Blog
Welcome to the accountancy blog from ZincBooks
We love to share the latest news, views and advice with our clients and the weekly blog gives us the ideal opportunity to do this.
Feel free to get in touch with us if you wish to discuss any of the blog topics in more detail.
ZincBooks are proactive accountants that offer fantastic services to both companies and individuals. If you are looking for something more than a traditional accountancy service then why not get in touch with us today.
State Benefits – What is taxable and what is not
Not all state benefits are tax-free! Some, like the State Pension and Carer’s Allowance, are taxable, while others, like PIP and Universal Credit, are not. Knowing the difference can help you stay on top of your tax
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity might sound like something only big corporations need to worry about, but in truth, small businesses are increasingly in the firing line. In fact, many cyber criminals deliberately target smaller firms,
Access to Funding and Credit
For many small business owners, getting access to funding feels like trying to squeeze water from a stone. Traditional banks have always been a bit cautious when it comes to lending to smaller enterprises, but over the
Have you set up your Personal Tax Account yet?
Skip the phone queues. Your Personal Tax Account lets you manage everything from tax codes to refunds online. Quick, secure, and all in one place. If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s the time.
Your Personal Tax Account
VAT Road Fuel Scale Charges
The new VAT road fuel scale charges applicable from 1 May 2025 to 30 April 2026 have been published. The changes amend the VAT scale charges for taxing private use of road fuel to reflect changes in fuel prices.
HMRC
Repeal of furnished holiday lets regime
From April 2025, holiday lets lose their special tax treatment. Landlords must prepare for new Income, Capital Gains, and Corporation Tax rules. Here’s what’s changing.
The repeal of the Furnished Holiday Lets (FHL)
Reminder of Employer NIC changes from April 25
A reminder that increases to the rate of National Insurance contributions (NICs) that are paid by employers came into effect on 6 April 2025. The main rate of secondary Class 1 NICs has increased to 15% (from 13.8%).
Less than a year before MTD for Income Tax starts
MTD for Income Tax kicks off in April 2026 for those earning over £50k. Digital records, quarterly updates, and tougher penalties are on the way. If this affects you, it’s time to get ready.
Designed to modernise the
More in line for savings boost
From April 2025, more low-income workers on Universal Credit can join Help to Save. Save up to £50/month and get a 50% bonus – up to £1,200 over 4 years. A simple way to build your savings.
The eligibility rules for the
The innocent touch – where a lack of clear guidelines and policies makes a dismissal more likely to be unfair
A school inspector dismissed for brushing water off a pupil’s head won his unfair dismissal claim against OFSTED. Mr. Hewston worked as a Social Care Regulatory Inspector and, on the 8th of October 2019, during a school
Statutory Redundancy rights
Redundant? You could receive up to £30,000 tax-free, whether it’s statutory pay or a better deal from your employer. Know your rights, check the 2025-26 limits, and understand how your age and service affect your
Tax relief for landlords replacing domestic items
Swapped an old fridge or carpet in your rental property? Landlords can claim tax relief on replacing domestic items – but not if it’s an upgrade! Know the rules and save money by claiming what you are entitled.
The
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