Author Archives: Chelle Thirsk

Back in July 1991 Chelle joined CGA and, today, as owner and Director, Chelle has helped shape CGA into a dynamic, paperless accountancy service that focuses on offering more: more ideas, more good advice, more care and attention. Responsible for the direction of CGA, Chelle brings an extra layer of consulting expertise across the challenges of running your own business and getting the balance and numbers right. Unofficially known as the ‘Head of Non-compliance’, Chelle can add pounds to your bottom line, over and above the more usual tax and accounting compliancy that comes as standard. Passionate about horse racing and Rugby Union, Chelle inhabits the Knavesmire and Twickenham, enjoys a good Zumba party and Fight Fit, as well as regular eye watering challenges ticked off her bucket list, including jumping out of planes, zorbing and aerial assault courses. If Chelle has to relax it’s with a good bottle of wine and and a thriller.

Understanding Money Mule Accounts: A Rising Fraud Threat

Money mule accounts are an alarming but growing tool used by fraudsters to move stolen or illegal funds across borders, while avoiding detection. For anyone unaware, a “money mule” is a person who allows their bank account to be used by criminals to transfer money. This might sound like something that could only happen to […]

Fee Protection Insurance: Peace of Mind When HMRC Comes Knocking

Every year, we offer our clients Fee Protection Insurance, provided by Croner I. While the words “HMRC investigation” might send a chill down your spine (and make your wallet quiver), this insurance is your financial suit of armour, shielding you from the unexpected costs of defending yourself. What is it? In short, Fee Protection Insurance […]

Home Responsibilities Protection – The Pension Gap You Didn’t See Coming (and a Surprise Plot Twist!)

Ah, Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP), the gift from the government that’s meant to ensure your state pension isn’t left high and dry while you’re busy keeping the next generation alive. But like most gifts from the government, it’s wrapped in layers of bureaucracy, and just when you think you’ve got it unwrapped—surprise! You’ve missed out […]

The Wheel Deal: Navigating the Twists and Turns of Company Car Tax

Fasten your seatbelts and adjust your mirrors, because we’re about to take you on a wild ride through the labyrinth of UK company car tax legislation! Whether you’re eyeing that shiny Porsche or considering a more practical approach, we’ve got the roadmap to help you navigate these treacherous financial highways. The Company Car Conundrum: A […]

The Challenge of Vouchers and VAT: A Complex Landscape  (Sept 24)

The world of VAT and vouchers continues to puzzle both taxpayers and HMRC, as demonstrated by two recent cases that, despite appearing similar, ended with very different outcomes. A Quick Background The confusion around how vouchers should be treated for VAT purposes isn’t new. Back in 2016, a decision by the Court of Justice of […]

March 2023 Budget

Although the tone of the Chancellor was very upbeat, the reality of the budget was clearly “steady as we go” against the backdrop of financial market jitters, the continuing conflict in Ukraine and a looming election.  Critic or supporter – perhaps that very much depends on the extent to which the (lengthy) budget represents a […]

National minimum wage rates change April 2023

From 1 April 2023, the following increases to NMW/NLW will come into force: National living wage Rate from April 2023 Rate from April 2022 Increase % 23 years old plus £10.42 £9.50 9.7 21-22 year old rate £10.18 £9.18 10.9 18-20 year old rate £7.49 £6.83 9.7 16-17 year old rate £5.28 £4.81 9.7 Apprentice […]