[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1644},["ShallowReactive",2],{"schema:\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002F":3},{"elements":4,"system":1637},{"product_name":5,"slug":9,"content_block___hero":13,"content_block___supplier":95,"content_blocks":121,"meta_title":1620,"meta_description":1623,"meta_canonical":1626,"meta_robots":1629,"meta_aggregate_schema":1634},{"name":6,"type":7,"value":8},"Product Name","text","business-finance",{"name":10,"type":11,"value":12},"Slug","url_slug","business-finance\u002F",{"name":14,"type":15,"value":16,"linkedItems":18},"Content Block - Hero","modular_content",[17],"commercial_mortgage_hero__copy__8d36302",[19],{"elements":20,"system":89},{"product_icon":21,"tagline":33,"heading":36,"hero_bullet_one":39,"hero_bullet_two":42,"hero_bullet_three":45,"cta_button_text":48,"cta_link_url":51,"secondary_cta_button_text":54,"secondary_cta_link_url":57,"hero_image":59,"theme":71},{"name":22,"type":23,"value":24},"Product Icon","asset",[25],{"name":26,"description":27,"type":28,"size":29,"url":30,"width":31,"height":31,"renditions":32},"Untitled design (15).png","Blue Pound Sign","image\u002Fpng",5660,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Fe912afbc-2761-4cc2-9f21-aacc6a7160b4\u002FUntitled%20design%20%2815%29.png",80,{},{"name":34,"type":7,"value":35},"Tagline","Business loan comparison",{"name":37,"type":7,"value":38},"Heading","Compare business loans",{"name":40,"type":7,"value":41},"Hero Bullet One","Compare business loan rates and lenders",{"name":43,"type":7,"value":44},"Hero Bullet Two","Business loans for cash flow, expansion and more",{"name":46,"type":7,"value":47},"Hero Bullet Three","Bionic is the comparison site for your small business",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":50},"CTA Button Text","Compare Business Loans",{"name":52,"type":7,"value":53},"CTA Link URL","https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.thinkbusinessloans.com\u002F",{"name":55,"type":7,"value":56},"Secondary CTA Button Text","",{"name":58,"type":7,"value":56},"Secondary CTA Link URL",{"name":60,"type":23,"value":61},"Hero Image",[62],{"name":63,"description":64,"type":65,"size":66,"url":67,"width":68,"height":69,"renditions":70},"BigSupportFinanceHero.4e577c65.webp","A business owner smiling after arranging her business insurance","image\u002Fwebp",43162,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Ffc9cfca4-4767-4589-9d79-d38754ea00b0\u002FBigSupportFinanceHero.4e577c65.webp",650,516,{},{"name":72,"type":15,"value":73,"linkedItems":75},"Theme",[74],"content_block___theme___grey",[76],{"elements":77,"system":81},{"colour":78},{"name":79,"type":7,"value":80},"Colour","Grey",{"codename":74,"collection":82,"id":83,"language":82,"lastModified":84,"name":85,"sitemapLocations":86,"type":87,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"default","7f21286b-86bb-4895-89e6-2a089b86b647","2024-10-21T16:46:34.480424Z","Content Block - Theme - Grey",[],"content_block___theme","published",{"codename":17,"collection":82,"id":90,"language":82,"lastModified":91,"name":92,"sitemapLocations":93,"type":94,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"8d363027-e2c1-48f4-84ac-d13fd65a3655","2026-03-26T08:11:02.9887441Z","Commercial Business Finance",[],"content_block___hero",{"name":96,"type":15,"value":97,"linkedItems":99},"Content Block - Supplier",[98],"finance_supplier_carousel",[100],{"elements":101,"system":115},{"tagline":102,"supplier_image":104},{"name":34,"type":7,"value":103},"We compare a panel of trusted business finance suppliers",{"name":105,"type":23,"value":106},"Supplier Image",[107],{"name":108,"description":109,"type":65,"size":110,"url":111,"width":112,"height":113,"renditions":114},"finance-carousel.33720d00.webp","A list of Bionic and Think Business Loans finance supplier logos",14566,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F2100f3cc-2c0a-4b5c-97b2-28365af4d032\u002Ffinance-carousel.33720d00.webp",2134,48,{},{"codename":98,"collection":82,"id":116,"language":82,"lastModified":117,"name":118,"sitemapLocations":119,"type":120,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"366cb338-2aec-4728-bec0-8cda87fee39f","2026-03-25T15:28:48.7433497Z","Finance Supplier Carousel",[],"content_block___supplier_carousel",{"name":122,"type":15,"value":123,"linkedItems":136},"Content Blocks",[124,125,126,127,128,129,130,131,132,133,134,135],"content_block___one_col_style___what_is_a_commeric_f880ca1","content_block_two_col___when_is_a_commercial_mortg_beddad4","content_block_two_col___what_is_the_difference_bet_37dc08a","content_block_two_col___how_to_get_a_commercial_mo_df23f47","content_block_two_col___is_it_difficult_to_get_a_c_cff5a02","content_block_two_col___ddee199","content_block___faq___commercial_mortgage__copy__41d801d","content_block___tp_slider___connectivity","content_block___guides___connectivity","content_block___guides___connectivity__copy_","content_block___image_with_cta___ins_backbone","content_block___social",[137,159,190,208,236,254,272,467,481,1184,1581,1613],{"elements":138,"system":153},{"title_accent":139,"title":142,"text":145},{"name":140,"type":7,"value":141},"Title Accent","How to...",{"name":143,"type":7,"value":144},"Title","compare business loans",{"images":146,"linkedItemCodenames":147,"linkedItems":148,"links":149,"name":150,"type":151,"value":152},[],[],[],[],"Text","rich_text","\u003Cp>At Bionic, we use smart technology to help make \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">business comparison\u003C\u002Fa> a whole lot easier. And the team at Think Business Loans, the finance partner of Bionic, do the same for business loans comparison.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As soon as they know a bit about your business and what you need funding for, they’ll use smart data and state-of-the tech to match your business against thousands of potential lenders and finance options.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As part of the comparison, you’ll be shown your eligibility status and amounts available. We’ll run a soft credit check to do this, so as not to affect your credit score. You just need to choose your preferred lender, and we'll take it from there. If you proceed with the application, your lender will run a hard credit search before making a decision. A record of this search will appear on your credit file.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Think only works with responsible lenders, and so you’ll need to give evidence of your business's turnover and affordability for underwriting purposes. Again, smart technology is used to help make this as easy as possible – simply upload your supporting documents or connect via OpenBanking for a decision.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once everything is underway, you can check your application using the Think Business Loans’ online client portal. This means you can stay updated on the status of your application and communicate directly with lenders. Apple users can also get updates using iOS app.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":124,"collection":82,"id":154,"language":82,"lastModified":155,"name":156,"sitemapLocations":157,"type":158,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"f880ca12-da54-4a7f-b326-ab2de0862a7f","2026-03-26T08:11:49.4745057Z","Content Block - One Col Style - What is a commerical mortgage (copy)",[],"content_block___one_column_styled_heading",{"elements":160,"system":184},{"title_left":161,"text_right":164,"theme":171},{"name":162,"type":7,"value":163},"Title Left","How much does a business loan cost?",{"images":165,"linkedItemCodenames":166,"linkedItems":167,"links":168,"name":169,"type":151,"value":170},[],[],[],[],"Text Right","\u003Cp>The cost of business finance depends on the type of loan you take out, the lender you borrow from, and the current circumstances of your business. The rates you're offered depend upon the type of risk you pose to the lender. This risk is broken down into the following categories:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Category A+\u003Cbr>\nYou have clean business and personal credit files, profitable. Trading 5+ years.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Category A\u003Cbr>\nClean personal and business credit, healthy profits, trading history 2+ years.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Category B\u003Cbr>\nSome minor issues on your credit file in the past, but good recent performance.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Category C\u003Cbr>\nRecent credit problems, such as CCJs (settled) or any missed payments.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Category D\u003Cbr>\nBad personal credit, but an overall good business. CCJ’s (unsettled) or defaulted payments.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Get in touch with the tech-enabled team at Think Business Loans for a personalised business loans comparison.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":72,"type":15,"value":172,"linkedItems":174},[173],"content_block___theme___navy",[175],{"elements":176,"system":179},{"colour":177},{"name":79,"type":7,"value":178},"Navy",{"codename":173,"collection":82,"id":180,"language":82,"lastModified":181,"name":182,"sitemapLocations":183,"type":87,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"324b67a1-399c-4efe-a4b4-791af801a4fd","2024-11-08T10:57:29.8395583Z","Content Block - Theme - Navy",[],{"codename":125,"collection":82,"id":185,"language":82,"lastModified":186,"name":187,"sitemapLocations":188,"type":189,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"beddad4a-5e1e-4837-a185-8fedab1d1b3e","2026-03-26T08:25:26.9608789Z","Content Block Two Col - How much does a business loan cost?",[],"content_block___two_column",{"elements":191,"system":203},{"title_left":192,"text_right":194,"theme":200},{"name":162,"type":7,"value":193},"What are Commercial Lenders Looking for",{"images":195,"linkedItemCodenames":196,"linkedItems":197,"links":198,"name":169,"type":151,"value":199},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Although there’s no ‘set standard’ criteria for business loans, lenders will usually look at the following before deciding whether to lend to you:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Turnover vs Loan amount (ideally it will be 30% of your turnover)\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Trading history over the last 18 months – this suggests experience and lowers risk\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>No serious adverse credit – Settled CCJ’s will be entertained if the business is profitable\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Business must be based in the UK\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Are the directors homeowners? – this can affect the amount offered\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Ideally, lenders will need to see one or more of the above points being met, but we work closely with our panel to help ensure we can match your business with the right one.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":72,"type":15,"value":201,"linkedItems":202},[74],[76],{"codename":126,"collection":82,"id":204,"language":82,"lastModified":205,"name":206,"sitemapLocations":207,"type":189,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"37dc08a9-8ce0-4bc5-a8f7-fd9903c02eb7","2026-03-26T08:26:03.0015703Z","Content Block Two Col - What are Commercial Lenders Looking for",[],{"elements":209,"system":231},{"title_left":210,"text_right":212,"theme":218},{"name":162,"type":7,"value":211},"What types of business can take out a loan?",{"images":213,"linkedItemCodenames":214,"linkedItems":215,"links":216,"name":169,"type":151,"value":217},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Think can compare business loans for a range of businesses across all industries, including microbusinesses, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fwhat-is-a-small-business\u002F\">small businesses\u003C\u002Fa>, and larger companies. Here are some examples of the businesses we can find finance for:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Agriculture - Farming equipment isn’t cheap and can quickly become outdated by newer technology. Farmers can get finance for a range of needs, including expansion, new equipment and more.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Dental Practice Finance Solutions - Whether you are looking to buy a new practice, expand your existing one, or invest in new equipment, we can help you find finance to fit your needs and circumstances.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>IT Software and Technology Finance - The speed at which technology is always developing puts pressure on businesses to invest in cutting edge hardware and software. Our tech-enabled team can help you find the right finance.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Nursing & Care Homes - Although very rewarding, care homes can be costly to run, particularly when you consider the level of care and medical technology needed to help residents. We can help you secure the finance you need.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>The tech-enabled team at Think can take the stress and worry out of finding the right type of finance and the right lender.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":72,"type":15,"value":219,"linkedItems":221},[220],"content_block___theme___navy_cabc44a",[222],{"elements":223,"system":226},{"colour":224},{"name":79,"type":7,"value":225},"White",{"codename":220,"collection":82,"id":227,"language":82,"lastModified":228,"name":229,"sitemapLocations":230,"type":87,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"cabc44a2-ac12-4719-bcb0-54147bebae8c","2025-04-09T16:40:53.9170775Z","Content Block - Theme - White",[],{"codename":127,"collection":82,"id":232,"language":82,"lastModified":233,"name":234,"sitemapLocations":235,"type":189,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"df23f479-7e4c-4d64-8518-5a1b738eab0c","2026-03-26T08:26:34.2720078Z","Content Block Two Col - What types of business can take out a loan?",[],{"elements":237,"system":249},{"title_left":238,"text_right":240,"theme":246},{"name":162,"type":7,"value":239},"What lenders do you compare?",{"images":241,"linkedItemCodenames":242,"linkedItems":243,"links":244,"name":169,"type":151,"value":245},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Our finance division over at Think work with a panel of trusted lenders to find the right finance solution for your business, including high street banks, challenger banks, and alternative lenders.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>What are high street banks?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>High street banks are large retail banks with branch locations across the country, and maybe across the world. As the name suggests, these banks have a high street presence, and include familiar names like RBS and NatWest, Lloyds and Bank of Scotland, HSBC, Santander, Clydesdale, and Metro Bank.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>High street banks offer a range of business finance options, such as commercial mortgages, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fasset-finance\u002F\">asset finance\u003C\u002Fa>, secured loans, unsecured loans, factoring and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Finvoice-financing\u002F\">invoice finance\u003C\u002Fa>. The amount you can borrow from a high street bank will depend on the type of loan you want, your credit score and your circumstances.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although high street banks like to offer competitive rates, it’s worth comparing what’s on offer from challenger banks and alternative lenders.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>What is a challenger bank?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Challenger banks are smaller, less well-established banks that don’t have a high street presence. But just because you’ve never heard of them, it doesn’t mean they’re not a viable option. We only work with reputable lenders, and in order to be defined as a ‘bank’, the company must be authorised to accept retail deposits by the UK finical regulator the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Challenger banks can often only be approached via an intermediary or finance broker, and our close working relationship with our panel of lenders means we may be able to negotiate favourable rates for your business.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>What are alternative lenders?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Alternative lenders are those that work outside of the normal banking system, such as peer-to-peer (P2P) lenders. P2P lenders bypass banks by using a lending platform to directly match with borrowers.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":72,"type":15,"value":247,"linkedItems":248},[173],[175],{"codename":128,"collection":82,"id":250,"language":82,"lastModified":251,"name":252,"sitemapLocations":253,"type":189,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"cff5a028-efec-4391-ad4f-266e876eb309","2026-03-26T08:28:25.757941Z","Content Block Two Col - What lenders do you compare?",[],{"elements":255,"system":267},{"title_left":256,"text_right":258,"theme":264},{"name":162,"type":7,"value":257},"Is your business eligible for a commercial mortgage?",{"images":259,"linkedItemCodenames":260,"linkedItems":261,"links":262,"name":169,"type":151,"value":263},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Commercial mortgages are big deal for both the lender and the borrower, which means the lending criteria is usually robust. Although eligibility checks vary between lenders, you’ll most likely need to meet the following conditions:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>A good business credit score – Although not always a deal-breaker, having a good credit score will help your application for a commercial mortgage. Some lenders will accept applications from businesses with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-loans-bad-credit\u002F\">bad credit\u003C\u002Fa> rating, but these will come with higher interest rates to reflect the added risk to the lender.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Evidence you can afford to pay a deposit alongside the repayments - Commercial mortgages usually need a deposit of between 20% and 40% of the loan amount. You might need proof of projected income as evidence that you can afford the deposit and repayments. This might take the form of a financial health check that looks at cash flow, general income, existing debts, credits, and assets.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Proof of income – This can be in the form of salary, self-employment, or even rental income.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>It might also help your application if you’re a homeowner.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":72,"type":15,"value":265,"linkedItems":266},[74],[76],{"codename":129,"collection":82,"id":268,"language":82,"lastModified":269,"name":270,"sitemapLocations":271,"type":189,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"ddee199a-1747-48ea-88e5-a3119f4d0b18","2026-03-25T15:45:43.0326474Z","Content Block Two Col - Is your business eligible for a commercial mortgage?",[],{"elements":273,"system":461},{"title":274,"tagline":276,"faq_items":278},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":275},"Business finance FAQs",{"name":34,"type":7,"value":277},"To help you understand more about finding the right business loan, here are the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.",{"name":279,"type":15,"value":280,"linkedItems":292},"FAQ Items",[281,282,283,284,285,286,287,288,289,290,291],"faq___how_long_does_it_take_to_get_a_business_loan","faq___how_much_can_i_borrow_","faq___what_rates_do_you_offer_","faq___what_is_open_banking_","faq___can_i_repay_my_business_loan_early_","faq___do_i_have_to_take_out_a_business_loan_if_my_","faq___why_use_bionic_instead_of_going_to_the_lende","faq___will_my_credit_score_be_affected_","faq___do_i_need_to_use_my_house_as_security_for_a_","faq___can_you_help_if_i_have_bad_or_adverse_credit","faq___can_i_take_out_more_than_one_business_loan_",[293,311,326,341,356,371,386,401,416,431,446],{"elements":294,"system":305},{"question":295,"answer":298},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":297},"Question","How long does it take to get a business loan?",{"images":299,"linkedItemCodenames":300,"linkedItems":301,"links":302,"name":303,"type":151,"value":304},[],[],[],[],"Answer","\u003Cp>All business loans are subject to credit and affordability checks, but if your application is successful, you could get your funds within 24 to 36 hours. The timing can vary depending on the type of loan you’ve applied for. Secured loans, for instance, often take longer to process.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To make sure the application process runs as quickly and smoothly as possible, it helps if you can get any supporting documents across as quickly as possible.