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…
Yoga and Pilates Instructors are wellbeing professionals. You want to maintain the highest professional standards so that your students keep coming back. Your customers can have different levels of fitness and ability when they start and may develop at different rates. Your skill at helping them achieve their goals safely is the reason they come….
What Is a Life Coach? A life coach basically supports people to be the best they can. Through lots of advice and plenty of encouragement, life coaches help their clients make key decisions about their personal or professional lives. Can Anyone Become a Life Coach? Please note – life coaching is an unregulated industry. On…
As regulated businesses, insurers and insurance brokers must meet certain anti-money laundering (AML) commitments. In this post we’ll take a look at the sort of AML trends that might impact regulated businesses like yours. Artificial Intelligence in Anti-Money Laundering Processes – New Opportunities and Threats Artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly transforming the way we live…
If you’re a freelance self-employed graphic designer, then the right insurance can cover you for all the risks you might face in your work. Professional indemnity insurance is particularly important for graphic designers. In this post we’ll explain what professional indemnity insurance is and why you need it, before discussing some of the other insurance…