# UK Small Business

> Support and Advice for Startups & SMEs


## Posts

- [Best UK Payroll Software Guide: Xero vs Employment Hero vs HiBob vs Moorepay vs PSSG](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-uk-payroll-software-guide-xero-vs-employment-hero-vs-hibob-vs-moorepay-vs-pssg/): Running a small business in the UK requires managing ever-shifting regulatory frameworks. Between real-time information (RTI) submissions to HMRC, mandatory pension auto-enrolment rules, dynamic tax brackets, and shifting policies regarding statutory pay, handling pay runs manually introduces severe operational risks. Even a minor oversight or coding error can result in costly financial penalties from tax authorities and fractured employee trust. For modern UK enterprises, using dedicated, HMRC-recognised automated payroll software is standard practice. However, the software marketplace is diverse, and a tool designed for a single director company will rarely align with the complex needs of a rapidly growing mid-market team […]
- [Best fuel cards for small businesses in the UK](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-fuel-cards-for-small-businesses-in-the-uk/): If your employees regularly drive for work, collecting paper receipts and processing individual fuel claims can quickly become an administrative headache. A fuel card lets your drivers pay at participating petrol stations, and provides your business with an itemised invoice covering transactions across its account. The best fuel card for your business depends on where your drivers travel, how much fuel you buy and whether you want pump prices or a fixed weekly rate. Fees should also factor into your decision. A card that offers a competitive price per litre might not be as cost-effective as it first appears when you […]
- [The 9 best card machines for small businesses in the UK](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-card-machine-for-small-businesses-uk/): Whether you run a bustling café, a boutique shop, or a mobile service, offering seamless and secure payment options is essential. With a wide range of card payment machines for small businesses available, choosing the best one for your needs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a guide to the best card readers for small businesses. From cost-effective solutions to all-in-one POS systems, each option is designed to simplify payments while catering to your unique business requirements. In this article, we provide detailed profiles of some of the best card payment machines for small businesses, covering their key features, pros […]
- [The cheapest card readers for small businesses in the UK](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/cheapest-card-readers-for-uk-small-businesses/): We’ve ranked the cheapest card machines based on their upfront costs, transaction fees, and key features
- [Best CRM systems for UK small businesses in 2026](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-crm-systems-for-uk-small-businesses/): Keeping track of customers is easy enough when you only have a few. You can generally make do with notes in your inbox, a spreadsheet of leads and the odd reminder in your calendar. But once enquiries start coming from different places, quotes need chasing, sales conversations drag on, and more than one person is speaking to customers, you need a more structured solution. That is where customer relationship management (CRM) software comes in. A CRM system gives your business a central place to manage contacts, leads, deals, customer notes, tasks and follow-ups. Some tools keep things simple, while others add […]
- [Best payroll providers for UK small businesses](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-payroll-providers-for-uk-small-businesses/): Running payroll properly is one of those small business tasks you can’t really afford to get wrong. Employees need to be paid accurately and on time, while HMRC submissions, pension deductions, tax codes, payslips and year-end reporting all need to be handled correctly. The right payroll provider can take a lot of that admin off your plate. Some platforms are designed for straightforward UK payroll, while others combine payroll with HR software, managed payroll support or international hiring services. In this guide, we compare some of the best payroll providers for small businesses, including UK payroll platforms, managed payroll services and […]
- [Best POS systems for restaurants in 2026](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-pos-systems-for-restaurants/): Running a restaurant, café or takeaway leaves very little room for slow tills, missed orders or awkward payment delays. When service is in full swing, your POS system needs to do its job quietly in the background: take orders, send them to the right place, process payments and help your team keep tables turning. The best POS systems for restaurants are as effective at helping you to manage menus, split bills, and add tips as they are at tracking stock, monitoring staff performance, and viewing sales reports. It’s also useful if they connect with accounting or delivery platforms. In this guide, […]
- [Top 5 HR Software Solutions for Small Businesses 2026: Comparison & Reviews](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/top-5-hr-software-solutions-for-small-businesses/): When you first start a business, “HR” is usually just a folder on your laptop or a stack of printed contracts in a desk drawer. But as your team grows, the admin starts to bleed into your productive hours. You find yourself chasing people for signed documents, manually calculating pro-rata holiday for a part-time hire, or panicking because you can’t remember if a sick note was actually filed. This is where HR software comes in. But for a small business, “HR software” can mean anything from a simple digital filing cabinet to a complex system that handles everything from hiring to […]
