VAT late filing and late payment rules now operate on a points-based system, where repeated delays can quickly lead to a £200 penalty and added











