Author: Helen Whitehouse

Practical and effective steps to manage debt

 Managing debt effectively is an increasingly crucial component of personal financial health in today’s economic climate. With rising living costs and the easy availability of credit, it’s easy to find yourself in a situation where debt becomes overwhelming.

This guide offers you practical and effective strategies tailored for managing your debt. Our aim is to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle debt management. By implementing these strategies, you can work towards regaining financial stability and achieving peace of mind.

Whether you’re dealing with high-interest credit card debt, personal loans or mortgage payments, our advice is designed to help you manage your financial situation.

Understanding your debt

The first step in managing debt is to have a clear understanding of what you owe. This involves listing all your debts, including credit cards, loans, mortgages and any other financial obligations. For each debt, note the total amount owed, the interest rate and the monthly payment. This will give you a comprehensive overview of your debt situation and serve as a foundation for developing a tailored debt management plan.

Prioritising debts

Not all debts are created equal. Some carry higher interest rates, which can cause your total debt to increase more quickly. It’s essential to prioritise your debts, focusing on paying off those with the highest interest rates first.

This method, often called the ‘avalanche approach’, can save you a significant amount in interest payments over time.

Budgeting for debt repayment

Creating a budget is crucial for effective debt management. Your budget should detail your income, essential expenses (such as rent, utilities and groceries), and allocations for debt repayments. The goal is to identify areas where you can reduce spending and reallocate those funds towards paying off debt. It’s vital to be realistic and maintain a budget that supports your basic needs while maximising debt repayment.

Debt consolidation

For individuals juggling multiple debts, consolidation can be a viable strategy. Debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into a single loan, ideally with a lower interest rate. This can simplify your payments and potentially reduce the amount of interest you pay.

However, it’s important to carefully consider the terms of a consolidation loan, as extending the loan term can result in paying more interest over time.

Negotiating with creditors

If you’re struggling to meet your debt repayments, it’s advisable to communicate directly with your creditors. Many are willing to negotiate terms, such as reduced interest rates or extended payment periods, to help you manage your payments. Being proactive and transparent with creditors can prevent your account from being sent to a debt collections agency, which can negatively impact your credit score.

Using a debt management plan (DMP)

A DMP is a service offered by financial advisers or debt management companies to help you repay your debts. Under a DMP, you make a single monthly payment to the service provider, who then distributes this payment among your creditors.

While DMPs can offer relief and a structured path to debt repayment, it’s important to understand any fees involved and how entering into a DMP may affect your credit score.

Considering an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA)

For those facing significant debt that cannot be managed through the strategies mentioned above, IVA may be an option. An IVA is a formal agreement between you and your creditors, mediated by an insolvency practitioner, to pay off a portion of your debts over a fixed period, usually five years. At the end of the IVA, any remaining debt is written off. While IVAs can offer a way out of overwhelming debt, they have serious implications, including affecting your credit rating and potentially your current and future employment.

Exploring debt relief orders (DROs)

DROs offer a solution for managing debts for individuals who owe less than £30,000, have minimal spare income (typically less than £75 per month), and do not own their home. With a DRO, individuals can halt payments towards their debts, including interest, for a 12-month period, during which they must adhere to certain restrictions. After this period, they are released from the debts and restrictions, unless their financial situation improves, which could lead to the cancellation of the DRO, or if they fail to follow the rules, potentially extending the DRO.

Essential payments such as rent, bills and certain debts not covered by the DRO, such as student loans or court fines, must still be met. The DRO imposes several restrictions, prohibiting individuals from borrowing more than £500 without disclosing the DRO to the lender, acting as a company director, creating or promoting a company without court permission, managing a business without informing business partners of the DRO, and opening a bank account without notifying the bank or building society of the DRO. From 28 June 2024, the total amount of debt that can be covered by a DRO will increase from £30,000 to £50,000 for non-homeowners.

Bankruptcy: A last resort

Bankruptcy should be considered a last resort due to its severe and long-lasting impact on your credit history. In the UK, declaring bankruptcy can release you from most debts after a certain period, typically one year.

However, it can restrict your financial freedom, affecting your ability to obtain credit, and might result in the loss of assets, including your home. Before considering bankruptcy, seek professional financial advice to explore all other options.

Maintaining financial health post-debt

Maintaining financial health after overcoming debt is crucial to ensure long-term financial stability and to avoid falling back into debt. This part of your financial journey is about reinforcing good financial habits and making strategic decisions that support your financial wellbeing.

Here’s a more detailed look at how you can maintain financial health post-debt.

• Continuing to budget effectively: Budgeting should not be a temporary measure used only while paying off debt, it should become a fundamental part of your financial routine. An effective budget helps you control your spending, save money and ensure you are not spending more than you earn. It also allows you to allocate funds towards your savings goals, which is essential for building financial security.

Review and adjust your budget regularly to reflect changes in your income, expenses and financial objectives. Consider using budgeting apps or tools to streamline the process and provide you with insights into your spending habits.

