Archive for September 2026

At Hughes & Co we believe that auto-enrolment is one of the most significant changes Irish employers have faced in years. Since the My Future Fund scheme went live on 1 January 2026, employers have been required to deduct pension contributions for eligible staff, add their own contributions and send…

We here at Hughes & Co know that Pay and File is one of the most important dates in the calendar for self-employed people in Ireland. By 31 October 2026, sole traders, partners, landlords and proprietary directors must pay any balance of income tax due for 2025, pay their preliminary tax for 2026 an…

At Hughes & Co we believe that Budget Day should be a planning opportunity rather than a source of uncertainty. When the Minister for Finance stands up in the Dáil on 6 October, the announcements will shape the costs, cash flow and tax position of Irish businesses for the year ahead. For SME owners,…

Here is the article for your accountants’ blog, written in a practical and compelling style for Irish SME business owners.
We here at Hughes & Co understand that winning new customers is often a major focus for Irish SMEs, but retaining existing customers can have an even greater impact on lon…

We here at Hughes & Co understand that launching a new product or service can be an exciting opportunity for an Irish SME, but turning an idea into a profitable offering requires more than enthusiasm and market demand. Before committing time, staff and money, business owners should carefully assess…

At Hughes & Co we believe that payment terms deserve just as much attention as the price, scope and duration of any new business contract. Irish SMEs can secure profitable work but still experience financial pressure if customers are given lengthy payment periods, unclear invoicing requirements or t…

At Hughes & Co we believe that business owners should regularly review not only what their company owns, but also how effectively those assets are being used. Unused equipment, vehicles, machinery, stock, technology and property can quietly absorb valuable capital while continuing to create costs. F…

At Hughes & Co we believe that investing in new business equipment can improve productivity, increase capacity and support long-term growth, but it should never be treated as simply another business purchase. Whether you are buying machinery, vehicles, computers, tools or specialist equipment, the d…

At Hughes & Co we believe that business continuity planning should not be treated as something reserved for large corporations. For Irish SMEs, having a clear plan for dealing with disruption can make the difference between a temporary setback and a serious financial crisis. As 2027 approaches, busi…

At Hughes & Co we believe that reliable suppliers are essential to the smooth running of any Irish business. When deliveries arrive late, the consequences can extend far beyond inconvenience. Delays can interrupt production, leave staff unable to work, cause missed customer deadlines and create unex…