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":281,"collection":82,"id":306,"language":82,"lastModified":307,"name":308,"sitemapLocations":309,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"9ba19c13-e06d-4bbf-9e81-27062a8fbdd8","2026-03-26T08:29:22.717783Z","FAQ - How long does it take to get a business loan?",[],"content_block___faq_item",{"elements":312,"system":321},{"question":313,"answer":315},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":314},"How much can I borrow?",{"images":316,"linkedItemCodenames":317,"linkedItems":318,"links":319,"name":303,"type":151,"value":320},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>The amount you can borrow will depend on your credit score and the affordability of your business loan. Think will compare a range of business loans and talk you through your options to help you find a loan that fits your needs and budget.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":282,"collection":82,"id":322,"language":82,"lastModified":323,"name":324,"sitemapLocations":325,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"8f01c5e4-ab0a-4991-ba56-c490495cb135","2026-03-26T08:29:43.1586696Z","FAQ - How much can I borrow?",[],{"elements":327,"system":336},{"question":328,"answer":330},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":329},"What rates do you offer?",{"images":331,"linkedItemCodenames":332,"linkedItems":333,"links":334,"name":303,"type":151,"value":335},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>The rate you’re offered will vary according to your business credit rating, how much you want to borrow and for how long, as well as the lender and type of loan you choose. Get in touch with Think’s tech-enabled team for a personalised business loans comparison.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":283,"collection":82,"id":337,"language":82,"lastModified":338,"name":339,"sitemapLocations":340,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"301adb46-1526-4764-9bfd-5980c736975d","2026-03-26T08:30:05.134524Z","FAQ - What rates do you offer?",[],{"elements":342,"system":351},{"question":343,"answer":345},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":344},"What is Open Banking?",{"images":346,"linkedItemCodenames":347,"linkedItems":348,"links":349,"name":303,"type":151,"value":350},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Open Banking is a clever piece of tech that allows you to share your basic bank account information with lenders who will use it as part of their underwriting process (this is when they work out how much a lending risk your business is before making a final decision on whether to lend to you).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only regulated third-party providers can access Open Banking services. For more information, check out the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.openbanking.org.uk\u002F\">Open Banking website\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":284,"collection":82,"id":352,"language":82,"lastModified":353,"name":354,"sitemapLocations":355,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"f476f76e-4fd8-4251-bdb2-dce8caa2ecff","2026-03-26T08:30:26.9039245Z","FAQ - What is Open Banking?",[],{"elements":357,"system":366},{"question":358,"answer":360},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":359},"Can I repay my business loan early?",{"images":361,"linkedItemCodenames":362,"linkedItems":363,"links":364,"name":303,"type":151,"value":365},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>This will depend upon the type of business loan you have taken out and the lender providing it. Although some lenders are flexible, others might insist you stick to the fixed monthly repayment schedule.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you do repay early, you’ll be given a settlement figure which will usually be for more than the amount you owe, as the lender will want to recoup some of the interest repayments it will miss out on as you’re not taking the loan over the full term.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If this is a concern, please tell your lending manager and they will be able to help.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":285,"collection":82,"id":367,"language":82,"lastModified":368,"name":369,"sitemapLocations":370,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"ef548906-5ef9-4c56-9c1f-922c58d4513a","2026-03-26T08:30:46.1904555Z","FAQ - Can I repay my business loan early?",[],{"elements":372,"system":381},{"question":373,"answer":375},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":374},"Do I have to take out a business loan if my application is accepted?",{"images":376,"linkedItemCodenames":377,"linkedItems":378,"links":379,"name":303,"type":151,"value":380},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>If your application is accepted, you’re not under any obligation to take out a business loan until you’ve signed the credit agreement with your lender. But bear in mind that when you complete a full application with a lender, a record of your application will appear on your business credit file. If you make too many applications in a short space of time, this can have a negative impact on your credit score.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":286,"collection":82,"id":382,"language":82,"lastModified":383,"name":384,"sitemapLocations":385,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"5a9739d0-7ed1-41ad-84d1-84c3d55d90e5","2026-03-26T08:31:14.007004Z","FAQ - Do I have to take out a business loan if my application is accepted?",[],{"elements":387,"system":396},{"question":388,"answer":390},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":389},"Why use Bionic instead of going to the lenders directly?",{"images":391,"linkedItemCodenames":392,"linkedItems":393,"links":394,"name":303,"type":151,"value":395},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>To help you find the right business finance, Think will compare \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-loans-explained\u002F\">business loans\u003C\u002Fa> from a panel of trusted lenders. If you were to go to each directly, that could take days of work and risk damaging your credit score, as not all will quote for finance without first running a credit check.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Think does things differently. Lending managers are equipped with cutting-edge tech to compare loans and help you find the right one for your business.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":287,"collection":82,"id":397,"language":82,"lastModified":398,"name":399,"sitemapLocations":400,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"3b41c492-1df0-4c06-88e9-bc4d51cdb9c9","2026-03-26T08:31:36.2122869Z","FAQ - Why use Bionic instead of going to the lenders directly?",[],{"elements":402,"system":411},{"question":403,"answer":405},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":404},"Will my credit score be affected?",{"images":406,"linkedItemCodenames":407,"linkedItems":408,"links":409,"name":303,"type":151,"value":410},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Think will usually run a soft credit check when comparing loans for your business. This helps to get a better idea of your circumstances without affecting your credit score. If you take the application further, your lender might ask for a full credit check, which will be noted on your credit file. This will affect your credit score but will only ever be done with your permission.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you have an apple device, you can check your credit score for free by downloading the Think Business Loans app. Checking your credit score through the app won’t affect your score.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":288,"collection":82,"id":412,"language":82,"lastModified":413,"name":414,"sitemapLocations":415,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"f621ab9a-e86f-4192-8433-a776ceb5638f","2026-03-26T08:32:40.171995Z","FAQ - Will my credit score be affected?",[],{"elements":417,"system":426},{"question":418,"answer":420},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":419},"Do I need to use my house as security for a business loan?",{"images":421,"linkedItemCodenames":422,"linkedItems":423,"links":424,"name":303,"type":151,"value":425},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Not necessarily. Think compares a range of secured and unsecured business loans. If you take out an unsecured business loan, you don’t need to put anything up as security. The variety of \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fsecured-business-loans\u002F\">secured business loans\u003C\u002Fa> compared means that you may be able to put up assets or future earnings as security.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":289,"collection":82,"id":427,"language":82,"lastModified":428,"name":429,"sitemapLocations":430,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"111dd9fc-b069-4e63-af72-cf1e9347511e","2026-03-26T08:33:02.1818161Z","FAQ - Do I need to use my house as security for a business loan?",[],{"elements":432,"system":441},{"question":433,"answer":435},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":434},"Can you help if I have bad or adverse credit?",{"images":436,"linkedItemCodenames":437,"linkedItems":438,"links":439,"name":303,"type":151,"value":440},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Yes. Not all businesses have an A+ credit rating, and your financial situation can sometimes be affected by things that are completely out of your control. If you have any concerns about your credit report, whether you think you have a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-loans-bad-credit\u002F\">bad credit\u003C\u002Fa> score or you’re worried there could be some issues affecting it, let your lending manager know and they’ll try to find a suitable solution.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":290,"collection":82,"id":442,"language":82,"lastModified":443,"name":444,"sitemapLocations":445,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"fb1825d6-893c-4b5c-a028-c584ddeb8bb0","2026-03-26T08:33:22.5086089Z","FAQ - Can you help if I have bad or adverse credit?",[],{"elements":447,"system":456},{"question":448,"answer":450},{"name":296,"type":7,"value":449},"Can I take out more than one business loan?",{"images":451,"linkedItemCodenames":452,"linkedItems":453,"links":454,"name":303,"type":151,"value":455},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>This will depend upon the circumstances of your business, the type of loan you’re after, and the amount you want to borrow. Different loans come with different lending conditions and are available for different needs, which means you may be able to take out more than one. If, for instance, you’ve taken out a secured loan for expansion, but you run into \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fsmall-business-cashflow-guide\u002F\">cashflow\u003C\u002Fa> problems, you might be able to take out a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fworking-capital-loans\u002F\">working capital\u003C\u002Fa> loan or invoice financing to help with these \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fshort-term-business-loans\u002F?\">short-term\u003C\u002Fa> needs.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"codename":291,"collection":82,"id":457,"language":82,"lastModified":458,"name":459,"sitemapLocations":460,"type":310,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"652d2497-23d1-42c2-af46-a251a12c0b3c","2026-03-26T08:33:42.1242324Z","FAQ - Can I take out more than one business loan?",[],{"codename":130,"collection":82,"id":462,"language":82,"lastModified":463,"name":464,"sitemapLocations":465,"type":466,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"41d801d2-9265-4bbb-952b-358a7f1159fa","2026-03-26T08:33:31.7441002Z","Content Block - FAQ - Business finance",[],"content_block___faq",{"elements":468,"system":475},{"title":469,"cta_button_text":471,"cta_link_url":473},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":470},"We’re the market-leader in business comparison. But don’t just take our word for it, here’s what our customers say!",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":472},"Check out our Trustpilot reviews",{"name":52,"type":7,"value":474},"https:\u002F\u002Fuk.trustpilot.com\u002Freview\u002Fbionic.co.uk",{"codename":131,"collection":82,"id":476,"language":82,"lastModified":477,"name":478,"sitemapLocations":479,"type":480,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"3850fcf1-f6bb-4aab-8f41-ec2b2048ac35","2026-03-18T11:12:55.6254908Z","Content Block - TP Slider - Connectivity",[],"content_block___trust_pilot",{"elements":482,"system":1178},{"title":483,"cta_button_text":485,"cta_link_url":487,"guides":490},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":484},"Our team shares essential knowledge on business connectivity",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":486},"Check out our business connectivity guides",{"name":488,"type":7,"value":489},"CTA Link Url","https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fguides\u002F",{"name":491,"type":15,"value":492,"linkedItems":497},"Guides",[493,494,495,496],"connectivity_campaign___always_connected","connectivity_guide___wifi_black_spots","connectivity_guide__what_are_network_management_sy","digital_switchover_2025___all_you_need_to_know",[498,671,792,948],{"elements":499,"system":666},{"post__title":500,"post__summary":502,"post__content":505,"post__author":587,"post__reviewer":592,"publish_date":597,"updated_date":602,"url":604,"seo__meta_title":607,"seo__meta_description":610,"seo__add_no_index_tag":613,"seo__canonical_url":620,"related_articles":623,"categories":627,"subfolder":632,"tags":636,"thumbnail_image":640,"show_on_index_page":648,"hide_author":654,"hide_reviewer":658,"hide_tags":662},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":501},"How much do we rely on WiFi?",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":504},"Summary","WiFi is no longer a luxury — it's a necessity. We rely on the internet for almost everything. But have you ever considered how much time we spend online? Bionic has found some shocking stats in our investigative report. Read it now.",{"images":506,"linkedItemCodenames":538,"linkedItems":543,"links":584,"name":585,"type":151,"value":586},[507,513,518,523,528,533],{"description":508,"imageId":509,"url":510,"height":511,"width":512},"Infographic with text 'on average it takes you four minutes to make a cup of tea. Now make 198 cups of tea, that's how long you spend online a day.","d0f287d5-fd4b-4e7e-aa13-fb9b17c8087d","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Fd701bfb2-cf57-4b4f-a28c-d04226a6663b\u002FAsset%202%20%2811%29%20%281%29%20-%20cmp.jpg",2752,1920,{"description":514,"imageId":515,"url":516,"height":517,"width":512},"Infographic with text - Brits spend 25 years of their working lifetime online","545fde56-22fb-450d-9a38-ae47075254f9","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Ff166b6e8-e866-4463-8252-33f194e4d2c4\u002FAsset%201%20-%20V1%20%283%29.jpg",1597,{"description":519,"imageId":520,"url":521,"height":522,"width":512},"Infographic with text - The average person spends up to 36 years of their life online","8637ec86-7493-49b0-ab7e-2700acdcbb6d","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Feff2a346-09f5-4354-b70b-cca3e21400c3\u002FAsset%201%20-%20V3%20%281%29.jpg",1482,{"description":524,"imageId":525,"url":526,"height":527,"width":512},"Infographics with text - Gen Alpha kids are expected to spend over 37 years of their life online","d11633b0-fd51-4d0f-8763-960b1f0f3922","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F7e895dc2-676e-47a3-95c6-b2f2696626aa\u002FAsset%201%20-%20V2%20%287%29.jpg",1535,{"description":529,"imageId":530,"url":531,"height":532,"width":512},"Infographic stating the best and worst train operators for Wi-Fi in the UK","9d520c0d-998e-4c87-8a68-732350a86ebf","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F1b6862c4-2a45-4af2-8e84-23aed98bf886\u002FAsset%203%20%2810%29%20%281%29%20-%20cmp.jpg",3144,{"description":534,"imageId":535,"url":536,"height":537,"width":512},"Infographic stating the best and worst airlines for Wi-Fi","d42269cf-87a4-4c70-b113-ad92448e0925","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F9c7f4350-5415-4fc1-bfd8-faff60922cf9\u002FAsset%204%20%2810%29%20%281%29%20%281%29%20-%20cmp.jpg",3060,[539,540,541,542],"b0562ded_0a11_01e4_2488_a3058dbd8cdd","a49cc660_1ea9_01a3_dfb8_67e87756926d","n00a7f611_0f5a_0183_63a0_25e0bdd33095","c2ae157c_bf6e_0126_30f1_cd25246199f4",[544,557,566,575],{"elements":545,"system":551},{"text":546,"anchor_id":548},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":547},"How much screen time does the average Brit consume?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":550},"Anchor ID","how-much-screen-time-is-the-average-brit-consuming-in-2024",{"codename":539,"collection":82,"id":552,"language":82,"lastModified":553,"name":552,"sitemapLocations":554,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"b0562ded-0a11-01e4-2488-a3058dbd8cdd","2026-06-04T14:27:46.709953Z",[],"anchor_tag",null,{"elements":558,"system":563},{"text":559,"anchor_id":561},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":560},"WiFi while travelling",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":562},"wi-fi-whilst-travelling",{"codename":540,"collection":82,"id":564,"language":82,"lastModified":553,"name":564,"sitemapLocations":565,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"a49cc660-1ea9-01a3-dfb8-67e87756926d",[],{"elements":567,"system":572},{"text":568,"anchor_id":570},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":569},"The train operators with the worst WiFi connectivity",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":571},"the-train-operators-with-the-worst-wi-fi-connectivity",{"codename":541,"collection":82,"id":573,"language":82,"lastModified":553,"name":573,"sitemapLocations":574,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"00a7f611-0f5a-0183-63a0-25e0bdd33095",[],{"elements":576,"system":581},{"text":577,"anchor_id":579},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":578},"The airlines with the best and worst WiFi",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":580},"the-airlines-with-the-best-and-worst-wi-fi",{"codename":542,"collection":82,"id":582,"language":82,"lastModified":553,"name":582,"sitemapLocations":583,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"c2ae157c-bf6e-0126-30f1-cd25246199f4",[],[],"Content","\u003Cp>WiFi is no longer a luxury — it's a necessity. From the moment we wake up to the minute we go to bed, we rely on the internet for (almost) everything, from work and entertainment to keeping in touch with loved ones. Since COVID-19, its importance has soared to new heights, enabling remote work, powering entertainment, and driving small businesses forward through \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002F\">connectivity.\u003C\u002Fa> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But just how reliant are we on WiFi?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bionic has discovered the extent of our dependency on connectivity by investigating how much time the average person spends online over a lifetime. We delved into the importance of WiFi in our day-to-day lives, covering activities from work and school, to travelling on trains and planes.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We analysed recommended and reported screen times across different ages and generations to determine exactly how much time we are spending online. This data highlighted our dependence on constant connectivity, expecting to stay online even when travelling across the country and the world. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In light of this, we looked into what the best providers for onboard WiFi are for those travelling by trains and planes, whether for business or leisure. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"b0562ded_0a11_01e4_2488_a3058dbd8cdd\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How much screen time does the average Brit consume?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Screen time is how long you spend glued to electronic devices like phones, tablets, computers, and TVs. We all love our screens, right? They keep us entertained, connected, and informed. But like everything in life, too much of a good thing can sometimes be, well, not so good.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So, how much is too much? In the UK, there aren't strict rules about how much screen time is \"allowed\" for adults like there are for kids. However, experts suggest aiming for a healthy balance. That means making sure you're not spending all day, every day, in front of screens. Taking breaks, getting outside, and engaging in activities that don't involve screens are important.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>By the time someone is 65, they will have spent over 27 years of their life online\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>By looking at medically recommended and reported average UK screen time data across different ages, we’ve discovered that the average adult spends 76% of their waking hours online. By the time someone is 65, they will have spent over 27 years online- now, that’s a \u003Cem>very\u003C\u002Fem> long time! Our high screen time is largely a result of our lifestyle and working patterns, as so much of our habits and activity revolves around our screens, from working on laptops to scrolling social media to stay connected, and even streaming series to relax. