Overview of sole trader tax planning

Produced by a Tolley Owner-Managed Businesses expert
Owner-Managed Businesses
Guidance

Overview of sole trader tax planning

Produced by a Tolley Owner-Managed Businesses expert
Owner-Managed Businesses
Guidance
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Because sole traders are the most simple trading entity possible, it is very easy to overlook them when it comes to planning work. It is often the case that planning for such clients will be done on a purely reactive basis, such as when they approach an adviser to discuss incorporation or purchasing large capital items.

However, advisers should endeavour to review all of their clients’ positions at least once a year.

Planning events

Determining when to conduct planning for sole traders can be challenging. There are several annual events which may dictate when best to undertake planning work and what sort of planning is appropriate:

EventTypical planning considerations
Accounting period end if accrual accountingCapital purchases
Expenditure deductible when paid
Tax year endPension contributions (annual allowance planning and higher rate relief planning)
Charitable donations
Personal taxation considerations
Completion of accountsProvisions
Bonus accruals
Completion of tax returnPayment of accrued bonuses
Claims and elections for relief
Payments on accountReduction in payments on account

Some

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  • 07 Nov 2025 07:20

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