>
Guides>
Business

Business guides

Our business guides cover a wide selection of topics, ranging from insurance to getting the best business utility tariffs. Our guides can help you cut some of your company's everyday costs.

Blurred lines between work and home are harming SME productivity – here’s how to fix it

Small business owners face a growing challenge: the “infinite workday” is stretching hours and draining productivity.

This is why your business name matters

The right business name builds trust and sets you apart, while the wrong one can confuse customers or harm your brand.

How do card machines work? A step-by-step guide for SMEs

Take card payments with confidence. This guide explains the process, costs and machine types to help you find the best fit for your small business.

Notepad with VAT written on it. Beside it on the desk is a cup of black coffee a form and a calculator.

What is VAT and how it works: a clear guide for business owners

If you run your own business, make sure you understand when you need to register for VAT and how to submit your VAT return.

An older businessman shakes the hand of a young entrepreneur. Two colleagues applaud from the sidelines.

Angel investors: how to secure funding for your startup

Angel investors, wealthy individuals investing in startups, offer vital funding opportunities for new businesses. Here’s what you need to know.

Young businesswoman working on her laptop in an office.

12 practical steps to improve your business credit score

A strong business credit score can open the door to better financing options. Discover how to boost your rating by managing debts, improving cash flow and more.

Businessman working on his laptop in an office with wooden shelves.

What’s a good business credit score for finance? Your UK guide.

Find out how your business credit score affects your chances of getting a loan or credit card, and what score you should aim for.

What’s a good business credit score for finance? Your UK guide.

Find out how your business credit score affects your chances of getting a loan or credit card, and what score you should aim for.

Businessman working on his shop on a laptop and phone

13 golden rules for managing your small business finances

Discover the key rules for managing your business finances to improve your chances of long-term success.

Casual business woman using her smartphone in a modern, cool office space

Making Tax Digital for sole traders: your MTD-ready prep checklist

This straightforward guide explains everything sole traders need to know to prepare for Making Tax Digital.

Business partners in a cafe, work together on a screen

Business partnerships in the UK: types, how they work and key pros and cons

Discover how UK business partnerships work, the differences between general, limited and LLP structures, and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Craftswoman working on her laptop in the evening

What is a sole trader? A no-nonsense guide to getting started

Thinking of starting a business? Learn how to take full control, manage your taxes, and keep things simple with this straightforward guide to being a sole trader.

How to start a business partnership in the UK – a practical nine-step guide

Step-by-step guide to starting a business partnership in the UK, including how to register, choose a partner and meet legal requirements.

Business Plan Schedule Written on a Notebook

Simple business template with step-by-step guide (plus example)

Write your business plan today with our free step-by-step guide, template and practical example – structured and tailored for any business type.

Choosing the right business structure: seven key factors to consider

We outline the essential issues you should think about when deciding which business structure is right for you.

How to identify and reach your target audience: a complete guide

Learn how to define, find and market products and services to your target audience using real-world examples and simple steps to grow your small business.

How to do competitor analysis for your small business in seven steps

Understanding your competitors is essential for helping your business stand out in the market.

What is a limited company? A simple guide for UK entrepreneurs

Find out how a limited company can protect your personal assets, provide tax advantages, and enhance your business’s credibility.

Sole trader business credit cards: everything you need to know

A business credit card can help cover essential costs when running your own company. Here's how they work.

Corporate credit cards: what they are and how they work

Learn how corporate credit cards can help you streamline business expenses, control spending and support your company’s financial operations.

Business expenses: what you can (and can’t) claim

Discover what counts as a business expense and how claiming such expenses can lower your tax bill.

Business bridging loans: everything you need to know

A business bridging loan is one way for companies to borrow money fast. However, they can prove expensive and are only designed for short-term borrowing.

Partnership bank account: do you need a joint business account?

Setting up a business partnership? Learn whether you need a joint business bank account and how to set one up if you do.

What is a business credit card and why do you need one?

Discover the benefits of holding a business credit card, how to apply for one, and what to watch out for.

Entrepreneur checking orders on her tablet

13 practical ways to get finance for your business

Discover the different types of business finance, along with their pros and cons, so you can decide what works best for you.