- [How to Hire International Talent Using an Employer of Record (EOR)](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/how-to-hire-international-talent-using-an-employer-of-record-eor/): In the current landscape of rapid global expansion, the question for most growing businesses is no longer if they should hire internationally, but how to do it without getting buried in legal red tape. For many, the answer is an Employer of Record (EOR). An EOR is a third-party organisation that acts as the legal employer for your workers in foreign countries. While your company maintains full control over the employee’s daily tasks, goals, and performance management, the EOR handles the heavy lifting: compliant local contracts, complex payroll cycles, international tax withholding, and mandatory statutory benefits. Why Your Company Would an EOR Expanding into a new […]
- [How to Market Your Holiday Let in 2026 – A Modern Guide](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/how-to-market-your-holiday-let-in-2026-a-modern-guide/): Let’s be honest: the era of “post it and they will come” is dead. In 2026, chucking a few dimly lit photos of a spare cottage onto a booking site and waiting for the cash to roll in is a recipe for an empty calendar. The market isn’t just crowded; it’s saturated. If you’re staring at a sea of unbooked weeks, stop blaming the economy or “the algorithm.” You have to start treating your property like a micro-hotel – and that means grabbing your marketing by the scruff of the neck. If you’re sick of handing over massive chunks of your […]
- [7 viable side hustle Business Ideas for 2026](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/side-hustle-business-ideas/): There is no shortage of side hustle content online. The problem is that a lot of it mixes serious business ideas with low-paid odd jobs, one-off money-makers, or things that sound good in a headline but are difficult to sustain in real life. A viable side hustle should do more than generate a bit of extra cash once or twice. It should fit around your life, have genuine customer demand, be affordable to start, and give you at least some room to grow. It also needs to be something you can keep running without burning out or getting stuck in endless […]
- [How to find the right accountant for your small business](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/how-to-find-the-right-accountant-for-your-small-business/): For a lot of small business owners, hiring an accountant starts out as one of those “I’ll deal with that later” decisions. In the early days, it is often possible to manage with accounting software, a spreadsheet, and a determination to keep receipts in roughly the right place. But as your business grows, finances usually get more complicated. Tax deadlines get closer, payroll might come into the picture, VAT becomes relevant, and suddenly you are spending more time dealing with admin than actually running your business. That’s usually the point where an accountant goes from “nice to have” to genuinely useful. […]
- [Best accounting software for UK small businesses in 2026](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-accounting-software-for-uk-small-businesses/): Choosing the right accounting software is essential for small businesses looking for a way to manage their finances while saving time and staying compliant with tax regulations. But with so many options available, finding the best solution can feel overwhelming. This guide explores the top accounting software for small businesses, comparing key features, benefits, and pricing. Whether you need simple invoicing, expense tracking, or advanced financial reporting, we’ll help you find the perfect fit. Plus, we answer common questions to ensure you make the right choice for your business. The 7 best accounting software providers for small businesses Sage Sage offers […]
- [The best HR software for small businesses in 2026](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-hr-software-for-small-businesses/): Managing human resources effectively is essential for small businesses looking to streamline operations, ensure compliance, and support employee growth. From payroll and benefits administration to hiring and performance management, HR tasks can quickly become overwhelming without the right tools. That’s where HR software comes in—helping small businesses automate processes, reduce administrative burdens, and stay compliant with employment laws. With so many options available, choosing the best HR software can be challenging. To create our list, we evaluated key factors such as ease of use, affordability, essential features (like payroll, compliance, and employee management), and customer reviews. Whether you’re looking for an […]
- [Can my small business get a fee-free card reader – or avoid monthly costs?](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/can-my-small-business-get-a-fee-free-card-reader-or-avoid-monthly-costs/): As a small business owner trying to keep costs down while you grow, you might wonder if there are any free ways to accept card payments. The honest answer is that there are no genuinely fee-free card readers. Every provider needs to make money somewhere, whether that’s through set-up costs, pay-as-you-go transaction fees, monthly charges, or a combination. Which is the most cost-effective? It depends. The key is understanding how different pricing models work in practice. A card reader with no monthly fee might look cheaper on the surface, but higher transaction charges can add up quickly. Equally, a paid plan […]
