9. Red tape checklist: What your small business needs to know

When setting up in business, an understanding of the red tape involved is a must, or you will be asking for trouble.

It is essential that you have read through and understand the checklist below to ensure you have a good understanding of the relevant laws and regulations involved in starting a business – click the links to explore in-depth articles on a topic.

1. Tax law

As you will now be self-employed, a knowledge of tax law is essential. If you’re going to surpass the £81,000 revenue threshold you will need to register for VAT – learn how to do so in our step-by-step guide.  If you’re going to be running a registered company, get the lowdown on corporation tax and the current rates that apply to small business; similarly, if you will be occupying non-domestic premises you need to know the business rates that will apply. If you plan to take on staff, learn how the new PAYE reporting regulations will apply to you.

2. Intellectual property law

Know your intellectual property law to protect your own ideas – and make sure you’re not infringing on others. Intellectual property can refer to copyrights, designs, patents or trademarks, so make sure you’re aware of the distinctions. The vast majority of companies will carry a logo, and thus a trademark; so learn how to register a mark and how to avoid trademark infringements. If your business relies on an invention or innovative product, patent protection is essential.

3. Employment regulations

If you’re going to be taking on staff, a knowledge of employment law is a must. Learn how to navigate discrimination law – especially the thorny issue of parental leave, how to handle disciplinary issues and how the changes to the Default Retirement age may affect your business.  Figuring out how much you should pay your staff not only ensures a well-renumerated workforce but means you won’t fall foul of National Minimum Wage regulations.  Finally, ensure your workplace is compliant with health and safety regulations. If you think you might benefit from some help from an HR consultant, take a look at our guide comparing potential HR outsourcing costs.

4. Digital regulations

Doing business online means dealing with a host of laws and regulations applying to the digital sphere. Read up on the Privacy and Electronic Communications Act to ensure you’re not penalised for sending unsolicited marketing emails, and make sure your software is properly licensed so you stay on the right side of the law.

5. Insurance

Understanding which types of business insurance you’ll need can be tricky, some are compulsory whilst others are just advisable – however you’ll certainly need some form of insurance, it’s the law.  Ensure you understand the necessary business insurance jargon so that you can feel confident talking to insurers about the right package for your small business.