• Building an emergency fund: One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from falling back into debt is to build an emergency fund. This fund acts as a financial safety net that can cover unexpected expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs or sudden job loss, without the need to borrow money. Start by setting a goal to save three to six months’ worth of living expenses. If saving this amount seems daunting, begin with a smaller goal, such as £1,000, and gradually increase it over time. Prioritise contributing to your emergency fund by setting aside a portion of your income each month, even if it’s a small amount.
• Regularly reviewing financial goals and progress: Setting financial goals is important for maintaining motivation and providing direction for your financial decisions. These goals can range from saving for a house deposit, investing for retirement or saving for a holiday.

Regularly review your goals to ensure they remain aligned with your financial priorities and adjust them as necessary. Additionally, tracking your progress towards these goals can be incredibly motivating and can help reinforce positive financial habits.

• Investing in your future: Once you’ve paid off debt and built an emergency fund, consider investing as a way to grow your wealth and work towards long-term financial goals. Whether it’s through a pension scheme, stocks, bonds or other investment vehicles, investing can provide you with additional income and help protect against inflation. Before investing, educate yourself on the different types of investments available, their risks and potential returns. You may also want to consult with a financial adviser to create an investment strategy that suits your risk tolerance and financial goals.
• Protecting your credit score: After clearing your debt, maintaining a healthy credit score is important, as it affects your ability to borrow money in the future at favourable interest rates. Continue to manage your credit responsibly by paying bills on time, keeping credit-card balances low and not applying for new credit unnecessarily. Regularly check your credit report to ensure accuracy and monitor for any fraudulent activity.
• Continuing financial education: Staying informed about personal finance topics is key to maintaining financial health. Continuously educate yourself on financial planning, investments, taxes and any changes in the financial landscape that could affect your finances. Many resources are available, including books, podcasts, online courses and financial blogs, that can provide valuable insights and strategies for managing your money effectively.

Seeking professional guidance when needed

Don’t hesitate to seek professional financial advice when facing complex financial decisions or when planning for significant financial goals. A qualified financial adviser can provide personalised advice tailored to your unique financial situation, helping you make informed decisions that support your financial health and stability.

Maintaining financial health post-debt is an ongoing process that requires discipline, planning and a commitment to making informed financial choices. By adopting these strategies, you can build a strong financial foundation that supports your long-term goals and protects against future financial uncertainties.

Final thoughts

Debt management requires a proactive approach, discipline and sometimes professional guidance. By understanding your debt, prioritising repayments, exploring consolidation options and possibly seeking formal arrangements like a DMP, IVA or DRO, you can work towards regaining financial control. Remember, the path to debt-free living is a journey that requires patience, persistence and a commitment to making informed financial decisions.

As your accountants, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Our expertise can guide you through the complexities of managing your debts, help you develop a tailored strategy that fits your personal financial situation and provide you with the tools and resources needed to navigate the process.

Whether it’s creating a realistic budget, understanding the implications of different debt solutions, or assisting in negotiations with creditors, we’re committed to helping you achieve financial stability and peace of mind.

Let’s work together to build a solid foundation for your future, free from the burden of debt.

Struggling with debt? Contact us today

1.6m additional retirees dragged into income tax levy. 8.5m currently paying income tax, up from 4.9m in 2010.

New research for the House of Commons has shown that due to the income tax threshold freeze of £12,570 until 2028, an additional 1.6m pensioners will have to pay income tax in the next four years.

This is a significant increase from the 8.5m pensioners currently paying income tax, up from about 4.9m in 2010. If the threshold had increased with inflation, it would have reached £15,220 this year and £15,990 by 2027/28.

The Department for Work and Pensions reports there are 12.7m state pension recipients, with the Institute for Fiscal Studies noting over 60% now pay income tax, a rise from 50% in 2010.

The Resolution Foundation estimates that the tax threshold freeze will make the average tax-paying pensioner £1,000 poorer by 2027/28. Despite cutting national insurance (NI) by 2%, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s aspiration to eliminate the tax has raised concerns that pensioners will bear the cost.

Both parties have committed to maintaining the state pension triple lock, ensuring it increases annually by the highest of wage growth, inflation or 2.5%. This policy will result in an 8.5% rise in the state pension this month.

A Treasury spokesperson said:

“Now the economy is turning a corner, we have cut national insurance by a third, meaning that – coupled with above-inflation increases to personal tax thresholds since 2010 – we have saved the average earner over £1,500 compared to what they otherwise would have paid.”

Get in touch to discuss your finances.

Please contact us  if you wish to discuss the implications of the new tax rules for you.

INCOME TAX ALLOWANCES

* The personal allowance is reduced by £1 for each £2 of income from £100,000 to £125,140.

** Any unused personal allowance may be transferred to a spouse or civil partner, where the recipient is not liable to higher or additional-rate tax.

*** Landlords and traders with gross income from each of these sources in excess of £1,000 can deduct the allowance from their gross income as an alternative to claiming expenses.

INCOME TAX BANDS AND RATES

* The starting rate does not apply if non-savings taxable income exceeds the starting rate limit. Every £1 of other income above the personal allowance reduces the starting rate ‘band’ by £1.

Income tax in Scotland

* Assumes individual is in receipt of a personal allowance.

