Smart tax advice for growing firms at every stage

By Mathew Forshaw

20 Jan 2026

 Mathew Forshaw, director at Xeinadin

Tax will have an impact on your business plans, no matter where you are in the
business cycle.

So what steps can you take to keep your company out of the tax traps?

Firstly, knowledge is power. You need a strong team who can advise and help steer you from the pitfalls that lie ahead.

Your tax advisor is a key part of this.

Corporation tax is paid by companies on their profits.

Make sure you minimise this by exploiting all possible reliefs.

Be aware of your payment dates as it can have a major impact on cashflow, and that rates can move from 19 per cent to 25 per cent for growing companies.

VAT, payable by most companies with sales over £90,000, should be included in your budgets.

Organising your finances to build tax reserves can prevent late payment penalties.

Staff costs can rise significantly as your business grows, and with it comes the added burden of National Insurance.

Make sure this is factored into your calculations, as it can add 15 per cent to your overhead.

Seeking professional advice can make a significant difference when managing tax obligations.

A qualified advisor can help ensure compliance, identify opportunities for efficiency, and reduce the risk of unexpected liabilities.

Beyond day-to-day requirements, strategic tax planning can support long-term business growth.

Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, taking the time to understand your tax position – and how it might change – can lead to better financial outcomes.

Enjoyed this? Read more from Mathew Forshaw

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