Understanding Your Numbers: The Small Business Guide to Cashflow Basics
Cashflow isn’t the same as profit — and confusing the two is one of the most common reasons healthy businesses struggle. This guide breaks it down into
Blogs, News & Resources
Keep up to date with accountancy news with RDG
Start the Year Strong: How to Build a Simple, Effective Business Plan for 2026
Most small businesses don’t need a 40-page document gathering dust; they need clarity, focus, and a lean structure to follow. If you want to hit the ground
Companies House Identity Verification: What Every UK Director Needs to Know
A significant change is coming for all UK company directors and Persons with Significant Control (PSCs). As part of the new powers granted under the Economic Crime
Why a Directors’ Service Agreement is an Essential Tool for Your UK Limited Company
Why a Directors’ Service Agreement is an Essential Tool for Your UK Limited Company As a director of a small, limited company, you wear many hats. From
The #1 Things Your Limited Company Should Be Doing in 2025: Stay Ahead, Stay Compliant
Why 2025 Is a Game-Changer for UK Businesses Forget what you thought you knew; 2025 is bringing a wave of changes that directly impact how your limited
Why Do I Need an Accountant? Top Reasons for UK Businesses
This is part seven of our series answering common business questions, and today we’re tackling a big one: Why should my business hire an accountant? Let’s be
Electric Vehicles & Your Business: Are You Claiming All the Tax Benefits?
More and more of our clients are asking about making the switch to electric cars and vans. It’s a big decision, and understanding the tax benefits is
VAT Registration: Should Your Business Register, Even Below the Threshold?
One of the most frequent questions we encounter from business owners is: “When should I register for VAT?” While the current VAT registration threshold in the UK
Making Tax Digital: What Sole Traders and Landlords Need to Know for 2026 and Beyond
Are you a sole trader or landlord? Important changes are coming! HMRC’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative is expanding, and it’s crucial to get prepared. In this
Earning Over £100k? Avoid the 60% Tax Trap Before April 5th!
Are you earning over £100K? You might be unknowingly paying a 60% tax rate! As the tax year end approaches, it’s crucial to understand how your income
Mastering Business Budgeting: Essential Skills for Success
This next instalment in our series looks at business budgeting and why it matters. In the competitive world of business, effective budgeting is more than just number-crunching—it’s
The Importance of Cash Flow for Businesses
This instalment in our series delves into the importance of cash flow and why it’s essential for the success of any business. Cash flow represents the movement
Navigating the Storm: A Small Business Guide to the 2024 Budget
The recent budget has left many small business owners feeling uncertain about the year ahead. With rising costs and changing tax regulations, it’s more important than ever
Autumn Budget 2024: A Summary
The Chancellor has unveiled a significant Autumn Budget for 2024, outlining reforms to tax systems, public spending, and tax increases, including Employers’ NIC. Key Tax Changes Income
Tax Saving Strategies to Reduce Your Tax Bill
Are you looking for ways to save money on your taxes? Many of our clients ask us this question, and there are several tax-saving strategies you can
Understand Your Break-Even Point
Is Your UK Business Making Money? Understanding your UK business break-even point is crucial. It’s the point where your total sales revenue covers all your expenses. Simply
Do I Really Need an Accountant? The Benefits of Professional Guidance
Starting a business is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. One common question is whether or not you need an accountant. While it might seem like
Essential Records for Your Business
The Importance of Accurate Bookkeeping In this article, we’ll delve into the crucial records and bookkeeping practices that every business needs to maintain. Accurate bookkeeping is essential
Companies House Fee Increases – What This Means for Your Business
Companies House is undergoing significant changes to combat fraud and improve transparency. These changes include stricter regulations, increased investigative powers, and a shift towards digital filing. As
How to Finance Your Business: A Guide for UK Startups
In our previous articles, we’ve explored the foundations of starting your own business. Now, let’s delve into the crucial aspects of business finance. Understanding Your Funding Needs
HMRC Penalties – What You Can Do
Facing an HMRC penalty? Don’t panic! Understanding how your behaviour influences the penalty amount can help you minimize the impact. HMRC penalties can be a stressful surprise
Why Our Clients Love Using Xero for Their Bookkeeping
At RDG Accounting, we recommend Xero for our clients because it offers a flexible range of packages to suit any business size. Xero also helps clients stay
Understanding Taxes: A Guide for Business Owners
In this second instalment of our frequently asked questions series, we’ll delve into the various types of taxes UK businesses face. Gain a clear understanding of taxes
Navigating the Maze: Your Guide to HMRC Investigations
The prospect of an HMRC investigation can be intimidating for any taxpayer. Yet, with a clear understanding and strategic approach, you can manage the process with confidence.