** The personal allowance is reduced by £1 for each £2 of income from £100,000 to £125,140.

VEHICLE AND FUEL BENEFITS-IN-KIND 

The taxable benefit-in-kind is calculated as a percentage of the car’s UK list price. The percentage depends on the car’s CO₂ emissions in grams per kilometre (g/km).

* Diesel vehicles not meeting the RDE2 standard will be liable to a 4% surcharge, up to a maximum of 37%.

The list price is on the day before first registration, including most accessories, and is reduced by any employee’s capital contribution (max £5,000) when the car is first made available. Where the cost of all fuel for private use is borne by the employee, the fuel benefit is nil. Otherwise, the fuel benefit is calculated by applying the car benefit percentage to the car fuel benefit multiplier (below).

* Applies where private use is more than home-to-work travel. Payments by employees for private use may reduce these benefits-in-kind. Zero-emission vans have a benefit value of £0.

TAX-FREE MILEAGE ALLOWANCES

The tax-free business mileage allowance rates apply for qualifying business journeys incurred by employees using their own vehicles over the course of the tax year.

For National Insurance purposes, a 45p rate might apply for all business miles incurred by cars and vans.

CAPITAL GAINS TAX

INHERITANCE TAX

* Up to 100% of any unused part of a deceased person’s nil-rate band can be claimed by the surviving spouse/civil partner on their death. This also applies to the main residence nil-rate band, albeit the main residence nil-rate is subject to the taper withdrawal below.

** For estates in excess of £2m the RNRB is reduced by £1 for every £2 of value by which the estate exceeds the taper threshold.

Tax rates

* All lifetime transfers not covered by exemptions and made within seven years of death will be added back into the estate for the purposes of calculating the tax payable. This may then be reduced as shown in the table below.

** Applies if 10% or more of net chargeable estate is left to certain registered charities.

UK COMPANY TAXATION

*A tapered rate applies to profits falling between £50,000 and £250,000 in 2024/25.

MAIN CAPITAL ALLOWANCES 

Initial allowances

Writing-down allowances 

*An enhanced structure and buildings allowance of 10% is available in qualifying freeport tax sites.

VAT

Taxable turnover limits

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (R&D)

* 14.5% for small companies spending 40% of expenditure on R&D.

** A corporation tax deduction is applied to this.

TAX-EFFICIENT INVESTMENTS

* Reduces ISA limit by amount invested in Lifetime ISA.

** Up to £2m in a knowledge-intensive company.

REGISTERED PENSIONS

* The lifetime allowance will end in April 2024 and will be replaced by new allowances. For most people, the lump sum allowance (LSA) will limit the tax-free cash you can get from your pension to £268,275. The lump sum and death benefit allowance (LSDBA) will limit the total amount of tax-free cash you can get in your lifetime and when you die to £1,073,100, in most cases. An overseas transfer allowance (OTA) will also apply if you transfer your pension abroad.

** Tapered at a rate of 50% of excess income down to £10,000 if threshold income over £200,000 and adjusted income over £260,000. Restrictions can apply based on net-relevant earnings. For 2022/23 it would be tapered to a minimum of £4,000.

Subject to certain conditions, the unused amount of the annual allowance can be carried forward up to three years and used once the current year annual allowance has been fully utilised.

NATIONAL INSURANCE

* Entitlement to contribution-based benefits are retained for earnings between £123 and £242 per week.

** 0% for staff under 21 and apprentices under 25 on earnings up to £967 a week, or for new employees in freeport tax sites on earnings up to £481 a week.

* Exemption applies if the state retirement age is reached by 6 April 2024.

Employment allowance

* One claim only for companies in a group or under common control. Not available where the director is the only employee paid earnings above the secondary threshold for class 1 NICs. Limited to employers with an employer NICs bill below £100,000 in the previous tax year.

Apprenticeship levy

A levy of 0.5% applies where the pay bill exceeds £3m. There is an allowance of £15,000. Further conditions apply, so please consult with us.

STAMP DUTY

PROPERTY TAXES 

Incremental rates of tax are only payable on the part of the property price within each band. An extra 3% rate (6% in Scotland) applies to purchases of additional residential property above £40,000 and all corporate residential properties.

England & Northern Ireland: Stamp duty land tax

* First-time buyers pay nothing on the first £425,000 for properties up to £625,000. A 5% rate will also apply between £425,000 and £625,000.

For residential purchases by ‘non-natural persons’ over £500,000 a rate of 15% applies, subject to certain exclusions.

Scotland: Land and buildings transaction tax

* First-time buyers pay nothing on the first £175,000.

Wales: Land transaction tax

Residential property developer tax

IMPORTANT NOTICE

These rates and allowances are based on fiscal Statement and Budget announcements made by the UK and Northern Ireland, Scottish and Welsh Governments and are for information only.

All information is subject to change before 6 April 2024 and confirmation by the respective governments. The above must not be considered advice and no warranty is given for the accuracy or completeness of the details. Professional advice should be sought before making any decisions.

Rates apply to the UK and Northern Ireland unless stated otherwise.

Plans to simplify tax could require other increases. In 2022/23, NICs generated £178bn, with £103bn from employers, £65bn from employees, and around £10bn from the self-employed.

The Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, has suggested the possibility of eliminating National Insurance contributions (NICs) for workers, following another 2% cut announced during the Budget.

National Insurance, established in 1911, plays a significant role in UK tax revenue, second only to income tax. In 2022/23, NICs generated £178bn, with £103bn from employers and £65bn from employees. Currently, employers pay a 13.8% rate on NICs for each employee, including those over the state pension age, though these employees are exempt from paying NICs themselves.

The idea of abolishing NICs aims to simplify taxation, as Sunak highlighted the complexity of people paying both income tax and NICs, despite the funds supporting the same public services.

This move could significantly reduce the effective tax rate for basic rate taxpayers to 20%. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt also echoed this sentiment, emphasising the unfairness of double taxation on work.

The recent Budget included a repeat of a 2% NIC rate cut, initially implemented in January, now totaling a 4% reduction. This proposal has sparked debate, with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer criticising the plan as an unfunded commitment surpassing £46bn, potentially requiring increases in other taxes, like income tax, to compensate for the loss of NIC revenue.

The discussion comes ahead of a general election, indicating efforts to appeal to voters with tax reforms.

Talk to us about your tax return.

Navigating your finances with confidence

As we step into the 2024/25 tax year, it’s now more important than ever to take a proactive approach to managing your personal finances.

Whether you’re navigating the complexities of income tax, considering investment opportunities or planning for your future, understanding the nuances of the UK tax system can help you make informed decisions.

This guide is crafted with you in mind, offering clarity and actionable advice to help you optimise your tax position and secure your financial wellbeing.

Embracing the basics: Understanding your tax obligations

The foundation of effective tax planning is a solid understanding of your tax obligations. The UK tax system may seem daunting at first glance, but once you grasp the basics, you’ll be better positioned to identify saving opportunities.

Income tax: Know your rates and allowances

Income tax is charged on various forms of income, including wages, pensions and savings interest, but everyone is entitled to a personal allowance — the amount you can earn before you start paying income tax. Be aware, however, that those earning above £100,000 have a reduced personal allowance.

For the 2024/25 tax year, this allowance remains at £12,570. Beyond this, tax bands are applied progressively, meaning the more you earn, the higher the rate of tax you will pay on your income over the allowance.

• Basic rate (20%) applies to income over £12,570 up to £50,270.
• Higher rate (40%) is charged on income between £50,271 and £125,140.
• Additional rate (45%) affects income above £125,140.

Understanding which tax bracket you fall into is the first step in identifying how to manage your tax liabilities effectively.

Personal Savings Allowance and Dividend Allowance

For savers and investors, the Personal Savings Allowance (PSA) and Dividend Allowance present opportunities to earn income with favourable tax treatment. The PSA allows basic rate taxpayers to earn up to £1,000 in savings interest without paying tax, which decreases to £500 for higher-rate taxpayers. The Dividend Allowance permits £500 of dividend income to be received tax-free, regardless of your income tax band.

Marriage allowance

Married couples and those in civil partnerships could be eligible to apply for the marriage allowance. Those whose earnings are too low to fully utilise their personal allowance have the option to transfer this unused portion to their spouse or civil partner, up to a certain limit. This benefit cannot be accessed if the receiving spouse or partner is a higher or additional rate tax payer.

For the 2024/25 tax year, the highest amount that can be transferred stands at £1,260.

Maximising your allowances

One of the simplest yet most effective tax planning strategies is to ensure you’re fully utilising your available allowances.

ISAs: A tax-efficient haven for your savings

Individual savings accounts (ISAs) remain a cornerstone of personal tax planning. With a generous annual allowance of £20,000 for the 2024/25 tax year, ISAs offer a tax-efficient shelter for your savings and investments, with no tax on interest, dividends or capital gains. Whether you opt for a cash ISA, stocks and shares ISA, or the innovative lifetime ISA, making the most of this allowance can significantly enhance your wealth, tax-free.

In the Spring Budget 2024, the Government announced the introduction of the UK ISA. The new £5,000 allowance, in addition to the existing ISA allowance, will provide a new tax-free savings opportunity for people to invest in the UK, while supporting UK companies.

Pension contributions: Investing in your future

Contributing to a pension not only secures your future but also offers immediate tax relief. Contributions are topped up by the government at your highest rate of income tax, making them one of the most tax-efficient forms of saving. For the 2024/25 tax year, the annual allowance for pension contributions increases to £60,000, or 100% of your earnings, whichever is lower. Utilising this allowance can reduce your taxable income and the amount of tax you owe; the allowance can also be tapered down for high earners.

Planning for capital gains

Capital gains tax (CGT) is levied on the profit made when you sell or ‘dispose of’ an asset that has appreciated in value. It is important to note that it is the profit or ‘gain’ from the sale that is subject to taxation, rather than the total amount of money received from the sale. The essence of CGT is to tax the increase in value of an asset from the time it was acquired to the time it is sold, covering a wide range of assets including property, stocks and shares, among others.

