Knowledge: 2017

How to write a business plan - a step-by-step guide for new companies

Writing a business plan is one of the most important steps in the life of a new business owner.

What will 2018 bring for the self-employed? Our top 7 predictions

2017 was a tumultuous year in business – but what will 2018 bring?

The small business guide to the Data Protection Bill 2017

The Data Protection Bill 2017 marks the introduction of a raft of new measures intended to give consumers more control over their data – and it has huge implications for small businesses.

7 things tradespeople need to know in 2018

It’s likely to be an important year ahead for tradespeople, following a 2017 filled with ups and downs.

No Christmas break for one in five small business owners

Anyone who has set up their own business knows how much work has to be put in – even over Christmas. A new survey by Simply Business has found that 20 per cent of UK business owners didn’t even take a break on Christmas Day.

Could the Rent A Room scheme save you money?

The Rent A Room scheme is a valuable way in which those who let a room in their house may be able to cut their tax bill.

Government U-turn on self-employed pension auto-enrolment

The government has U-turned on a manifesto pledge, saying that rather than bringing the self-employed into pension auto-enrolment, it will test a number of different approaches.

Becoming a social media influencer: a how-to guide

Social media marketing is a powerful part of any online marketing strategy for small businesses.

The best card machines for small businesses (and how to take card payments)

The ability to accept card payments is crucial for many small businesses across the UK.

When is the deadline for paying your tax bill by credit card?

Updated for 2019

In 2015/16, 814,261 people paid their tax bill by credit card. This was up from 493,722 credit card payments in 2014/15.