February Newsletter | 2026
Hello and welcome to our February update. The new year is already moving quickly, and this month brings a mix of important HMRC reminders, software updates, and a few housekeeping notes to help keep everything running smoothly for you and your business.
Important: ID verification & biometric onboarding
To comply with AML (Anti‑Money Laundering) regulations, all clients must submit their ID and complete their biometric onboarding.
This process is quick, secure and essential for us to continue managing your bookkeeping, payroll or admin services. If you haven’t completed your onboarding yet, please do so as soon as possible, or reach out if you need the link resent.
We’re always happy to support you through the process. If you need a hand, our team can guide you step by step over the phone to make sure everything is completed correctly.
Outsourcing & flexible support: A perfect match
This month’s blog, “Outsourcing 101 – What You Need to Know,” explored how outsourcing can transform the way you run your business. The key message is simple: when you hand over the tasks that drain your time, you gain clarity, breathing room and the ability to focus on what actually grows your business.
And here’s where it ties directly into your support with DS Business Support: Your services with us are completely flexible.
As your business evolves, your support can evolve with it. Many clients start with bookkeeping or payroll and then expand into admin support, digital tools, or more frequent bookkeeping as they feel the benefits. Whether you want to increase your hours, streamline your package, or add new services, you can adjust your plan at any time. Just reach out and we’ll tailor everything to suit your needs.
Outsourcing isn’t about giving things up. It’s about gaining back time, reducing stress and building a stronger foundation for your business. If you’ve been thinking about expanding your support, February is a great time to do it.
HMRC deadlines & key dates
PAYE / NI – 22nd February
If you pay electronically, February’s PAYE and National Insurance payments are due by the 22nd.
VAT Returns
If your VAT quarter ended in December, your return and payment deadline falls in early February. Please ensure all documents are uploaded/shared with us in advance so we can process everything on time.
Self Assessment follow up
If you missed the 31st January filing deadline, HMRC will begin issuing penalties. Please get in touch if you need help bringing your records up to date, we’re here to support you.
Updates from Xero & Dext
Xero – New bank reconciliation improvements
Xero has rolled out enhanced reconciliation suggestions to speed up matching and reduce errors. You may notice smarter prompts and cleaner categorisation when reviewing transactions.
Dext – Faster document capture
Dext has introduced improved OCR (optical character recognition), meaning receipts and invoices are now processed more accurately and more quickly. This helps us keep your bookkeeping up to date with fewer delays.
If you’re unsure how to use any new features, just let us know, we’re always happy to walk you through them.
We’re here when you need us
As always, thank you for trusting DS Business Support with your business. If you have questions, need help with software, want to adjust your services or simply want to chat through your goals for the year, we’re only ever an email away.
Wishing you a productive and positive February.