Blogs from Larking Gowen

Director, Chris Yeates outlines the key steps involved in forming a charity, from defining your purpose and choosing a legal structure. Chris also highlights common pitfalls and practical advice to help ensure your charity is set up for long-term success.

Director, James Rix, explains what a holding company is, when and how to set one up, and the main advantages. It outlines why many businesses consider this structure to protect assets, plan for succession, and prepare for growth, sale or investment.

Senior Manager, George Crowe, explains the benefits of being in the NHS Pension Scheme, including defined benefits, tax relief, and death in service support. It also outlines the consequences of opting out, such as reduced pension growth, lost benefits, and tax implications. A useful guide for NHS professionals making decisions about their pension.

Director, Ben Greves, explains the importance of tax due diligence in UK mergers, acquisitions, and investment deals. Highlighting the risks of non-compliance, how due diligence supports better deal structuring, and the benefits it brings to both buyers and sellers.

Jo Benton talks you through why financial forecasting is essential for pharmacists and locums. Learn what to include, how to build a forecast, and how it can help you plan for the future.

New HMRC and Insolvency Service powers give directors more responsibility than ever. Lee Green, Partner in our Insolvency and Recovery team, discusses what’s changed and how to protect yourself if your business is in financial difficulty.

A practical look at common Gift Aid mistakes that can lead to rejected claims or lost income for charities. Partner, Andrew Robinson overs eligibility conditions, documentation requirements, and key pitfalls like auctions, raffles and sponsored events.

Senior Payroll Manager, Dannielle Chapman, explains what the Apprenticeship Levy is, who it applies to, how it’s calculated, and how employers can use the funds. She also outlines additional rules and guidance for connected companies and those outside England.

James Card, Manager in our Private Client, Trusts and Probate team, provides an overview of HMRC’s Let Property Campaign for landlords with undeclared rental income. Learn how the process works, the benefits of acting early, and the risks of not disclosing.

North Essex is thriving – but is your business keeping pace? In this blog, Kate Quinton explores what’s driving growth in the region, how tourism is creating wider opportunities, and how Larking Gowen can help you make the most of it.

Martin Bugg explains what Making Tax Digital for Income Tax means for landlords and sole traders, why it matters, and the practical steps you can take now to prepare for the 2026 deadline.

Senior Manager, George Crowe, provides a guide for self-employed medical professionals on what qualifies as a tax-deductible expense. Learn how to stay compliant and maximise your tax efficiency.