>
Guides>
Business

Business guides

A complete look at what it takes to keep your business moving forward with confidence.

Starting a business

Running a business

Growing a business

Guides

Group of young entrepreneurs working on ideas.

Startup funding: 10 realistic ways to raise money for your business

Discover 10 effective ways to fund your business, including loans, investors, crowdfunding, and grants, with insights to help you choose the best option.

A potter calculates the costs of running a business.

Startup costs: how much money will you need for your business?

Startup costs vary widely depending on the type of business you want to set up. Here’s how to work out how much money is required to fund your business plans.

Focus group sit in a semi-circle around a moderator.

How to do market research for a small business in 7 simple steps

Whether you’re a startup, launching a fresh product or just want to improve, market research connects you with your customers. Here’s how to do it.

View All

Guides

A sole trader smiles holding raw materials for her business

What business expenses can self-employed people claim?

If you’re self-employed you may be able to offset business expenses as part of your tax returns.

How much should I save for taxes? A practical guide

Whether you’re self-employed, a sole trader or run a limited company, it’s vital to save enough money to pay your annual tax bill. Here’s how.

Notepad with VAT written on it. Beside it on the desk is a cup of black coffee a form and a calculator.

What is VAT and how it works: a clear guide for business owners

If you run your own business, make sure you understand when you need to register for VAT and how to submit your VAT return.

View All

Guides

All business guides

Personal vs business bank accounts: key differences explained

Understand how personal and business bank accounts differ and what to look out for when choosing between the two.

Man in overalls on the telephone and writing in a notepad.

Do sole traders need a business bank account?

Learn the benefits and drawbacks of opening a business bank account as a sole trader and decide if it's the right choice for your financial needs.

How to use a business credit card: essential tips and best practices

Make the most out of your business credit card with expert tips on managing expenses, boosting cash flow and building credit for financial success.

How to get a business credit card: expert tips

A business credit card can help you manage work expenses more effectively. Learn how to improve your chances of making a successful application.

Businesswoman packaging up products for delivery to her client.

7 key differences between personal and business credit cards

Discover the features that set personal and business credit cards apart, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What are the key benefits of a business credit card?

A business credit card can be hugely beneficial to your business, but this form of borrowing is not without its pitfalls. Find out what you need to know.

Tradesman checking documents while loading his van.

Asset-based lending: what is it and how does it work?

Find out how you could use business assets to help you secure a loan.

Two workers surrounded by large stainless steel vats at a microbrewery.

What is asset finance? Everything you need to know

Discover how your business could access new equipment or vehicles with minimal upfront costs.

Invoice finance explained: a simple guide for SMEs and startups

Invoice finance could be an easy way to boost business cash flow if you regularly invoice clients.

Businessman sits at a desk and contemplates his paperwork

What is invoice discounting and how does it work?

Discover how you could improve your company’s cash flow by borrowing against your unpaid invoices.

VAT loans: a practical guide for UK businesses

Need help with your VAT bill? Short-term VAT loans can cover essential tax payments and keep your business on track.

Deli owner taking a credit card payment.

Merchant cash advance explained: a guide for small businesses

A merchant cash advance offers a flexible alternative to a business loan – but is it right for you? Discover the pros and cons in this helpful guide.

What is a revolving credit facility and how does it work in the UK?

Discover what a revolving credit facility is, how it works, and how it can help manage cash flow for your business.

Florist reviews her options on a laptop.

Working capital loans explained: a practical guide for SMEs

A working capital loan can help to cover the day-to-day running costs of your business. Find out more with our five-minute guide.

Hairdresser takes payment from her customer.

Cash flow loans: the ultimate guide for small businesses in the UK

Learn how cash flow loans can help your business bridge financial gaps. Discover how they work, their benefits, eligibility criteria and how to apply.

View All