Glow & Tell: Your Questions Answered - 04 March 2024
Welcome to our new segment, where every week, we’ll be answering all your burning beauty questions relating to businesses or general how to’s, with advice from our editor, team and beauty industry experts. Want to submit a question anonymously to be considered for next time? Just leave your question here, making sure to let us know that it’s for the Glow & Tell segment and see you next time!
Q: If I wear glasses, can I deduct their cost from my tax?
A: For self-employed individuals, it's worth noting that the cost of an eye test is not considered an allowable business expense. Regarding the deduction of glasses, they are generally not eligible for tax deductions. This is attributed to the concept of 'duality of purpose', meaning the glasses are likely used for both personal and professional activities, making them ineligible for a tax write-off.
For directors of limited companies, the scenario differs slightly. Eye tests qualify as an allowable expense against corporation tax, including the tests for any employees. This applies specifically when the glasses are required for regular use of Display Screen Equipment (DSE) for a minimum of one hour daily.
Should your glasses be exclusively for business use, they may be deductible against tax. However, it's crucial to maintain evidence to substantiate this claim, ensuring compliance and legitimacy in your tax filings.
Q: How can I fire a bad salon client?
A: Begin by documenting any disruptive behaviors for a clear record. Conversations about ending the client relationship should be conducted privately to maintain respect and discretion. Be honest and courteous, explaining that the client might find a better fit elsewhere, while ensuring to stay professional throughout the interaction. This approach minimizes potential discomfort and preserves the salon's positive atmosphere. Follow our in depth guide here.
Q: I have a botox practitioner, who is self-employed, starting in my salon by renting a room, she would like to take payments in her room which I find odd - any advice?
A: For a practitioner renting a room, it is standard practice for them to manage their payments independently. This arrangement not only simplifies financial transactions but also ensures transparency in earnings, avoiding any confusion about the salon's revenue and potential VAT implications. Moreover, processing payments through the salon's system might unintentionally blur the lines of self-employment, risking reclassification of the practitioner as an employee due to perceived control over their operations.
Q: I am restarting my mobile beauty business after a long break, can I say no to male clients?
A: Yes, a beauty therapist can restrict their services. There are exceptions within The Equality Act 2010 allowing the provision of single-sex services which include:
therapists operate on their own and in clients' homes (for safety reasons).
the services involve physical contact, such as massage, and the therapist might reasonably object to providing it for a man (for example, for privacy and decency reasons).
the service is likely to be used by more than one person at a time and a woman is likely to object to the presence of a man, or vice versa, and
restricting the service to women is objectively justified.
If you are a masseuse, you can learn more about dealing with requests for a sensual massage here.
Q: What are the must-haves for salon insurance?
A: For salon insurance, ensuring your qualifications are accredited by recognized training institutions is crucial, as this forms the basis of eligibility with most insurers. Essential coverage typically includes public and product liability insurance, foundational for protecting against claims related to injuries or damages.
Beyond these, customising your policy to include additional services specific to your salon's operations is advisable. This could encompass loss of earnings insurance, to safeguard against periods you cannot operate, or equipment breakdown insurance, for unexpected repairs. Insurers often tailor policies to meet the unique needs of your business, so reviewing the specifics of your coverage options is essential.
Additionally, some diplomas or certificates may list recommended insurers, which can serve as a helpful starting point in selecting a provider that aligns with your requirements.