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Business finance can be complicated. Read on as we explain the ins and outs of commercial finance.
Are you breaking working hour laws without knowing it?
The Working Time Regulations clearly set out the maximum number of hours that employees should spend at work. These regulations apply to most businesses (and workers) and you really should be aware of them. The most important laws are as follows:
Don’t Give Business Debt a Bad Name
When the economy is expanding – which is the vast majority of the time – and optimism generally reigns in the business world, then few people seem to worry about company debts. Instead, they’re far more focused on the exciting prospects a company has for future earnings.
To Buy or to Lease?
If your business needs new equipment, you KNOW that your company needs that equipment and that it makes good business sense to get it. What you may not be so sure about is the best way of getting your hands on it!
Understanding Health and Safety Management Systems
It’s all very well deciding to make health and safety a priority in your company but these good intentions can fall apart if you try to rush the process or fail to do it professionally. You should follow the guidance provided by a health and safety management system and these are produced by both the British Standards Institution and the International Organization for Standardization. Following one of these systems will mean that you can rest assured in the knowledge that every important element of health and safety has been covered and you will also save time otherwise wasted drawing up a potentially sub-standard plan. Although they do not provide you with step-by-step guides as to what to do, they give you enough information to ensure that you can introduce a personalised system for your company.
Why you need to worry about the welfare of your employees
As a small business owner, it is your responsibility to make sure that health and safety regulations are maintained at all times. Furthermore, it is your responsibility to ensure that all employees are fully aware of these regulations and are acting in accordance with them throughout the working day. If you own a business that involves other individuals, such as suppliers and customers who visit your premises, you have a similar responsibility towards them. Although it is a legal requirement for you to take this responsibility seriously, there are additional benefits which could arise from taking an active interest in making sure that health and safety is a key part of your company. The main advantages are as follows:
A Guide to Business Grants
One of the best possible ways to raise finance for your business is by securing a business grant. A grant may enable you to undertake research and development, carry out market research, get accountancy or legal advice and put into practice your marketing plan.
A Guide to Setting up a Limited Company
Forming a limited company is the most popular way to establish a business. And it’s quite straightforward, but there are various legal implications so it’s essential that you follow the correct procedures.
The importance of seeking professional help whilst purchasing a property
If you decide to purchase a property for small business use, you will probably come into contact with numerous professionals throughout the process. The importance of finding highly-qualified and experienced individuals to help out at every stage cannot be underestimated and you should pay particular attention to enlisting the help of a company familiar with providing advice for small businesses, a surveyor, and a solicitor.
Business Expenses for Small Businesses
If you run a small business, you’ll already know that claiming expenses can be a time-consuming and complex matter. And, let’s face it, there are a few “grey areas” between what is and is not a legitimate business expense. But you also know that it’s vital that you do claim everything you can that is legitimate in order to maximize the tax-efficient running of your enterprise.
How to Choose a Bank for Your Business
Choosing a bank for your business may seem like a straightforward affair – and it can be. But it’s definitely worth considering a number of factors before you do.