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“There is no such thing as a good tax.” – Winston Churchill. Yet here we are, — faced with one all the same. If you’re self-employed or earning extra income outside your 9 to 5, Self Assessment tax is something you can’t afford to ignore. It’s not just a form to fill in. It’s a legal obligation — with real cash flow consequences if you miss it, misjudge it, or misunderstand it. But here's the good news: paying your tax bill doesn't have to be stressful. It doesn't have to be last-minute. And it definitely doesn't have to come with a side order of panic. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to pay Self Assessment tax with clarity — not confusion. You’ll learn what to expect, when to act, and the smartest way to pay (including a method that takes less than 60 seconds). We’ll also unpack hidden traps like payments on account, how to avoid penalties, and what to do if your cash flow’s tight. Read on — your future self (and your bank balance) will thank you.

Company vehicles can be a valuable benefit, but they come with significant tax implications that employers and employees need to understand. In 2025, the tax treatment of company cars, vans, pickups, and fuel is largely based on CO₂ emissions, usage, and vehicle type. Low-emission cars, especially electric and plug-in hybrids, attract lower benefit-in-kind (BIK) charges, while diesel and high-emission vehicles are taxed heavily, up to 37% of the car's list price. Vans are generally more tax-efficient, but HMRC has tightened the definition, especially around crew-cab and dual-purpose vehicles. Fuel for private use also carries a hefty tax charge unless fully reimbursed. Staying informed on these rules is crucial for making cost-effective choices around business vehicles in the current tax landscape.

Saving and investing in the UK can be much more rewarding when you make full use of available tax reliefs. From pensions and ISAs to Lifetime ISAs and Premium Bonds, there are several tax-efficient options that can help you grow your money faster. Pensions offer generous tax relief on contributions, plus tax-free growth, while ISAs provide completely tax-free income and gains with flexible access. Lifetime ISAs are ideal for first-time buyers and younger savers, offering a 25% government bonus. Premium Bonds add a bit of excitement with monthly tax-free prize draws and full capital protection. Understanding how each option works can help you build a smarter savings strategy and reduce your tax bill along the way.

Thinking of claiming VAT back on work clothing? HMRC allows businesses to reclaim VAT on uniforms and protective gear, such as branded workwear, safety boots, or courtroom attire for barristers, as these are considered genuine business expenses. However, everyday clothing like suits or smart office wear, no matter how professional, usually doesn’t qualify, even if it's required by the employer. There have been some unusual cases, such as a musician successfully claiming VAT on a wig worn as part of his stage persona, but these are exceptions. In this post we explain the rules, explore real-life tribunal decisions, and offer practical tips to help UK businesses understand when VAT on clothing can be legitimately reclaimed.