Pat van Aalst

29/10/2026

The Autumn Budget 2026 has arrived, and while the headline rates of Income Tax on earnings, National Insurance and VAT remain unchanged, there's plenty for individuals and businesses to consider.

From changes to savings and property income tax to new rules affecting business owners and employers, many of the announcements will take effect from April 2027.

I've covered some of the key points in my latest blog post, and I will be taking an even deeper dive into what the Budget means for you and your business, so keep an eye out!

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At Pat van Aalst, we offer financial solutions in refreshingly straightforward approach, for people who want to reach their business goals faster and achieve financial security without the accounting headache.

26/10/2026

💷 The Autumn Budget is just around the corner!

On Wednesday 28th October, the Chancellor will announce the Autumn Budget, and we'll be keeping a close eye on what it means for businesses, individuals and taxpayers.

As always, there's plenty of speculation about what might be announced, but it's the detail that really matters.

👀 Keep an eye on our page for updates!

25/10/2026

Received a tax penalty from HMRC? It might be worth a second look.

HMRC cancelled a record 48,189 tax penalties in 2025/26, with 65% of challenged penalties overturned.

Not every penalty is incorrect, of course, but it does show why you shouldn't automatically assume HMRC has got it right.

I've taken a closer look:
patvanaalst.co.uk/hmrc-cancels-record-number-of-tax-penalties

23/10/2026

🏍️ 24 years without a mileage allowance increase. Is it time for a change?

As both a motorcyclist and an accountant, this one caught my attention!

The approved motorcycle mileage rate has been stuck at 24p since 2002, and the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) is campaigning for an increase to 45p in the Autumn Budget on 28th October.

I think they've made a reasonable case, and I've explained why I'm supporting the campaign in my latest blog post.

Read my thoughts here 👉

At Pat van Aalst, we offer financial solutions in refreshingly straightforward approach, for people who want to reach their business goals faster and achieve financial security without the accounting headache.

21/10/2026

🤖 Could AI be giving the UK economy a boost?

The UK economy grew by a surprising 0.4% in July, with AI-related businesses potentially helping to drive the increase.

👉 patvanaalst.co.uk/is-ai-helping-to-boost-the-uk-economy

19/10/2026

💷 Making a profit but wondering where all the money has gone?

Unpaid invoices, stock, loan repayments and tax bills can all eat into your cash.

Profit and cashflow tell different stories. Do you have a clear picture of both?

Get in touch if you need a hand!

👉 www.patvanaalst.co.uk

18/10/2026

Could your pension leave your family with an unexpected tax bill?

From April 2027, most unused pensions will count towards your estate for Inheritance Tax purposes. It's a significant change, and one that could affect how much your loved ones inherit.

I've explained what's changing and why it's worth reviewing your plans in my latest blog post.

👉 patvanaalst.co.uk/spotlight-on-your-pension-and-inheritance-tax

16/10/2026

Bookkeeping isn’t just about keeping HMRC happy.

If your records are six months behind, they’re not much use for deciding whether you can afford a new employee, replace a van or take more money out of the business.

👉 patvanaalst.co.uk

14/10/2026

Are high taxes driving Britain's millionaires abroad?

New research suggests 61% of UK millionaires have considered leaving the country over taxes, but how many are actually planning to go?

And what's behind the growing concern?

I've taken a closer look 👇
patvanaalst.co.uk/are-high-taxes-driving-uk-millionaires-abroad

11/10/2026

More turnover doesn't always mean a better business.

Taking on more customers and increasing revenue might look like progress, but what happens when your own time becomes the thing holding the business back?

I've been looking at this in my own business recently, and it's a useful reminder that growth isn't just about bringing in more work. It's about having the capacity to deliver it profitably.

In my latest blog post, I look at why more turnover doesn't always mean more success, and why sometimes it's worth looking beyond the numbers.

Read more 👉

At Pat van Aalst, we offer financial solutions in refreshingly straightforward approach, for people who want to reach their business goals faster and achieve financial security without the accounting headache.