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A new podcast called Penny to the Pound, providing practical personal budgeting support and guidance, has been launched by Clear Start Accountants. Co-hosted by Clear Start’s Founder and CEO Fiaz Ashraf, the podcast will welcome a host of experts and industry leaders across the series to offer their views for those embarking on a journey to financial freedom. As part of a dual offering, in addition to accountancy services provided by a qualified team of accountants, Clear Start Accountants also provides a monthly budgeting service for businesses and individuals. Throughout the series, Penny to the Pound will explore and demystify in an easy-to-listen format relevant topics such as personal budgeting, household expenses, individual voluntary arrangements (IVAs) and debt relief orders. Fiaz Ashraf, Founder and CEO of Clear Start Accountants comments: “With the rising cost-of-living and current economic climate in mind, we understand the challenges presented when it comes to managing a household budget – something that can also be a very time-consuming process. At Clear Start Accountants, we are committed to supporting our clients by helping them to understand their monthly income, expenditure and areas of overspending with our unique personal budgeting platform, and we wanted to further extend this support to the wider community with the launch of Penny to the Pound. “We have helped countless consumers and small businesses in reducing their living costs to date, identifying alternative cheaper expenses or ways to reduce their monthly outgoings in areas including gas and electricity, car insurance, fuel prices, monthly food prices and savings.” The podcast is now available to listen to on all major platforms, and can be viewed on the Clear Start Accountants Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ClearStartAccountants

The team at Clear Start Accountants is celebrating a record year for charitable donations, raising a massive £100,00 for numerous organisations in need of vital funds. Both regional and national charities have benefited from the substantial fundraising efforts, enabling the causes to continue their critical work throughout the community. Much-needed funds have been shared with twelve organisations including CEO Sleepout, War Child, UNICEF, Orphans in Need, Makki Masjid, Zakat Foundation, AL-Khair Foundation, Smile Aid, Human Appeal, AL-Firdous Organisation, Penny Appeal and the Amir Khan Foundation. Fiaz Ashraf, Founder and CEO of Clear Start Accountants comments: “It is an honour to support a range of charities and not-for-profit organisations, contributing vital funds as they endeavour to provide essential aid to their beneficiaries. “At Clear Start Accountants, we firmly believe in the importance of giving back to not only our local community but those that are supporting others, while also recognising the significant work that they do.”

As we move into the 2025/26 tax year, it’s important for individuals and businesses alike to understand the latest updates and how they might affect your finances. At Clear Start Accountants, we’re here to break down the key changes so you can stay informed and prepared. 📆 When does the new tax year start? The 2025/26 tax year runs from 6 April 2025 to 5 April 2026. 💷 1. Income Tax Bands There are no changes to the main income tax thresholds in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The bands remain as follows: Personal Allowance: £12,570 (unchanged) Basic Rate (20%): £12,571 to £50,270 Higher Rate (40%): £50,271 to £125,140 Additional Rate (45%): Over £125,140 👉 Note: In Scotland, income tax bands differ due to devolved powers. Scottish taxpayers should refer to the Scottish Government’s budget for specific rates. 🏡 2. National Insurance Contributions (NICs) One of the most significant changes is to National Insurance: Class 1 Employee NICs: Reduced from 10% to 8% for earnings between £12,570 and £50,270. Self-employed Class 4 NICs: Reduced from 8% to 6% for profits between £12,570 and £50,270. Class 2 NICs: Abolished – self-employed individuals will no longer need to pay this flat-rate contribution. This represents meaningful savings for employees and the self-employed. 🧾 3. Dividend Allowance and Capital Gains Tax The Dividend Allowance has been halved again to £500 (was £1,000 in 2024/25). The Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Annual Exempt Amount is now £3,000, down from £6,000 in the previous year. This means investors and company directors may face higher tax bills on dividend income and capital gains. 🏠 4. Property and Buy-to-Let Updates There are no major changes to Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) thresholds in England and Northern Ireland. However, the government has reaffirmed its commitment to reviewing property taxes, and we may see future changes announced later in the year. 💼 5. Corporation Tax and Business Support Corporation Tax remains at 25% for companies with profits over £250,000. For companies with profits under £50,000, the small profits rate of 19% applies. Profits between £50,000 and £250,000 are taxed at a tapered rate. The Full Expensing Scheme, allowing companies to deduct 100% of the cost of eligible plant and machinery, has been made permanent. 🧒 6. Child Benefit Changes From April 2025, the High Income Child Benefit Charge threshold rises from £50,000 to £60,000. It is also being gradually tapered up to £80,000, meaning more families will retain their full entitlement. 👩‍💼 7. Pension and Savings Changes The Annual Allowance for pension contributions remains at £60,000. The Lifetime Allowance was officially abolished from April 2024 – this continues into 2025/26. The ISA allowance remains at £20,000. Need Help Navigating the New Tax Year? At Clear Start Accountants, we understand that staying up to date with tax changes can be overwhelming. Whether you're self-employed, running a business, or looking to optimise your personal finances, our expert team is here to help you make the most of your money in 2025/26. 📞 Contact us today to book a free consultation.