Performance Accountancy

12/06/2026

Summer Travelling and Taking Your Instruments Overseas

Before you pack your suitcase and head for the airport, it’s worth taking a moment to check the practical side. For musicians and performers, travelling with instruments can involve more than just getting them safely onto the plane.

Think about:
✅ insurance
✅ customs paperwork
✅ proof of ownership
✅ repair or replacement costs
✅ carrying valuable equipment through airports
✅ keeping receipts and records for business travel

A little planning now can save a lot of stress later - https://www.performanceaccountancy.co.uk/knowledgebase/taking-my-instrument-abroad-for-work/

11/06/2026

Why do accountants ask for ID checks?

It might feel like admin for the sake of admin, but it’s actually an important part of getting you set up properly. In Episode 6 of The Backstage Pass, James explains why ID checks are needed and what clients can expect during the process.

It’s all part of making sure we meet our responsibilities, protect our clients, and keep everything compliant from the start.

The good news? We try to make it as simple and painless as possible. James talks through what’s involved, why it matters, and how it fits into the wider onboarding process at Performance Accountancy.

Watch Episode 6 below ⬇️

10/06/2026

Directors and PSCs — Companies House ID verification is still causing confusion.

Since 2025, Company Directors and People with Significant Control have needed to verify their identity with Companies House. This affects small companies too including one-person companies and dormant companies.

You’ll usually only need to verify once, and you can do this through GOV.UK One Login.

Once done, you’ll receive a personal code. Keep it safe, as it will be needed for future Companies House filings. Don’t wait until your confirmation statement is due.

Need help getting started? We can guide you through the setup over Zoom.

Book a call here: https://www.performanceaccountancy.co.uk/booking/louise/30-client-consult

://www.performanceaccountancy.co.uk/knowledgebase/id-verification-for-directors-and-pscs-for-companies-house/

09/06/2026

Thinking about switching accountants but not sure what happens next?

In Episode 5 of The Backstage Pass, James talks through the process of switching to Performance Accountancy.

We know changing accountants can feel awkward, especially if you’ve been with someone for years. But it doesn’t have to be stressful.

James explains what happens behind the scenes, what information we need, and how we help make the move as smooth as possible.

For performers, musicians and creatives, having an accountant who understands your world can make a real difference. Different income streams. Agent statements. Touring. Teaching. Royalties. Expenses that don’t fit a standard box.

That’s exactly why the right support matters. Watch Episode 5 here - click below.

08/06/2026

What Expenses Can I Claim? Louise's Straight-Talking Version repeated. Why? Beacause I keep getting asked this question.

Here’s the simple rule:

❌ Entertaining your agent at dinner? No.
❌ That “inspirational” weekend in Paris? Probably not.
❌ Clothes you could wear off stage? Usually no.

The grey areas are where people get caught out.

Claim too little – you overpay tax.
Claim too much – you invite questions.

If you’re guessing, you’re gambling. I’d rather you weren’t gambling with HMRC. Have a read of our Allowable Resources here - https://www.performanceaccountancy.co.uk/allowable-expenses

02/06/2026

Can I just have MTD reviews instead of full bookkeeping support?

That’s exactly what James is talking about in Episode 4 of The Backstage Pass.

Not everyone needs a full done-for-you service.

Some performers, musicians and creatives are happy to manage their own records in Untied, Xero, or another MTD-compatible system - but still want someone to check things over before anything goes too far.

That’s where an MTD review can help.

It gives you:
✅ a second pair of eyes
✅ reassurance that things are being recorded properly
✅ a chance to catch mistakes early
✅ support without handing over everything

For performers, where income and expenses can be a little less straightforward, a review can be a really useful middle ground.

James explains how this works and when it might be the right option for you.

01/06/2026

What software do you need for Making Tax Digital? 💻

In Episode 3 of The Backstage Pass, James answers a really practical question we’re hearing from performers, musicians, and creatives:

What software do I actually need for Making Tax Digital?

With Making Tax Digital, it’s not just about keeping records. You’ll need to use software that works with HMRC’s system, so your income and expenses can be recorded and submitted in the right way.

That might sound daunting, especially if you’re used to spreadsheets, notes, or sorting everything once a year.

In this episode, James explains it simply and talks through what you need to think about, without the jargon.

Watch the video below 👇

30/05/2026

29/05/2026

What actually is Making Tax Digital… and what does it mean for you? 🎭🎶

In Episode 2 of The Backstage Pass, James answers one of the questions we’re hearing more and more from performers, musicians, and creatives.

Making Tax Digital is changing the way many self-employed people report their income to HMRC, and for a lot of people, it can sound far more complicated than it really is.

In this episode, James breaks it down simply, explains what it means in practice, and talks through how we help clients stay organised without adding extra stress to their workload.

Because when you’re busy performing, teaching, creating, rehearsing, or touring, the last thing you need is confusing tax jargon.

Watch the video below 👇

28/05/2026

Ever wondered what actually happens when you become a client of Performance Accountancy?

In the first episode of The Backstage Pass, James, our Backstage Manager, talks through the onboarding process and how we help new clients feel supported from the very beginning.

Because getting started with an accountant shouldn’t feel confusing, overwhelming, or like you’ve been left to figure everything out on your own.

We guide you through what we need, what happens next, and how we make the process as smooth as possible.

Especially for performers, musicians, and creatives, we know your finances don’t always fit a standard template. Our onboarding is designed around understanding you, your work, and how we can best support you. Watch the video below: