Probably obvious but... Have you considered a simple options appraisal to help you decide?
Option A - replace on like for like basis, take into account restructured offering (and any clients you might lose as a result of this), learning curve for new member of staff, etc, assume your growth to date
option B - invest in capacity to develop business, likely up-sale as a result of the new skilled member of staff, likely return on your business development time. What is the extra income you think you will gain? Is it worth it?
This is what you would recommend your clients to do when they ask you this question, right?
I am looking at a Corp Tax notice issued for a new company dated 5 March 2014 (following the Companies House registration) - it says very clearly that 'you must send us certain information within three months of coming within the charge to Corporation Tax - that is, broadly, when you start any business activity (for example, be beginning to trade, providing services, earning interest or receiving any other income). We use this information to set up our computer record for your company.' (direct quote from letter) I imagine HMRC will then send CT41G.
My answers
Xero add-ins
Have a look at Xero add-ons on Xero.com
Under time management, there are a couple that may be suitable. These are stand-alone products, they just happen to integrate with Xero.
Probably obvious but...
Have you considered a simple options appraisal to help you decide?
Option A - replace on like for like basis, take into account restructured offering (and any clients you might lose as a result of this), learning curve for new member of staff, etc, assume your growth to date
option B - invest in capacity to develop business, likely up-sale as a result of the new skilled member of staff, likely return on your business development time. What is the extra income you think you will gain? Is it worth it?
This is what you would recommend your clients to do when they ask you this question, right?
Good luck
Not sure about 3 months' being scrapped...
I am looking at a Corp Tax notice issued for a new company dated 5 March 2014 (following the Companies House registration) - it says very clearly that 'you must send us certain information within three months of coming within the charge to Corporation Tax - that is, broadly, when you start any business activity (for example, be beginning to trade, providing services, earning interest or receiving any other income). We use this information to set up our computer record for your company.' (direct quote from letter) I imagine HMRC will then send CT41G.
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/ct/getting-started/new-company/start-up.htm?WT.ac=CT_StartupJan
http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/ct/getting-started/trading.htm (this says 'within 3 months' also)
The fact that the client has not made a profit is not relevant in considering whether the company is 'active' for tax purposes.
I agree with the others the best course of action is to register ASAP and hope for the best!