The InvoiceAdept blog.
Practical guides on Making Tax Digital, invoicing, and running a successful trades business, written in plain English, not accountant-speak.
Capital allowances for tools and equipment: what tradespeople can claim
Bought a new van, tools or equipment for your trade? Capital allowances let you deduct the cost from your taxable profit. Here is how the Annual Investment Allowance, writing-down allowances and the 2026 changes work.
How to submit a VAT return online: step-by-step guide for 2026
A plain-English walkthrough of how to submit your VAT return online via HMRC in 2026, including MTD requirements, the nine VAT boxes, payment deadlines and common mistakes.
HMRC record keeping for the self-employed: what to keep and for how long
HMRC can fine you up to £3,000 for poor record keeping. Here is exactly what records a self-employed tradesperson must keep, for how long, and the simplest way to stay compliant.
Invoice numbering UK (2026): HMRC rules, formats and gaps
Invoice numbering UK for 2026: HMRC unique sequential rules, formats that work, year resets, multiple series, gaps versus duplicates, VAT invoices and MTD records. Keep the slug; this is the definitive system guide.
MTD compatible software for tradespeople: the best options in 2026
Making Tax Digital for Income Tax starts in April 2026. Here are the best MTD-compatible software options for UK tradespeople — including free and paid tools, what to look for, and how to get set up.
UK tax deadlines for the self-employed: your 2026 and 2027 calendar
Miss a self-assessment deadline and HMRC will fine you — even if you owe nothing. Here are all the key UK tax dates for 2026 and 2027 that self-employed tradespeople need in their diary.
Credit note template UK (2026): what to include, VAT rules and how to issue one
UK credit note for trades (2026): Reg 15C checklist, 14-day rule from refund/offset, original invoice number and date, credit note vs refund, VAT 6-year vs Income Tax retention. InvoiceAdept keeps records; it does not file to HMRC.
How to set up recurring invoices for maintenance contracts
Learn how to set up recurring invoices for maintenance contracts, retainer agreements, and ongoing service work. Save hours each month with automated billing.
VAT invoice requirements UK 2026: what must appear on every invoice
A plain-English guide to what HMRC requires on VAT invoices in 2026, including the differences between full, simplified, and modified invoices.
Proforma invoice vs tax invoice: what UK tradespeople need to know
Understand the difference between proforma invoices and tax invoices in the UK. Learn when to use each, their legal status, and how they affect your VAT obligations as a self-employed tradesperson.
How Long to Keep Invoices in the UK: HMRC Rules Explained
Discover HMRC's rules on invoice retention for UK businesses, including specific durations and compliance tips.
Get paid faster as a UK tradesperson (2026): same-day invoices, deposits and clear terms
Practical UK trades guide to get paid faster: same-day invoices, deposits, stages, card vs BACS, 14-day terms and B2B late-pay rights.
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