Chapmans Business Solutions Limited

28/05/2026

What Expenses can Small Businesses Claim in 2026/27?

Running a business comes with plenty of costs, but many small business owners are still unsure about what they can actually claim as an allowable expense.

Understanding your business expenses properly can help reduce your tax bill, improve cash flow and ensure you are not paying more tax than necessary.

Check out our straightforward guide to some of the most common small business expenses you may be able to claim in the 2026/27 tax year.

https://cbsaccountants.org/what-expenses-can-small-businesses-claim-in-2026-27/

Running a business comes with plenty of costs, but many small business owners are still unsure about what they can actually claim as an allowable expense. Understanding your business expenses properly can help reduce your tax bill, improve cash flow and ensure you are not paying more tax than necess...

27/05/2026

Changes to VCT Tax Relief Could Impact UK Business Growth

Recent changes announced by the Chancellor may significantly affect investment into the UK’s start-up and scale-up sector. From 6 April 2026, income tax relief available on Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) has been reduced from 30% to 20%.
VCTs are investment funds designed to support young, growing UK businesses by providing vital early-stage funding.

Over the past five years, VCTs have raised approximately £4.3 billion for developing businesses, according to HMRC. Well-known companies such as Graze, Virgin Wines and Zoopla all benefited from this type of investment during their growth journeys.

While the Government has increased the annual VCT investment limit to £10 million in an effort to help businesses scale further, many industry experts believe the reduction in tax relief sends mixed signals to investors. Some commentators have described the move as “giving with one hand and taking away with the other.”

There are concerns that lower tax incentives could discourage higher-rate taxpayers and experienced investors from backing smaller UK businesses. Historically, when VCT tax relief was reduced from 40% to 30% in 2006, fundraising levels reportedly fell by almost two-thirds year-on-year.

As a result, investors may now look towards alternative tax-efficient investments such as Enterprise Investment Schemes (EIS), Seed Enterprise Investment Schemes (SEIS), pension contributions, or traditional equity income funds.
If you would like advice on tax-efficient investing or understanding how these changes may affect your financial planning, please contact the team at Chapmans Business Solutions.

If you’d like to learn more about how we can support your business tax needs, get in touch on 01775 529345 or drop us an email at [email protected].

21/05/2026

'They Answer the Phone when you call the Office'

We are absolutely delighted to receive such wonderful feedback from our valued clients at Queen Bee & Co.

At Chapmans Business Solutions, we pride ourselves on delivering a friendly, approachable and proactive service, so it means a great deal to hear that our support, responsiveness and tax expertise are making a real difference to the businesses we work with.

A huge thank you to Deborah Firmstone & Tom Simmonds and the team for your kind words and continued trust in our services. We truly appreciate your recommendation.

20/05/2026

Getting the right software for your business is one thing… knowing how to get the very best out of it is another.

At Chapmans Business Solutions, we work closely with all the main software houses, allowing us to offer discounts on software subscriptions to help businesses save money and work smarter.

But we don’t stop there.

Our in-house software specialists are on hand to support you every step of the way whether you need:

✔ Quick tips and guidance
✔ Help solving a specific issue
✔ Support implementing new systems
✔ Bespoke advice for your business
✔ Full day training sessions for your team.

Technology should make life easier, not more complicated and we’re here to help you make the most of the tools available to your business.

If you’d like to learn more about how we can support your business software needs, get in touch on 01775 529345 or drop us an email at [email protected].

14/05/2026

Spending More Time on Paperwork Than Your Business?

When running a business, your time is one of your most valuable assets, however, bookkeeping, VAT returns and admin tasks can quickly take over your already busy day.

At Chapmans Business Solutions, we help businesses across Lincolnshire take the stress out of bookkeeping and VAT management, giving you more time to focus on growing your business and doing what you do best.

We can support your business with:

✔ Accurate and efficient bookkeeping
✔ VAT handled professionally and on time
✔ Up-to-date financial records
✔ More time to focus on business performance.

Keeping your books organised isn’t just about compliance. It gives you a clearer picture of your business and helps you make confident decisions.

If you need support with bookkeeping and VAT, think Chapmans Business Solutions, we're a friendly team of family owned accountants based in Spalding, Lincolnshire.

Call our friendly team on 01775 529345 or drop us an email at [email protected].

13/05/2026

Stamp Duty Changes Generate £307m Increase in Tax Revenue

First-time buyers across England are facing noticeably higher property purchase costs following the end of temporary stamp duty relief measures in April 2025.
Over the last 12 months, stamp duty receipts from first-time buyers rose sharply to £408 million, compared with just £101 million during the previous year. The increase follows the reduction of the first-time buyer tax-free threshold from £425,000 to £300,000.

As a result of the revised thresholds, many buyers are now paying thousands of pounds more when purchasing their first home, with the average additional cost estimated at around £4,600 per transaction.

The higher tax burden comes alongside continued pressure from elevated mortgage interest rates, making affordability increasingly challenging for those entering the housing market.

Regional figures show London accounting for more than half of the additional stamp duty revenue generated, while the South East contributed almost a quarter.

In contrast, areas such as the North East and East Midlands saw far less impact, as many property values remain below the revised £300,000 threshold.

