For Finances Sake (FFS)

Landlord tax in 2026… and the 2% shift that's quietly costing more than anyone's admitting. It sounds small. It isn't. Because depending on how you hold your property, this change hits very differently and most landlords still haven't run the numbers. We're talking personal ownership versus limited company, dividend tax, alphabet shares, ownership splits, and the stamp duty trap that catches people out every single time. Because the most expensive strategy in property isn't buying badly. It's structuring badly. Rachael is joined by James, senior accountant and the person they throw every complex property case at, to cut through the noise on what actually matters for landlords right now. Not in theory. In practice. If you own property, this one's for you.

MTD… the thing everyone is either talking about or hasn’t heard about! Making Tax Digital for Income Tax or as we’re calling it, the sole trader trap and the hidden cost nobody asked for. Because while HMRC calls this “modernisation”, what we’re actually seeing on the ground is confusion, last-minute panic, and a lot of people who don’t even realise it applies to them yet. And here’s the kicker, it’s not based on profit… it’s based on turnover. So even if you’re not making much money, you could still be pulled into more admin, more cost, and more pressure. I’m joined by Tara, who’s on the front line speaking to clients every single day, and together we’re breaking down what’s really happening, who’s at risk, and what you need to do now before this catches you out.  

In this episode of FFS, Rachael is joined by R&D specialist Christopher Harrison to unpack one of the most misunderstood areas of UK tax: Research & Development tax credits. They explain what actually qualifies as R&D in the eyes of HMRC, why something being new to your business doesn’t necessarily make it innovative, and the role genuine technical uncertainty plays in a successful claim. The episode also explores common mistakes businesses make, what HMRC inspectors look for during inquiries, and why documentation from day one is crucial. With scrutiny on R&D claims increasing and aggressive claim firms still operating in the market, Rachael and Chris share practical advice to help business owners understand the rules, avoid costly mistakes, and approach R&D relief the right way.

How should you really pay yourself as a UK limited company director? In this episode of FFS For Finance’s Sake, Chartered Accountant and Managing Director Rachael Chadwick-Harrison shares the March Tax Planning Secrets most business owners never hear.  Rachael explains why March is the most important month in the tax year, how to avoid the brutal 60% tax trap over £100,000, and why extraction planning should be done with precision, not guesswork. She breaks down the four types of company director, from the “lone wolf” to the “fully loaded”, and shows how employment allowance, corporation tax bands, and household income all change the answer. If you’re wondering whether you’re paying yourself tax efficiently, this episode is your starting point.

If you’ve ever felt like your business has gone from dream partner to high-maintenance nightmare, this episode is for you.  Rachael is joined by James Brookes, founder of Llumor Systems Ltd, who’s coming up to his first year in business. Together, they get brutally honest about what really happens once the honeymoon phase is over: the 3am wake-ups, the chaos you didn’t plan for, the systems you wish you’d put in place sooner, and the clients that make you question all your life choices.  But it’s not all doom and gloom. This is also about what changes when you get clearer on your value, your ideal clients, and your why and how that’s often the turning point where businesses (and founders) start to enjoy things again.

Have you ever felt like the business you built no longer feels like yours? In this episode of FFS, Beth is joined by Managing Director and Chartered Accountant Rachael Chadwick Harrison to talk honestly about falling out of love with your business and how to rebuild it in a smarter, stronger way. From hiring and delegation to leadership and buying back your time, Rachael shares practical, real-world advice to help business owners step out of overwhelm and back into control. If your business feels heavy, this episode is for you.

Your first VAT return can set the tone for your relationship with HMRC. In this episode Rachael is joined by accountant Charlie to unpack the myths, mistakes, and scrutiny that often come with a business’s very first VAT submission. From what you can actually reclaim to why HMRC pays closer attention to first returns, this episode is essential listening for any newly VAT-registered business wanting to get it right from day one!

In this episode things are a little different as Rachael is firmly in the hot seat and is joined by her business coach Emma Slack for a candid conversation recorded live as part of an AVN webinar. Following a standout year in which Rachael was recognised with the Changing Lives and High Profile Practice awards, alongside the overall title of Most Inspiring Accountant, Emma puts Rachael under the spotlight to unpack what really sits behind that success. From starting a firm in her back bedroom during a pandemic, to building a 16-strong, award-winning practice, this episode dives into visibility, awards, marketing, culture and the realities of scaling a firm without losing your values.  If you’re an accountant wondering how to raise your profile, build a high-profile practice, or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to stand out in today’s profession, this episode is for you.

