Free, plain-English guides for small business owners

to help you understand those “I should know this by now moments”

 
 

Business Money Basics Starter Kit

If you’re new to self-employment and not sure where to start with the money side, this guide walks you through the essentials step by step.

You’ll learn:

  • how to register and set things up properly

  • what records you need to keep

  • how tax works in simple terms

  • what to focus on first (and what can wait)

Download Business Money Basics Starter Kit

Starting Your Business: Sole Trader vs Limited Company

Not sure whether you should be a sole trader or set up a limited company? You’re not alone.

This guide explains:

  • the key differences between the two

  • how tax and pay works in each setup

  • the pros and cons in real-life terms

  • when each option tends to make sense

Download Sole Trader vs Limited Company

Basic Bookkeeping for Sole Traders (Spreadsheet Template)

If bookkeeping feels confusing or overwhelming, this beginner-friendly tracker is designed to keep things simple.

This resource includes:

  • a clear income and expense tracker

  • a mileage calculator

  • a simple profit summary

  • guidance on what to include (and what to leave out)

It’s the same structure I use with my smaller sole trader clients who want to stay organised without worrying about “getting it wrong”.

Download Basic Bookkeeping for Sole Traders

Day Rate Calculator (Spreadsheet Template)

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re actually charging enough, this simple day rate calculator is designed to give you clarity without overwhelm.

This resource includes:

  • a clear, guided calculation to work out your baseline day rate

  • space to factor in personal income needs and business costs

  • a worked example so you can see how it all fits together

  • prompts that help you think about the time you don’t get paid for

    Use it as a private reference point, not a rulebook, something to come back to whenever pricing starts to feel wobbly.

Download Day Rate Calculator

Remember, you don’t need to understand everything straight away. Start where you are and take one step at a time. These guides are here to help you feel calmer, clearer and more confident. And, if you need our support, get in touch. We’d be delighted to help!

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5 signs it’s time to hire a bookkeeper