At the beginning, you will be offered plenty of advice and support to set up your business – enterprise schemes often run seminars and give out free software to help you manage your accounting, for example. Local mentoring schemes can provide a useful way to make contacts with other people who have set up in business and excellent chances to network.
When it comes to tax and accounting, however, you may want to enlist the help of specialists. Particularly if your business has a large turnover or complicated finances, using an accountant can make a world of difference. While some people are put off by the thought of paying fees to accountants, the costs involved can actually be relatively low, and often your tax bill can be significantly reduced. Taking on an accountant may save you money as well as a lot of hard work! Some offer additional services, such as advice and auditing that could help to make your business more profitable.
If you run a business you are legally required to keep records of certain things. For example, if you employ staff you will need to keep PAYE records, and VAT records if you are VAT registered. All businesses must submit a tax return every year – you can now do this online. If you have an annual turnover of over