Card payments explained: a complete guide for small businesses

Learn how card transactions work and the types you might encounter when setting up your business for hassle-free sales.

How to accept credit card payments: a step-by-step guide

With card transactions on the rise, it’s more important than ever to understand how your business can accept credit card payments.

What is the cheapest way to accept card payments in the UK?

Discover the most affordable ways to process card payments for your business. Save on fees with these flexible, easy-to-understand solutions.

Man makes a card payment to the owner of a cafe.

Credit card processing fees in the UK: a complete guide for 2025

Your card provider charges you card processing fees when a customer pays using their card. Here’s how it works.

Small business owner with paperwork and a sleeping baby on his shoulder.

What do you need to open a business bank account in the UK?

Applying for a business bank account? Find out what documents and details you need to provide

Business credit card eligibility checkers: what they are and how they work

Discover the benefits of using an eligibility checker before applying for a business credit card

How to get a business bank account with bad credit

You don’t need a perfect credit score to open a business bank account, but a low score can limit your options. Find out how to boost your chances.

Working capital for small businesses explained

Want to learn about working capital for small businesses? Our short guide tells you everything you need to know.

What is budgeting in business and why is it important?

Discover how budgeting helps manage business finances to ensure long-term success

Business financial planning 101: a small business owner’s guide

Discover everything you need to know about the importance of financial planning for your business.

Overcoming cash flow challenges: practical solutions for small businesses

If your small business faces cash flow problems, it’s important to know how to fix them. This guide offers seven solutions to common cash flow challenges.

Cash flow management: the ultimate guide for small businesses

Find out why managing your cash flow is so important and how to do it.

How to create a small business budget in 5 simple steps

Budgeting is an essential part of running a successful small business. Find out how to create a budget with our user-friendly guide.

Cash flow vs profit: key differences explained

It’s easy to confuse cash flow and profit because having plenty of both suggests success. But this doesn’t make them the same, as we explain in this guide.

Two colleagues working together on a laptop

What is purchase order financing? Everything you need to know

Purchase order financing can provide a vital cash lifeline for SMEs chasing big orders. Find out more with our quick guide.

Casually dressed businesswoman sitting on her desk studying paperwork

Invoice factoring explained: how it works and what to consider

If your business relies on invoicing, invoice factoring can provide early access to customer payments, helping to improve cash flow.

Term loans explained: how they work and when to use one

A term loan lets you repay a lump sum of cash over a fixed term, but is it right for your business?

Pensive businesswoman looks out of a window

How to refinance a business loan: a simple step-by-step guide

Discover how to simplify debt management by securing better loan terms for your business. Follow these key steps to improve cash flow and save money.

A businessman runs calculations while reviewing paperwork

Business finance explained: how to choose the right funding for your business

Explore the key types of business finance, why they matter and how to find the right funding option for your business needs.

VAT loans: a practical guide for UK businesses

Need help with your VAT bill? Short-term VAT loans can cover essential tax payments and keep your business on track.

Businessman sits at a desk and contemplates his paperwork

What is invoice discounting and how does it work?

Discover how you could improve your company’s cash flow by borrowing against your unpaid invoices.

Two workers surrounded by large stainless steel vats at a microbrewery.

What is asset finance? Everything you need to know

Discover how your business could access new equipment or vehicles with minimal upfront costs.

Tradesman checking documents while loading his van.

Asset-based lending: what is it and how does it work?

Find out how you could use business assets to help you secure a loan.

Deli owner taking a credit card payment.

Merchant cash advance explained: a guide for small businesses

A merchant cash advance offers a flexible alternative to a business loan – but is it right for you? Discover the pros and cons in this helpful guide.

Invoice finance explained: a simple guide for SMEs and startups

Invoice finance could be an easy way to boost business cash flow if you regularly invoice clients.

What is a revolving credit facility and how does it work in the UK?

Discover what a revolving credit facility is, how it works, and how it can help manage cash flow for your business.

Florist reviews her options on a laptop.

Working capital loans explained: a practical guide for SMEs

A working capital loan can help to cover the day-to-day running costs of your business. Find out more with our five-minute guide.

