The Finance Blog

Brain Trust 24

The Finance Blog

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Sophie Harrington

IR35 Explained: What Freelancers Need to Know
Sophie Harrington May 13, 2025

If you’re a freelancer in the UK, you’ve probably heard the term IR35 tossed around — often with a mix of confusion and frustration. And you’re not alone. Despite being around since 2000, IR35 rules still trip up even seasoned contractors. So, what exactly is IR35? Why does it matter? And more importantly, how does Read More

How to Avoid Common Tax Mistakes as a Freelancer
Sophie Harrington May 12, 2025

Being your own boss has many perks, but with freedom comes responsibility, especially when it comes to taxes. Every year, thousands of UK freelancers face HMRC penalties due to avoidable tax errors. Whether it’s missing deadlines, misreporting income, or misunderstanding allowable expenses, even simple mistakes can lead to costly consequences. In this guide, we’ll help Read More

VAT Rules for Cross-Border Services

Ever tried making sense of VAT when you’re offering services across borders? It’s like opening a map with no compass — especially if you’re a freelancer, small business owner, or digital service provider working with clients in the EU or beyond. Understanding cross-border VAT isn’t just about ticking boxes for HMRC — it’s about staying Read More

Income Tax Rates for Freelancers in 2025: What You Need to Know

Freelancing offers freedom — no office politics, no clocking in, no micromanagers. But it also brings a less glamorous responsibility: sorting your own taxes. And let’s be honest — the phrase UK tax rates doesn’t exactly spark joy. Still, if you’re freelancing in 2025, understanding how the income tax system works isn’t just important — Read More

Working with a Tax Advisor: When and Why You Should Seek Professional Help

Let’s be honest — when most people think about taxes, they feel one of two things: anxiety or avoidance. And if you’re a freelancer, self-employed, or running a small business, the pressure can be even more intense. Between chasing invoices, tracking expenses, and meeting HMRC deadlines, it’s easy to feel like you’re one missed form Read More

Tax Implications of Working with International Clients: What Every UK Freelancer Should Know

Working with international clients can feel like a major career win. More exposure, diverse projects, and access to higher budgets — what’s not to love? But with great opportunity comes a new set of challenges, and at the top of that list is understanding the tax implications of earning foreign income. If you’re a UK-based Read More

How to Claim Business Expenses Effectively
Sophie Harrington April 30, 2025

Claiming your business expenses well can mean saving on taxes. It helps you keep more money in your pocket. If you’re a freelancer, sole trader, or small business owner, knowing tax deductions is key. It helps you stay compliant and save money while dealing with HMRC claims. In this expert-driven guide, we unpack everything you Read More