In this episode of FFS: For Finance’s Sake, I’m unpacking what you can and definitely can’t get away with at Christmas as a business owner. From staff gifts and festive perks to office parties, Prosecco, cash in sparkly envelopes, and those “it’ll be fine, surely?” moments. We’ll also cover Christmas parties, what’s allowable, what tips it over the edge, and how one extra pound can make the whole thing taxable. So before you reach for the company card, pour a drink, grab your receipts, and let’s make sure your Christmas generosity doesn’t turn into a January tax headache.

In this new Women at Work miniseries on FFS – For Finances Sake, we’re stripping back the polished LinkedIn gloss and diving into the real experiences women face in the workplace. In this episode, Rachael sits down with Joanna, Senior Accountant at Chadwick Accountants, who shares her incredible journey whilst navigating male-dominated environments, pay imbalances, childcare pressures, and those subtle (and not-so-subtle) barriers women still face at work.

I’m joined by none other than Shaun Caddick: AAT Rising Star finalist, certified wizard of Dext/QuickBooks/Xero, and one of the sharpest young talents at Chadwick Accountants. Shaun breaks down exactly why bookkeeping is the unsung hero of business, how consistency saves your sanity, and why the right tech can turn hours of admin into a quick snap-and-done moment.

Unless you’ve been living under a tax-free rock, you’ll know the government has finally dropped the Autumn Budget… in November… late, lumpy, leaked and, frankly, not great. After weeks of warnings that a financial hurricane was coming, what we actually got was heavy rain, a bit of wind and somehow they still managed to steal your wallet while you were looking the other way. In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the headlines and the hidden traps: frozen tax thresholds disguised as kindness, a pension punch that hits both employers and employees, wage rises that sound supportive but push prices up, a push away from property and pensions toward the stock market, electric-car chaos, customs-duty contradictions, and enough sneaky tax tweaks to make your spreadsheet cry. This Budget might not have blown your house down, but it is a masterclass in how to mug you with a smile.

Today we’re diving into a topic that many people avoid until it’s too late: pensions! how they work, what’s changing, and how to plan properly for the future. I’m joined by Tony Ross, Chartered Financial Planner and founder of Velocity Financial Planning. With over 15 years of experience, Tony specialises in guiding people through the major life transitions that shape their financial decisions. In this episode, we cover the 2027 pension changes, inheritance tax concerns, annuities, drawdown worries, defined benefit transfers, and the mindset shift from saving to spending. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re on track or what “on track” even means, this one’s for you.

This week on the FFS Podcast, we’re tackling a topic most directors would rather avoid. If cashflow has dried up, creditors are circling, and the company can’t pay what it owes, this is your calm, straight-talking guide to what happens next. We’ll walk through your real-world options, from doing nothing (and why that’s the worst plan), to compulsory liquidation, creditors’ voluntary liquidation, strike-off routes, director redundancy and working with a proper insolvency practitioner, so you can stop panicking, start planning, and exit responsibly if you need to.

This episode of FFS is a really special one. We’re talking all about the AVN Awards  an incredible experience for me and the team at Chadwicks. We were absolutely thrilled (and a bit stunned!) to take home High Profile Practice, Changing Lives, and Most Inspiring Accountant. But this isn’t just about the awards, it’s about the journey that got us there. From starting during the pandemic to building a business with purpose and heart, I wanted to share what these wins truly mean for us and the amazing people behind them.

Now… let’s talk cashflow. Because nothing kills business buzz faster than a tax bill that hits harder than your Monday morning coffee. I’m not tackling this one alone, joining me is our wonderful Charlotte, our senior accountant. She’s here with battle-tested tips, real stories, and a little tough love to help you stay in control of your cash. From tax bill dread to forecasting like a finance pro, this episode will give you the confidence to grow without the panic sweats.

In this episode, Rachael sits down with Hannah Morgan from Circle Insurance Services to demystify one of the most overlooked but essential parts of running a business — insurance. From professional indemnity to cyber cover, they unpack what every business really needs, what’s often misunderstood, and what might just be a waste of money. Expect practical advice, real client stories, and plenty of plain-English explanations about everything from employers’ liability to business interruption and management liability insurance. If you’ve ever pushed insurance to the bottom of your to-do list, this episode might just change your mind — and save your business.

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest questions small business owners face: Should you go Limited or stay Sole Trader? We’ll unpack the pros, cons, and a few hidden HMRC quirks you’ll want to know about, plus, explore why Making Tax Digital could be a major shake-up for sole traders (and not necessarily for the better 👀).  