Decoding Business Structures: Your Path to Trading Success
Choosing the right business structure is a pivotal decision for any entrepreneur. In this article, we demystify the options available to you, laying out the groundwork for
Meet Russell Geary FCCA: Your Guide to Business Clarity
Russell Geary, one of our directors and a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (FCCA), is a cornerstone of our client relations. He’s renowned for
Investing in commercial property through your pension
RDG Accounting in Derby have teamed up with Premal Prajapati from Elevation Corporate Pensions to advise our clients how to make the most of their money. A
RDG Accounting become part of the Handpicked Accountants network
RDG Accounting have been selected to join the Handpicked Accountants network, an exclusive collection of highly regarded accountancy practices based across the UK. Handpicked Accountants was created
The Protection from Redundancy (Pregnancy and Family Leave) Act
Under the current law, those on Maternity Leave, Shared Parental Leave or Adoption Leave have special protection in a redundancy situation. They have the right to be
Are you calculating your employees National Minimum Wage correctly?
In June 2023, over 200 employers were named by the government for failing to pay their workers the minimum wage, these employers faced penalties of nearly £7
Withholding tips from staff becomes unlawful as the Tipping Bill achieves Royal Assent
The Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023, which received Royal Assent on Tuesday 2nd May 2023, willmake it unlawful for businesses to hold back service charges from
HMRC App makes Child Benefit claims quicker
If you have employees who are about to become parents, they may be interested to know there is a new, easier way to claim Child Benefit –
What is the ideal Director’s salary for 2023/24?
The most tax efficient Director’s salary 2023/24 is £12,570 per annum. The reason for this is all down to the National Insurance (NI) rates. A Director can
My top tips for doing your own bookkeeping
Lots of clients like to do their own bookkeeping to keep the costs down and as accountants we are fully in support of that as it really
Cash flowing your business – why this is one of the most important business management tools
Small business owners will use a variety of methods to keep on top of the financial position in their business from software to spreadsheets, but quite often
A simple guide to the Spring Budget 2023
The headline message from the Chancellor The Chancellor highlighted that “In the autumn we took difficult decisions to deliver stability and sound money… Today, we deliver the
Can my business pay for my garden office?
This has to be one of the most frequently asked questions we have received in recent years and the short answer is yes, it can. However, it’s
Holiday pay calculations for part-year and irregular hours workers
You may to choose to have a staycation or travel abroad for a holiday either way we all love to have a holiday and enjoy a much-needed
My top 10 tips for your Business in 2023
We all know 2023 is going to be tough or so the Press would have us believe, but there a few easy things you can do to
Can I buy a van through my company?
Unlike buying a car through your limited company, buying a van through your company can be quite tax effective. So what do you need to consider Be careful check
Are Director Pensions allowable in your business?
The principle of British companies providing their employees and workers with pension contributions is well established in the UK. However, many advisers are not aware that the
Do you know about the new VAT points system for late payments and filing?
