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Dean Shepherd CTA FMAAT, Chartered Tax Adviser, ~30 years experience

Dean Shepherd CTA FMAAT, Chartered Tax Adviser, ~30 years experience

I'm Dean Shepherd, a Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) and Fellow of the AAT, with approaching 30 years in UK tax and accountancy.

I run ESXR, a deliberately small accountancy practice for established service-based businesses — from creative agencies to consultants — who want their finances handled properly by someone who genuinely has time for them.

Before going out on my own, I spent eight years in the tax software industry, shaping how the products actually worked and helping build the software your accountant uses every day. I also lecture on tax and speak at industry conferences, which keeps me at the front of the profession rather than catching up with it.

I write these articles to make tax and money a little less stressful: plain English, no jargon, grounded in what actually works for real businesses rather than textbook theory.

If something here raises a question about your own situation, I'm always happy to help — drop me a message, or book a chat.

Recent Articles

How Much Is Too Much (or Too Little) to Pay Your Accountant?

When it comes to paying for professional advice, many business owners are left wondering: Am I paying too much for my...

Should I Buy an Electric Car Through My Limited Company?

Electric vehicles (EVs) are everywhere these days – from sleek Teslas to practical Polestars – and whilst the benefits...

Can You Claim Tax Relief on Business Trips? What You Need to Know

When it comes to business travel, the rules for claiming tax relief are strict. While genuine business trips are...

Made a Mistake on Your Tax Return? Here’s How to Fix It (and Avoid Extra Trouble)

Let’s be honest, tax returns can be fiddly things. With dozens of figures, forms and shifting rules, it’s no wonder...

How Creative Businesses Can Avoid Late Payers (and Non-Payers) Without Getting Burned

As a creative, you’re not just selling your time - you’re pouring your ideas, energy and creativity into every project....

Should Your Creative Business Operate as an LLP? The Pros and Cons Explained

If you run a creative business - whether it's a design studio, video production company or content agency - you’ve...

How Far Back Can You Reclaim VAT? A Guide for Creative Businesses

If you're running a creative business - whether that's a design studio, a production company, or a content creation...

Box Seats & Business: The Tax Implications of Entertaining Staff and Clients at Events

It’s no secret that a night in a box at a concert or sporting event can be an unforgettable experience – a little...

Freelancers vs Employees: What Creative Businesses Need to Know About HMRC Rules

The creative industry thrives on collaboration, and freelancers are often the secret sauce that brings a project to...

How Do I Choose the Right Accountant for My Creative Business?

Choosing an accountant might not be as exciting as landing a new client, publishing your latest reel or launching your...

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