Are you working harder than ever, only to watch your earnings vanish into HMRC’s pockets? You’re not alone. We’re diving into real-world stories of smart restructuring that put serious money back where it belongs...in our clients hands. This could be the episode that changes how you think about tax forever.

From a challenging childhood and juggling paper rounds at 15, to single parenthood, career setbacks, and even starting her business from a back bedroom. Rachael's story is one of grit, resilience, and sheer determination. Fast forward to today, she’s an award-winning entrepreneur leading a thriving accountancy firm, with her sights firmly set on reaching £1 million turnover by 40. In this special episode, you’ll hear Rachael's story, which she recently shared as the keynote speaker at the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Women in Business event. This episode isn’t just about business. It’s about the lessons life throws at us, how setbacks can fuel success, and why culture and people matter just as much as profit. So, whether you’re running a business, chasing your own big goals, or just curious about the story behind the firm, you’re in for an inspiring conversation. Let’s dive into Rachael’s journey.

We all know that sinking feeling when a brown envelope from HMRC lands on the doormat. From confusing tax codes that look like Wi-Fi passwords, to VAT penalty points, corporation tax reminders, and dreaded self-assessment notices. Rachael is joined by Kristel, our onboarding ninja. Together, they cut through the jargon, share insider tips, and explain what those letters really mean. If you’ve ever been tempted to shove that envelope in a drawer and hope it disappears… this episode is for you. Prevention is always better (and cheaper!) than the cure.

We’re diving into the headlines around Angela Rayner’s resignation as Deputy PM and Housing Secretary, following revelations about underpaid stamp duty on her Hove flat. It’s a story with politics, ethics, and a few painful tax lessons – and we’re unpacking it all. We’ll also debate the big question: should a mistake like this cost a political career, or is it simply proof that even ministers should have got better advice? So whether you’re buying a second property, considering trusts, or just want to avoid costly tax traps, stick with us – because for finance’s sake, it’s always better to get advice before the headlines.

In today’s episode, Rachael’s tackling something every UK business owner needs to hear. This isn’t background noise or another piece of red tape to shove to the bottom of your to-do list. This is law. This is action. And it’s coming fast. From November 18th, Companies House is rolling out brand-new identity verification rules that will affect directors and anyone with significant control of a company. Miss it, and you’re risking fines, frozen bank accounts, or even your business being struck off the register.

Tax investigations aren’t just the stuff of financial nightmares – they’re becoming a reality for more and more business owners. This week, Rachael is joined by fellow accountant (and calm voice of reason) Shaun Caddick to pull back the curtain on what really happens when HMRC comes knocking. From first VAT returns that trigger red flags, to frozen cash flow, delayed refunds, and the crucial role of fee protection insurance, this episode is your survival guide. Packed with real client stories, myth-busting, and practical steps you can take right now, it’s all about staying calm, staying organised, and staying one step ahead of HMRC.

Rachael and Joanna dive into a topic that sparks fear in many business owners: Tax Investigations But don’t panic, this isn’t about shady dealings or stashing receipts in your freezer. Instead, we’re breaking down why HMRC might come knocking, the most common triggers we’ve seen in nearly 20 years of practice, and most importantly, how you can prevent it from happening to you. From VAT reclaims to IR35 pitfalls, spurned spouses tipping off HMRC, and even how your social media side hustle could land you in hot water, this episode is packed with real-world stories, practical advice, and just enough humour to make the subject bearable.

In today’s episode, "Tax Traps & Tangled Tales: What You Don’t Know Will Cost You", we’re diving into some of the most common – and costly – tax mistakes small business owners make. From surprise VAT bills to undeclared income and spending tax money that isn’t really yours, we’re breaking it all down. And joining Rachael is our resident “non-tax expert,” Beth Davis – aka the perfect civilian canary in the tax coal mine. She asks what you’re probably thinking, and trust me, she keeps it real.

When HR goes wrong, the financial consequences can be brutal. In this episode Rachael is joined by Fiona Godfrey, CEO of Inicio HR, to shine a spotlight on the hidden risks buried in your everyday people processes — and why even small oversights in HR can lead to major headaches for finance. From botched payroll handovers to IR35 misclassifications and overlooked right-to-work checks, they unpack the most common (and costly) HR mistakes that businesses make. The conversation also explores the rise of AI in recruitment, the legal expectations around supporting neurodiverse employees, and the surprising tax traps behind seemingly simple staff perks. If you’re an employer, accountant, or business leader, this episode is your essential guide to spotting risk early and staying one step ahead of compliance disasters.