For VAT returns for accounting periods starting on or after 1 January 2023 the new payment penalty system is to be replaced by a points-based late filing penalty
How to pay yourself as a company director
One of the most common questions we get asked when we speak to clients who are considering starting a new business and trading as a Limited company
How to get control of your business finances
It is always a good idea to take time out from your day-to-day activities and look into your business more closely to see what you could be
Getting Digital…10 reasons why keeping your business records on software is the best decision you’ll ever make!
Making Tax Digital is coming whether we like it or not, and for some its already in place but for those of you avoiding taking the plunge
Managing your cash flow
One thing we often get asked is what are the key elements to running a business successfully. One of those is cashflow. Effective cash flow management is
Sole trader vs limited company
A sole trader is basically a self-employed person who’s the sole owner of their business. It’s the most popular business structure and also the simplest. You can
Tax and electric vehicles
We are often asked by clients whether to switch to electric cars. So, what are the tax incentives available for zero, or low-emission vehicles? Salary sacrifice It
Can my company pay my children’s school fees?
The short answer is yes you can but, but the school fees are not deductible for corporation tax and paying them from your company can result in
How do you split a business when you fall out with your business partner?
If you go about setting up your business relationship in the right way, then you can avoid many of then issues that often arise in the future,
Don’t go it alone; business support when you need it.
It can get a bit lonely running your own business, managing staff, dealing with clients, negotiating the best deals, and balancing the books all takes its toll.
What planning do I need to do for my business?
As a business mentor I often get asked what planning a business should be doing. As the world seems to get busier and busier, we all seem
What is a business mentor?
As a business mentor I often get asked what I do, and why would a business need me. Well, here you go…… As a business owner you
How nature can help you and your business.
Now you may be thinking that I’ve gone all zen and am about to suggest you immerse your self in a wood and listen to the trees…..
Why bookkeeping software is a no-brainer!
So, this week it’s all about getting your house in order and embracing change. The summer is on its way out and the kids are heading back
The Psychology of Pricing and Desire
Here’s a thought for you, what makes you feel better when you purchase something, getting a nice product on the cheap or buying something of quality that’s
What do you really really want?
I’m not going to apologise for the Spice girls cliché! Why? Because it is actually very important when we go through life to understand what it is
Customer Service and why it matters
“Always treat others as you’d wish to be treated yourself” that was a phrase that was drilled into me from a young age, and I feel it
How To Reach Your Target Audience in 5 Easy Steps
When it comes to your marketing efforts, it’s only effective when you’re reaching the right target audience in order to secure ideal clients for your business. Most
What makes a good business?
As business advisors and mentors we meet all sizes of businesses and come across a variety of trades and skill sets and what often frustrates me most
Top Tips I’ve learnt over the years
I wrote recently about being in Business and one of my followers suggested I share with you all my Top tips for things I’ve learnt in that
How to find the best clients
Following on from my blog about getting your ideal life one key part of that is getting the right clients to make what you do now enjoyable
Realising your dream – how to get the life you want.
How many times do you sit on a Sunday evening contemplating the week ahead and feel that pit of dread in your stomach at the thought of
Where have all the staff gone?
Where have all the staff gone?! 🗺️🔍 I’ve been seeing so many businesses struggling to get the right staff, especially in hospitality. When chatting to a client
Being in business is great
Being a business owner – it ’ s really great! Isn ’ t it?! 🙌🤔 A client once told me, that because he owned his own business,
Be happier and more effective with small business accounting
89% of SMEs say their success was largely aided by the assistance of an accountant or business advisor. Could small business accounting help to grow your business?
Take control of your future by improving small business processes
Only 4% of businesses measure and manage their processes, which means most organisations have no idea how efficient they really are.
How to win amazing clients with an ideal customer profile
Customer-centric companies are 60% more profitable than companies that don’t make the same commitment. It’s not hard to understand why. After all, when you understand your customers
Restore your motivation: How a business coach and mentor can help
33% of small business owners lack the motivation they had when the business was new. They need a way to reboot.