For the fiscal year 2024/25, there is an annual exempt amount set at £3,000. This exemption allows individuals to realise gains of up to this limit without the need to pay any CGT. This threshold provides a strategic opportunity for taxpayers to manage their assets in a taxefficient manner. By planning the sale of assets, such as real estate, stocks or collectables, individuals can ensure that their gains do not exceed the exempt amount in any given tax year, thereby avoiding CGT on those gains.

Strategic planning can involve timing the sale of assets to take full advantage of the annual exemption. For instance, if an individual anticipates a gain that would exceed the exemption limit, they might consider spreading the disposal of assets over multiple tax years. This approach allows for the utilisation of the annual exempt amount in each year, potentially reducing the overall tax liability.

Inheritance tax planning: Safeguarding your legacy

Inheritance tax (IHT) planning is a crucial aspect of long-term financial planning. With the IHT threshold frozen at £325,000, any estate valued above this amount could be subject to a 40% tax rate on the excess.

However, strategies such as gifting, placing assets into trust or investing in IHT-efficient investments can mitigate potential tax liabilities and protect your estate for future generations.

Contact your accountant or financial advisor to discuss the additional exempt amount for residential properties, in addition to the standard £325,000, as the vast majority of people with inheritance tax liabilities will also have a residential property.

Navigating changes and seeking professional advice

The tax landscape is ever-evolving, with changes introduced in each Budget affecting allowances, rates and reliefs. Keeping abreast of these changes is vital for effective tax planning. However, the complexity of tax legislation means that personalised advice from a tax professional can be invaluable. A tailored approach, considering your unique circumstances and goals, can help maximise your tax-efficiency and financial wellbeing.

As we navigate the 2024/25 tax year, remember that effective tax planning is a continuous process, not a once-a-year task. By understanding your obligations, utilising available allowances and reliefs, and seeking professional advice, you can take control of your financial future with confidence.

Here are a few ways an accountant can assist in navigating changes and seeking professional advice.

• Identifying opportunities for tax savings: An accountant can review your financial situation to identify any opportunities to save on taxes. This could include making use of all available allowances, deductions and reliefs that you may not be aware of.
• Staying compliant: With tax laws constantly changing, an accountant ensures that you remain compliant, avoiding penalties and fines. This involves not just understanding current laws but also keeping an eye on upcoming changes that may affect your financial planning.
• Strategic financial planning: Accountants can assist in long-term financial planning, including retirement planning, investments and business growth strategies, ensuring that tax efficiency is considered at every step.
• Risk management: By understanding the nuances of tax legislation, accountants can help identify potential risks to your financial health and suggest strategies to mitigate them.
• Representation in tax investigations: Should you face a tax investigation, having an accountant can be invaluable. They can represent you, handle communications with tax authorities, and ensure the process is as smooth as possible.
• Tailored advice for major life events: Whether you’re selling a property, starting a business or planning for retirement, an accountant can provide personalised advice to optimise your tax position during significant life events.
• Educating on financial decisions: An accountant doesn’t just manage your finances, they can also educate you on the implications of financial decisions, helping you to understand complex tax issues and enabling informed decision-making.

Talk to an expert

By leveraging the expertise of an accountant like us, you can navigate the complex tax landscape with greater ease and confidence, ensuring that your financial planning is both compliant and optimised for your specific situation.

Need assistance? Get in touch for advice on your personal tax planning.

The average house price increased by 1.2% compared to last year, climbing to an average of £260,420. The last growth was seen in January 2023.

In February, UK house prices experienced their first annual increase in over a year, signalling a rejuvenation in the housing market spurred by reduced borrowing costs.

Nationwide has reported that the average house price climbed to £260,420, marking a 0.7% rise from January and a 1.2% increase from the same time last year.

Despite this positive shift, house prices remain roughly 3% below the peak levels of summer 2022. Both buyers and sellers are becoming more active, with property website Zoopla predicting a 10% boost in home sales this year.

Further optimism comes from the Bank of England (BoE) reporting a spike in new mortgage approvals in January, marking the highest level seen since October 2022, although lending rates are still low by historical standards.

Despite these challenges, the BoE has maintained interest rates at 5.25%, with financial markets anticipating a slight decrease in the coming months.

Nationwide chief economist, Robert Gardner, said:

“The decline in borrowing costs around the turn of the year appears to have prompted an uptick in the housing market. “While the squeeze on household budgets is easing, with wage growth now outstripping inflation by a healthy margin, it will take time to make up for the ground lost over the past few years, especially given consumer confidence remains fragile.”

Talk to us about your property finances.

Cashflow management advice

Managing cashflow effectively is critical for the survival and growth of your small business. It’s about planning, monitoring and controlling the money coming in and going out of your business, which ensures you have enough cash to cover your expenses and avoid insolvency.

Given the nature of the economy and evolving business practices, staying updated with the latest tools and strategies is vital.

In this spotlight, we explore detailed cashflow management tips, incorporating practices and tools that have gained popularity in recent years, ensuring you can effectively manage your cashflow cycle with modern methodologies.

Understand your cashflow

The first step in managing cashflow is to understand how it works within your business. This involves knowing when and how your income and expenses occur. Create a cashflow forecast that includes all expected inflows (from sales, accounts receivable and so on) and outflows (such as operating expenses, inventory purchases and loan payments).

