Archive for September 2026
The True Cost of an Employee: What to Budget for Beyond the Salary
We here at Lombard meet many business owners at the point where their company is growing, and growth usually brings two decisions close together: taking on more staff and, sooner or later, finding more space to put them. Hiring the right person can transform a business, but the figure on the job adv…
Read MoreAuto-Enrolment Pensions: Top 5 Checks Irish Employers Should Make Before 2027
At Lombard 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 the…
Read MorePay and File 2026: Top 5 Mistakes Self-Employed Business Owners Should Avoid
We here at Lombard 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 and fi…
Read MoreSalary, Dividends or Pension: How Business Owners Can Pay Themselves More Efficiently
At Lombard we believe that good property decisions start with a clear picture of your finances. Many of the buyers and sellers we meet run their own companies, and one question comes up again and again: what is the best way to take money out of the business? The answer affects far more than your ann…
Read MoreBudget 2027: Top 5 Areas Irish SME Owners Should Watch on Budget Day
At Lombard 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, the…
Read MoreThe Hidden Cost of Poor Customer Retention: What It Means for SME Profitability
Here is the article for your accountants’ blog, written in a practical and compelling style for Irish SME business owners.
We here at Lombard understand that winning new customers is often a major focus for Irish SMEs, but retaining existing customers can have an even greater impact on long-te…
Top 5 Financial Considerations Before Launching a New Product or Service
We here at Lombard 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 the…
Read MoreWhy Your Business Needs a Financial Buffer Before the Next Challenge Arrives
We here at Lombard believe that one of the most valuable financial decisions a business can make is to build a financial buffer before it is needed. A healthy reserve can provide breathing space when costs rise, customers pay late, or unexpected challenges arise. Without one, even a well-run busines…
Read MoreWhy Irish SMEs Should Review Their Payment Terms Before Signing New Contracts
At Lombard 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 terms…
Read MoreHow Unused Business Assets Can Tie Up Capital and Increase Costs
At Lombard 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. For I…
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