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For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

How to work out tax and NI

Small-business owners are not expected to be experts on tax and NI, but ignorance is no defence. Here are some of the key rates and facts you need.

Resource topics

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It helps to understand the taxes likely to affect your business, and have systems to help you comply with your obligations. Read our tax overview.
Once your sales reach the annual threshold, you must register for VAT. Our guide to when and how to register, and what you need to do once you have.
National Insurance overview for employers to help minimise National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and understand National Insurance rates and allowances.
If you register for VAT with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), you must charge VAT on any goods and services you sell that are subject to VAT.
If you're self-employed it's up to you to take responsibility for paying income tax and NI. Accountant James McBrearty explains the basics
Chartered certified accountant Raphael Coman of Coman & Co answers some key questions about tax returns, including important deadlines.
Kate Fisher explains the circumstances under which your business should be VAT registered, when you have to register and when you might choose to.
If you have employees, you must operate a PAYE scheme. Chartered accountant Howard Hackney provides need-to-know answers to questions about PAYE.
If you take on employees, you will need to set up a payroll system to make sure you're fulfilling your legal obligations. Here's where to start.