The life you want: How to increase small business profits in 2021
Only 40% of small businesses are profitable. That’s a lot of people who aren’t able to achieve the life they want. Make sure you’re not one of
13 reasons why small businesses fail – and what can be done to help prevent it
If you need help, call us now Book a call Lockdown 3 is a very difficult and stressful time for small businesses, with some facing failure and
Are Christmas parties tax deductible?
It will soon be that time of the year again, stockings will start taking their place on desks, fairy lights will grace the office walls and the highly anticipated office Christmas party will soon
Do I have to file a tax return? If so, why and how?
If you are self-employed or run your own business, then the short and simple answer to the above question is: Yes, you do have to file a
Are accounting fees deductible?
The short answer to this is yes. The HMRC allows companies to claim a tax deduction for some fees that your accountant charges. However, please bear in
How accounting helps in business
Taking accounting seriously is often the difference between a business being successful and having to call it a day, filing for bankruptcy. In a report carried out
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Limited Company
There are many advantages of a limited company, including financial security, only being taxed on profits, the ability to claim back costs from running a business from
What are tax investigations, how can I protect my business and should I have insurance?
Most companies can expect to fall under the HMRC spotlight from time to time and, should the tax inspector come knocking on your door, you’re in for
Dissolving a partnership – When owners want a divorce
There are many reasons why businesses and partnerships dissolve or split up. But whatever the reason, how a business deals with that break-up depends on what type
How VAT works in the UK
Every business thinks about tax. Do I need to pay it? How much? When’s the deadline? Have I got my figures correct? When you register as a
Money laundering explained – everything you need to know
Money laundering is a term used to describe the process of concealing, or disguising, illegally-obtained funds. This blog will explain in more detail how money laundering works, what
How Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the accounting industry
It has been estimated that by 2025, the global AI market is expected to be almost $60 billion; in 2016 it was $1.4 billion. It is obvious with
Is your business ready for Bitcoin, Blockchain and Cryptocurrency?
Is it just us or does everyone seem to be talking about ‘blockchain and cryptocurrency’? If you Google ‘this week’s top business news’ there will be at
Everything you need to know about self-assessment tax returns
Have you submitted your tax return yet? If your answer is no, our guess is that either you haven’t had the time yet or you are unsure
Outsourcing Payroll – Is it right for my business?
Outsourcing payroll is an efficient, risk-free way for businesses to make sure employees are paid correctly and on time, while also ensuring you are compliant with all HMRC regulations and requirements. Have you been contemplating outsourcing your
A breakdown of the financial help available for small businesses during the Coronavirus outbreak
When lockdown was introduced to the UK a few weeks ago, along with it came a multitude of uncertainty for businesses and the economy. As a business
Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme: Including FAQs
We thought it would be helpful to summarise the key information you need to know about COVID-19 and the economy – in a downloadable document – to
Property Tax for Landlords 2020 – Your Questions Answered
No one is safe from the taxman and yes, that includes landlords. We all know the infamous Benjamin Franklin saying, “In this world nothing can be said
Brexit for small businesses – Are you ready?
This blog will investigate what Brexit means for small businesses and help you prepare. Brexit has been (and continues to be) one of the most daunting and
Changes to Mortgage Tax Relief – problematic for Landlords?
Mortgage tax relief changes are taking effect and we know that this can be problematic for private landlords. So how can you deal with all of this change? We will run you through the changes and explain what you can do, and how we can help you too.
Making Tax Digital for VAT and what it means for your business
Making Tax Digital is almost upon us. On April 1, 2019, HMRC’s new initiative will be launched and businesses will eventually have to submit all their taxes
Ways to help you reduce your personal tax bill
You don’t plan for your personal tax bills to be higher than you anticipated but, unfortunately, and for a variety of reasons, that’s how it turns out
Autumn Budget 2018: How will it affect me and my business?
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond, unveiled his annual 2019 Autumn Budget to Parliament with a very clear message. Outlining his plans for the UK’s finances,
What are workplace pensions, what are the benefits and am I eligible for one?