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"d0f287d5-fd4b-4e7e-aa13-fb9b17c8087d\" data-image-id=\"d0f287d5-fd4b-4e7e-aa13-fb9b17c8087d\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Fd701bfb2-cf57-4b4f-a28c-d04226a6663b\u002FAsset%202%20%2811%29%20%281%29%20-%20cmp.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"d0f287d5-fd4b-4e7e-aa13-fb9b17c8087d\" data-image-id=\"d0f287d5-fd4b-4e7e-aa13-fb9b17c8087d\" alt=\"Infographic with text 'on average it takes you four minutes to make a cup of tea. Now make 198 cups of tea, that's how long you spend online a day.\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>During adulthood, Brits will spend 223,015 hours online throughout their career. This equates to 9,292 whole days, or 25 years!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"545fde56-22fb-450d-9a38-ae47075254f9\" data-image-id=\"545fde56-22fb-450d-9a38-ae47075254f9\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Ff166b6e8-e866-4463-8252-33f194e4d2c4\u002FAsset%201%20-%20V1%20%283%29.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"545fde56-22fb-450d-9a38-ae47075254f9\" data-image-id=\"545fde56-22fb-450d-9a38-ae47075254f9\" alt=\"Infographic with text - Brits spend 25 years of their working lifetime online\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>If we consider the average British life expectancy of 81 years, the average Brit will spend 312,805 hours online, which equates to almost 36 years, another decade online just in retirement.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"8637ec86-7493-49b0-ab7e-2700acdcbb6d\" data-image-id=\"8637ec86-7493-49b0-ab7e-2700acdcbb6d\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002Feff2a346-09f5-4354-b70b-cca3e21400c3\u002FAsset%201%20-%20V3%20%281%29.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"8637ec86-7493-49b0-ab7e-2700acdcbb6d\" data-image-id=\"8637ec86-7493-49b0-ab7e-2700acdcbb6d\" alt=\"Infographic with text - The average person spends up to 36 years of their life online\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>Recent \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.telegraph.co.uk\u002Fbusiness\u002F2024\u002F04\u002F19\u002Fquarter-seven-year-olds-own-smartphone-amid-social-media\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Ofcom research\u003C\u002Fa> suggests that nearly a quarter of five to seven-year-olds have a smartphone, and screen time doesn’t seem to be decreasing for future generations anytime soon…\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, Gen Alpha faces the highest screen time of any other group. In line with their ‘iPad kid’ personas, they will have the highest average lifelong screen time of any other group. Thanks to growing up online and even using computers in classes at school, today’s kids are looking at spending, on average, 37 years of their lives online, which is more than 46.6% of their entire lifetime or 65% of their lifetime that they are awake. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"d11633b0-fd51-4d0f-8763-960b1f0f3922\" data-image-id=\"d11633b0-fd51-4d0f-8763-960b1f0f3922\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F7e895dc2-676e-47a3-95c6-b2f2696626aa\u002FAsset%201%20-%20V2%20%287%29.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"d11633b0-fd51-4d0f-8763-960b1f0f3922\" data-image-id=\"d11633b0-fd51-4d0f-8763-960b1f0f3922\" alt=\"Infographics with text - Gen Alpha kids are expected to spend over 37 years of their life online\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>Although the length of time adults spend online may sound scary, it’s a simple fact that in today’s society, WiFi is essential for most jobs. So what about when you need to be connected for work while on the move?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"a49cc660_1ea9_01a3_dfb8_67e87756926d\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>WiFi while travelling\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Picture this: you're on a train, your laptop open, trying to catch up on emails or prepare for that big presentation. But oh no, the WiFi is spotty at best, and your signal keeps dropping. Sound familiar? Think about all the valuable time and opportunities lost because of unreliable WiFi on trains and other public transport. That time spent twiddling your thumbs, waiting for pages to load or emails to send could be better spent brainstorming ideas, closing deals, or simply getting ahead on your workload.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It's not just about individual frustration—it's also a real blow to businesses. Imagine the collective hours wasted by employees across the UK grappling with poor WiFi connections during their commutes or business trips. It adds up, and it's not just a minor inconvenience—it's a significant loss in productivity and efficiency.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In a world where every minute counts, businesses can't afford to overlook the importance of reliable connectivity, especially for employees who are constantly on the move. This includes ensuring smooth virtual meetings, facilitating real-time collaboration, and allowing employees to maximise travel time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n00a7f611_0f5a_0183_63a0_25e0bdd33095\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>The train operators with the worst WiFi connectivity\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"9d520c0d-998e-4c87-8a68-732350a86ebf\" data-image-id=\"9d520c0d-998e-4c87-8a68-732350a86ebf\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F1b6862c4-2a45-4af2-8e84-23aed98bf886\u002FAsset%203%20%2810%29%20%281%29%20-%20cmp.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"9d520c0d-998e-4c87-8a68-732350a86ebf\" data-image-id=\"9d520c0d-998e-4c87-8a68-732350a86ebf\" alt=\"Infographic stating the best and worst train operators for Wi-Fi in the UK\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>We looked at what proportion of each train operator's reviews included a negative sentiment about the WiFi onboard, and the overall rating of each train operator online to create a ranking, where the closer the total score is to one, the better the onboard connectivity will be for customers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>ScotRail has the best WiFi connectivity in the UK\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>ScotRail has the best-rated WiFi of all the UK’s train operators, with the lowest complaints score compared to its fellow companies. Scotland's national railway line has just one negative review of their WiFi and had an overall rating of 3 out of 5, which gave them a score of 2.5. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Gatwick Express has the second-strongest connectivity onboard\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>The Gatwick Express ranks in second place, with a score of 3.5. Only 1.79% of the airport railway’s online reviews included a negative sentiment about the onboard WiFi, and the online overall ranking also gave the line a 3 out of 5, which contributed to its high ranking. Online reviewers commented that the “WiFi worked pretty well” and was pretty reliable. But this cannot be said for all customers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Cross Country has the worst-rated onboard WiFi in the UK\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Cross Country trains have the worst-rated WiFi in the UK, with the highest score of 21.8. This poor score is a reflection of the 4.74% of reviews that include a negative sentiment towards the WiFi performance, and the low overall review of the train operator, which only sits at 1.5 out of 5. Online reviews detail that the connectivity on board is “very poor” and “just DOESN’T WORK\", which explains why it sits at the bottom of our list.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Why is WiFi so bad on trains in the UK?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you have a busy day ahead of you, it is a good idea not to rely too heavily on being able to work from the train. Instead, schedule your day around your travel plans, as WiFi on trains in the UK is as notoriously unreliable as the train timetables, so it is unlikely you are going to be able to tick many things off that to-do list.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The reason behind this is due to the geographical challenges the landscape offers, from tunnels and rural areas leading to poor signal coverage and the need to frequently switch between cell towers. Infrastructure in the UK is limited and there are insufficient trackside boosters and antennas reducing connectivity capabilities. Upgrading this is extremely costly and complicated, and would still have varying levels of service quality across different train operators. To solve this, train operators and mobile network providers have to work together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"c2ae157c_bf6e_0126_30f1_cd25246199f4\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>The airlines with the best and worst WiFi\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Many businesses require international travel, and for many long-haul flights, you need to be able to work while travelling across the globe. But which airlines give you the best in-flight WiFi and which leave you disconnected from the world?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"d42269cf-87a4-4c70-b113-ad92448e0925\" data-image-id=\"d42269cf-87a4-4c70-b113-ad92448e0925\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F9c7f4350-5415-4fc1-bfd8-faff60922cf9\u002FAsset%204%20%2810%29%20%281%29%20%281%29%20-%20cmp.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"d42269cf-87a4-4c70-b113-ad92448e0925\" data-image-id=\"d42269cf-87a4-4c70-b113-ad92448e0925\" alt=\"Infographic stating the best and worst airlines for Wi-Fi\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cp>By analysing the download speed, pricing packages and ranking of onboard entertainment (including WiFi) of the biggest airlines currently offering in-flight WiFi to discover the best and worst Airlines for those who need the internet to work while flying. The closer the score is to one, the better the onboard WiFi. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>JetBlue has the best in-flight WiFi of all airlines\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>JetBlue has the highest rated onboard WiFi with a top score of 2.6. This is thanks to a high entertainment rating online of 4 out of 5, average WiFi speeds of 20Mbps, and the package being free for all customers. Online reviewers reported that the “free WiFi worked great” and that it was a “great surprise” as it can often come with a hefty price tag on other operators. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Hawaiian Airlines is the second-best airline for onboard connectivity\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Hawaiian Airlines ranks second with a score of 3.8. The airline has an entertainment rating of 3.5 out of 5 and has even faster download speeds than JetBlue, at 100Mbps. Hawaiian Airlines also provides this for free for its customers, meaning they can continue with any urgent work or even just stream movies while on board. Customers were pleased to see they had “WiFi the entire flight”.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Philippine Airlines has the worst airline WiFi\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Philippine Airlines came in last place in our ranking, with a poor score of 19.8, meaning it has the worst WiFi of all airlines analysed. Its poor online rating of its entertainment and WiFi only ranked at 2.5. Although not the lowest of the airlines, the WiFi speed only reaches 7 Kbps, which means flyers are left unimpressed by the offering. Most reviewers advised other customers to just expect the onboard WiFi not to work at all.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Why being connected is so important today\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>The internet is essential, especially for work. It became even more crucial during the pandemic, helping businesses survive by enabling remote work and online connections. In modern society, the internet is almost as essential as food and shelter, meeting our basic needs for communication, information, and connection.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>How to stay secure and safe online\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>There are numerous ways to stay connected securely and safely:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Strong passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for each online account and consider using a password manager to keep track of them.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Update software: Keep your devices and software up to date to patch any security vulnerabilities.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Use HTTPS: Look for the padlock symbol and \"https:\u002F\u002F\" in the URL when browsing the web, especially for sensitive sites like banking or shopping.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Beware of scams: Be cautious of suspicious emails, messages, or links, and never give out personal information unless you're sure it's safe.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Secure WiFi connections: Avoid using public WiFi for sensitive activities like online banking. If you must use public WiFi, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) for added security.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Enable two-factor authentication: Enabling two-factor authentication, which requires a second form of verification in addition to your password, adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>We know how important WiFi connectivity is in everyday life and work. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fbusiness-broadband\u002F\">Compare business broadband prices\u003C\u002Fa> today.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Csup>Methodology\u003C\u002Fsup>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>\u003Csup>We analysed the average screen time recommended for different age groups from 2 to 81 years old, on top of the reported average screen time for adults, which is \u003C\u002Fsup>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.lenstore.co.uk\u002Feyecare\u002Fscreentime-study\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\u003Csup>13.2 hours a day\u003C\u002Fsup>\u003C\u002Fa>\u003Csup>, compared to the average \u003C\u002Fsup>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.medicalnewstoday.com\u002Farticles\u002F324799#how-much-sleep-do-you-need\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\u003Csup>number of hours awake each day\u003C\u002Fsup>\u003C\u002Fa>\u003Csup>. \u003C\u002Fsup>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Csup>To look at the best and worst airlines' WiFi connectivity, we looked at the number of complaints online about each airline that included negative sentiments about the WiFi onboard, compared to the total number of reviews about the airline and indexed this alongside the pricing structure for the WiFi packages offered, all found using review platforms and the operator's own website. \u003C\u002Fsup>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Csup>For the best and worst train line WiFi’s we used the total number of negative WiFi reviews out of the total number of online reviews, analysed alongside the operator’s overall review out of five. For the rankings, the closer the score is to one, the better the onboard connectivity is, ie for WiFi on trains, if a train operator has a score of one, they have zero negative reviews of the WiFi onboard, and the operator has a 5\u002F5 ranking overall online.\u003C\u002Fsup>\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":589,"linkedItems":591},"Author",[590],"author___laura_court_jones",[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":594,"linkedItems":596},"Reviewer",[595],"untitled_content_item_f4c4443",[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":600,"displayTimeZone":601},"Publish Date","date_time","2024-06-17T10:00:00Z","Europe\u002FLondon",{"name":603,"type":599,"value":556,"displayTimeZone":556},"Updated Date",{"name":605,"type":11,"value":606},"URL","how-much-do-brits-rely-on-wi-fi-2024\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":609},"Meta title","How Much Do We Rely On WiFi? 🌐",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":612},"Meta description","WiFi is essential for work, but how much time do we spend online, and which train and flight operators offer the best onboard WiFi when on the go?",{"name":614,"type":615,"value":616},"Add no index tag","multiple_choice",[617],{"name":618,"codename":619},"No","no",{"name":621,"type":7,"value":622},"Canonical URL","https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fguides\u002Fhow-much-do-brits-rely-on-wi-fi-2024\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":625,"linkedItems":626},"Related Articles",[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":629,"linkedItems":631},"Categories",[630],"category___business_connectivity_guide",[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":634,"linkedItems":635},"Subfolder",[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":638,"linkedItems":639},"Tags",[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":642},"Thumbnail Image",[643],{"name":644,"description":514,"type":645,"size":646,"url":516,"width":512,"height":517,"renditions":647},"Asset 1 - V1 (3).jpg","image\u002Fjpeg",241624,{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":650},"Show on index page",[651],{"name":652,"codename":653},"Yes","yes",{"name":655,"type":615,"value":656},"Hide Author",[657],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":660},"Hide Reviewer",[661],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":663,"type":615,"value":664},"Hide Tags",[665],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":493,"collection":82,"id":667,"language":82,"lastModified":553,"name":668,"sitemapLocations":669,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"7466d6d8-638a-48a7-abd0-4243250579ec","CONNECTIVITY CAMPAIGN - ALWAYS CONNECTED",[],"guide",{"elements":672,"system":788},{"post__title":673,"post__summary":675,"post__content":677,"post__author":740,"post__reviewer":743,"publish_date":746,"updated_date":748,"url":749,"seo__meta_title":751,"seo__meta_description":753,"seo__add_no_index_tag":754,"seo__canonical_url":757,"related_articles":759,"categories":762,"subfolder":765,"tags":768,"thumbnail_image":771,"show_on_index_page":777,"hide_author":780,"hide_reviewer":783,"hide_tags":785},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":674},"What are WiFi Black Spots? 6 Ways To Bring Your Internet Back up to Speed",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":676},"WiFi black spots are areas within a building where the wireless signal is too weak or unable to reach. Find out how it can affect your business with our guide. ",{"images":678,"linkedItemCodenames":685,"linkedItems":691,"links":738,"name":585,"type":151,"value":739},[679],{"description":680,"imageId":681,"url":682,"height":683,"width":684},"Business owner using a mobile phone to connect to wifi but wifi not connected because of black spot. Waiting to load digital business data form website.","5aa040f1-fa48-4f80-b724-b0a472457d3a","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3b37ccef-5d31-4769-b3c2-91eb663cd3c7\u002FGettyImages-1439334505.jpg",1414,2121,[686,687,688,689,690],"n2c10c226_a45f_0172_4fef_3d875b802e9b","n20782c4f_f14a_01cd_2042_f15bb5f2d209","n324607b7_eb6b_01a9_9b06_f26ec26b15dc","n3db32c23_83fc_01f8_1224_debf1ae99f91","n85169747_efe7_01aa_238b_2897c4f61224",[692,702,711,720,729],{"elements":693,"system":698},{"text":694,"anchor_id":696},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":695},"What are WiFi black spots?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":697},"what-are-wifi-black-spots",{"codename":686,"collection":82,"id":699,"language":82,"lastModified":700,"name":699,"sitemapLocations":701,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"2c10c226-a45f-0172-4fef-3d875b802e9b","2026-06-04T14:28:15.0363912Z",[],{"elements":703,"system":708},{"text":704,"anchor_id":706},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":705},"What causes WiFi black spots?