Hairdresser takes payment from her customer.

Cash flow loans: the ultimate guide for small businesses in the UK

Learn how cash flow loans can help your business bridge financial gaps. Discover how they work, their benefits, eligibility criteria and how to apply.

Tradesman working on his laptop in his studio.

8 practical tips to separate your personal and business finances

Discover how to differentiate your business and personal spending with this essential five-minute guide.

Woman working late at night at her drop-shipping business.

Business credit score: what it is, how to check it and ways to improve yours

Having a good business credit score can help you secure finance and negotiate better deals. Discover practical steps to boost yours today!

How to build business credit in five quick and easy steps

Learn how to improve business credit with effective strategies that help boost your score and increase your chances of securing better financing options.

Businesswoman packaging up products for delivery to her client.

7 key differences between personal and business credit cards

Discover the features that set personal and business credit cards apart, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What are the key benefits of a business credit card?

A business credit card can be hugely beneficial to your business, but this form of borrowing is not without its pitfalls. Find out what you need to know.

How to use a business credit card: essential tips and best practices

Make the most out of your business credit card with expert tips on managing expenses, boosting cash flow and building credit for financial success.

Owner of a plant shipping business on the phone.

How to choose a business bank account: 7 things to consider

Find out what every company needs to know when choosing a business bank account.

Should you have two business bank accounts?

Discover the potential benefits and pitfalls of having more than one business bank account.

Man in overalls on the telephone and writing in a notepad.

Do sole traders need a business bank account?

Learn the benefits and drawbacks of opening a business bank account as a sole trader and decide if it's the right choice for your financial needs.

How to get a business credit card: expert tips

A business credit card can help you manage work expenses more effectively. Learn how to improve your chances of making a successful application.

Personal vs business bank accounts: key differences explained

Understand how personal and business bank accounts differ and what to look out for when choosing between the two.

What do you need for a business credit card?

Discover which documents and information you need to successfully apply for a business credit card in this practical guide.

Scene in a warehouse. A worker holds his leg in pain, while a colleague tries to help him.

Small business insurance: everything you need to know

Accidents, incidents or legal claims can have a devastating impact on small businesses, which is why it’s so important to have the right cover in place.

Sign in a shop window saying "Come in - we're open".

9 essential legal requirements for starting your business

Learn key requirements for starting your business, including choosing a structure and tax obligations, to ensure you're trading legally.

Businesswoman working on a laptop in a workshop at night.

7 need-to-know legal requirements for sole traders

Understand key legal obligations for sole traders, from tax registration to record-keeping, to keep your business compliant and running smoothly.

Tax advisors vs tax accountants: which should you choose?

Do you need help with your small business taxes? In this guide, we explain how a tax adviser or accountant could ensure you don’t pay more than you owe.

How much should I save for taxes? A practical guide

Whether you’re self-employed, a sole trader or run a limited company, it’s vital to save enough money to pay your annual tax bill. Here’s how.

Corporation tax in the UK: What businesses need to know

Learn how to calculate and reduce your corporation tax bill. This guide provides all the tips on allowances and reliefs you need.

Business woman frowning as she reviews paperwork.

Business tax in the UK: 7 key types you need to know about

Confused about business tax? Learn more about the types of tax your business needs to pay and how to make payments.

How to register for VAT: a step-by-step guide for small businesses

Follow our easy-to-follow guide to registering for VAT.

Pros and cons of being VAT registered: key factors to consider

If you’re considering registering for VAT, be sure to weigh up the pros and cons first.

Business man working on his laptop in his joinery workshop.

What is the VAT registration threshold? A guide for UK businesses

Understand when you need to register for VAT as a business and the consequences if you don’t.

A hand holds a pen while going through a checklist

Financial year-end: essential checklist for small businesses

The end of the financial year can be stressful, but you can reduce the pressure by organising your business affairs in advance.

A childminder sits with two youngsters as they do papercrafts.

UK business licence guide: does your company need a licence?

Find out if your business needs a UK licence. This guide covers all the requirements and licence types and explains how to apply and stay compliant.

