
Key Accounting Dates July 2026
July is one of the busiest months in the tax calendar, with employer reporting deadlines clustered around the 6th, mid-month PAYE and CIS payments, and the Self Assessment second payment on account at the end. Here is a quick look at key dates for July 2026.

How to Use Social Media to Market Yourself as a UK Freelancer
Social media is one of the most cost-effective ways for UK freelancers to find clients and build a reputation. This guide covers the right platforms, content that attracts work, and the HMRC rules every self-employed person needs to know.

Can I Be VAT Registered as a Sole Trader?
Can sole traders register for VAT? Yes, and beyond a turnover of £90,000 it becomes compulsory. This post looks at the rolling 12-month threshold, the two tests HMRC uses, when voluntary registration makes sense, your ongoing obligations, and the penalties for registering late.

How to Submit Your First MTD Quarterly Update
From April 2026, sole traders and landlords earning above £50,000 have had to submit quarterly updates to HMRC under Making Tax Digital for Income Tax. If you have never done this before, our step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know, from setting up compatible software to hitting submit on your first return.

Umbrella vs Limited Company: Which Is the Right Choice for UK Contractors?
If you currently work through an umbrella company, you may be wondering whether forming your own limited company could leave you better off. This post breaks down the key tax differences, explains how IR35 affects your options, and sets out what is involved in making the switch.

What are Payments on Account?
Payments on account catch thousands of taxpayers off guard every January and July. This guide explains how they are calculated, when they are due, and how to apply to reduce them if your income has fallen

CIS Refund Form Explained
If you work in construction under the Construction Industry Scheme, you may be paying more tax than you owe. This guide explains how CIS refunds work, which form applies to your business type, what documents you need, and how to claim back overpaid tax through Self Assessment or the limited company repayment process.

What is a Balancing Payment?
Understanding a balancing payment is essential for anyone completing a Self Assessment in the UK. This post explains what a balancing payment is, who needs to make one, and how it is calculated. Learn how it interacts with payments on account, common mistakes to avoid, and practical tips for managing your tax liability effectively.

Key Accounting Dates April 2026: Important UK Tax Deadlines for Your Business
April 2026 is one of the most important months in the UK tax calendar. From Corporation Tax payments and VAT returns to the start of Making Tax Digital for Income Tax and sweeping changes to Inheritance Tax reliefs, there is a lot to stay on top of. This guide covers every key deadline and new measure, with add-to-calendar links for each date.

What to do if you’ve lost your UTR number?
Misplaced your UTR number? You are not alone and it is easier to fix than you think. This guide walks you through every step to recover your Unique Taxpayer Reference in 2026, from checking your Government Gateway account to contacting HMRC for a postal reissue, plus what to do if the Self Assessment deadline is closing in.