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":707},"what-causes-wifi-black-spots",{"codename":687,"collection":82,"id":709,"language":82,"lastModified":700,"name":709,"sitemapLocations":710,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"20782c4f-f14a-01cd-2042-f15bb5f2d209",[],{"elements":712,"system":717},{"text":713,"anchor_id":715},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":714},"Effects of WiFi black spots",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":716},"effects-of-wifi-black-spots",{"codename":688,"collection":82,"id":718,"language":82,"lastModified":700,"name":718,"sitemapLocations":719,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"324607b7-eb6b-01a9-9b06-f26ec26b15dc",[],{"elements":721,"system":726},{"text":722,"anchor_id":724},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":723},"How to check for WiFi black spots",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":725},"how-to-check-for-wifi-black-spots",{"codename":689,"collection":82,"id":727,"language":82,"lastModified":700,"name":727,"sitemapLocations":728,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"3db32c23-83fc-01f8-1224-debf1ae99f91",[],{"elements":730,"system":735},{"text":731,"anchor_id":733},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":732},"How to fix WiFi black spots",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":734},"how-to-fix-wifi-black-spots",{"codename":690,"collection":82,"id":736,"language":82,"lastModified":700,"name":736,"sitemapLocations":737,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"85169747-efe7-01aa-238b-2897c4f61224",[],[],"\u003Cp>Most businesses use the internet to keep their company online — whether you’re an independent business operating out of a small office or a warehouse manufacturing goods across the country, 83.4% of UK businesses have a website.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But, just like when you're struggling to connect at home, businesses are not immune to connectivity issues. WiFi black spots can incite all kinds of annoyance, especially when your team is in the middle of an important VoIP call or trying to contact a client.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Let's find out more about WiFi black spots and how they could affect your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"5aa040f1-fa48-4f80-b724-b0a472457d3a\" data-image-id=\"5aa040f1-fa48-4f80-b724-b0a472457d3a\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3b37ccef-5d31-4769-b3c2-91eb663cd3c7\u002FGettyImages-1439334505.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"5aa040f1-fa48-4f80-b724-b0a472457d3a\" data-image-id=\"5aa040f1-fa48-4f80-b724-b0a472457d3a\" alt=\"Business owner using a mobile phone to connect to wifi but wifi not connected because of black spot. Waiting to load digital business data form website.\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n2c10c226_a45f_0172_4fef_3d875b802e9b\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What are WiFi black spots?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>WiFi black spots — also known as WiFi dead spots — are areas within a building where the wireless signal from a router is either too weak or unstable to maintain connectivity. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>WiFi black spots can be frustrating for users as they can result in slow or unreliable internet connections, dropped connections or even an inability to connect to the network altogether. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Find out more about whether your business is suffering from a black spot or a broadband outage with our handy guide.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n20782c4f_f14a_01cd_2042_f15bb5f2d209\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What causes WiFi black spots?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>WiFi black spots are caused by various factors that interfere with wireless signals and weaken their reach. Understanding why this can happen is essential to help identify the root cause and take the necessary steps to get your business back on track.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some of the most common causes of WiFi black spots include:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>1. Physical barriers\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Walls, floors and large objects such as furniture or appliances can obstruct or weaken a wireless signal, eventually leading to WiFi black spots. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Usually, the materials used to construct walls or floors, like concrete and metal, can block or reflect wireless signals, which will ultimately reduce their strength or cause interference. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The layout of a building or room can also contribute to black spots. If the area is too far away from the router or access point, it may have an issue trying to connect.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>2. Distance from the router\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Wireless signals become weaker the further they travel from the router or access point, so if you’re located far from this, you’re more likely to experience a black spot.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In large or multi-story buildings, WiFi signals may not be strong enough to reach all areas, leading to isolated black spots.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>3. Interference\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Other devices that use wireless signals, such as cordless phones or other WiFi networks, can interfere with the signal.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This can occur when the devices use the same frequency band or channel as the WiFi network, causing interference that disrupts the signal. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>4. Electrical interference\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Electrical equipment such as motors, power lines, or fluorescent lighting can generate electromagnetic interference that can weaken wireless signals and lead to black spots. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This type of interference can be difficult to identify but may be more common in industrial or commercial settings where electrical equipment is used extensively.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n324607b7_eb6b_01a9_9b06_f26ec26b15dc\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What effects can WiFi black spots have on your business?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Businesses that rely heavily on the internet to run their daily operations can feel out of the loop when the WiFi seemingly drops into a black spot. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, this can have a negative impact on your business and how it runs. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>1. Reduced productivity\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>In many businesses, internet connectivity is essential for employees to work effectively. WiFi black spots can lead to slow internet speeds, dropped connections, or the inability to connect, making it difficult for employees to access the resources they need to work efficiently. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This can result in reduced productivity, missed deadlines and lower work output. How can you expect your employees to work if you can’t provide them with a stable internet connection?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If your business is struggling to keep up due to poor WiFi, it could be an option to introduce a hybrid working system and get your employees to work remotely. Find out more about keeping your business connected when working from home with our guide. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>2. Poor customer service\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you’re a business that provides WiFi access to customers, WiFi black spots can harm the customer experience. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Customers may struggle to connect to the network or experience slow internet speeds, leading to frustration. In some cases, customers may choose to take their business elsewhere due to poor WiFi connectivity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>3. Security risks\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>WiFi black spots can create security vulnerabilities for businesses. When employees cannot connect to the network or experience slow internet speeds, they may use public or unsecured guest WiFi networks to access the internet and complete their work. This can put sensitive business data at risk of theft or cyber-attacks.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Find out more about how to keep your business protected online with our guide to internet security. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>4. Communication breakdown\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>In most businesses, communication is critical for success. Without speaking to your colleagues, you’ll have no idea where tasks are up to or whether they’ve even been completed at all. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>WiFi black spots can cause communication breakdowns, particularly in businesses that rely on VoIP or video conferencing. Slow internet speeds or dropped connections can lead to missed calls or meetings, which can have a negative impact on business operations.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>5. Reputational damage\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>There’s nothing worse than your business getting a bad reputation, but black spots can do just that. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If your business is in the technology or connectivity industries, poor WiFi can damage its reputation. Customers may leave negative reviews or feedback about the poor WiFi connectivity, which could then discourage others from doing business with your company.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n3db32c23_83fc_01f8_1224_debf1ae99f91\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How to check for WiFi black spots\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>WiFi black spots can seriously slow down your business, and most companies don’t even know how to check for black spots properly. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Here are some simple, easy and quick ways to check for WiFi black spots to get your business back up and running:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Conduct a site survey \u003C\u002Fstrong>— A site survey involves physically inspecting the premises to identify areas with poor WiFi signals. This can either be done by walking around with a WiFi-enabled device and checking how the signal strength differs in areas. Or, you can hire an external company that will use specialised equipment to identify the issues and suggest troubleshooting ideas.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Conduct user surveys \u003C\u002Fstrong>— Whether you work in an office or a warehouse, chances are, you’re going to need WiFi to keep your business running. Asking your employees for feedback on their WiFi experience can help your business identify areas with poor coverage. For example, ask people in different areas of the room what the average speed they’re getting is or whether it keeps dropping in and out. You can also record answers by using surveys or feedback forms if that’s easier.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Monitor network traffic\u003C\u002Fstrong> — By monitoring network traffic, businesses can identify areas with high network usage. These areas can become WiFi black spots if the network is overloaded and can no longer provide sufficient bandwidth to support all connected devices.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Check access point placement \u003C\u002Fstrong>— The placement of access points (APs) can greatly affect WiFi coverage. Businesses should ensure that APs are placed in locations that provide optimal coverage, such as central areas, high ceilings, and unobstructed spaces.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n85169747_efe7_01aa_238b_2897c4f61224\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How to fix WiFi black spots\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As with any problem, you can fix WiFi black spots in two ways: alleviate some of the symptoms or remove the source entirely. Some of the easiest ways to fix these include:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Change WiFi channels \u003C\u002Fstrong>— The WiFi channel that the router uses can be changed to avoid interference with other devices in the area. Most routers will have the option to scan for available channels and automatically select the best one. However, if interference is still present, manually selecting a channel can help.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Remove any sources of interference \u003C\u002Fstrong>— Any electronic devices that your business uses, such as microwaves, cordless phones, or even a Bluetooth speaker, could be causing interference with the signal. If possible, it’s best to relocate these devices or replace them with newer, less-interfering models.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Reposition your router \u003C\u002Fstrong>— Ensuring that your router is placed in a central location, ideally away from walls and other obstructions, will help to provide the best coverage possible. If your router is currently located in a corner, in a box or near a wall, moving it to a more central location can help to reduce black spots.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Adjust your router's antennae\u003C\u002Fstrong> — Most routers have two or more antennae that can be adjusted to improve signal strength. The antennae should be positioned vertically for optimal signal strength, and if it has more than two antennae, they should be positioned at different angles to ensure maximum coverage.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Eliminate any physical obstructions \u003C\u002Fstrong>— Physical obstructions such as walls, doors, or furniture can block WiFi signals and create black spots. To reduce the impact of these obstructions, businesses can move any objects that are blocking the signal path.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Try new software and equipment \u003C\u002Fstrong>— Upgrading to the latest software or equipment can help to improve WiFi coverage. For example, a mesh network system can provide better coverage in large buildings or multi-story structures. A high-gain antenna can also be added to the router to improve signal strength.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Ch2>Get your business set with Bionic\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Wrapping your head around removing WiFi black spots can sometimes be challenging, but knowing the solutions can be a great way to get your business back on top.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you need more help understanding business connectivity, head over to our connectivity guide pages for more information. Or, get in touch today with the Bionic team to discuss your business connectivity needs, including business broadband and VoIP.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":741,"linkedItems":742},[595],[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":744,"linkedItems":745},[],[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":747,"displayTimeZone":601},"2023-05-01T23:00:00Z",{"name":603,"type":599,"value":556,"displayTimeZone":556},{"name":605,"type":11,"value":750},"wifi-black-spots\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":752},"What are WiFi Black Spots? | Business Broadband | Bionic",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":676},{"name":614,"type":615,"value":755},[756],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":621,"type":7,"value":758},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fguides\u002Fwifi-black-spots\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":760,"linkedItems":761},[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":763,"linkedItems":764},[630],[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":766,"linkedItems":767},[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":769,"linkedItems":770},[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":772},[773],{"name":774,"description":680,"type":645,"size":775,"url":682,"width":684,"height":683,"renditions":776},"GettyImages-1439334505.jpg",1252772,{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":778},[779],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"name":655,"type":615,"value":781},[782],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":784},[],{"name":663,"type":615,"value":786},[787],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":494,"collection":82,"id":789,"language":82,"lastModified":700,"name":790,"sitemapLocations":791,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"ebfa0f0d-55b6-4571-9cde-d1d943cac73b","CONNECTIVITY GUIDE - WiFi Black Spots",[],{"elements":793,"system":944},{"post__title":794,"post__summary":796,"post__content":798,"post__author":891,"post__reviewer":895,"publish_date":898,"updated_date":900,"url":901,"seo__meta_title":903,"seo__meta_description":905,"seo__add_no_index_tag":906,"seo__canonical_url":909,"related_articles":911,"categories":914,"subfolder":917,"tags":920,"thumbnail_image":923,"show_on_index_page":933,"hide_author":936,"hide_reviewer":939,"hide_tags":941},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":795},"What are network management systems?",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":797},"For your business to thrive and develop, you must manage your digital presence and networks to the best of your ability. Read this guide to learn more.",{"images":799,"linkedItemCodenames":806,"linkedItems":815,"links":889,"name":585,"type":151,"value":890},[800],{"description":801,"imageId":802,"url":803,"height":804,"width":805},"Quote by  Tom Grange, Head of Connectivity - \"Having a network management system allows you to monitor network performance and helps you diagnose and solve any network issues. If you have a large office building, it could be worth investing in this technology to help with diagnostics, security and network maintenance.\"","d5b38409-0902-4661-bea6-0b96ca7ea226","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F5857729c-2bb8-4f91-8dcc-5263b8884b93\u002Fnetwork-quote.png",500,1200,[807,808,809,810,811,812,813,814],"n742779db_f6ae_019c_1df2_855cc6f8d4f1","n6e6b36c9_0f70_01a5_ada9_6f40b3c154d7","a5f05c26_2c42_0118_6523_3f8d90ad6f22","e6e8ddf2_eb81_012d_81ce_751fcddf5bca","b9be5abb_1c06_01ff_7e83_735cba4f0b37","n5f4c3f5f_25f0_0133_8433_e9a3235a7fa9","n6fdd59da_4043_013c_9611_c45c654682c1","f2b5d2f1_147d_0158_08eb_94a68a5a621b",[816,826,835,844,853,862,871,880],{"elements":817,"system":822},{"text":818,"anchor_id":820},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":819},"What is a network management system?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":821},"what-is-a-network-management-system",{"codename":807,"collection":82,"id":823,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":823,"sitemapLocations":825,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"742779db-f6ae-019c-1df2-855cc6f8d4f1","2026-06-04T13:23:46.1789846Z",[],{"elements":827,"system":832},{"text":828,"anchor_id":830},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":829},"How does a network management system work?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":831},"how-does-a-network-management-system-work",{"codename":808,"collection":82,"id":833,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":833,"sitemapLocations":834,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"6e6b36c9-0f70-01a5-ada9-6f40b3c154d7",[],{"elements":836,"system":841},{"text":837,"anchor_id":839},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":838},"What are the different types of network management systems?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":840},"what-are-the-different-types-of-network-management-systems",{"codename":809,"collection":82,"id":842,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":842,"sitemapLocations":843,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"a5f05c26-2c42-0118-6523-3f8d90ad6f22",[],{"elements":845,"system":850},{"text":846,"anchor_id":848},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":847},"What types of devices can a network management system control?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":849},"what-types-of-devices-can-a-network-management-system-control",{"codename":810,"collection":82,"id":851,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":851,"sitemapLocations":852,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"e6e8ddf2-eb81-012d-81ce-751fcddf5bca",[],{"elements":854,"system":859},{"text":855,"anchor_id":857},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":856},"What do network management systems do?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":858},"what-do-network-management-systems-do",{"codename":811,"collection":82,"id":860,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":860,"sitemapLocations":861,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"b9be5abb-1c06-01ff-7e83-735cba4f0b37",[],{"elements":863,"system":868},{"text":864,"anchor_id":866},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":865},"What are the benefits of network management?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":867},"what-are-the-benefits-of-network-management ",{"codename":812,"collection":82,"id":869,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":869,"sitemapLocations":870,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"5f4c3f5f-25f0-0133-8433-e9a3235a7fa9",[],{"elements":872,"system":877},{"text":873,"anchor_id":875},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":874},"Do network management systems work for hybrid workers?