Elaine Clark

Every business needs accounts. They may differ in format and complexity, but every self-employed person must produce accounts to complete their tax return, while limited companies must complete accounts according to the Companies Act. Here are the answers to a few frequently asked questions about st... ...

While you may not be able to influence how much customers spend, you can do is to control your costs and look at variable and fixed costs. ...

If you operate a limited company and work at home, why not rent a room to your business?... ...

There are many myths about accounting and taxation, most of them wide of the mark. So what's the reality? Time to dispel these five common myths. ...

Maintaining your own financial records (doing your books) can seem daunting when you’re new to it. Elaine Clark gives her top five tips. ...

Every business has different needs when it comes to using an accountant. Indeed, some may decide not to use one at all. ...

Some of you may be operating your own limited company. It might be just you, maybe you and your partner/spouse or you and your employees. ...

Setting up a company is quick and easy, but it creates a range of administrative responsibilities. Here's a basic introduction to get you started. ...

If you've never produced an invoice before, how do you know what to include? Chartered accountant Elaine Clark answers key questions about invoices. ...

There seems to be some confusion about the new Real Time Information rules (RTI) and when penalties apply. There are three situations where a fine can be imposed. ...

If you operate a limited company from premises, yet do some work at home, why not rent a room to your business and reduce your tax bill. ...

Visit the cheapaccounting.co.uk website to use a simple online tool that enables you to estimate your take home pay after tax as a sole trader. ...

On the face of it, employing family members can be a good idea. You know them well, so all of the issues of trust and reliance on a stranger should be eliminated. ...

Elaine Clark, www.cheapaccounting.co.uk... ...

In this day and age of cloud computing, mobile apps and so on, the spreadsheet really has had its day when it comes to your accounting system. Why? While it may seem like a very cheap or free option, using an accounting spreadsheet can severely limit your options. ...

The term “accountant” is not regulated, so anyone can call themselves an accountant regardless of their background, experience, training or professional qualifications. ...

The past few years have been tough for most businesses and even highly experienced business people have suffered. Many a good business that in more prosperous times could have been successful has gone to the wall, with failure often being outside of the owner’s control. ...