Exports from Great Britain or Northern Ireland can be zero-rated for VAT, provided businesses obtain valid export evidence within three months of sale and meet all HMRC documentation rules; accuracy and record-keeping are key to keeping the 0% rate.

Businesses are required to charge VAT on most goods that are sold within the UK. However, there are VAT exemptions in place on goods that you export outside of the UK.

Under the VAT rules, businesses can "zero rate" the sale of qualifying goods that are exported. Where this is the case this would mean that no VAT is charged on the goods.

This applies to:

• Goods exported from Great Britain to a destination outside the UK.
• Goods exported from Northern Ireland to a destination outside the UK and EU.

To qualify for VAT zero-rating, businesses must ensure they have sufficient evidence that the goods were exported. This evidence should be obtained within three months of the ‘time of sale’. A longer period may apply in cases where goods need to be processed before export or for thoroughbred racehorses.

The ‘time of sale’ for VAT purposes is the earlier of when the goods are dispatched to the customer or when full payment is received.

It is important to note that businesses cannot zero-rate sales if a customer requests delivery to a UK address. If a customer arranges for collection from the seller (an indirect export), VAT zero rating may still be possible if certain conditions are met.

Maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with export requirements is essential to benefit from the VAT zero-rate provisions. Businesses must ensure that they hold proper export documentation and follow the guidelines carefully to avoid penalties and ensure the correct VAT rate is charged.

The way we meet has changed dramatically in recent years. Technology now makes it possible to discuss projects, close deals and hold team meetings without ever leaving our desks. Yet for many, there is still something powerful about sitting across the table from another person. Both formats have their place, and the right choice often depends on purpose, people and context.

Online meetings are efficient. They remove the need for travel, save time and allow busy people to meet at short notice. For businesses with remote staff or clients across the country, video calls make communication easy and inexpensive. Online platforms also allow for screen sharing, document collaboration, and recording, all of which can make discussions more productive.

However, virtual meetings can have drawbacks. Technical glitches, weak connections and background distractions can interrupt the flow. It can also be harder to read body language or sense engagement, especially in larger groups. Without informal conversation before or after a meeting, relationships can feel more functional than personal.

Meeting in person allows for a deeper level of connection. Subtle cues, tone, and eye contact help build trust and understanding, especially when sensitive or complex matters are involved. Negotiations, strategic planning and first introductions often benefit from a personal touch. The act of meeting physically can also signal commitment and importance.

The disadvantages are mainly practical. Face-to-face meetings take more time and often involve travel costs. Coordinating diaries can be difficult and the environmental impact of regular travel is increasingly questioned.

For most businesses, a mix works best. Routine updates and quick check-ins are well suited to online meetings, while major decisions, negotiations, or relationship-building sessions still benefit from being held in person. The key is to choose the setting that best supports the outcome you want to achieve.

In today’s competitive market, many businesses feel pressured to extend generous payment terms to win new contracts. However, offering long or risky credit arrangements can strain cash flow and expose you to unnecessary financial risk. The good news is that there are other, more sustainable ways to attract and retain valuable clients.

One effective strategy is to focus on value rather than price. You should emphasise the quality, reliability and consistency of your service. Clients are often willing to pay on standard terms if they see that your business delivers dependable results and reduces their own risks. Highlight testimonials, case studies, and evidence of past performance to reinforce this message.

Second, improve transparency in your proposals. Set out clear timelines, deliverables and support arrangements. Buyers are more likely to accept normal payment terms when they feel confident about what they are getting and when they will get it.

Third, consider flexible but controlled options such as staged payments or deposits. These can balance client confidence with your need for steady cash flow. For example, 30% on order, 40% on delivery, and 30% on completion is often easier for clients to manage than a lump sum.

Finally, build strong relationships. Personal trust remains one of the most powerful negotiating tools. When clients view you as a partner rather than just a supplier, they are less likely to demand extended credit. The aim is not to win contracts at any cost, but to win them on fair, sustainable terms that support both sides.

HMRC has issued a press release urging 18-23 year olds who have yet to claim their Child Trust Fund (CTF) cash to do so as soon as possible. According to HMRC, over 758,000 young adults in this age group have unclaimed funds, with the average savings pot estimated to be around £2,240.

Anyone who turned 18 on or after 1 September 2020 could have unclaimed money in a dormant CTF. Parents of children aged 18-23 should also check if their children have claimed the funds to which they are entitled.

Children born between 1 September 2002 and 2 January 2011 were eligible for a CTF account, with the government contributing an initial deposit, typically at least £250. These accounts were set up as long-term savings for newly born children.

HMRC’s Second Permanent Secretary and Deputy Chief Executive, said:

‘If you’re between 18 and 23, you could be sat on a savings payout and not even realise it. Just search ‘find my Child Trust Fund’ on GOV.UK to find your savings account today.’

More than 563,000 young people went online to find their CTF in the 12 months to August 2025. September 2024 was the busiest month when over 71,000 searches were submitted.

Approximately 6.3 million Child Trust Fund (CTF) accounts were created during the scheme's operation. If a parent or guardian was unable to open an account for their child, HMRC stepped in and set up a savings account on the child’s behalf.

Certain buildings, land, works of art, and other objects of national significance may be exempt from Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax (CGT) when they are transferred to a new owner. This exemption applies under a special tax relief for national heritage assets that are either gifted or bequeathed.

To qualify for this relief, the asset must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Buildings, estates or parklands of outstanding historical or architectural interest
• Land of outstanding natural beauty and spectacular views
• Land of outstanding scientific interest including special areas for the conservation of wildlife, plants and trees
• Objects with national scientific, historic or artistic interest, either in their own right or due to a connection with historical buildings

Upon transfer of ownership, the new owner is required to enter into a formal agreement, known as ‘the undertakings. This agreement ensures that the asset will be cared for, made available for public viewing, and retained in the UK. Failure to meet these conditions, or selling the asset, results in the revocation of the tax exemption under the Conditional Exemption Tax Incentive scheme. As a consequence, the asset would then be subject to tax in accordance with the standard rules.

HMRC is guided by the government’s heritage advisory agencies in deciding which assets qualify for exemption.