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":876},"do-network-management-systems-work-for-hybrid-workers",{"codename":813,"collection":82,"id":878,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":878,"sitemapLocations":879,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"6fdd59da-4043-013c-9611-c45c654682c1",[],{"elements":881,"system":886},{"text":882,"anchor_id":884},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":883},"How can Bionic help your business with admin?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":885},"how-can-bionic-help-your-business-with-admin",{"codename":814,"collection":82,"id":887,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":887,"sitemapLocations":888,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"f2b5d2f1-147d-0158-08eb-94a68a5a621b",[],[],"\u003Cp>When you’re running a business, keeping your network up to scratch is vital, but have you heard of network management systems, and do you know how to implement one to better your business? Read on to find out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n742779db_f6ae_019c_1df2_855cc6f8d4f1\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What is a network management system?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Cutting through the jargon, the term ‘network management’ just refers to the processes, tools, or applications you use to maintain your business network. Basically, anything you use ‘online’, like software, needs to be maintained and looked after. This is where network management comes in.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Network management is the process of keeping your core network up to date and thriving, which in turn, keeps your business healthy. Performance management, security and fault analysis are also included in network management. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A network management system is sometimes referred to as an NMS. The main focus of an NMS is to bring together the interacting components that make up your business and make your role as an SME owner easier, as everything to do with your network maintenance is in one place.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n6e6b36c9_0f70_01a5_ada9_6f40b3c154d7\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How does a network management system work?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Network management works by ensuring your networks are all working correctly, this can be done by:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Keeping up regular network administration\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Network administration means making sure vital things like servers, routers, switches, hubs, cables, and computers are working correctly. It can also involve setting up new software as well as upgrading operating systems and other tools used to run your business. Maintaining network administration also means regularly keeping an eye on the performance of these systems so you can identify which software is working or not working for your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Monitoring network operations\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Monitoring network operations means making sure your network is working as expected. This can mean monitoring your network activity and identifying problems like bugs and slow systems or even catching problems like WiFi black spots. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You should always aim to uncover problems in your network before they become real issues and long before they affect the daily running of your company. For example, if you noticed your software was slowing your computers down more than usual, it’s best to see if you can upgrade it ahead of time to avoid it becoming an issue with taking customer orders later down the line.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Carrying out network maintenance\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Network maintenance includes managing things like repairs to your network resources. These can include but are not limited to network switches, installing new routers, as well as repairing cables, servers and damaged workstations. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Configuring your Network \u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Another important part of network management is keeping your network configured and up to date. This means your system will be likely to support a wider range of services. Configuring means evolving with your online business needs, so you’ll analyse what would make your business perform better and adapt in the future. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For example, if you were hosting a training day that involved lots of staff members logging on to work remotely, then you may choose to look at your broadband and see if you can configure your network to support faster internet. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Regularly checking Network Security\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Network security is pivotal to your business health, so it’s an important part of managing your network. You should make regular checks on your system to identify any security breaches before they become a bigger issue and impact your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As part of your network management, any activity logs on routers and computers should be monitored. If a breach is identified, your network management system should be able to identify who is causing the breach. As part of your security plan, your management system should be set up to automatically alert you of any suspicious activity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Introduce Network Automation\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Speaking of being notified about issues automatically, automating your network can reduce costs within your business and will hopefully make your security and management systems more effective. This is because there is less scope for human error.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"a5f05c26_2c42_0118_6523_3f8d90ad6f22\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What are the different types of network management systems?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>There are a few different kinds of network management systems to choose from, and what you choose depends on the type of business you run. For example, are you comfortable having your management system completely online, or do you prefer having an actual person responsible that can answer questions? The main kinds of network management choices are:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Cloud-based\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>This means the management system is hosted completely via the cloud. The pros of this avenue are that cloud-based choices often have low start-up costs and more flexibility for you as a business. This choice often enables more complex IT agility.  Some of the cons you can face are because it’s completely online, you can encounter some performance problems as well as increased security risks. Find out more about keeping your business safe online with our guide. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>On-site\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Another option is to have your management system on-premises. The pros of this route include better security if you have a larger premises (or multiple premises) and increased data security because all your data will be on-site. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The cons are that you might need additional connection add-ons, and it can be a little more expensive to initially set up.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Off-site\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>The final option is off-site management, which involves handing your network management to an outsourced company. The pros are there can be a sole individual or company responsible for taking care of your network, they will likely be experts, so it takes the stress off you as a business owner. The cons are it can be expensive and can take control away from you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"e6e8ddf2_eb81_012d_81ce_751fcddf5bca\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What types of devices can a network management system control?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Computers\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Servers \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Switches\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Routers\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Security Networks \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"b9be5abb_1c06_01ff_7e83_735cba4f0b37\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What do network management systems do?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you’re thinking a network management system might be the logical next step for your business, you might be looking into what they can actually add to your company. The main point of a management system is to keep an eye on:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Performance Management\u003C\u002Fstrong>: To measure and monitor the performance of your network.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Fault Management\u003C\u002Fstrong>: To detect any network conditions that may be faulty.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Accounting Management\u003C\u002Fstrong>: To regulate network resources and allocate costs by tracking what might make your life easier as a business owner. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Security Management\u003C\u002Fstrong>: To prevent security breaches by keeping an eye on past and present security breaches. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Data Backup- \u003C\u002Fstrong>To back up important business data.\u003Cstrong> \u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n5f4c3f5f_25f0_0133_8433_e9a3235a7fa9\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What are the benefits of network management? \u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>There are lots of benefits of network management for your business. It’s important to do your own research to see if having a management strategy would be a positive step for your unique business. Some common benefits are:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Lower costs\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>More efficient data sharing\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Enhanced data security\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Better device integration\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Improved network performance\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"d5b38409-0902-4661-bea6-0b96ca7ea226\" data-image-id=\"d5b38409-0902-4661-bea6-0b96ca7ea226\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F5857729c-2bb8-4f91-8dcc-5263b8884b93\u002Fnetwork-quote.png\" data-asset-id=\"d5b38409-0902-4661-bea6-0b96ca7ea226\" data-image-id=\"d5b38409-0902-4661-bea6-0b96ca7ea226\" alt=\"Quote by  Tom Grange, Head of Connectivity - "Having a network management system allows you to monitor network performance and helps you diagnose and solve any network issues. If you have a large office building, it could be worth investing in this technology to help with diagnostics, security and network maintenance."\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n6fdd59da_4043_013c_9611_c45c654682c1\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Do network management systems work for hybrid workers?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Yes, they can work for any business, this is because there are a range of options when considering your management system. You can choose cloud-based maintenance as well as on-site or off-site solutions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"f2b5d2f1_147d_0158_08eb_94a68a5a621b\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How can Bionic help your business with admin?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic, although we can’t choose a network management system for you, we can help you with any extra admin hassle, so you can focus on your business as well as its needs and goals. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bionic can help you save time, hassle, and unnecessary admin when sorting business essentials. We compare business gas and business electricity, as well as business phone and broadband to help make sure you're on the best deals for your business. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We can also help with business insurance and business finance. Get in touch to find out more.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":892,"linkedItems":894},[893],"author___chloe_bell",[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":896,"linkedItems":897},[],[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":899,"displayTimeZone":601},"2023-04-27T23:00:00Z",{"name":603,"type":599,"value":556,"displayTimeZone":556},{"name":605,"type":11,"value":902},"what-are-network-management-systems\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":904},"What are network management systems? | Bionic",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":797},{"name":614,"type":615,"value":907},[908],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":621,"type":7,"value":910},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fguides\u002Fwhat-are-network-management-systems\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":912,"linkedItems":913},[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":915,"linkedItems":916},[630],[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":918,"linkedItems":919},[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":921,"linkedItems":922},[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":924},[925],{"name":926,"description":927,"type":645,"size":928,"url":929,"width":930,"height":931,"renditions":932},"GettyImages-1295900106.jpg","A business owner sets up a network management system on a laptop",1235442,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F1abae804-3378-490e-981f-18c19dc0cf9b\u002FGettyImages-1295900106.jpg",2309,1299,{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":934},[935],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"name":655,"type":615,"value":937},[938],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":940},[],{"name":663,"type":615,"value":942},[943],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":495,"collection":82,"id":945,"language":82,"lastModified":824,"name":946,"sitemapLocations":947,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"a6e7f714-cd14-4946-83f9-338e36112e14","CONNECTIVITY GUIDE - What are network management systems, and what do they mean for my business?",[],{"elements":949,"system":1174},{"post__title":950,"post__summary":952,"post__content":954,"post__author":1123,"post__reviewer":1126,"publish_date":1130,"updated_date":1132,"url":1134,"seo__meta_title":1136,"seo__meta_description":1138,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1140,"seo__canonical_url":1143,"related_articles":1145,"categories":1148,"subfolder":1151,"tags":1154,"thumbnail_image":1157,"show_on_index_page":1163,"hide_author":1166,"hide_reviewer":1169,"hide_tags":1171},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":951},"What is the digital switchover? Everything you need to know about the analogue phone switch off",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":953},"The digital switchover - when all analogue phone lines will be turned off - has been put back until 2027. But there's no need to delay your switch to digital. Find out more.  ",{"images":955,"linkedItemCodenames":968,"linkedItems":984,"links":1121,"name":585,"type":151,"value":1122},[956,962],{"description":957,"imageId":958,"url":959,"height":960,"width":961},"A hand picking up a desk phone receiver on a desk. The caption reads: What is the digital switchover? UK landline switch‑off guide ","2a215fbf-598f-48fa-a48d-49e2c2c5218c","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F540c0d44-b919-4e16-b6af-7ba61eafc562\u002FBionic%20Energy%20Guide%20Images%20%285%29.png",2160,4096,{"description":963,"imageId":964,"url":965,"height":966,"width":967},"Infographic explaining the digital switchover taking place in 2027","233f6d3d-129d-4f58-bee5-3ecc566c7371","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3f971427-7de1-4db3-830f-d6b0c7a5d3a7\u002FBionic%20-%20Social%20Templates%20FBTwitter%20%282%29.jpg",1800,3200,[969,970,971,972,973,974,975,976,977,978,979,980,981,982,983],"fc1a0610_2201_0183_e1c4_fd838ba63845","a9094cfa_a400_0141_1d84_53fba5f1faaa","df6c5ab9_efcd_01ad_f18b_938fcfb18e3e","c4202577_26ab_0190_ce11_2ffc47529f6b","n25a5b0d4_29e7_013c_7a48_a5747771e10e","n1e626b9b_4499_014e_27c6_19ab2d45ac83","n3c632e94_bcea_0103_6ebc_b81cb13b9ffe","n70e91c5b_321e_0108_2825_abc62974b21c","b281a3b4_185e_0132_b8b9_2a59050d39e1","n242b05ce_492d_0140_069f_c6a4cbeb4899","ecdc34be_8f89_01db_c5c4_2aa481575db3","d09d2784_6d5b_0180_30de_e3c3f9d18a81","n6097a9dd_899c_01c2_b274_753cc4c4b44e","adcdb9ef_815c_01b1_4a84_70a18e1dbbfd","n8aa9fd53_377a_017a_11e1_8c75847b6862",[985,995,1004,1013,1022,1031,1040,1049,1058,1067,1076,1085,1094,1103,1112],{"elements":986,"system":991},{"text":987,"anchor_id":989},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":988},"What is the digital switchover?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":990},"what-is-the-digital-switchover-2025",{"codename":969,"collection":82,"id":992,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":992,"sitemapLocations":994,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"fc1a0610-2201-0183-e1c4-fd838ba63845","2026-06-04T14:33:55.2621746Z",[],{"elements":996,"system":1001},{"text":997,"anchor_id":999},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":998},"Has the digital switchover been delayed?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1000},"has-digital-switchover-been-delayed",{"codename":970,"collection":82,"id":1002,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1002,"sitemapLocations":1003,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"a9094cfa-a400-0141-1d84-53fba5f1faaa",[],{"elements":1005,"system":1010},{"text":1006,"anchor_id":1008},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1007},"Why is the analogue copper landline network being switched off?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1009},"why-is-the-analogue-copper-landline-network-being-switched-off   ",{"codename":971,"collection":82,"id":1011,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1011,"sitemapLocations":1012,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"df6c5ab9-efcd-01ad-f18b-938fcfb18e3e",[],{"elements":1014,"system":1019},{"text":1015,"anchor_id":1017},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1016},"What will replace landlines in 2027?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1018},"what-will-replace-landlines-in-2025",{"codename":972,"collection":82,"id":1020,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1020,"sitemapLocations":1021,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"c4202577-26ab-0190-ce11-2ffc47529f6b",[],{"elements":1023,"system":1028},{"text":1024,"anchor_id":1026},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1025},"Who will be most affected by the landline switchover?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1027},"who-will-be-most-affected-by-the-landline-switchover",{"codename":973,"collection":82,"id":1029,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1029,"sitemapLocations":1030,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"25a5b0d4-29e7-013c-7a48-a5747771e10e",[],{"elements":1032,"system":1037},{"text":1033,"anchor_id":1035},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1034},"What does VoIP mean?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1036},"what-does-voip-mean",{"codename":974,"collection":82,"id":1038,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1038,"sitemapLocations":1039,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"1e626b9b-4499-014e-27c6-19ab2d45ac83",[],{"elements":1041,"system":1046},{"text":1042,"anchor_id":1044},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1043},"What is the difference between voice and data traffic?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1045},"what-is-the-difference-between-voice-and-data-traffic",{"codename":975,"collection":82,"id":1047,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1047,"sitemapLocations":1048,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"3c632e94-bcea-0103-6ebc-b81cb13b9ffe",[],{"elements":1050,"system":1055},{"text":1051,"anchor_id":1053},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1052},"What systems will be affected by the analogue switch off?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1054},"what-systems-will-be-affected-by-the-analogue-switch-off ",{"codename":976,"collection":82,"id":1056,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1056,"sitemapLocations":1057,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"70e91c5b-321e-0108-2825-abc62974b21c",[],{"elements":1059,"system":1064},{"text":1060,"anchor_id":1062},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1061},"What happens to a digital phoneline if there’s a power cut or broadband is down?