For prospective buyers, the combined effect of higher borrowing costs and increased upfront taxation continues to create significant financial challenges across the property market.

08/05/2026

A Moment of Stardom...

So we were exhibiting and speaking at this year's The Big Business Event this week at The Meres in Grantham LeisureSK and what a fab day we had, chatting with lots of local businesses and gaining an understanding of what accountancy support people are looking for right now.

We had a moment of stardom too - the lovely students from Grantham College & University were filming on the day and look who was captured on film! So important to support your young people and expose them to real life experiences. We're looking forward to seeing our debut very soon...

It was a great day filled with new connections, a super buzz and lots of laughter too. Big thanks to Deborah Firmstone for another inspiring event (really enjoyed the website talk and we definitely need ours updating soon).

See you all next year 😊

06/05/2026

Avoid Paying More Tax than Necessary

With the new tax year underway, now is the ideal time for landlords to review their finances and plan ahead.

Whether you own one rental property or a small portfolio, understanding landlord tax in the UK can help you stay compliant and avoid paying more tax than necessary, especially with new rules coming into force this year.
Here are some practical landlord tax tips to help you get started.

Grab a cuppa and check out this month's Blog post...

With the new tax year underway, now is the ideal time for landlords to review their finances and plan ahead. Whether you own one rental property or a small portfolio, understanding landlord tax in the UK can help you stay compliant and avoid paying more tax than necessary, especially with new rules....

05/05/2026

Are you BIG Business Ready?

So, the team at Chapmans is feeling very excited about tomorrow's Big Business event and even more chuffed that I will be delivering my talk from 12.30 to 1pm: 'Small Shifts, Big Gains: Unlocking Business and Tax Savings' so don't miss this one!

Join us from 10am to 3pm tomorrow at The Meres, Grantham, Lincolnshire

for a day of:
- Morning Matrix Networking to make meaningful connections
- Local businesses & exhibitors
- The Big Taste Hub - food & drink from across Lincolnshire
- Health & Wellness Zone
- Inspiring talks to grow your business.

Schedule for the day:
10am Welcome Everyone
10.30-11.30: Matrix Networking - PRE-BOOK YOUR TICKET using the link below
11.45-12.15: Make Your Website a Workhorse for your Business
12.30-1: Small Shifts, Big Gains: Unlocking Business and Tax Savings that's with yours truly 😉
1.30-2: Shouting in the Wrong Places? Why your marketing isn't working (and whereto focus instead)
2-2.30:Are You Disempowering Yourself?

Secure your ticket TODAY to avoid the queue on the door: https://www.thebigbusinessevent.co.uk/

See you tomorrow!

28/04/2026

An Incredible line up of Speakers at this year's The Big Business Event

happening next Wednesday, 6th May at the fabulous Meres in Grantham, Lincolnshire!

If you're ready to grow your business and gain practical advice, fresh ideas and real strategies you can actually use, you’ll definitely want to check out the incredible speaker line-up, including yours truly 😉

✨ Debbie & Hannah - 10:00am - Welcome
✨ Hannah Tomlinson - 10:30 to 11:30am - Matrix Networking
✨ Deborah Firmstone - 11:45am to 12:15pm -
Make Your Website a Workhorse for your Business
✨ Paul Chapman - 12:30-1:30pm
Small Shifts, Big Gains: Unlocking Business and Tax Savings
✨ Hannah Worrall - 1:30 to 2:00pm
Shouting in the Wrong Places? Why your marketing isn’t working
✨ Rachel Haith - 2:00 to2:30pm
Are You Disempowering Yourself?

and don't worry if you miss my talk 'Small Shifts, Big Gains: Unlocking Business and Tax Savings' you can come and visit us at our Chapmans Business Solutions stand on the day.

It's a day full of insights, networking and inspiration waiting for you.

Book your ticket today: https://www.thebigbusinessevent.co.uk/
and don’t forget, Matrix networking places must be pre-booked and they’re filling up fast!

Make sure you're in the room - this is one you don’t want to miss.

See you there!

23/04/2026

We're Up for the Challenge

Running a business is never without its challenges.

From cash flow pressures and compliance demands, to making the right strategic decisions at the right time, most business owners quickly realise that as a business grows, so do the complexities.

What worked at the start-up stage often isn’t enough for the next level of growth.

That’s where we come in...

At Chapmans Business Solutions, we bring together many years of combined experience in both accounting practice and industry. This means we don’t just understand the numbers. We understand what it actually feels like to run and grow a business day-to-day.

We offer a unique blend of practical, real-world advice designed to support business owners as they scale, improve efficiency and make more confident decisions.

Our Business Consultancy Services are flexible and tailored to your needs, including:

✔ Support from as little as one day per month
✔ Through to a fully embedded ‘virtual’ business management consultant.

Whether you need a fresh perspective, ongoing strategic input or hands-on financial and operational guidance, we adapt to what your business needs most.

Because sometimes, what makes the biggest difference isn’t working harder, it’s having the right support at the right time.

If your business is growing and you’re finding the challenges are growing with it, we’re here to help.

We're based in Lincolnshire, so drop us a line today to discuss how we can support your business growth at [email protected].