This forecast should be updated regularly to reflect actual figures and revised projections. Tools like Float or Pulse can automate this process, integrating with accounting software to provide real-time cashflow analysis.

Improve receivables

Accelerating the inflow of cash is crucial. You can do this by carrying out the following.

Invoicing promptly

Use online invoicing tools like FreshBooks or Xero, which can send invoices automatically and follow up on unpaid ones.

Offering payment incentives

Provide discounts for early payments to encourage customers to pay sooner. Offering payment incentives is a strong strategy to encourage quicker customer payments, improving cashflow.

By reducing the payment timeframe, you can use the incoming funds more effectively for operations or investments. This approach not only accelerates cash inflow but can also strengthen customer relationships by providing value through cost savings.

It’s important to carefully structure these discounts to ensure they don’t erode profit margins significantly. Calculating the right balance between incentivising early payments and maintaining profitability is key.

Implementing payment terms

Clearly define short payment terms to encourage quicker payments. Implementing these shorter payment terms involves setting and communicating clear, concise deadlines for payment from customers, typically ranging from net 10 to net 30 days after invoicing.

This strategy encourages faster payment, enhancing your business’s cashflow. It’s crucial to establish these terms upfront in contracts and invoices and to communicate them effectively to ensure customers are aware of their obligations. Establishing a consistent follow-up process for late payments is also essential to maintaining effective cashflow management.

Streamline payment processes

Incorporating a strategy to sign clients up for direct debits can be highly beneficial. Utilising a service such as GoCardless can significantly enhance cashflow. This approach not only streamlines the payment process but also ensures a more predictable income stream, mitigating the uncertainties associated with late payments. Adopting such a method can be a game-changer for maintaining financial stability and operational efficiency

Manage payables wisely

While you want cash to come in faster, it’s beneficial to slow down cash going out, without damaging relationships with suppliers. Strategies include:

• Negotiating longer payment terms with suppliers to keep cash longer.
• Leveraging payment schedules to spread out payments.
• Using a credit card for any purchases (and then paying the balance before any interest is charged).
• Taking advantage of payment terms if you’re offered a discount for early payment – calculate if the cash saving outweighs the benefits of holding onto your cash longer.

Maintain a cash reserve

Maintaining a cash reserve is a strategic financial safety net for your businesses, designed to shield against unforeseen cashflow dips. Determining its size involves analysing historical financial patterns and anticipating future needs, ensuring the reserve is sufficient but not excessive.

Optimal placement for this reserve might be in high-yield savings accounts or money market accounts, which offer higher interest rates than regular accounts, allowing the reserve to grow while remaining readily accessible for emergency use or unexpected opportunities.

Use technology to your advantage

Technological advancements have introduced various tools to help small businesses manage cashflow more efficiently.

• Accounting software: Tools such as QuickBooks Online and Sage provide invaluable insights into your financials, automating cashflow forecasts and budgeting.
• Payment solutions: Platforms like PayPal, Stripe and GoCardless offer efficient ways to manage incoming payments, reducing the time it takes to receive funds.
• Expense tracking: Apps like Expensify or Receipt Bank help track and manage expenses, ensuring they are recorded and monitored effectively.

In the past year or two, several trends have emerged in cashflow management.

• Integrated financial platforms: Tools such as Plaid and Codat allow businesses to integrate their financial accounts, providing a unified view of their finances and improving cashflow analysis.
• Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning: These technologies are increasingly being used to predict cashflow trends more accurately, identifying potential shortfalls before they occur.
• Flexible financing solutions: With the rise of fintech, more flexible financing options are available, such as invoice financing through platforms like Fundbox.

Reduce costs and increase efficiency

Streamline operations

Review your business operations regularly for efficiency improvements. This might mean automating repetitive tasks or reducing waste.

Regularly review and update your business processes to keep on top of operations.

By doing so, you can significantly lower your operational costs, improve productivity and ultimately increase profitability. This approach requires a commitment to continuous improvement and openness to adopting new technologies and methods that can drive better business outcomes.

Outsource non-core activities

Outsourcing tasks such as payroll, HR or IT can save money in the long run, allowing you to focus on core business activities.

Outsourcing these tasks can not only optimise the functions but could also translate into significant cost savings over time. By delegating these areas to external experts, a business can reallocate resources and focus on its primary operations and growth strategies.

This approach enhances operational efficiency and leverages the expertise of outsourced professionals, potentially leading to higher productivity and improved business outcomes.

Monitor inventory

Inventory management can significantly impact your cashflow.

Excessive inventory can severely tie up your cash. Money that could be used for other operational expenses or investment opportunities is instead locked up in stock that sits idle. This not only affects liquidity but also increases storage costs and risks of obsolescence or spoilage, especially for perishable and fashion items.

On the flip side, too little inventory can lead to stockouts, resulting in lost sales and services, leading to dissatisfied customers. This can damage a brand’s reputation and customer loyalty, potentially driving customers to competitors. The opportunity cost of lost sales can sometimes exceed the cost savings from keeping inventory levels low.

Tools like Inventory Planner and Cin7 provide analytics and forecasting to optimise inventory levels, helping to free up cash while ensuring product availability.