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1063},"what-happens-to-a-digital-phoneline-if-theres-a-power-cut-or-broadband-is-down",{"codename":977,"collection":82,"id":1065,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1065,"sitemapLocations":1066,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"b281a3b4-185e-0132-b8b9-2a59050d39e1",[],{"elements":1068,"system":1073},{"text":1069,"anchor_id":1071},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1070},"When will the digital roll out and analogue switch off happen?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1072},"when-is-the-digital-roll-out-and-analogue-switch-off-happening ",{"codename":978,"collection":82,"id":1074,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1074,"sitemapLocations":1075,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"242b05ce-492d-0140-069f-c6a4cbeb4899",[],{"elements":1077,"system":1082},{"text":1078,"anchor_id":1080},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1079},"What steps should businesses take to prepare for the digital switchover?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1081},"what-steps-should-businesses-take-to-prepare-for-the-digital-switchover",{"codename":979,"collection":82,"id":1083,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1083,"sitemapLocations":1084,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"ecdc34be-8f89-01db-c5c4-2aa481575db3",[],{"elements":1086,"system":1091},{"text":1087,"anchor_id":1089},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1088},"Are there any legal compliances in place for businesses?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1090},"are-there-any-legal-compliances-in-place-for-businesses",{"codename":980,"collection":82,"id":1092,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1092,"sitemapLocations":1093,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"d09d2784-6d5b-0180-30de-e3c3f9d18a81",[],{"elements":1095,"system":1100},{"text":1096,"anchor_id":1098},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1097},"How will the digital switchover affect people or businesses in remote areas?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1099},"rural-areas",{"codename":981,"collection":82,"id":1101,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1101,"sitemapLocations":1102,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"6097a9dd-899c-01c2-b274-753cc4c4b44e",[],{"elements":1104,"system":1109},{"text":1105,"anchor_id":1107},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1106},"Will this make bills more expensive?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1108},"more-expensive",{"codename":982,"collection":82,"id":1110,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1110,"sitemapLocations":1111,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"adcdb9ef-815c-01b1-4a84-70a18e1dbbfd",[],{"elements":1113,"system":1118},{"text":1114,"anchor_id":1116},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1115},"How can Bionic help your business with the digital switchover?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1117},"how-can-bionic-help-your-business-with-the-digital-switchover ",{"codename":983,"collection":82,"id":1119,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1119,"sitemapLocations":1120,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"8aa9fd53-377a-017a-11e1-8c75847b6862",[],[],"\u003Cp>The digital switchover, which will see all traditional landlines in the UK switched off, has been delayed from 2025 to 2027. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This UK‑wide digital landline switchover applies to every region – from London, Manchester and Birmingham to more rural parts of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the English regions – because Openreach is upgrading the national phone network to all‑IP (internet-based) services.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The analogue, copper wire phone network (also known as public switch telephone network - or PSTN) is still being retired, meaning you’ll no longer be able to use your landline phone from January 2027. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you have other systems connected to your phone line, like alarms, telecare systems, CCTV, or even some \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fhalf-hourly-meters\u002F\">half-hourly electricity meters\u003C\u002Fa>, then they’ll stop working too. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This includes many home users and small businesses that still rely on analogue sockets for things like care alarms, door entry systems, card machines, lifts and telemetry devices.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Unless you make the switch to digital. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But what does that mean? And why is the old system getting switched off anyway? If you’re one of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fnbccloud.co.uk\u002Fare-businesses-ready-for-the-big-switch-off-2025\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">62.1% of business owners\u003C\u002Fa> still using a landline in 2024, this guide explains what the UK digital landline switchover is, when it’s happening, who it affects (including vulnerable customers), and the practical steps your business should take to stay connected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"2a215fbf-598f-48fa-a48d-49e2c2c5218c\" data-image-id=\"2a215fbf-598f-48fa-a48d-49e2c2c5218c\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F540c0d44-b919-4e16-b6af-7ba61eafc562\u002FBionic%20Energy%20Guide%20Images%20%285%29.png\" data-asset-id=\"2a215fbf-598f-48fa-a48d-49e2c2c5218c\" data-image-id=\"2a215fbf-598f-48fa-a48d-49e2c2c5218c\" alt=\"A hand picking up a desk phone receiver on a desk. The caption reads: What is the digital switchover? UK landline switch‑off guide \">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Ch2>Five-point summary of our guide to the digital switchover\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>The UK is switching off the old copper PSTN landline network and moving all homes and businesses to digital landlines and VoIP by January 2027.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>The switchover affects any device that uses an analogue phone line – including landlines, alarms, telecare systems, lifts, fax machines, card machines and some meters.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Most people will move to a digital phone service that runs over broadband; vulnerable customers and those without broadband will get extra support and tailored solutions.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Businesses should audit every line and device, upgrade to VoIP‑ready broadband and phone systems, test critical services and train staff before the switch‑off.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Bionic can help UK SMEs compare business broadband and VoIP, keep key numbers, and move to a future‑proof digital phone system with minimal disruption.\u003Cbr>\n\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"fc1a0610_2201_0183_e1c4_fd838ba63845\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What is the digital switchover?\u003C\u002Fstrong>  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>The digital switchover is the process of moving all UK landline calls from the old copper‑based PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) to newer digital phone services that run over broadband, usually using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To keep your landline and other PSTN systems running, you’ll need to switch to a digital, internet-based alternative such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP).  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Instead of your landline plugging into a traditional wall socket, most digital landlines will plug into a router or digital voice adapter, so an internet connection and local power supply are required.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In 2016, it was announced that all analogue phone lines in the UK would be updated to digital internet-based services by 2025. Openreach, the BT Group company that looks after all UK phone and broadband lines, has pushed this back to 2027.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even so, if you currently use a landline in your home or business, you’ll be affected by the switch. It might be a good idea to start thinking about switching to digital as soon as possible.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Bionic can help you switch to superfast \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fbusiness-broadband\u002F\">business broadband\u003C\u002Fa> and a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fbusiness-voip\u002F\">VoIP\u003C\u002Fa> telephone line to help future-proof your business and maybe even get ahead of the competition.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>VoIP phone services offer loads more features than current landline tech, so switching now could make a difference to how you do business. We’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of switching later on, but first – why are we going to the trouble of switching everything off? \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"a9094cfa_a400_0141_1d84_53fba5f1faaa\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>Has the digital switchover been delayed?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Originally planned to be completed by the end of 2025, the digital switchover has now been delayed until January 2027. This has been done so that broadband providers, telecare providers and consumers have more time to adapt.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One of the major concerns is that telecare and alarm system providers haven't sufficiently upgraded their systems. Although some internet service providers (ISPs) can provide a limited battery backup to keep VoIP phones running if there's a power cut, these systems don’t always work properly with older alarm or telecare monitoring systems. This could put millions of vulnerable customers at risk.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Large providers like BT, Sky and TalkTalk have restarted regional migrations to digital landlines and are working towards switching the UK off copper by the end of 2027, with extra protections in place for vulnerable customers and telecare users.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For example, BT plans to move customers region by region and offer engineer visits and battery backup options to those with additional needs, such as people using health pendants or telecare alarms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The switchover will still be going ahead, so you should still plan to switch to digital as soon as possible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"df6c5ab9_efcd_01ad_f18b_938fcfb18e3e\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Why is the analogue copper landline network being switched off?\u003C\u002Fstrong>   \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As more UK homes and businesses use full fibre broadband, the cost and complexity of maintaining two networks (analogue copper and digital fibre) has increased, so providers are consolidating voice services on the newer, more resilient IP network.\u003Cbr>\n\u003Cbr>\n​Digital voice services also make it easier for providers to offer extra features, such as better call‑blocking for scams, clearer call quality and integration with smartphones and apps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Another reason is that the current PSTN system needs updating. The ageing analogue system is becoming increasingly expensive to run, and although a lot of work is needed to switch to digital, using the internet to make calls should be more cost-effective and even offer clearer calls with faster connection speeds.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The first copper phone line network was set up in 1877 and was designed to transmit voice calls. That’s why internet speeds aren’t as fast when data is sent along copper wires. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The first fibre lines were introduced in 1977. This meant larger amounts of data – not just voice calls – could be sent more quickly and paved the way for the current broadband network.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The copper wires will no longer be used when PSTN is switched off, meaning all voice calls and other systems that were connected to the network will need an internet connection to work. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Digital voice services are already being offered by some phone companies, but the main phone providers (BT, Sky, TalkTalk) have \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.which.co.uk\u002Freviews\u002Fbroadband\u002Farticle\u002Fdigital-voice-and-the-landline-phone-switch-off-what-it-means-for-you-aPSOH8k1i6Vv%22%20\u002Fl%20%22when-will-my-landline-be-switched-off\">different timescales for their mandatory switchovers\u003C\u002Fa>. However, they are on target and expect all home phone and business customers to be digital by 2027. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The switch won’t just affect landline phones, it will affect anything that connects to PSTN, including alarms, CCTV, and door-entry systems. To avoid disruption when the switchover happens, you should check with your provider to see if these systems will be digitally compatible or if they’ll need upgrading. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"233f6d3d-129d-4f58-bee5-3ecc566c7371\" data-image-id=\"233f6d3d-129d-4f58-bee5-3ecc566c7371\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3f971427-7de1-4db3-830f-d6b0c7a5d3a7\u002FBionic%20-%20Social%20Templates%20FBTwitter%20%282%29.jpg\" data-asset-id=\"233f6d3d-129d-4f58-bee5-3ecc566c7371\" data-image-id=\"233f6d3d-129d-4f58-bee5-3ecc566c7371\" alt=\"Infographic explaining the digital switchover taking place in 2027\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"c4202577_26ab_0190_ce11_2ffc47529f6b\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What will replace landlines in 2027?\u003C\u002Fstrong>  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>In practice, most UK landlines will be replaced by:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Digital landline or “Digital Voice” services that plug your home or office phone into the router instead of the wall socket.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>VoIP phone systems for businesses. These are often bundled with full fibre or SoGEA broadband (see the table below for more on those).\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>App-based calling on mobiles and laptops, using the same business number across multiple devices.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Some providers will offer a voice‑only “digital phone line” for customers who do not want full broadband, so they can keep using a landline-style service without paying for a traditional broadband package.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although the official date of the digital switchover is the start of 2027, the test rollout has already begun, and many businesses have switched to VoIP. A study from Snom, pioneers in IP phone technology, found that the UK is switching to VoIP faster than other European countries.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But it looks like there’s still a lot of work to be done. Figures from a National Business Communications survey show that while more than two-thirds (62.1%) of businesses still use a landline, more than a third (37.9%) have no idea what the big analogue switch-off is\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That’s why it’s important to get on top of things now. Sam Hollands, Connectivity Operations Manager at Bionic, has said: \u003Cem>“The digital switchover is running to schedule, but if businesses don’t make the switch sooner rather than later, there could issues as the final switch-off date approaches. \u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>“A high volume of last-minute applications could mean some providers can't keep up with demand. This could leave some businesses without phone services until they connect to VoIP or another compatible service. That’s why it makes sense to future-proof your business by making the switch now.” \u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n25a5b0d4_29e7_013c_7a48_a5747771e10e\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>Who will be most affected by the landline switchover?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Anyone who uses a phone line for any purpose will be affected, but here's a breakdown of specific sectors:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>UK homes and businesses that still use a traditional landline plugged into a wall socket.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>People who use telecare or pendant alarms, health monitors or other assistive devices that dial over a landline.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Businesses that rely on analogue-connected devices like lift lines, alarm panels, fax machines, EPOS terminals or legacy CCTV.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Customers in rural and remote areas where the mobile signal is patchy, and landlines have been a lifeline.\u003Cbr>\nThese groups should speak to their phone or alarm provider well before the switch‑off date to make sure any critical services will still work on a digital phone line.]*\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n1e626b9b_4499_014e_27c6_19ab2d45ac83\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What does VoIP mean? And what about those other acronyms?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Although the acronym may sound confusing, VoIP or ‘Voice Over Internet Protocol’ just means voice calls can be made via the internet rather than using a wire like the current system. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A lot of phone users already use VoIP systems without even realising it. For example, the most popular examples of VoIP are Skype and WhatsApp. Often, VoIP options are good for businesses as calls and messaging costs less than regular calling or texting.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you want a little bit more tech talk, when using VoIP your voice is converted into a series of digital packets which are transmitted across the internet to your recipients. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So that’s VoIP sorted, but what are the other alternatives on offer to replace analogue? When your devices get switched over, they will be using an IP system like VoIP or SoGEA, which will be connected by either FTTC or FTTP. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As you’d imagine, there’s lots of jargon and loads of confusing acronyms, so let us break it all down into simple terms.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Name \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Acronym \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>What’s it for? \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Internet Protocol \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>IP \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>It’s a unique code that identifies a device on the internet or local network. \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>ALL IP \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>ALL IP \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>The digital network that will replace PSTN. It means that all services can work over an IP (basically all services can work on the internet). \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Voice Over Internet Protocol  \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>VoIP \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>VoIP services convert your voice into a digital signal that travels via the Internet. Examples of VoIP are Skype and WhatsApp. \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Exchange  \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Exchange  \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>The ‘exchange’ is a physical location where Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and CDNs (Content Delivery Networks) connect with each other. \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Fibre to the Premises \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>FTTP \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>FTTP means ‘fibre to the premises’ and is a connection that runs directly from the exchange to your property. \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Fibre to the Cabinet  \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>FTTC \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fguides\u002Ffttc-fibre-to-the-cabinet-broadband\u002F\">FTTC means ‘fibre to the cabinet’\u003C\u002Fa>. It uses fibre optic cables to the main exchange and copper wires to connect to your premises. \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Single Order Generic Ethernet Access \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>SoGEA \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>SoGEA only provides a broadband service rather than a package including a phone line. SoGEA is cheaper because it only provides data. \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Session Initiation Protocol trunks \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>SIP trunks \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cp>SIP trunks just allow you to use VoIP by connecting your phone system a public phone network via the internet. SIP can connect to most existing systems so is often a popular choice as it’s so versatile. