Longleys Accounts Insights

The 2025/26 tax year is now underway, bringing higher employer National Insurance, a bigger Employment Allowance and a higher National Living Wage. Here is what small business owners need to know to stay compliant and budget correctly.

Since the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, businesses across the UK have had to adapt to a new regulatory landscape. One area that has seen significant changes is payroll administration. What was once a relatively straightforward process dealing with EU-wide regulations has now become more complex, particularly when it comes to hiring and managing employees who are EU nationals.

Payroll is more than a routine administrative task; it’s the backbone of compliance and good business management. For small business owners, accountants, and payroll managers, maintaining watertight payroll records is not just a best practice but a legal necessity.

For small business owners, payroll often feels like one of the more daunting aspects of running a company. Terms like PAYE (Pay As You Earn), National Insurance contributions, and HMRC reporting come with complex systems and critical deadlines that can feel overwhelming.

Navigating the highs and lows of seasonal income is a well-known challenge in the hospitality industry. For restaurant owners and hotel managers, balancing cash flow during busy tourist seasons and quieter off-peak months can mean the difference between thriving and struggling.

Managing your business’s finances can feel overwhelming, particularly if numbers aren’t your strong suit. However, a solid bookkeeping foundation is essential for small business success—whether you run a bakery, design agency, or tech start-up.

Running a small business or startup comes with its fair share of challenges, and among the most pressing are business risks. These risks can manifest in various forms—financial instability, compliance issues, operational inefficiencies, or even external threats such as economic downturns. Left unchecked, these risks can significantly disrupt your operations, impact profitability, and hinder growth.

Spreadsheets have been a steadfast companion for managing finances over the years. Whether you’re tracking expenses, calculating payrolls, or forecasting revenues, they’ve long served as the go-to tool for small business owners and startup founders. But as businesses grow, so do their needs. The question is no longer why you should move beyond spreadsheets—but when.

Ensuring compliance and clarity around holiday pay and pensions is a critical responsibility for HR professionals, payroll administrators, and business owners, particularly during the year-end period.

Hiring the right accountant is crucial for the success and financial health of your small business. The right professional not only ensures your books are in order but also offers valuable insights, such as managing taxes, reducing costs, and planning your financial future. But how do you know if an accountant is the right fit for your business?