- [Identity fraud costing businesses millions each year, new research reveals](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/identity-fraud-costing-businesses-millions-each-year-new-research-reveals/): Identity fraud is becoming an increasingly costly issue for businesses worldwide, with businesses losing millions each year to sophisticated scams. According to a new global study by security firms Entrust and Docusign, the average direct cost of identity fraud for large enterprises now stands at $13 million (£10.3 million) annually, rising significantly for even bigger companies. The Future of Global Identity Verification report found that over two-thirds (69%) of organisations have seen a rise in fraud attempts. For businesses with over 10,000 employees, 20% reported direct and indirect fraud costs exceeding $50 million (£39.6 million) per year. The growing threat of […]
- [SMEs keen to invest but holding back ahead of Spring Statement](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/smes-keen-to-invest-but-holding-back-ahead-of-spring-statement/): Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK are eager to invest, with 87% planning to do so this year, according to new research from independent funder Bibby Financial Services (BFS). However, uncertainty surrounding the upcoming Spring Statement on 26th March is prompting many to hold off on key spending decisions. The latest BFS Q1 2025 SME Confidence Tracker, which surveyed 1,000 UK SMEs, reveals a strong sense of optimism, with two-thirds (66%) of businesses expecting sales growth in the next six months. Yet, nearly half (48%) are postponing capital expenditure until after the Chancellor’s speech, and 63% say they would […]
- [The best small business savings accounts for 2026](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/the-best-small-business-savings-accounts/): Running a successful business often means having surplus funds sitting idle in your account, earning little to no interest. But what if you could grow that money effortlessly in one of the best small business savings accounts? Enter business savings accounts—a smart way to earn interest on your surplus revenue while keeping your funds accessible or locked away, depending on your needs. In 2026, the market is brimming with options tailored to business savings accounts, from easy access options for liquidity to fixed-term accounts for higher returns. Whether you’re a sole trader, a limited company, or a growing enterprise, there’s a […]
- [Government axes Payment Systems Regulator - business leaders react](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/government-axes-payment-systems-regulator-business-leaders-react/): The UK government announced on Tuesday that it will abolish the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) and transfer its responsibilities to another financial regulator as part of efforts to slash red tape and encourage economic growth. The PSR, which oversees payment systems such as MasterCard (MA.N) and bank transfers, is responsible for addressing issues like fraud, high fees, and limited competition among banks and payment providers. According to the government, the decision to dissolve the PSR follows concerns from businesses that the UK’s financial regulatory framework—currently divided among the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the Bank of England’s Prudential Regulation Authority, and the […]
- [The best small business grants in the UK](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/the-best-small-business-grants-in-the-uk/): Running a small business comes with many challenges, and securing funding is often one of the biggest hurdles. While loans and investment are common routes, grants provide a valuable alternative—offering financial support without the burden of repayment. Small business grants are available from government agencies, local councils, charities, and private organisations. They can help with everything from launching a new venture and developing innovative products to improving sustainability and creating jobs. However, competition for grants is high, and understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is key to securing funding. This guide explores a range of small business grants available in […]
- [UK small businesses show resilience with job growth despite economic uncertainty](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/uk-small-businesses-show-resilience-with-job-growth-despite-economic-uncertainty/): Small businesses in the UK are continuing to expand their workforce despite ongoing economic challenges, according to Intuit QuickBooks’ monthly Small Business Index. In February, employment at small businesses (those with one to nine employees) increased by 6,000 jobs compared to January, marking a 0.14% rise. This growth brings the total number of employees in small businesses to 4,241,500, continuing the upward trend seen throughout 2025. Alongside employment gains, job vacancies at small businesses also saw a modest rise. The number of open positions increased by 300 in February, representing a 0.25% monthly increase. There are now 125,600 job vacancies across […]
- [Late payments continue to stifle UK small business growth](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/late-payments-continue-to-stifle-uk-small-business-growth/): A new report from bank payment provider GoCardless, in collaboration with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), highlights the growing burden of late payments on UK small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). According to the survey of over 2,000 SMBs, 45% have seen an increase in late payments over the past year, while half expect the issue to worsen in the coming 12 months. Alarmingly, nearly a quarter (24%) report receiving payments up to 60 days late, compounding financial strain. More than half of UK small businesses forced to write off late payments With small businesses making up 60% of UK employment […]
- [The best business bank accounts for small businesses in the UK in 2026](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/11-best-business-bank-accounts-for-small-businesses/): Discover the best small business bank accounts for 2025.