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Cp>For most small businesses in the UK, a hosted VoIP phone system feels like a smarter landline – you still dial normal UK numbers, but calls travel securely over the internet, and you can make and receive calls on desk phones, mobiles or softphone apps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n3c632e94_bcea_0103_6ebc_b81cb13b9ffe\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What is the difference between voice and data traffic? \u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Data is anything you send or receive via the internet. With data (like photos, videos and web pages) information doesn’t have to be sent in sequence and can be re-sent at any time.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But with voice traffic (things like phone and video calls) the whole message has to travel in sequence in one continuous chunk. Think about it like this, a phone call would be all jumbled if your words were not sent in the correct order, with data it doesn’t matter as much. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although all these choices may sound overwhelming, the tech-enabled team at Bionic will be able to help you work out which option is best for you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n70e91c5b_321e_0108_2825_abc62974b21c\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What systems will be affected by the analogue switch-off?\u003C\u002Fstrong>  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Although the digital switchover should run smoothly, you should check your systems for compatibility issues ahead of time. It’s always a good idea to research the main systems you use in your business, so you’re not left in the lurch at the last moment.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>During the digital switchover, there will be changes to the way some older equipment works with new digital technology. If you use devices that are directly linked to your phone line (like telemetry devices) you should speak to the provider of those services to check if they will be compatible with the digital system. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In many UK homes and premises, the “main” phone socket is not near the broadband router, or it may be hidden behind furniture, and any phones or devices plugged into extension sockets may stop working unless they are correctly rewired to the new digital phone service.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some older devices – including certain fax machines, modems and assisted‑living or fall‑detection devices – may be incompatible with newer digital voice services, so it’s vital to check with the manufacturer or service provider and upgrade where needed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Below are some examples of other devices that may be affected: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Textphones\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>A textphone is a phone with a keyboard and a display screen, they are useful for deaf users as it allows them to communicate via typed messages rather than listening and speaking into the mouthpiece. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>A few different models of textphone have been analysed at the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbtplc.com\u002FDigitalServicesLab\u002Findex.htm\">BT Digital Services lab\u003C\u002Fa> during their switchover tests. The results concluded making textphone-to-textphone and text relay calls on IP networks was possible. However, the call quality can sometimes be affected by other data loading on the line. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Keep in mind the free text relay service is available on the Relay UK app and is unaffected by the move to IP. The app can be used on any connected device like a phone, tablet, laptop or PC. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Amplified Phones\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Amplified phones are specifically designed for users with hearing loss as they have louder volume and better pitch control. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Amplified phones have been tested at BT’s Digital Services lab too. All the devices tested performed well, even when packet loss and loading were added. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Intruder and telecare alarms\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Telecare alarms are automatic systems that alert help (for example a family member, care centre or medical aid) when the user presses a button. An intruder alarm protects your home or premises against break-ins and burglaries.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you have intruder or telecare alarms that rely on your current analogue system, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbtplc.com\u002FDigitalServicesLab\u002Findex.htm\">it’s been reported\u003C\u002Fa> that most modern devices should be compatible with IP. But it’s always best to check with your provider in case you need to update your devices to a newer model, especially if you run a business like a care home where residents' lives may be at risk if their personal alarms stop working. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"b281a3b4_185e_0132_b8b9_2a59050d39e1\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What happens to a digital phone line if there’s a power cut or broadband is down?\u003C\u002Fstrong>  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>The current analogue system is linked to your local telephone exchange which has its own power supply. At the moment your landline will work even if your electricity supply isn’t working, you’ll still be able to make calls if your electricity is down. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But the new system \u003Cem>will\u003C\u002Fem> rely on your own electricity supply.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This means if there is a power cut or outage in your home or business premises, you won’t be able to make or take landline calls using the digital network. Any other devices and systems connected to the digital network will also stop working during an outage.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>An alternative is to have a battery backup for your broadband router, then you will be able to access the internet even if there’s been a power cut. A mobile phone is also good to have as a backup.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To reduce the risk for vulnerable customers, many phone providers now offer options such as hybrid digital\u002F4G handsets, battery backup units for routers and dedicated “emergency backup line” solutions that can keep a basic phone service running for a limited period during a power cut.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You can contact your provider directly to discuss your options or speak to the team at Bionic. Many of our preferred suppliers offer 4G backup as standard or as an add-on to make sure you’re never without a connection.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n242b05ce_492d_0140_069f_c6a4cbeb4899\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>When will the digital rollout and analogue phone switch-off happen?\u003C\u002Fstrong>  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>All analogue systems will be turned off by January 2027, but Openreach will switch off UK services at different stages.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The first stage of the digital switchover is called the ‘stop sell’ phase and is already underway. Stop sell means that no new analogue services will be sold to customers after once an exchange area is 75% full-fibre enabled.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>When this happens, no more traditional phone line services and FTTC broadband will be sold to new and existing customers in that area. Openreach has stopped selling traditional phone lines in all exchange areas as of September 2023. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This means that no new customers will be able to sign up for analogue services and those who want new services will have to go digital. Customers with current analogue services won’t be able to change anything about their analogue tariff either.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To reflect this change, at Bionic, we no longer offer traditional landline packages to help with the transition to fully digital services. You can read the full \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.openreach.co.uk\u002Fcpportal\u002Fproducts\u002Fthe-all-ip-programme\u002Fstopsell-updates\">Openreach timeline here\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In summary, the digital landline switchover timeline in the UK looks like this:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Stop-sell of new analogue phone lines across all Openreach exchanges (from September 2023).\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Gradual migration of existing customers to digital landlines and VoIP, with regional rollouts by major providers between 2025 and 2027.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>National switch‑off of the old PSTN copper phone network by the end of January 2027.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"ecdc34be_8f89_01db_c5c4_2aa481575db3\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What steps should businesses take to prepare for the digital switchover?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you’re currently using systems linked to the analogue phone network, it’s best to start the transition now. To make sure your business is ready in time, follow these steps:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Conduct a digital readiness assessment\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>A simple digital readiness assessment helps UK businesses understand which locations, phone numbers, and critical systems will be affected by the landline switch‑off, so you can prioritise upgrades and avoid downtime.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Digital readiness is basically the level of readiness a business has to move from traditional workflows (analogue in this case) to digital workflows using newer software and technology. This looks at processes but also employees’ skills too.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One way to figure out if you are ready is to carry out a digital readiness assessment and answer these core questions:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>Which parts of your business are already digital? \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>What needs to be digital? (equipment, payment terminals, for example)\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Do your employees have the skills to use new digital technology?\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>Once you’ve answered these questions — it’s time to get planning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Develop a digital transition plan\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Using the answers to the questions above — you’ll need to make an action plan outlining what you need to do for the transition.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For example, part of your plan might look like this:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cbr>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Number\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Action\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>1\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Replace the landline with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fbusiness-voip\u002F\">VoIP system\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>2\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Move all customer and supplier details to the cloud\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>2\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Check if the existing payment terminals work with the digital system\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>3\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Check if the existing CCTV system can be connected to a digital system (upgrade if needed)\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>4\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Explain the transition with your employees to make them aware and discuss any training that’s needed.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Cp>Once you’ve made an action plan for your business, it’s time to get digital!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Update or implement new technology\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Check any monitored alarms, lifts, payment terminals and healthcare or assisted‑living devices with the provider to confirm they support digital voice or IP connections, and arrange an upgrade if they don’t.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You may have found some systems that need replacing or upgrading to work with a digital system. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>It’s best to upgrade to a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fbusiness-voip\u002F\">digital phone system\u003C\u002Fa> if you are currently using a traditional landline. There are several different VoIP handsets that are usually available, and in most cases, you can keep your existing phone number.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>You’ll need to transfer all your important files to a digital cloud system — think of customer and supplier details that you need to access regularly. A cloud system normally comes as part of a digital phone system in a web-based app that you can install on your business computer, laptop or smartphone.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If you’re currently using analogue credit card terminals, these are unlikely to work properly with a digital phone system. You’ll need to upgrade to (wireless) \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fsmallbusiness.co.uk\u002F10-card-payment-machines-ideal-for-small-business-2558598\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">payment terminals\u003C\u002Fa> that connect to the internet through secure WiFi.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If you’re using an outdated CCTV system, you might need to buy a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.taylored.com\u002Fblog\u002Fupgrading-from-analog-to-ip-video-surveillance\u002F#:~:text=A%20video%20encoder%20connects%20to,LAN%2C%20WLAN%20or%20Internet).\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">video encoder\u003C\u002Fa> so your existing system still works, but it’s worth checking with the manufacturer if you aren’t sure.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Remember that if you don’t update all your systems that run on an analogue network, \u003Cem>they will stop working when the switch is carried out\u003C\u002Fem>.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch3>Provide training to staff\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Next, it’s time to train your staff. Upgrading to digital technology should improve the efficiency of your small business, but only if you’re employees know how to use it all. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Consider planning after-hours training to talk them through process changes and how to use the new systems, so they can get familiar without the pressure of waiting customers or heavy workloads. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Test and optimise systems\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As with anything new, it doesn’t always go to plan the first time around. Expect some teething issues as your staff get used to new ways of working and monitor how your business operates using a fully digital system. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you’re using any adapters — like for VoIP telephone — check over time if they are reliable. If things aren’t working properly, it may be better, in the long run, to upgrade your equipment to a digitally compatible alternative.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"d09d2784_6d5b_0180_30de_e3c3f9d18a81\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>Are there any legal compliances in place for businesses?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Since VoIP systems work by storing data online, you’ll need to be clued up on data protection regulations or (GDPR) if you aren’t already familiar with them. These regulations apply to all businesses in the UK, no matter your size. Find out more in our complete \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-insurance\u002Fguides\u002Fgdpr-data-protection-guide\u002F\">guide to GDPR for small businesses\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There are also other regulations that you should be aware of when using electronic communications, including The Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) set out by the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fico.org.uk\u002Ffor-organisations\u002Fdirect-marketing-and-privacy-and-electronic-communications\u002Fguide-to-pecr\u002Fwhat-are-pecr\u002F#:~:text=They%20give%20people%20specific%20privacy,cookies%20(and%20similar%20technologies)%3B\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Information Commissioner's Office (ICO)\u003C\u002Fa>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These are regulations on marketing calls, emails and SMSs, website cookies and website security. And because a cloud-based VoIP system works online — it’s more at risk of being hacked. So it’s worth learning what to watch out for to keep them out — read more in our guide to VoIP hacking.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n6097a9dd_899c_01c2_b274_753cc4c4b44e\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>How will the digital switchover affect people or businesses in remote areas?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If your business is based in a rural or coastal area with limited fixed-line speeds but a reasonable mobile signal, a 4G or 5G broadband solution combined with VoIP may be the most reliable way to replace your analogue landline.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Where fixed broadband and mobile coverage are both weak, speak to your provider early about resilience options and register any vulnerable users in the property so they can be prioritised for support.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.statista.com\u002Fstatistics\u002F1124328\u002Finternet-penetration-uk\u002F#:~:text=As%20of%20January%202023%2C%20nearly,United%20Kingdom%20as%20of%202023.\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">98% of the UK has access to an internet connection\u003C\u002Fa>, and you don’t need ultrafast broadband to make business calls over the internet. So even if you’re out in the sticks, if you have a reliable internet connection you’ll easily be able to make the switch. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you need help choosing a new business \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fbusiness-broadband\u002F\">broadband provider\u003C\u002Fa>, Bionic can help you find a competitive deal that suits the needs of your business.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"adcdb9ef_815c_01b1_4a84_70a18e1dbbfd\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>Will this make bills more expensive?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>No, bills shouldn’t be more expensive. Although digital solutions use new technology, they \u003Cem>are\u003C\u002Fem> affordable. In a lot of cases, they are more cost-effective than analogue solutions because they are in higher demand. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Many providers offer tailored packages based on how many people use the system, so you only pay for what you need. Not only that, but VoIP call rates are usually cheaper than the standard business rates on landlines.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Many UK households and SMEs find that moving to an all‑digital package (full fibre or SoGEA broadband plus VoIP or digital voice) works out cheaper than paying separate line rental and call charges on an ageing analogue service, especially where inclusive UK minutes are included.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n8aa9fd53_377a_017a_11e1_8c75847b6862\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How can Bionic help your business with the digital switchover?