Focus on profitable sales

Not all sales are equally beneficial for cashflow. Focus on products or services with higher margins or faster turnover rates. Prioritising these higher-margin sales or quick-turnaround products enhances cashflow effectiveness. This strategic focus can allow you to maximise profit and liquidity by channelling efforts into the most financially rewarding areas of your business.

Analyse sales data to identify these items and adjust your sales and marketing efforts accordingly. A thorough analysis of sales data helps identify these key products or services, enabling targeted adjustments to capitalise on the most lucrative opportunities, thus polishing revenue streams and improving your overall financial health.

Cultivate relationships

Before you need them, investigate and build relationships with potential lenders, including banks and alternative financing sources like peer-to-peer lenders or crowdfunding platforms.

Understanding your options in advance can save precious time if you need to arrange financing quickly to manage cashflow issues.

Regularly review strategy

The economic landscape and your business environment are constantly changing. Regular reviews of your cashflow management practices ensure they remain effective. This includes reassessing your cashflow forecasts, monitoring your business’s financial health, and staying informed about new tools and practices that could enhance your cashflow management.

Seek expert advice

Engaging a professional adviser can significantly enhance your cashflow management. Accountants can bring specialised expertise to streamline your business’s financial operations, advising on strategies to best manage cash inflows and minimise outflows.

By assessing your current financial status, they can craft tailored plans aimed at improving your cashflow, from reducing unnecessary expenses to advising on investment options that match your risk appetite. Additionally, they can provide insights into tax efficiencies to ensure you’re not overpaying, thereby improving your overall financial health and enabling more informed decision-making for sustained growth.

Get in touch to find out how we can help you manage your cashflow.

Funding aims to drive economic growth, enhance health resilience, and generate employment.

Jeremy Hunt has announced a £360m investment in UK manufacturing to drive economic growth, enhance health resilience and generate employment.

Furthermore, there will soon be opportunities for companies to engage in a £520m life sciences manufacturing fund designed to prepare for health emergencies and enhance the UK’s research and development capabilities.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy, supported by over £2bn in government funding, to foster the development of zero-emission vehicles and their supply chains. According to the Treasury, these measures will help create 100,000 jobs in the battery sector by 2030.

These investments are targeting sectors where the UK has the potential to be a global leader, designed to attract private investment and support job creation.

The Chancellor has also detailed a £50m apprenticeship growth pilot over two years to support sectors like advanced manufacturing, engineering, green industries and life sciences.

Starting in April, eligible apprenticeship programmes in fields such as pipe welding, nuclear technology and laboratory techniques will receive £3,000 for each new apprentice.

This funding aims to help providers invest in necessary equipment and tools to expand and improve their training offerings. More information on this initiative is due to be released shortly.

Talk to us about your business.

Fiscal drag raises tax burden for many. Following the recent Spring Budget, NI rates in the UK will decrease by 2%.

Following the recent Spring Budget, National Insurance (NI) rates in the UK will decrease by two percentage points, reducing to 8% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270, down from the current 10%.

This change, effective from April, appears to initially increase take-home pay for workers. However, tax thresholds, including the starting point for income tax and NI contributions, are frozen until 2028. This freeze, despite potential wage increases due to inflation, results in what is known as “fiscal drag” or a “stealth tax”, indirectly raising the tax burden over time.

By considering both the NI reduction and the impact of frozen tax thresholds, it can be calculated whether individuals have received a net tax cut or increase over the past year.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) notes that if the basic tax threshold had risen with inflation, it would reach £15,220 by 2024/25, providing £2,650 more tax-free income. Consequently, workers earning between £32,000 and £55,000, or above £131,000, will benefit from the government’s tax adjustments, saving or losing differing amounts depending on their income bracket.

For example, a £50,000 salary yields a £752 annual saving, while someone on £16,000 pays an additional £607. These calculations exclude specific tax deductions or credits, with the ongoing freeze until 2028 likely to disadvantage most UK residents amid the highest tax burden in 70 years. Internationally, however, the UK’s tax rates remain comparatively moderate.

Talk to us about your finances.

SPOTLIGHT ON:

How to improve your financial health

How to improve your financial health

Improving your financial health involves strategic planning, informed decision-making, and constant adjustments. There are many factors to consider – so how do you know where to begin? While everyone’s circumstances are unique, there are steps you can take to enhance your financial well-being. Here are some actions you can employ to boost your financial wellness.

Develop a budget

Creating an in-depth budget is a fundamental step toward financial stability. Begin by thoroughly understanding your monthly income and paying attention to all sources of revenue. You should identify your fixed income and also any additional earnings or irregular income streams.

Next, categorise and track your expenditures, distinguishing between essential expenses, such as housing and groceries, and discretionary spending, including entertainment and non-essential purchases. This breakdown helps provide a clear picture of where your money is going.

If possible, you should also allocate a portion of your income towards savings and targeted financial goals. For example, you could designate amounts to help you achieve milestones like homeownership or pay for education expenses. Allocating funds in this way builds financial discipline and ensures that you’re actively working towards both your short-term needs and long-term goals.

