The UK tax body HMRC has clarified the rules about five common misconceptions around registering for self-assessment and paying tax as a self-employed worker.

HMRC is writing to those it believes have undeclared income from the breeding of animals, including dogs and cats.

The number of workers on zero-hours contracts has increased by 288% since 2020; however, plans by the government to crack down on unfair zero-hours contracts are likely to affect small businesses across the UK.

Small business growth plans could boost the UK economy by more than £40bn, according to new research.

Experts report that small firms are being targeted by scammers, known as "ghost brokers", that advertise fake insurance deals.

A new report by the British Chambers of Commerce concludes that UK government contracts are "out of reach" for most small businesses.

The majority of UK SMEs are still not using artificial intelligence, despite a growing acceptance by businesses that it will help boost productivity.

The Federation of Small Businesses has welcomed the creation of Skills England by the Labour government but it warns that the new body must not overlook the needs of the UK's 5.5 million small businesses.

The UK tax body has launched a digital tool to help small firms find out what registering for VAT could mean for their business before signing up.

A new survey of small business owners has revealed that 18% of SMEs have no cash reserves to fall back on - rising to 48% among the smallest firms with turnovers of less than £100,000.