If retirement is something you haven’t given a minute’s thought to, or even if it’s right at the forefront of your mind, either way you should want
What is Making Tax Digital? Everything you need to know about MTD and what you need to do next
You should have heard all about Making Tax Digital by now. If you haven’t, then it’s a good job you’re here. There’s no need to panic just
Four tips to improve your business after the summer holidays and plan for the future
Summer holidays can mean many things – sea, sand, sunscreen – but it’s also a great time to reflect and think about how to improve your business,
Is your HMRC Personal Tax Account riddled with mistakes?
When was the last time you checked your online HMRC Personal Tax Account? Are you one of the 15 million people who are at risk of having
QuickBooks
Founded in 1983, QuickBooks is a marketing leading accounting software package, helping a wide range of businesses to easily keep on top of their finances, helping them
Xero
Xero helps small businesses worldwide thrive. Plain and simple. Founded in 2006, Xero was started to give users beautiful cloud-based accounting software, connecting you to the right
Sage
Sage is one of the market leaders for integrated accounting, payroll, and payment systems, helping to support the dreams of ambitious entrepreneurs world-wide. Sage started as a
KashFlow
LOG INTO KashFlow Established back in 2005, award-winning KashFlow provides small business owners with intuitive online accounting software. Today the company has thousands of users and has
Main Highlights from the Autumn Budget 2017
On the 22nd November 2017, Philip Hammond announced the Autumn Budget 2017. During his announcement he said that the economy “continues to grow, continues to create more
Making Tax Digital has been delayed but you still need to prepare…
It seems like every man and his dog has been talking about Making Tax Digital (MTD) since it was first announced back in 2015, when George Osbourne
New dividend tax: No one is safe from the taxman
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but due to changes in dividend tax rules no one is safe from the tax man. Shareholders used to
Auto enrolment duties as a new employer
From the 1st October 2017, if you become a new employer on or after this date, you immediately have duties for auto enrolment purposes to carry out
Long Eaton Carnival 2017 – What A Scorcher!
Whoever was in charge of ensuring glorious weather for the Long Eaton Carnival 2017 on Saturday 17th June deserves a pint (or two, or three…) – it was
We’re thrilled to be part of the Long Eaton Carnival 2017
In conjunction with Vibez Danceworks, we’re thrilled to be involved and support this year’s Long Eaton Carnival on Saturday 17th June 2017. With not long to go,
Employers, the 2017 staging dates for auto enrolment are fast approaching
The 2017 staging dates for auto enrolment are fast approaching for employers across the UK. With this in mind, it’s quite shocking to learn that new research
Budget 2017: Tax-free allowance for shareholders more than halved
It is very common practice for company owners and shareholders to pay themselves in the form of dividends rather than a salary. Before the new spending plans
Budget 2017: Increase in National Insurance for the Self Employed
*Please note that after this blog was published, plans to increase National Insurance for those who are self-employed have been dropped.* One of the biggest talking points
Everything you need to know about tax planning
This blog will look in detail into what is meant by the term tax planning, whilst also giving you examples and best practises. Definition of tax planning
VAT Flat Rate Scheme Changes 2017 – Limited Cost Traders
On 23rd November 2016, as part of the Autumn Statement, HMRC announced that they would be bringing in changes to the VAT flat rate scheme from April
How do I pay my tax bill?
A common question asked by many people is, “how do I go about paying my tax bill?” There are many different options available which this blog will
Starting a Business [cont.]
This post is the last in the series of content which is all about factors to consider when starting a business. If you are interested in reading
Starting a Business [cont.]
Last week we published a blog which explored what you should take into consideration when starting a business. This is such a big topic to cover, as
Starting a Business
It’s not easy starting a business, and for many people it’s the largest gamble you’ll ever take, especially in terms of your career. However, with many millions
Have you submitted your tax return yet?
