Money Matters

Better Business

Money is a sensitive topic for many people, and it can be difficult to talk about, especially if you're struggling financially. However, it's important to remember that you're not alone and that there are resources and help available. We have lots of advice available for both individuals and businesses on saving money and taking charge of your financial situation. This includes setting budgets, planning to avoid unnecessary costs, managing margins in your business, and broaching the topic of pay rises with employees.

How to Comply with Making Tax Digital

Find out the four steps your small business can take to comply with the tax legislation, and where you can find compatible software. The Making Tax Digital for VAT deadline has already passed. Since April 2022, VAT-registered businesses have been required by law to follow the new rules, including using compatible software to submit your VAT returns. You may face penalties from HMRC if you don’t meet MTD requirements. Don’t worry – at the Federation of Small Businesses, we'

Money Matters

Federation of Small Businesses

Feb 97 min read

10 ways you can reduce the risk of overtrading

Are you overtrading? Spot the warning signs early and learn how to fix cash flow strain before it damages your business growth. Learn how you can prevent the dangers of overtrading and the measures you can put in place to grow sustainably and protect your bottom line. Overtrading may seem like a good problem to have in business. After all, landing a big contract means more orders and more sales. However, the risks of overtrading shouldn’t be ignored. A sudden rise in demand c

Money Matters

Federation of Small Businesses

Jan 86 min read

Boost your Business: 10 Ways to Win a Corporate Contract

Supplying regular flower and plant arrangements to local clients can be good business, as repeat orders mean regular income. These days, corporate work encompasses everything from products supplied to businesses for reception areas, to products purchased for employee gifts, customer gifts or those used to dress conference and exhibition venues, show homes and more. Competition to supply corporate flowers can be fierce. In tough times, many businesses choose to cut back on thi

Becoming a Florist

Jackie Whittaker

Jan 53 min read

How Open Banking can Help your Business

Open Banking lets small businesses securely share financial data, simplifying access to finance, improving cash flow & accounting. It also enables easier, more secure, and cheaper customer payments, offering a competitive edge. It's a UK government-backed initiative for better business management. What is Open Banking? Open Banking is a way for you to safely and securely share your business’s financial data, such as your bank transactions or account details, with other truste

Better Business

Federation of Small Businesses

Dec 29, 20255 min read

Find the Right Type of Finance to Boost Your Business

Accessing the right type of finance is essential for the growth and sustainability of any small business. From traditional bank loans and government grants to alternative options like angel investors and invoice financing, there are numerous ways to secure the funds you need. Each method comes with its own benefits, requirements, and risks, so understanding these options is key to choosing the best fit for your business goals. By exploring a mix of short-term and long-term fi

Better Business

British Business Bank

Dec 11, 20257 min read

Budget 2025 – Key Retail Announcements

It’s been a long journey to today, with an extended BRC campaign that included extensive engagement with Ministers, MPs and wide-ranging media and broadcast coverage. While she namechecked the BRC in her speech, the Chancellor presented a Budget that was a mixed bag for retail. While some shops will receive new support, costs have been brought in for others. The announced permanent reduction in retail business rates is an important step to reduce the industry’s burden. Howeve

Money Matters

British Retail Consortium

Nov 27, 20254 min read

Dealing with Money Worries at Christmas

Finances are an area of difficulty for many people. And at Christmas, these concerns can become even more heightened.

Wellbeing

Health Assured

Nov 17, 20252 min read

How to Write a Freelance Contract

Getting all the details in black and white is crucial. We share our top tips for writing your next freelance contract and explain why they’re so important. Why are contracts so important as a freelancer? No matter what kind of freelance work you're doing, contracts are part of everyday life as a freelancer, but the devil is in the detail. A freelancing contract, commonly in the form of a contract for services or consultancy agreement, should include the details and expectat

Better Business

Federation of Small Businesses

Oct 22, 20254 min read

What do IR35 Tax Rules Mean for Freelancers?

Confused by IR35 rules? Our tax specialists from FSB Tax Investigation Protection explain what the new rules mean for freelancers working in the private sector. This content was last reviewed in August 2024. We’re here to help you understand the ins and outs of the off-payroll working changes introduced into the private sector in April 2021, so that you can stay compliant. What is IR35? IR35, also known as the off-payroll working rules or intermediaries legislation was origin

Better Business

Federation of Small Businesses

Oct 20, 20258 min read

How to Keep Staff When There’s No Money for a Pay Rise

Your best employees work hard because they’re passionate about what they do. But even they still probably want more money....

Better Business

Croner

Oct 2, 20254 min read

Eight Ways to Improve your Business Credit Score

Looking to improve your business credit score? Here are eight ways you can keep on top of your score and put yourself in the best position possible for business funding applications. Your business credit score is a measurement used to represent the status of your business’ financial health. Having a good business credit score will signify financial stability and creditworthiness to existing and potential customers, partners, suppliers and lenders. This means that whether you’

Better Business

Federation of Small Businesses

Sep 17, 20254 min read