Our blogs
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Paul Chappell
We are often asked, “As a charity, are we eligible for the Employment Allowance?” The simple answer is yes. For UK charities managing tight budgets while fulfilling their missions, every financial relief opportunity matters. The Employment Allowance represents one such...
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Paul Chappell
The “Alabaster ruling” refers to the landmark case of Alabaster v Woolwich plc and Secretary of State for Social Security (2002). This European Court of Justice case fundamentally changed how Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is calculated in the UK, ensuring...
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Richard Rowell
Ascend Payroll – How we create a personal service There’s a certain kind of shop that makes you smile the moment you walk through the door. The lighting is warm, the music is thoughtfully curated, the layout is considered, and...
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Paul Chappell
Occupational v Statutory Sick Pay When employees get sick and need time off work, understanding what money they’ll receive is important for everyone involved. In the UK, employers handle sick pay in two main ways: through the legally required Statutory...
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Paul Chappell
You may have heard the term ‘optional remuneration arrangements’ or OpRA but do you know what it means and how it can help your staff? What is an Optional Remuneration Arrangement? An OpRA is also known as ‘salary sacrifice.’ In...
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Richard Rowell
Payroll ethics – breaking the trend Across the payroll industry, there’s a quiet but unmistakable trend – providers chasing scale by sacrificing service. They automate more, humanise less. Offshore operations. Require more from you. All in the name of margin...
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Paul Chappell
What employers need to know about off payroll workers If you’re an employer working with contractors or freelancers, understanding IR35 is essential. This blog explains everything you need to know about these tax rules in simple terms, helping you stay...
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Paul Chappell
The impact of the Willmott Dixon and Laing O’Rourke Tribunal The 2023 Upper Tribunal decision in Willmott Dixon and Laing O’Rourke v HMRC [2023] has significant implications for businesses that provide car allowances to employees and directors. This landmark ruling...
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Paul Chappell
Veterans bring a wealth of skills, experience, and qualities to the workplace that can benefit any organisation. If you’re considering employing veterans in the UK, here’s what you need to know, with special attention to tax and National Insurance benefits....
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Stewart Waddell
At Ascend Payroll, we’re proud to announce our accreditation as a Real Living Wage employer. This milestone isn’t just another certification; it’s a reflection of who we are as a company and what we stand for. But what exactly does...
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