Older businessman working from home on his laptop.

When to register your business in the UK

Discover when to register your UK business as a sole trader or limited company with this straightforward guide to the key requirements.

Partners in a ceramics business work together on a laptop.

The 4 main types of UK business structures explained

Starting your own business but not sure which type of business structure to use? Our guide explains all you need to know.

Two business partners discuss their work.

The 7 types of business ownership and the right one for you

Learn about the different types of business ownership in the UK and what you need to consider before choosing the right structure for you.

How to register as self-employed in the UK: a complete guide

If you’re setting up your own business, registering as self-employed is an essential step to getting started.

Electrician checks wiring on a construction site.

How to set up as a sole trader: your practical 9-step checklist

Make sure you understand the rules and regulations that apply when setting up as a sole trader.

How to set up a limited company in the UK: A step-by-step guide

If you’re setting up a limited company, it’s important to understand the rules you need to follow as part of the process.

Business man working from home contemplates his laptop.

Sole trader vs self-employed: key differences explained

All sole traders are self-employed, but not all self-employed business people are sole traders. This guide explains the differences.

A businessman does his paperwork late at night.

What is a business bank account and how does it work?

A business bank account is far more than just a place to deposit your hard-earned cash. It can help you run your firm more efficiently. This guide explains how.

Thoughtful business woman doing paperwork from home.

How to register a business name in the UK in 7 easy steps

Learn how to register a business name in the UK with our simple step-by-step guide.

The letters AI appear in the palm of a hand

How to use AI safely and responsibly in your business

Artificial intelligence (AI) offers businesses a range of efficient ways of working, but it’s not entirely risk free.

A sign hanging from a building wall saying "How to name your business".

7 tips for choosing the perfect business name

Get the know-how to create a standout company name. Discover how to craft a name that’s memorable, consistent and ideal for your business.

Can you be employed and self-employed at the same time?

More and more people are boosting their income by starting a side hustle. Here’s how you can earn extra cash alongside your main job.

Casually dressed colleages collaborate on work plans.

The next 6 steps: an essential checklist for new limited companies

Registering with Companies House is just the start. Explore the key steps every new limited company needs to take to get up and running.

A potter calculates the costs of running a business.

Startup costs: how much money will you need for your business?

Startup costs vary widely depending on the type of business you want to set up. Here’s how to work out how much money you need to fund your business plans.

Group of young entrepreneurs working on ideas.

Startup funding: 10 realistic ways to raise money for your business

Discover 10 effective ways to fund your business, including loans, investors, crowdfunding, and grants, with insights to help you choose the best option.

A joiner contemplates the best way forwards.

Debt vs equity financing: key differences for small businesses

Discover the differences between debt and equity financing. This guide outlines pros and cons, helping small businesses choose the best path for growth.

A woodworker in a backwards baseball cap looks at his smartphone.

Debt financing explained: is it the right choice for your business?

Explore our guide to debt financing for small businesses and whether it’s right for you. Learn about its benefits, drawbacks and top funding sources.

Equity crowdfunding for startups: what it is and how it works

Explore equity crowdfunding with our comprehensive guide. Uncover its benefits, risks and potential to help your business with investor support.

An affluent businessman contemplating his options.

Venture capital for startups and small businesses explained

Discover how venture capital can fuel your startup’s growth. Our guide offers key insights and tips to help you create a winning pitch.

Three dice spelling out P2P. A fourth dice is held cocked between Yes and No.

Peer-to-peer lending: what business owners need to know

Learn how peer-to-peer (P2P) lending can benefit your small business, with key insights into the application process, interest rates, and more.

Five business people feed coins into a single piggy bank.

Crowdfunding: a guide for startups and small businesses

Discover how crowdfunding can help your startup or small business raise funds from people rather than traditional financial institutions.

Sources of funding for your business: top options explained

There are plenty of sources for business finance around if you know where to look. Explore all the available options with our complete guide.

Woman using a laptop. She has paperwork in her hand and more on her desk.

Startup and small business grants in the UK: your complete guide

It takes more than enthusiasm and hard work to make a business work, which is where grants for UK-based startups and small businesses come in.

View All