The tax relief businesses get for purchasing fixed assets are more generous for purchases made after April 2008.

Initial allowances for purchases up to £50,000 in a tax year made on or after 1 April for Companies or 6 April for sole traders and partnerships will be 100% (presently 40 or 50%). Generally, the earlier the allowance the better, so if it suits you and you can arrange for new assets to wait until April that will usually be better. ACTION: If you spend more than £50,000 a tax year, consider accelerating the excess over £50,000; otherwise consider deferring fixed assets acquisition until April.