Blog
Updates, guides, and thoughts from the Figures team.
Building a finance stack that scales
Xero, Dext, payroll software, and reporting tools — how to wire them together so your finance function grows with you.
Statutory accounts: what Companies House and HMRC need
Your year-end accounts have to satisfy both Companies House and HMRC. We summarise what goes where and by when.
Runway and burn: the two numbers that matter most
Runway and burn rate tell you how long you can keep going at current spend. We explain how to calculate and monitor them.
VAT schemes: standard vs flat rate vs cash
Choosing the right VAT scheme can save you time and sometimes tax. We compare the main options for small businesses.
What management accounts should do for you
Management accounts aren’t just for the accountant. They should help you run the business. Here’s what good looks like.
Self assessment deadline: don’t leave it to January
The 31 January deadline catches people out every year. Get your return and payment sorted earlier and avoid the rush.
Investor reporting: what to put in the pack
Investors want to see the right numbers and a clear narrative. We outline what to include in a board or investor pack.
Xero tips for cleaner bookkeeping
Small habits in Xero can save hours at month-end. Bank rules, recurring invoices, and a simple filing routine go a long way.
When to hire a fractional CFO
You don’t need a full-time finance director to get senior-level input. A fractional CFO can fill the gap without the full-time cost.
Corporation tax: what to do before the year end
A few checks before your company year-end can save tax and avoid last-minute stress. We run through the essentials.
Budgeting for growth: setting targets that stick
A good budget is one the team actually uses. We share how we build annual budgets and quarterly reforecasts that stay relevant.
PAYE and payroll: staying on the right side of HMRC
RTI, P45s, and year-end — payroll has a lot of moving parts. We outline what needs to happen when so nothing gets missed.
Management accounts in plain English
Management accounts shouldn’t require a decoder ring. Here’s what we include in ours and how we present them so you can act on the numbers.
VAT on digital services: what UK sellers need to know
Selling digital services to EU customers? The rules have changed. We break down place of supply and when you need to register.
Cash flow forecasting: why 13 weeks beats 12 months
A 13-week rolling cash forecast is often more useful than an annual budget when it comes to day-to-day decisions. Here’s why.
Why your year-end accounts don’t have to be a nightmare
Year-end can feel like a scramble. With the right preparation and a clear timeline, it doesn’t have to. Here’s how we keep it simple for our clients.