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Making tax digital

By Richard Andrew

14th February 2026

Making Tax Digital software: What to use and why

From April 2026, qualifying sole traders and landlords must use HMRC-approved software to comply with Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax. It is therefore important to ensure you have the right software for your needs that is compatible with MTD.

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newcastle office group photo

By Armstrong Watson

13th February 2026

Armstrong Watson celebrates continued rapid growth in North East

Over the past 18 months, the 159-year-old accountancy, business and financial advisory firm has seen its Newcastle team grow from 40 to over 110 people, reflecting increasing demand and a commitment to expanding its presence and capabilities across the region

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Making tax digital

By Richard Andrew

12th February 2026

New reporting requirements for Making Tax Digital from April 2026

Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax will change how millions of taxpayers report their income. If you are a sole trader or landlord, understanding the new quarterly reporting process and year-end requirements is essential, particularly if your qualifying income is over £50,000 and you will need to comply with MTD from 6 April 2026.

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Legal sector

By Huw Nicholls

10th February 2026

Ministry of Justice proposes significant reforms to lawyers' client account interest

Last year, the SRA consulted on the future of client money. Whilst significant changes to firms’ ability to hold client money have been paused (for now), the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has now launched its own consultation on a scheme intended to raise funds through a portion of the interest earned on client money.

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By Andrew Robinson

9th February 2026

FAQs on changes to Inheritance Tax legislation for farmers

Many farmers are concerned about the impact of Inheritance Tax reforms but there are ways to put yourself, your family and your business in a better position. This FAQ guide will help you identify aspects of IHT and succession planning that you need to consider.

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law books

By Armstrong Watson

9th February 2026

Law firm benchmarking review 2024//2025 provides positive findings

As part of our annual accounts and tax compliance service, we provide all of our law firm clients with a bespoke benchmarking report for their practice, which analyses their financial performance for the year and compares it with similar firms. It forms a core element of our added value offering, and clients consistently find it extremely helpful when reviewing their annual accounts.

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apprentices stood outside

By Armstrong Watson

9th February 2026

Armstrong Watson marks National Apprenticeship Week with growing trainee cohort and appointment of firmwide Technical Training Director

Armstrong Watson is marking National Apprenticeship Week by celebrating the growing number of trainees beginning their careers with the firm, and by strengthening the support they receive following the appointment of Technical Training Director, Chris Soan — former Associate Dean of Education at Newcastle University Business School.

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By Sally Jones

6th February 2026

Bank interest and partial exemption – A new VAT risk for law firms?

Recent increases in interest rates have led many professional services firms to earn more interest on client funds held in deposit accounts. As bank interest may be treated as a VAT-exempt supply, law firms and other businesses with significant interest income should assess whether this additional income affects their ability to recover VAT on overhead costs under the partial exemption rules.

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By Armstrong Watson

5th February 2026

Accounting trainees share experience of apprenticeships

As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2026, accounting trainees Fern Varah and Alex Rose have shared their experiences of working towards their qualifications and the opportunities provided to them along the way. 

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By Mark Beauchamp

5th February 2026

Celebrating apprenticeships and busting the myths

Apprenticeships have been surrounded by many myths over the years, and it’s important to set the record straight as times have changed. While apprenticeships were once the domain of skilled occupations, they are now available in nearly all professions.

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