The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is one of a few bodies that regulate the financial services sector, including insurers and insurance brokers. You need FCA authorisation if you want to provide most types of financial services in the UK. When you register for FCA approval, you’ll have a choice between applying for “full” or “limited”…
Any contract is a legal agreement between two parties whether they are corporate or freelance contracts. They essentially make it clear just what’s expected from both parties and ensure that no party can back out of the agreement without incurring a penalty. Contracts are commonplace in most, if not all, business arrangements. But if you’re…
All businesses need cyber security policies. But if you’re running a small business, it’s particularly important that you take steps to protect yourself against the risks of cybercrime. Why? Because studies show that cyber-criminals are more likely to target small businesses over larger businesses. Indeed, one study found that up to 96% of all cyber…
Whether you’re running an independent craft business from your spare room, or you’re managing a small business and looking to grow, sooner or later you’ll probably have to register your business. The question is, when? It all depends on what you do, where you work, and whether you employ others. This essential guide will help…
Hackers and other criminals are using increasingly sophisticated techniques to scam and exploit people. And nothing is off-limits for them. So you should consider any aspect of your business that relies on digital technologies as a potential weak-spot, as an area that cyber criminals could target. Even if you’re an independent contractor offering painting and…
Like all contractors, IT contractors should get adequate professional indemnity insurance to cover them for certain professional risks. This is a guide to professional indemnity insurance for IT contractors. Whether you’re new to the world of IT consultancy, or you’ve just started working with bigger clients and you’ve realised you need insurance, this guide will…
A HMRC investigation is a daunting prospect for any business. These investigations can be immensely time-consuming and extremely costly. So for self-employed and small businesses, the idea of a HMRC investigation can be genuinely terrifying. You can avoid HMRC investigations if you learn about the sort of circumstances that commonly trigger investigations. There are also…
Are insurance premiums subject to VAT? Do you have to pay VAT on your insurance? Short answer: You almost never have to pay VAT on insurance. But sometimes you do. Sort of. In this post we’ll explain the law concerning VAT and insurance, and explain when you do and do not have to pay VAT…
An insurance broker acts as an intermediary between a client and either a single insurer, or a selection of insurance companies. First, they’ll work to ensure you get cover that meets your exact needs. Then, in the event of a claim, they can manage the process on your behalf to ensure you get a fair…
Invoice fraud or scams are when someone poses as your supplier or customer and sends you an invoice or bill requesting a payment. This type of cyber crime is also known as mandate fraud. A Common Scenario You get an invoice or email from one of your suppliers saying that they have changed their bank…