Statutory pay. Yes, that glorious alphabet soup: SSP, SMP, SPP, SHPP, SAP. Confused already? You're not alone. Whether you're an employer trying to stay on the right side of HMRC, or an employee wondering what you're actually entitled to, this episode is for you. Rachael is joined by fellow director and payroll expert Christopher Harrison, and together they are cutting through the red tape to help you avoid costly mistakes, unexpected payroll headaches, and those dreaded compliance letters from HMRC. So if you’ve ever asked, “Do I really have to pay for that?” or “Can I reclaim this from HMRC?” grab a notebook, because we’re breaking down the Big Five types of statutory pay, the most common traps employers fall into, and how to get it right without losing your mind or your money.

In this episode, we're diving into something that sounds dry as toast... but is actually the secret sauce to scaling your business properly: budgeting for new hires. Yep, we’re talking salaries, hidden costs, and the stuff most business owners forget until it’s biting them in the balance sheet. Joining me in the spreadsheet trenches is Julia – our resident number whisperer who’s seen more hiring budgets than most people have had hot dinners. From pensions and onboarding to the hidden costs of cultural misfits and oat milk subscriptions, we’re covering it all. If you’re thinking about expanding your team, or if you've ever learned a hiring lesson the hard way – this one's for you.

We’re back with Part 2 of our property series! Rachael is once again joined by our in-house tax expert, Monty, to unpack how to structure your property investment the smart way and steer clear of expensive mistakes. If you’re considering buying an investment property, this episode is essential listening. We explore the tax pros and cons of owning property in your personal name, jointly, or through a limited company, and highlight the common pitfalls that can lead to serious cash flow issues. Whether you’re dipping your toes in as a side-hustle investor or building towards becoming a full-time landlord, this episode is packed with honest advice, practical strategies and a few unfiltered pet peeves you’ll definitely want to hear.

This week, we’re diving into Furnished Holiday Lets – once the ultimate tax-savvy investment for landlords, now caught in a perfect storm of rule changes, council crackdowns, and a not-so-little platform called Airbnb. Are FHLs still a smart move in 2025? Or are they turning into a money pit with a smile? We’ll unpack everything from tax rule shakeups and the death of Business Property Relief, to why your cleaner could make or break your investment. If you're thinking about buying a holiday let or already own one, you’ll want to hear this.

This episode lands during Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the conversations we too often avoid, especially in industries where toughness is worn like a badge of honour. Today, we’re tackling a subject that affects more people than we realise, but rarely gets the airtime it deserves: mental health in the workplace, particularly for men. We’re incredibly grateful to be joined by a brilliant panel: 🛠️ Scott Walker, Managing Director at A W Walker Building Contractors, who’s breaking the silence on-site and sharing his personal journey with anxiety. 📊 Christopher Harrison, Director at Chadwick Accountants, who opens up about the pressures of leadership and the stigma he faced around mental health. 💬 And the unstoppable Kristel Pari, our Client Account Manager and wellbeing advocate, who knows how to spot the signs and support the people behind the roles. From dark humour in construction to the quiet stress behind closed office doors, this conversation gets honest, sometimes heavy, but always hopeful.

In this Property Series, Rachael is joined by one of our Senior Accountants at Chadwicks, James (Monty) Montague and we’re asking the big question: So you think you're a property investor? Or… is your buy-to-let dream actually a cash-draining nightmare? We break down the real costs of property investment, challenge some dangerous myths, and explain why your tenants aren’t actually paying your mortgage. Whether you're already investing or just thinking about it, this episode will help you run the numbers before your finances run away from you.

Today, we’re diving into the career of Colin Parselle, a finance leader who made it to FD in his early 30s, steered companies through crises like Travel liquidation during COVID, and isn’t afraid to talk about failures, imposter syndrome, and what it really takes to succeed. Colin shares lessons that every finance professional and business owner needs to hear, from making bold career leaps and leading through tough times. Not forgetting, guilty financial pleasures, dream CFO swaps, and why buying a 20-year-old BMW might not be the smartest investment.

This week Rachael demystifies VAT, what it is, why and when a business needs to register and how to not fall victim to the VAT Trap! 

In this episode of FFS, we sit down with Andy Comyn, former professional footballer turned CFO, to explore the unexpected path that led him from the pitch to the boardroom. Andy shares how a physics degree, a bookkeeping course, and a love for numbers laid the foundation for a successful finance career that spans Big Four firms, industry, and education. 

