Start Ups

In the excitement of a new start-up, decisions regarding the financial backbone of a new company are often left until last or neglected completely. It is much easier to avoid mistakes and maximise your future chances of success if pre–launch planning is undertaken with professional help.

We can help you from day one by looking at your cashflow position, which is one of the most important factors for any new business; by helping you to find the best bookkeeping system for your business and by discussing your options for the best tax savings available.

Business structure

Are you going to launch your business as a sole trader, partnership or limited company? Before you choose your business entity the following should be considered:

• commercial risks
• expected profitability
• financing
• use of car for business purposes
• tax planning preparation
• VAT
• Business Plan

Have you set out your business objectives in writing? Can you demonstrate qualified experience in the type of business that you want to launch? How are you going to finance the company? What are your expectations for sales, profitability and investment in assets? Have you consolidated all this information in a formal business plan.

Even if you don't want to borrow money, a good business plan will help you to understand your current position and give you a good indication of your future possibilities. At TaxAssist Accountants we know that a good business plan is imperative to your business, especially given the current economic climate.

Banks and finance companies

Identify your 'friendly bank manager'. As this can be one of the most important contacts for your business it's crucial that you're well prepared for that critical first meeting. Fortunately, here at TaxAssist Accountants we already have well-established relationships with all the major banks in Ireland and are able to help you prepare for your first and subsequent meetings

VAT (Value Added Tax)

You should decide whether or not it's in your best interest to register for VAT from the time of starting up. Whether you decide to register now or in the future, both the profitability and the cashflow of your business will be affected.

One of the main advantages of registering for VAT when you do start-up is you'll be able to reclaim VAT on purchases made before you start trading. Don't worry though, if you find it's best to register at a later point in time, Revenue have made it possible for traders to reclaim VAT prior to their registration provided the claim is made within certain time limits. For further guidance on VAT registration please see our VAT section.

Tax traps to avoid!

• Tax Penalties – As soon as you have set a start date, ensure that you notify Revenue of your intention to commence trading. Self-employed individuals, partnership businesses and limited companies face penalties for failure to notify Revenue that they are liable to tax.
• VAT Penalties – Do not represent yourself as registered for VAT if you are not, as this is considered to be fraud. If you do register for VAT submit your returns and pay your dues on time to avoid late filing penalties, interest and surcharges.
• Missing Invoices – Always obtain a proper invoice for any business purchase and a VAT invoice if you are registered for VAT. If you fail to do so, you may find that your claim for tax relief will be denied, as will your VAT reclaim.
• Company Car – Whether you are self-employed, a member of a partnership or operating as a limited company, planning for the use of a car in your business needs to be thought through carefully. Self-employed individuals and partners will need to keep a log of business mileage to backup any claim for tax relief (The TaxAssist mobile app is a great way to keep track of all your journeys.). Limited company owners will need to compare whether the cost of using a car owned by the company will be more cost-effective than using a privately owned vehicle for business purposes. The tax implications vary considerably depending on many factors, which is why a careful review should always be undertaken in order to minimise any tax charges and maximise any reliefs. 

Business Plans

A good business idea needs a good business plan with sound financial information and a strategy to make the idea become a reality.  

Preparing your business plan

Most start-up businesses will need funding and a business plan not only allows you to see if the idea can be profitable but it also allows a bank or any other lending provider to understand your idea and how the business will shape itself.

Business plans need to be clear but should explain:

• The line of work you are going to be in
• The gap in the market
• Where you will fit in this marketplace
• What the goals and objectives of the business will be
• What your unique selling points are
• A sales forecast that will show that the idea can become an interesting prospect

If you are seeking funding or looking to attract investors in to your business, you will need to present a convincing image of how your business will look.

At TaxAssist Accountants, we know exactly what information is required and how it can be presented. This will provide you with a better chance of success when it comes to receiving funding for your business.

Cashflow Projections

A cashflow projection is probably one of the most important management reports as it shows how cash is expected to flow in and out of the business and how much capital investment your business needs. These reports are typically required by lenders when you want to borrow money and can assist in the successful running of your business.

TaxAssist Accountants can provide an accurate and comprehensive service specifically tailored to suit your business' and/or lenders' requirements.

We're here to help

Our accountants offer competitive pricing with flexible appointment times and are dedicated to offering a professional, friendly service.

Contact us today on 01 518 0535 or here to book a free initial consultation

You can also download our Start-Up Guide for more information here