Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm a South Shields CIS subcontractor. Am I owed a refund?
Almost certainly, if you've had 20% deducted and haven't claimed it back. After your £12,570 allowance and legitimate expenses (van or mileage, tools, PPE, materials, phone, CISRS/CSCS, accountancy), the actual tax due is usually far less. Full-year refunds are typically £2,000-£6,000. We'll maximise yours.
Do I need to be local to use you as my South Shields accountant?
No, we work with South Shields clients entirely online, by phone, email, video call and secure document exchange. You get the same depth of understanding and personal service without needing to visit an office. Most modern accountancy is handled remotely, so you're not limited to local firms.
I run a South Shields seafront cafe, restaurant or takeaway. How does VAT work?
Hot takeaway food and eat-in food are standard-rated at 20%; cold takeaway food is zero-rated. We review your menu, set up your till to capture the split, and handle VAT registration and returns once you reach the £90,000 threshold.
I run a South Shields port or engineering business. Can I claim capital allowances?
Yes. Plant and machinery, marine and engineering equipment, commercial vehicles, plant, IT, qualifies for capital allowances. The Annual Investment Allowance gives 100% relief on qualifying spend up to £1m a year, and full expensing gives 100% first-year relief for companies on qualifying new plant. We'll identify and claim everything.
Should my South Shields business be a Ltd company?
At profits above £40,000-£50,000 a Ltd company typically saves £2,500-£5,000+ a year through salary-plus-dividend structuring, plus limited liability. Below £30,000 the saving rarely justifies the extra admin. We'll model both with your numbers.
My South Shields business is family-run. How do we pay family members?
Through proper PAYE for genuine work at market rates, with payslips and RTI submissions. Family shareholders receive dividends reflecting their shareholding. Roles and rates should be documented so HMRC sees the economic reality matches the tax treatment. We'll set it up correctly.
I'm a South Shields landlord. What can I claim against rental income?
Repairs and maintenance, letting agent fees, landlord insurance, ground rent and service charges if leasehold, gas and electrical safety certification, mortgage interest (with the Section 24 restriction), and Replacement of Domestic Items relief on furniture. We capture everything and file your self-assessment.
How do I get started?
Book a free 15-minute call via Calendly, or call our office on 020 8050 4564 or mobile 07478 645331. We work with South Shields clients fully online and we're experienced with CIS trades, port and engineering firms, hospitality and the NE community.