The Finance Blog

Brain Trust 24

The Finance Blog

Author

Charlotte Whitaker

How to Set Up a Pension Plan for Freelancers

When you’re self-employed, planning for retirement might not be top of your to-do list—but it should be. Without an employer to arrange contributions or auto-enrol you in a workplace pension, your future financial comfort is entirely in your hands. That’s why setting up a self-employed pension is one of the smartest financial decisions you can Read More

Separating Personal and Business Finances

Running your own business can feel like wearing all the hats — marketer, service provider, admin, and accountant. In the rush of juggling clients and chasing invoices, it’s surprisingly easy to blur the lines between your personal and business finances. That quick Amazon purchase? Business or birthday? That £800 payment? Was it for freelance work Read More

Importance of Accurate Record Keeping

If you’ve ever crammed a year’s worth of receipts into a shoebox the night before your Self Assessment deadline, you’re not alone. Many freelancers and small business owners put off bookkeeping because it feels tedious, time-consuming, or just plain confusing. But here’s the thing: accurate record keeping isn’t just a tax requirement — it’s a Read More

How to Calculate and Pay National Insurance

Paying your fair share of National Insurance is more than just a legal requirement—it directly impacts your eligibility for state benefits, including the State Pension. If you’re self-employed or running a small business, understanding how to calculate and pay your National Insurance Contributions (NICs) can seem complicated. But don’t worry—this guide breaks it all down, Read More

Reporting Foreign Income: What You Need to Know

Earning money from outside the UK isn’t just for globe-trotting entrepreneurs or remote-working digital nomads. These days, it’s not uncommon to have income trickling in from overseas clients, dividends from international stocks, or rental income from that flat you inherited in Spain. But here’s the catch — HMRC wants to know about it. And if Read More

Tax Benefits of Contributing to a Pension: What You Need to Know
Charlotte Whitaker April 26, 2025

Let’s be honest — pensions aren’t the most thrilling topic at first glance. They’re often lumped in with other “grown-up” things like life insurance or estate planning. But here’s the truth most people miss: pensions are one of the most generous and underused tax-saving tools in the UK. If you’re working hard to build a Read More

Operating Through an Umbrella Company: A Contractor’s Guide
Charlotte Whitaker April 22, 2025

Thinking about working through an umbrella company but unsure what it really involves? You’re not alone. Umbrella companies provide an easy way for contractors, freelancers, and temp workers in the UK to get paid. However, they have special factors to think about regarding pay, tax, and control. If you’re new to contracting or exploring options Read More