The Chester Tax & Business Blog
Stay informed with the latest tax news, HMRC updates, and practical business tips from our ACCA-qualified accountants in Chester. We break down complex tax rules and financial topics into clear, actionable advice — helping sole traders, landlords, limited companies, and local businesses save money, stay compliant, and grow with confidence.
Recent Chester Tax News & Business Advice
Accountants Chester regularly publish guides and updates designed to help you navigate the ever-changing world of tax, compliance, and business planning. Whether you’re a small business owner, a startup, or an individual taxpayer, you’ll find relevant, local insights right here. Before filing your taxes, download our Self-Assessment checklist for Chester to make sure you have everything you need. For more information on our full suite of services, contact our accountants in Chester.
AI + Self Assessment: smart to use—but don’t file blind
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 17 September, 2025 AI tools can speed up your Self Assessment prep—sorting receipts, explaining jargon and drafting checklists. But generic tools can also misapply UK rules and miss reliefs. Here’s how to use AI...
VAT Direct Debit not taken? When a missing HMRC letter can be a “reasonable excuse” — and what to do next
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 16 September, 2025 If HMRC doesn’t collect your VAT Direct Debit after you’ve filed a return, panic is understandable. In some cases HMRC has cancelled the DD (for example, when moving a business onto payments on...
Limited company vs sole trader: a practical guide for Chester businesses
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 09 September, 2025 If you’re a sole trader and growth is coming fast, you’ve probably asked: “Should I go limited?” The answer depends on numbers, risk and goals. Here’s a clear, no-jargon guide so you can choose...
MTD for Income Tax: who’s exempt — and what to do now
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 08 September, 2025 MTD for Income Tax (MTD ITSA) arrives from April 2026 for many sole traders and landlords. But not everyone has to join. Before you buy software or rewire your bookkeeping, check whether you’re...
Self Assessment for First-Timers: Register by 5 October
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 29 August, 2025 If this is your first Self Assessment (new sole trader, new landlord, or you’ve got untaxed income such as dividends or gains), you must register with HMRC by 5 October following the end of the tax...
Property Tax Reform 2025: What Homeowners and Sellers Need to Know
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 20 August, 2025 The UK property tax system could be about to change in a big way. In August 2025, reports indicated that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is exploring sweeping reforms designed to increase revenues and close...
Is Your Chester Business Ready for Making Tax Digital? The End of the Shoe box Receipt is Here
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 18 August, 2025 For decades, the "shoebox method" has been a familiar, if chaotic, staple for many self-employed individuals and landlords in Chester. The annual ritual of gathering a year's worth of crumpled...
Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Accountant in Chester
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 11 August, 2025 Choosing the right accountants in Chester can make a huge difference to your business’s success, your tax bill, and your peace of mind. At Phillips & Co, we’ve been helping local businesses,...
5 Essential Tax Tips for Chester Businesses
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: 22 July, 2025 Navigating the world of business tax can be complex. For business owners in our historic city of Chester, staying on top of your tax obligations while maximising your financial efficiency is crucial...
Understanding Your Income Tax: A Guide to Rates & Allowances for Chester Businesses & Individuals
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: June 11, 2025 Understanding your Income Tax can feel like deciphering a complex puzzle. With rates, bands, and various allowances, it’s easy to get lost. But for every sole trader, small business owner, and...
Navigating Finances: A Guide for Sole Traders and Small Businesses in Chester
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: June 03, 2025 As a sole trader or small business owner, you're likely juggling many tasks. While focusing on your core business is crucial, neglecting your finances can lead to serious problems down the line....
Starting Up in Chester? Your Business Plan’s Financial Foundations are Key!
Author: Phillips & Co Accountants, Chester Date: May 12, 2025 Launching a new business in Chester is an exciting prospect! But turning a great idea into a successful venture requires careful planning. A comprehensive business plan is your roadmap, essential not...
Need Expert Advice from Accountants in Chester?
If you have a question about tax, compliance, or business strategy, our Chester accountants are here to help. Simply get in touch and we’ll provide clear, practical advice tailored to your needs.