FREE online tools to help small and medium-sized firms across Kirklees get their business records in shape have been launched by HM Revenue & Customs.

The four new products, which are suitable for the self-employed, sole traders and small businesses, have been produced in advance of the launch of HMRC’s new Business Records Checks programme later this year, which will impose penalties for significant record-keeping failures.

Brian Redford, acting director for HMRC’s Business Customer Unit, said: “In these tough times, keeping good records makes sound business sense. It may seem like a challenge, particularly when you’re starting out, but keeping good records will bring real advantages to your business.”

He said: “Later this year, HMRC will start a programme of Business Records Checks that will look at the adequacy and accuracy of business records in SMEs to bring about a major improvement in the standard of record-keeping.

“Now is the time to invest a bit of effort to make sure your business records are perfect.”

The new tools cover: keeping records for business; a general guide to keeping records for your tax return; setting up a basic record-keeping system; and finding out what records you should be keeping.