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PAYE

Why change something if it is not broke
Why change something if it is not broke? 758 513 Stepping Stones Accountancy

Why change something if it is not broke?

With the changes to self assessment thresholds bought in to simplify the submittal processes, has it really had the positive impact the government were hoping? Let’s explore this in more detail.

When the autumn statement was released there was a very small area included which relates to employees on PAYE who no longer have to file tax returns from 2024/25, regardless of the amount that they earn. This was a follow up on the changes introduced in 23/24 where employees who solely had income from PAYE only had to worry about self assessment when there earnings were in excess of £150,000.

When these changes were introduced there were a number of concerns raised about any underpayments or overpayments that could be made by professionals earning over £100,000 who do not have to file any returns in regards to self assessment.

There does appear to be a number of discrepancies which can cause issues with employees that have no other taxable income than PAYE. There can easily be failures to declare specific liabilities simply because it was perceived that this was no longer needed. There could also be a failure to pay any tax owed on investment returns because again it was assumed this was not applicable.

According to HMRC the message is simple; keep them up to date with all income by using their digital services. Report everything that is relevant. Of course this sounds easy but anybody who has used the HMRC platform knows it can actually be a complex matter. Coupled with the issues which arise when contacting HMRC support to ask questions the phrase “clear as mud” can sum up the entire process.

The simple solution is to leave it to the professionals. Seek out a qualified accountant who knows exactly what is needed can take care of the entire process. Take stock early, consider all factors that are relevant but most importantly, consult with experts who are easy and available to contact when you need them.

In summary the changes in self-assessment threshold have been introduced to simplify the process but clearly it has caused more confusion than clarity. So why change something when it is not broken?

If you have any questions in regard to self assessment thresholds or need some help with any aspect of business accountancy our team would be happy to help. Please call us on 01173 700 079 or e-mail hello@steppingstonesaccountancy.co.uk. You can also book a free 20-minute call with Yarka – https://calendly.com/yarka-ssa/20min

What Are You Asked For When Setting Up With A New Accountant | New Accountant |
What are you asked for when setting up with a new accountant? 758 513 Stepping Stones Accountancy

What are you asked for when setting up with a new accountant?

Change can often fill people with dread. We are at our most happy when we are content and feel safe. Even the little things like changing the provider of our home insurance or our utility provider can cause stress, so much so that many just stick with an auto renew.

However, change can be good and should be embraced. Gone are the days when changing to new suppliers cause extra work, hassle and delays. Instead, change is simple, easy and stress free. The same can be said when appointing a new accountant. Of course, there is a little bit of work to be done but by completing the following simple activities your new accountant can be up and running in no time:

Stage 1 – 20 Minutes

The first step takes no more than 20 minutes, it is a simple telephone call to undertake a fact-finding exercise. It is a great chance to cement the business relationship, run through some standard business questions, identify the type of help that is needed and recommend steps to move forward.

Stage 2 – 2 days

Next step is a data exchange process which includes proposal of work, access to all relevant online portals and uploading data. This is typically a 2-day process, and the result is the acceptance of the accountant’s plans and commitment to agree to work being undertaken.

Stage 3 – 1 week

Our third step is a 1-week process focussed on due diligence. The necessary security checks will be undertaken, including photo ID for recognition and anti-money laundering. Following this will be the full registration to a client portal.

Stage 4 – 2 to 5 weeks 

The final stage, which is the longest, is the registration through HMRC. This will involve applying for Corporation Tax, PAYE, VAT and Self-Assessment codes which allow the accountant to act on behalf of the business or individual. Authorisation will typically take 10 days to arrive and then a scheduling of works can commence.

Once these key steps are taken a business owner can sit back and relax in the knowledge that all of their accountancy responsibilities are taken care of, and they can focus solely on the successful running of their business.

If you have any questions or have a few more questions, please call us on 01173 700 079 or e-mail hello@steppingstonesaccountancy.co.uk. You can also book a free 30-minute call with Yarka – https://calendly.com/yarka-ssa/30min

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