Do you normally leave your tax return to the last minute? With most people seeing this as a dreaded chore, you are not alone! Whilst this may
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our brand new website
We are very pleased to announce the launch of our brand spanking new website which is 100% responsive. We genuinely hope you like it as much as
National Living Wage
For workers aged 25 and older the national living wage will be £7.20 an hour from April 2016. The minimum wage will still apply for workers aged
Self Assessments must be submitted to HM Revenue & Customs by 31st January 2016
RDG Accounting would like to wish you a very happy and prosperous New Year. We would also like to remind you that it is getting close to
Dates office closed over the Christmas period
Everyone at RDG Accounting would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. RDG Accounting will be closed on the following days
Important News regarding The Peoples Pension
Registration will no longer be free. ACT NOW BEFORE MONDAY 23RD NOVEMBER 2015 TO REGISTER FOR FREE A one off set-up charge of £500 plus VAT will apply to
Turbocharge your Business
RDG Accounting is sponsoring the Turbocharge your Business event for an inspiring day of business ideas! The event will have a number of education slots including a networking lunch. The agenda is as follows: Getting through the
RDG Accounting day out at Henley Regatta
On Saturday 4th July 2015 a few of the ladies from RDG Accounting enjoyed a wonderful day out at Henley Regatta thanks to our lovely clients at Colwick Park Lifeguards. A day out
Automatic Enrolment – Workplace Pension
Employers across the UK are now providing a workplace pension for their staff. Make sure you do too. Even if you employ just one person. Act now.
A Simple Guide to the Budget 2015
This is a basic guide, prepared by ACCA’s Technical Advisory team, for members and their colleagues or clients. It is an introduction only and should not be
Tax Rate & Allowances Guide for the Budget 2015
Tax Rates and Allowances Guide 2014/15 2015/16 £ £ Income tax rates – (non-dividend income) 10% lower rate tax – savings rate only Up to 2,880 Up
VAT Flat Rate Scheme
VAT Flat Rate Scheme The flat rate scheme for small businesses was introduced to reduce the administrative burden imposed when operating VAT. Under the scheme a set
RDG Accounting – Christmas Dinner
We all had a wonderful surprise for our Christmas night out when a limo turned up to take us out for a lovely Christmas dinner. It was
Save the Children Christmas Jumper Day
Each of the staff at RDG Accounting wore a Christmas Jumper at least once last week to help raise money for Save the Children. The Millhouse Business
Macmillan Coffee Morning Success
Our Coffee Morning today had a fantastic array of cakes and savoury nibbles that was enjoyed by everyone who attended the event. A big thank you to all our clients who kindly
Macmillan Coffee Morning 2014
Wednesday 24th September 2014 – 10:30am Millhouse Business Centre, Station Road, Castle Donington, Derbyshire, DE74 2NJ You are warmly invited to come and join us for a cuppa and some
VAT – Seven Key Points for the Smaller Business
This fact sheet focuses on VAT matters of relevance to the smaller business. A primary aim is to highlight common risk areas as a better understanding can
Directors’ Responsibilites
The position of Director brings both rewards and responsibilities upon an individual. Whether you are appointed to the Board of the Company you work for, or you
Starting Up In Business
It is the ambition of many people to run their own business. Some may have been made redundant and find themselves with free time and financial resources.
Corporation Tax
The key features of Corporation Tax are: A company is required to pay the tax due in advance of filing a tax return A ‘process now, check
Personal Tax – Self Assessment
Under the self-assessment regime an individual is responsible for ensuring that their tax liability is calculated and any tax owing is paid on time, but if you
Our Software Partners
Cloud based accounting tools are one of the simplest ways of managing the accounts for your business sand with your accountant.
If you haven’t chosen a software we are happy to help and advise you on which cloud accounting system will be best for your business and work with Sage Software, Xero Online Accounting software and Iris and QuickBooks Cloud Accounting software.