And remember: budgeting isn’t a one-time event. You’ll need to regularly adjust your budget to accommodate any changes in income, expenses or financial goals to ensure that your financial plan is effective.

Manage your debt

Effectively managing and reducing existing debts is a must for improving your financial health. Start by assessing all your outstanding debts, including credit cards, loans, and other financial obligations. Categorise debts based on their interest rates, focusing on those with higher rates first. This approach helps minimise the overall interest paid over time.

Once your debts are categorised, you should develop a detailed debt repayment plan. Prioritise paying off high-interest debts first while making smaller payments on other obligations. You could also consider negotiating with creditors for lower interest rates or exploring debt consolidation options to streamline payments.

Systematically paying off debts requires consistency, so allocate a specific portion of your monthly budget to debt repayment and adhere to the plan as well as you can. As you gradually settle your debts, you can reallocate the freed-up funds to accelerate the repayment of any remaining balances.

Once your strategy is in motion, remember to monitor your progress, adjust the plan as needed, and celebrate milestones along the way. By diligently following a well-structured debt management strategy, you pave the way for improved financial health and future financial freedom.

Nurture savings and investments

Establishing a robust savings and investment strategy is integral to achieving financial security. You can start by consistently contributing to designated savings and investment accounts like individual savings accounts (ISAs) and ensuring you make the most of your tax-free allowances. Additionally, you could explore the advantages of stocks and shares ISAs, which offer tax-free investment growth.

Preparing for retirement

Carefully managing your savings and investments can also help you prepare for retirement. Regularly contributing to your pension pot means you can benefit from tax savings while protecting your financial future. If you don’t have a workplace pension, you should consider paying into a personal pension plan to ensure you have enough money set aside to fund your retirement.

Contributions to these accounts often come with tax advantages, providing immediate benefits, while earnings can grow tax-free over time. Regularly review your retirement savings strategy, making adjustments to contributions based on changing financial circumstances and retirement goals.

This proactive approach assures that you optimise available tax benefits and build a resilient retirement fund. Seeking advice from financial experts familiar with retirement options can further enhance your long-term planning.

Diversifying your investment portfolio

Diversification is key when delving into investments. Allocating your funds across various asset classes (such as stocks, bonds and property) can spread risk and enhance the potential returns. This approach may help mitigate the impact of market fluctuations on individual pieces of your overall portfolio. However, you should always consult an expert before making any significant investments to ensure that you make the best decision possible. Routinely reassess your investment strategy to align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

An expert can adjust asset allocation as needed as your investment options evolve or economic conditions change. Continual observing and periodic rebalancing ensure that your investment portfolio remains aligned with your objectives, providing a balanced approach to wealth accumulation over time.

Build an emergency fund

Creating and maintaining an adequate emergency fund is a cornerstone of sound financial planning. The amount of money you’ll need to save for your fund will depend on your financial circumstances, but you should typically aim to save up enough to cover three to six months’ worth of expenses. Start by setting aside regular payments into a dedicated savings account. This fund should include essential costs such as rent or mortgage, utilities, groceries, insurance, and other crucial monthly expenditures.

Though an emergency fund may take some time to build, it can provide you with a financial safety net. Your fund can help protect you against unexpected circumstances like job loss, medical emergencies, personal issues, or unforeseen costs. It also reduces the need to rely on credit cards, loans, or other high-interest borrowing methods during times of financial stress.

We rcommend setting up a separate account for your emergency fund to minimise the temptation of dipping into it for non-emergencies. Consider using low- risk accounts that are easily accessible like instant-access savings accounts or easy-access ISAs to ensure you can withdraw funds when needed.

Life events such as marriage, births, or changes in employment may warrant adjustments to your emergency fund, so frequently evaluate and update it as your financial situation changes. Prioritising the maintenance of your emergency fund strengthens your ability to navigate unanticipated challenges with confidence.

Comprehensive insurance coverage

Acquiring appropriate insurance coverage can also give you an added layer of protection, but it’s important to choose the policies that work best for you.

Private health insurance, for example, can offer benefits such as quicker access to specialists and elective procedures.

Meanwhile, life insurance can provide financial protection to your loved ones in the event of your death. There are various life insurance options, including term life insurance that provides coverage for a specified period and whole-of-life insurance that covers you throughout your lifetime.

Comprehensive property coverage can also safeguard your property against fire, theft, or accidents, so reassess your insurance policies often to check they align with familial changes or changes in homeownership. Acquiring good insurance is especially important if you run a rental business or own a large property portfolio.

Seek professional help

Hiring a professional adviser can give you greater financial peace of mind and make it easier to achieve your personal goals. As your accountants, we can offer financial expertise in numerous areas, providing tailored guidance to align with your particular goals and circumstances. We’ll analyse your current financial situation to create a plan that changes your financial well-being for the better, whether that means helping you protect your wealth, maximising your savings, or recommending investment strategies suitable for your risk tolerance.

Additionally, we can offer valuable insights into tax planning to ensure you’re not overpaying your personal tax bill. Regular consultation with a financial adviser can help facilitate informed decision-making, long-term financial well-being, and a healthier pursuit of your financial aspirations.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you improve your