Short-term rentals: What you need to know
If you’re renting out your home or holiday house over summer, make sure you know the rules on taxes, holiday rental agreements, claiming expenses and more.
News
Faster, easier, better: Thank you for 2017
It’s our biggest year yet, with more clicks and more topics for small businesses, contractors and sole traders. Thanks to you all for your feedback and help.
Laws that changed in 2017
From contractors’ tax to Easter trading, hazardous substances to ACC levy changes, it’s been a big year for business-related law changes. Here’s a summary.
Claiming expenses on business trips
You can claim the cost of many daily expenses when travelling for work. If the trip is part business, part holiday, you can only claim work-related expenses.
Using the Companies Register just got better
It’s now easier to use online services and find tips on how to register a company, search the Companies Register, or keep your company’s details up to date.
Retail crime: Simple ways to reduce your risk
Hi-tech cameras and round-the-clock guards are beyond the reach of many shop owners. Here are ways you and any staff can protect your business and stay safe.
Two-factor authentication: Quick security for email and data
Add extra security to your accounts and devices by turning on two-step verification. It takes just a few minutes to set up — and stop hackers in their tracks.
Paying employees for holidays and leave
When someone takes paid time off work, eg public holiday or sick leave, the law tells you how much to pay them. New tools for employers and employees can help.
It’s a wrap: Preparing your business for Christmas
The Christmas run-up can be frantic for small business owners. Here’s a quick guide to claiming Christmas expenses and rules relating to staff leave.
KiwiSaver tips if you're aged 55+
What will you live on when you stop work or dial back on hours? Here’s how to make the most of your KiwiSaver as you get closer to dipping into this nest egg.
Cyber security: Is yours up to scratch?
Cyber crime is rising and many businesses make these common mistakes. Take a self-assessment to see how your cyber protection stacks up — plus pick up tips.
Hazard alert: Bakeries and collision repair workshops
Bakery and collision repair workshop workers face a high level of work and health-related risks. They’re now included in WorkSafe’s Around the Block tool.
Vodafone email shutdown and your business
Common email addresses, eg Paradise and Clear, will not work after 30 November. Follow these steps to keep your business running smoothly with a new account.
Compare your self-employed income or worker pay rate
Are yours above or below average? MBIE’s new labour market dashboard pulls data from across government on workers and the workforce. Here are some key insights.
Customer loyalty: How to build it
It’s not just what you sell that brings in loyal customers. Good customer service is key, including how you handle returns and complaints.
Sick leave: Get it right
The ins and outs of who gets it, what to do if casual or part-time workers are ill, how to handle untaken sick leave, and when it’s OK to ask for a GP’s note.
Hazardous substances: Get ready for this law change
New rules are coming on how to manage the risks if your workplace deals with hazardous substances. Use our guide to make sure you and any workers are ready.
Migrant workers: New visa rules for lower-skilled jobs
Employ overseas workers? Changes to immigration policies may affect how long they can stay.
Contracting: Hidden costs and expenses
Make sure your contractor rate allows for things an employer would normally cover, eg holidays and time off sick. Here’s how to budget for ebbs and flows.
Health and safety: Workplace bullying
Bullying at work can affect your workers’ health, and damage your culture and profit. Find out what you must do by law to keep your workplace healthy and safe.