What happens when a top finance leader breaks rank and tells it like it is?  In our first episode, Fiona Roberts joins Rachael Chadwick Harrison to talk toxic workplaces, system meltdowns, mum guilt and why Lurpak is the ultimate guilty pleasure! From boardroom chaos to breaking bias, it's smart, bold conversation with zero filter. If you’ve ever felt like an imposter or wondered how the hell anyone balances career and kids – this ones for you!

Welcome back to another episode of For Finances Sake! In this episode, Rachael dives into a topic that might not sound exciting at first—but trust us, it’s crucial for keeping your business running smoothly: credit control. Whether you’re a small business owner, freelancer, or just trying to get a better grip on your finances, understanding how to manage customer payments, avoid late payers, and maintain healthy cash flow is a game-changer. So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s talk credit control—because getting paid shouldn’t be the hardest part of doing great work.

Welcome to For Finances Sake, the podcast where we navigate the complexities of the tax world while keeping things calm, clear, and approachable. In this episode Rachael, your host, has a special guest joining the show. Annie is an Executive Coach with years of experience helping leaders and professionals unlock their potential, sharpen their skills, and achieve true balance in their careers and personal lives. She’s known for her strategic approach to coaching, her empathetic style, and her ability to inspire real, lasting change."  

This week we have a special guest on For Finances Sake. Glenn Cameron. Glenn loves connecting folks in business for advice connections. He has a background of building and selling multiple businesses from startup to £20m+ turnover and empowering success for others by leveraging the tools available and our networks. He's a big believer that everyone can find their tribe for networking.  

In this episode, we’re exploring a key factor in business growth and sustainability—funding options. Securing the right funding can make all the difference in scaling your business, managing cash flow, and seizing new opportunities. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Let’s break it down, with Rachael Chadwick Harrison- your host!

For Finances Sake (FFS) : Maximising Your Revenue  In this episode, we’re diving into proven strategies to maximise your revenue, with expert insights from Rachael at Chadwick Accountants. We’ll explore: ✅ Getting your pricing right – mastering cost pricing to ensure sustainable growth. ✅ Knowing your margins – because understanding your numbers is the key to profitability. And remember: Turnover is vanity, profit is sanity! Stay tuned as we break it all down with actionable advice to help your business thrive. Let’s get started! 

In today’s episode, Rachael Chadwick Harrison from Chadwick Accountants, dives into a topic that can make or break your business — cash flow. She explores why managing your cash flow is so critical, common pitfalls to avoid, and practical strategies to help keep your business finances healthy and stress-free.  

Welcome to For Finances Sake (FFS) with Rachael Chadwick Harrison. In today’s episode, we’re tackling an essential topic for any business or organisation—staff management. Whether you're a seasoned leader, a new manager, or someone looking to sharpen your team-building skills, this episode is packed with insights on how to motivate, support, and lead your team effectively. We’ll explore key aspects like hiring the right people, fostering a positive work culture, handling conflicts, and boosting productivity—all while keeping employee engagement at the heart of it.  So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of staff management!

The podcast that believes taxes don’t have to be something you dread. With the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a smooth and stress-free part of running your business. In Today's episode, Rachael is talking KPI’s! KPIs, or Key Performance Indicators, are measurable values that demonstrate how effectively a business or individual is achieving a key objective. In the context of staff management, KPIs can be used to assess the performance and productivity of employees, teams, or even the entire organisation.   Rachael Chadwick Harrison from Chadwick Accountants is your host. The producer is Nathalie Luckett from Small Talk Podcast.

Tax deadlines can be a major source of stress and confusion for both businesses and individuals, especially when juggling multiple obligations. In this episode, Rachael breaks down some of the most common and crucial questions people have about tax deadlines. Whether you're unsure about when your filings are due, or what to do if you miss a deadline, we’ve got you covered. Stay tuned as we navigate through the details to help you stay on track and avoid penalties!

In this episode, Rachael is talking about Benchmarking and looking at why it is so important to implement this practice into your business.

Welcome to For Finances Sake (FFS)  'on the road' at the Alcester Academy School, Careers Fair! We’re so excited to be talking directly to students exploring their future paths, along with school governors and dignitaries such as the Mayor!

Welcome to For Finances Sake (FFS)  'on the road' at the Alcester Academy School, Careers Fair! We’re so excited to be talking directly to students exploring their future paths, along with school governors and dignitaries such as the Mayor!  

In this episode Rachael is looking at apprenticeships from the point of view of the employer. She will look at the benefits that an apprenticeship can bring to your business, the drawbacks, and, if you decide that an apprenticeship is correct for your business, what are the routes to getting an apprentice, and how do you go about doing that?