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For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

HMRC extends self assessment window

7 January 2022

For the second year running, HMRC has announced an extension meaning anyone who cannot file their tax return by the 31 January 2022 deadline will not receive a late filing penalty providing they file online by 28 February.

12.2 million people are due to file their 2020-21 tax return by 31 January and almost 6.5 million have already done so. That said, HMRC has acknowledged the additional pressure COVID-19 is placing on taxpayers and their agents. They have announced a waiver that will give taxpayers more time to complete and file their tax return online before a penalty is issued.

Angela MacDonald, HMRC's Deputy Chief Executive and Second Permanent Secretary, said, "We know the pressures individuals and businesses are again facing this year, due to the impacts of COVID-19. Our decision to waive penalties for one month for self assessment taxpayers will give them extra time to meet their obligations without worrying about receiving a penalty."

HMRC has announced that:

  • anyone who cannot file their return by the 31 January deadline will not receive a late filing penalty providing they file online by 28 February
  • anyone who cannot pay the tax they owe by 31 January deadline will not receive a late payment penalty providing they pay their tax in full, or set up a Time to Pay arrangement, by 1 April

Despite the filing extension, HMRC have urged taxpayers to pay on time if possible, reminding them that the tax they owe is still due by 31 January - even if they have not yet filed their return. Interest will be charged from 1 February on any outstanding liabilities.

Help with payment problems

Taxpayers that are struggling to pay the tax they owe can set up a payment plan with HMRC using the Time to Pay service on the government website. Customers with bills over £30,000, or who need longer than 12 months to pay their bill, should call HMRC on 0300 200 3822.

Taxpayers can contact HMRC via webchat, Twitter, or the self assessment phone helpline (0300 200 3310). They can also find the information they need via the free HMRC app or their Personal Tax Account.

Written by Fiona Prior.