- [HR for small businesses: The ultimate guide](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/hr-for-small-businesses-the-ultimate-guide/): Running a small business means juggling countless responsibilities, but HR is one area that demands your attention. From ensuring compliance to fostering a positive workplace culture, HR plays a pivotal role in your business’s success. HR isn’t just for large corporations. No matter the size of your business, HR ensures your team is managed effectively, compliance is maintained, and your company culture thrives. For small businesses, HR is particularly crucial as it helps streamline essential processes like hiring, onboarding, and performance management, freeing up time and resources to focus on growth. Key HR Functions Below, we’ve combined and expanded on the […]
- [The ultimate guide to small business accounting](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/the-ultimate-guide-to-small-business-accounting/): Running a small business is an exciting journey, but managing your finances can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re handling your accounts yourself or working with an accountant, understanding the basics of small business accounting is essential. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from bookkeeping and record-keeping to filing statutory accounts and managing cash flow. Let’s dive in and make accounting work for your business. Small business accounting vs bookkeeping While often used interchangeably, accounting and bookkeeping serve different purposes in managing your finances. Accounting: Bookkeeping: In short, bookkeeping is about recording data, while accounting uses that data […]
- [The ultimate guide to expense management for small businesses](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/the-ultimate-guide-to-expense-management-for-small-businesses/): Running a small business is an exciting journey, but managing expenses effectively is the key to long-term success. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your financial strategies, this comprehensive guide will help you take control of your business expenses, optimise cash flow, and drive profitability. Why Expense Management is Critical for Small Businesses Effective expense management is more than just tracking costs—it’s about ensuring your business remains financially healthy and poised for growth. By staying on top of your expenses, you can: Read more: Need help managing your expenses? Let the best expenses management software can do all […]
- [How to take card payments as a small businesses: the ultimate guide](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/how-to-take-card-payments-as-a-small-businesses-the-ultimate-guide/): In our increasingly cashless society, card payments are no longer a luxury—they’re a necessity, and businesses that fail to adapt risk losing out on valuable sales. Whether you run a café, a retail shop, or an online store, offering card payment options can significantly enhance your customer experience and boost your bottom line. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about accepting card payments, from setting up your system to ensuring compliance with UK legal requirements. What do you need to take card payments? To start accepting card payments, you’ll need a few essential components: 1. Merchant account A merchant account is a type of […]
- [The ultimate guide to small business bank accounts](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/the-ultimate-guide-to-small-business-bank-accounts/): Starting a business is an exciting journey, but managing your finances effectively is crucial to your success. One of the first and most important steps is choosing the right business bank account. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about small business bank accounts, from whether you need an account to how to choose the best one for your business. Do I need a business bank account for small business? Sole Traders vs. Limited Companies If you’re a […]
- [Best expenses management software for small businesses](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/best-expenses-management-software-for-small-businesses/): For small businesses, managing expenses efficiently is essential to maintaining healthy cash flow and financial stability. However, traditional methods—such as spreadsheets and manual receipt tracking—are often time-consuming, prone to errors, and difficult to scale. As your businesses grows, you’ll quickly see the need for a smarter, automated solution. Expense management software simplifies the process by automating expense tracking, streamlining approvals, and providing real-time insights into company spending. The right tool can save valuable time, reduce administrative burdens, and improve compliance, allowing you to focus on growth rather than paperwork. In this article, we explore the best expense management solutions for small […]
- [The best always free business bank accounts](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/the-best-free-business-bank-accounts/): This guide explores accounts marketed as free or low-cost, detailing their key features, transaction fees, and eligibility criteria for fee-free banking.

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- [Home](https://uksmallbusiness.co.uk/front_page/): UK Small Business Support: Practical Advice to Grow Your SME Alex Stanning Annika Baird Charley Sears Henry Williams James Thompson


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