In the past, businesses used to be able to claim tax relief on wages paid to what was called “casual employees”. This changed a few years ago and all wages (even those paid to people below the tax limit) must go through a PAYE scheme.  

If wages costs are included in your accounts then HM Revenue and Customs could check whether you have a scheme in place and may want to see supporting records which show that the correct tax and national insurance is being paid.

The costs of not doing so can be huge especially if the individuals concerned are claiming benefit or receiving a pension even if they have verbally told you otherwise. And if the person concerned turns out to be in the UK illegally, you may have committed a criminal offence.

If you would like information on our payroll preparation and support service please email Joanna@stephen-hill.co.uk or alternatively give her a call on 01474 853 856.

Are you a prisoner of your business?

According to a survey from the Bank of Scotland one in ten small business owners are putting in long hours at work, clocking up 70-hour weeks or even more.

The bank has also estimated that owner-managers in Britain’s 1.4 million small businesses collectively work an extra 33 million weeks a year compared to people doing a typical 35-hour week.

Those of you who have attended Malcolm’s presentation called “If your business can’t function without you, you don’t have a business you have a job” will have come away with a number of ideas on how to make your business less dependant on you.

In addition, Malcolm also undertakes consulting days designed to help free up your time and increase profits at the same time. For details of the “less dependant” consulting days, please email Cheryl@stephen-hill.co.uk

Javelin Conference

Thanks to all that attended the Javelin Business Strategies conference held by Steve Backley and Malcolm Palmer. "Truly inspirational" was one of numerous glowing comments from attendees on the day. "I left the conference with a new optimistic attitude towards my business. The day really helped me to regain my motivation to achieve my goals."

The next conference will be taking place at Stockbrook Manor near Chelmsford in Essex on the 13th February. For clients and friends of stephen-hill and A4G accounting we are offering you to attend the full days conference for a special price of just £97+VAT! (Full price normally £149 + VAT).

The day is split into 2 parts the morning seminar is 'How to get everything you ever wanted from your business' and the afternoon concentrates on 'How to get the best from your team'. Full details of the agenda can be viewed online at www.javelinstrategies.co.uk

If you are interested in attending the next conference or require further information please email Jenny.Foster@JavelinStrategies.co.uk

Quote of the week

"The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will."

Vince Lambardi