\u003C\u002Fstrong>  \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>At Bionic, we know that changes like the digital switchover can be overwhelming, but our helpful team are on hand to ensure your business doesn’t suffer and the process can run as smoothly as possible. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We can compare VoIP options and provide advice on different digital avenues that might be best suited to your business. The switchover is fast approaching, so why not get it sorted sooner rather than later? Contact us today by clicking ‘Start a Quote’ on the righthand sidebar or call our tech-experts on \u003Cstrong>0800 860 6830.\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Looking to save on other business essentials? At Bionic, we use smart technology combined with human expertise to compare quotes for \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">business energy\u003C\u002Fa>, including \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fbusiness-electricity\u002F\">business electricity\u003C\u002Fa> and \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fbusiness-gas\u002F\">business gas\u003C\u002Fa> - from a range of trusted suppliers. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>FAQs about the UK digital switchover\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Here’s an at-a-glance guide to some of the most frequently asked questions about the digital switchover: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>When will landlines be switched off in the UK?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>All traditional PSTN landlines across the UK are due to be switched off by January 2027, with customers migrated to digital landlines and VoIP beforehand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Does the digital switchover affect my business landline in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Yes – every UK region will see analogue landlines replaced with digital services that run over broadband, so businesses in all nations need to prepare.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>What should small businesses in UK cities like London, Manchester or Birmingham do to get ready for the landline switch‑off?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Urban businesses should review every phone line and device, upgrade to full fibre or SoGEA broadband where available and move to a VoIP or digital phone system in good time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>How will the digital landline switchover affect rural businesses and farms in remote parts of the UK?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Rural firms may need alternative options like 4G\u002F5G or satellite broadband plus VoIP, and should talk to providers early about coverage and resilience.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Are elderly or vulnerable people in the UK at risk of losing their landline during the digital switchover?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Providers and government have agreed on extra protections, with engineer visits, battery backups and tailored solutions to keep vulnerable and telecare users connected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Will my alarm, lift line or telecare system still work after my UK landline is switched to digital?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Many modern systems are compatible with IP or digital voice, but you must check with your alarm or telecare provider and upgrade if necessary.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Do I need broadband if I only want a landline phone in my UK home?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Some providers will offer a digital phone line without a full broadband package, so you can keep a landline-style service without paying for standard home broadband.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>How can Bionic help my UK business move from analogue landlines to VoIP and digital phone systems?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Bionic compares business broadband and VoIP deals from UK providers and helps you choose, set up and switch to a digital phone system that works across your locations.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":1124,"linkedItems":1125},[595],[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":1127,"linkedItems":1129},[1128],"les_roberts",[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":1131,"displayTimeZone":601},"2023-07-11T23:00:00Z",{"name":603,"type":599,"value":1133,"displayTimeZone":601},"2026-01-15T00:00:00Z",{"name":605,"type":11,"value":1135},"digital-switchover-analogue-phone-switch-off\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":1137},"Digital switchover 2027: UK Landline Switch‑off Guide for Business 🦾",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":1139},"The digital switchover, when all analogue phone lines will be turned off, has been delayed from 2025 until 2027. But there's no need to delay your switch to digital. Learn more.  ",{"name":614,"type":615,"value":1141},[1142],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":621,"type":7,"value":1144},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-connectivity\u002Fguides\u002Fdigital-switchover-analogue-phone-switch-off\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":1146,"linkedItems":1147},[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":1149,"linkedItems":1150},[630],[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":1152,"linkedItems":1153},[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":1155,"linkedItems":1156},[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":1158},[1159],{"name":1160,"description":957,"type":28,"size":1161,"url":959,"width":961,"height":960,"renditions":1162},"Bionic Energy Guide Images (5).png",6519744,{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":1164},[1165],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"name":655,"type":615,"value":1167},[1168],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":1170},[],{"name":663,"type":615,"value":1172},[1173],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":496,"collection":82,"id":1175,"language":82,"lastModified":993,"name":1176,"sitemapLocations":1177,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"d854c891-d768-4849-b5a6-6ed43c8e842d","CONNECTIVITY GUIDE - Digital Switchover 2027 – All you need to know",[],{"codename":132,"collection":82,"id":1179,"language":82,"lastModified":1180,"name":1181,"sitemapLocations":1182,"type":1183,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"43dd3617-240c-4783-8b9d-96f76835a1dd","2026-06-04T14:51:04.881612Z","Content Block - Guides - Connectivity",[],"content_block___guides",{"elements":1185,"system":1576},{"title":1186,"cta_button_text":1188,"cta_link_url":1190,"guides":1192},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":1187},"Our team shares essential knowledge on business finance",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":1189},"Check out our business finance guides",{"name":488,"type":7,"value":1191},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002F",{"name":491,"type":15,"value":1193,"linkedItems":1198},[1194,1195,1196,1197],"finance_guide___a_bionic_guide_to_corporation_tax","essentials_guide___how_do_i_pay_myself_as_a_small_","finance_guide___small_business_national_insurance_","untitled_content_item_ab38d67",[1199,1270,1340,1408],{"elements":1200,"system":1265},{"post__title":1201,"post__summary":1203,"post__content":1205,"post__author":1211,"post__reviewer":1214,"publish_date":1217,"updated_date":1220,"url":1221,"seo__meta_title":1223,"seo__meta_description":1225,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1226,"seo__canonical_url":1229,"related_articles":1231,"categories":1234,"subfolder":1238,"tags":1241,"thumbnail_image":1244,"show_on_index_page":1254,"hide_author":1257,"hide_reviewer":1260,"hide_tags":1262},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":1202},"The Bionic guide to corporation tax for small business",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":1204},"Corporation tax is a fee that UK businesses pay on profits. It is calculated and paid annually based on a business's corporation tax accounting period. ",{"images":1206,"linkedItemCodenames":1207,"linkedItems":1208,"links":1209,"name":585,"type":151,"value":1210},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>Taxes are an inevitable part of all our lives, but it’s only when running your own business do you realise just how complicated things can get – income tax, VAT, business rates, and national insurance all need to be accounted for.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And, all being well, corporation tax is another one you’ll need to factor in. Our corporate tax guide explains everything you need to know, including why you should actually be glad you’re paying it (well, sort of glad you’re paying it). \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What is corporation tax for businesses? \u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Corporation tax is a tax paid by UK businesses on any profits they make. Calculated and paid annually based on your corporation tax accounting period' - usually the same as your company's financial year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The UK’s main corporate tax rate is currently 25%. But for businesses that make less than £50,000, the 19% rate will still apply - this is known as the 'small profit rate'.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although no one enjoys paying taxes, if you’re paying corporation tax then you’re in a relatively good place as your business is turning a profit.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There’s no tax-free corporation tax allowance, which means all profits are taxable. But if your business isn’t making a profit, you don’t pay corporation tax. It’s that simple. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What is the UK’s corporation tax rate in 2023-2024?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As of April 2023, the rates for Corporation Tax changed. There are essentially two main rates:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Main rate:\u003C\u002Fstrong> The UK’s current corporation tax rate main is 25%, (this was previously 19%). This rate only applies to businesses with profits of more than £250,000.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Small profits rate: \u003C\u002Fstrong>The UK now applies a tax rate for businesses that have a taxable profit of less than £50,000. This is known as 'small profits rate'.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>I your taxable \u003Cstrong>profits are between £50,000 and £250,000\u003C\u002Fstrong> you will pay the main rate, but be eligible for a reduction as \u003Cem>'Marginal Relief\u003C\u002Fem>'.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>What is Marginal Relief?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Marginal Relief works as a sliding scale in gradual increases between the small profit rate of 19% and the main rate of 25%. So, if you have taxable profits between £50,000 and £250,000, a reduction from the main rate will be calculated based on your profits. This means you'll pay less tax than the 25% main rate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If your company has profits of over £250,000, you won't be eligible for Marginal Relief. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Who pays corporation tax?\u003C\u002Fstrong> Do small businesses need to pay?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Corporation tax in the UK is charged on profits made by any businesses that are registered as limited companies. If you’re a sole trader or partnership, you won’t pay corporation tax but will income tax on your profits as part of your self-assessment tax return. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There are some exceptions though, and the following types of businesses often need to pay corporation tax, even if they’re not a limited company: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Co-operatives to groups of individuals carrying out a business \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Members clubs, societies and associations \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Housing associations  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Trade associations  \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>When you register your business as a limited company with Companies House, you will be registered for corporation tax at the same time. For more information, go to the \u003Cem>Register your company\u003C\u002Fem> page on the government website. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You’ll need to notify HMRC within three months and register to pay corporation tax. You’ll also need to register your company as 'active', 'trading', 'non-trading' or 'dormant' for corporation tax purposes. For more information, check out the government guide to trading and non-trading for corporation tax. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>When does corporation tax need to be paid? \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Corporation tax is calculated annually based on your business's corporation tax accounting period, which is usually the same as its financial year.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you have taxable profits of up to £1.5 million -a position most SMEs will be in - you need to pay your corporate tax bill nine months and one day after the end of your accounting period. This means that if your company’s accounting year ends on March 31, you’ll have to pay your corporation tax bill by January 1. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you have taxable profits of more than £1.5 million, then you need to pay your corporation tax in instalments.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You can find out more about the rules and deadlines at the government website. If you’re a large business, check out the deadlines for taxable profits of between £1.5 million and £20 million. If you're a very large business, here’s more information on paying tax on profits of more than £20 million. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How to pay corporation tax\u003C\u002Fstrong> for businesses\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>You can pay corporation tax in any of the three following ways: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Direct Debit\u003C\u002Fstrong> – Use this to make a single, one-off payment. You are covered by the Direct Debit guarantee \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Bank transfer\u003C\u002Fstrong> - Get HMRC’s bank details to make your payment using your bank’s website, app or at a branch. You can do this using online banking, telephone banking, Faster Payments, CHAPS, or Bac. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Debit card or corporate credit card \u003C\u002Fstrong>- There is no fee for paying with a personal debit card, but corporate credit and debit cards are charged a fee. This can only be done online.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Cp>You can't pay your corporation tax bill over the phone directly to HMRC.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The way you pay your corporation tax bill will have an effect on the time it takes for your payment to process.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Payments are taken on the \u003Cstrong>same day\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003Cstrong>or the next day\u003C\u002Fstrong> when using online banking, telephone banking or CHAPS (Clearing House Automated Payment System) \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Payments can take up to\u003Cstrong> three working days\u003C\u002Fstrong> when paying in branch at your bank or building society, and when paying online by debit or corporate credit card. You should also allow for three days’ clearance when paying by BACS (Bankers' Automated Clearing System) or using a Direct Debit that you’ve used before. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Payments can take up to \u003Cstrong>five working days\u003C\u002Fstrong> to clear when you pay by a newly created Direct Debit. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>If your payment date falls on a weekend or a bank holiday, you need to make sure you pay in enough time for your payment to have cleared by the last working day before your deadline. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You can't pay your corporation tax bill by post or at the Post Office.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For more information, go to https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fpay-corporation-tax  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>What if my business has made no profit in the last year?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If your business hasn’t made any profits during the last accounting period, you need to let HMRC know that you have nothing to pay. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You can do this by filling in the ‘nil to pay’ form, or by marking the payslip on any HMRC reminders as ‘NIL due’, before sending it back. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you don’t let HMRC know, you’ll keep getting reminders sent to you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And you still need to file your company’s tax returns as normal, even if you’ve no corporation tax to pay. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How to check if your corporation tax has been paid\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>You'll need to check your HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) online account to confirm that your corporation tax has been paid. It should be updated within a few days of you making the payment to HMRC.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>What happens if your corporation t\u003Cstrong>ax payment is late?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>HMRC doesn't like late payments. well and will hit you with a fine if you post your tax return late or you're late paying your tax bill.  You'll also be fined for giving them inaccurate information, even if it's by mistake.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even if you're accountant is to blame for a late or inaccurate return, it's the company director who'll be held responsible and have to foot the bill.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>What if my tax return is late?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>HMRC has a sliding scale for late tax returns:  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>One day late \u003C\u002Fstrong>= £100 fine.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Three months late\u003C\u002Fstrong> = An additional £100 fine.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Six months late\u003C\u002Fstrong> = HMRC will estimate your bill and add a 10% penalty onto what it thinks your unpaid tax will be.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>12 months late\u003C\u002Fstrong> - Another 10% is added to your estimated tax bill.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>What if my corporation tax payments are late?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you don't pay your corporation tax bill on time, you'll be charged interest on the amount you owe and might be hit with a further penalty.  HMRC can collect payments in the following ways:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Directly from your earnings or pension  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Via debt collection agencies\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Through the sale of your assets (except in Scotland)  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Applying to the courts to take money from your bank or building society accounts (except in Scotland)\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Making you bankrupt or closing down your business\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>If you've missed a payment, get in touch with the HMRC corporation tax helpline on \u003Cstrong>0300 200 3410\u003C\u002Fstrong>. Lines are open from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you can't afford to pay your corporate tax bill, you need to contact HMRC and set up a Time to Pay arrangement as soon as possible. If you're in this situation, call the HMRC Payment Support Service on \u003Cstrong>0300 200 3835\u003C\u002Fstrong>. Lines are open from 8 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>What if I give inaccurate information?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If your tax returns are inaccurate, you'll be fined by HMRC. But the level of the fine will depend upon whether the taxman believes the mistake was deliberate and whether you tried to hide it. If you have made a mistake on your tax return, you need to let HMRC know as soon as possible, preferably before they get in touch with you.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>If the mistake was careless but not deliberate\u003C\u002Fstrong> you could be charged between 0-30% of your tax bill if you highlight it, or 15-30% if HMRC spots it first.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>If the mistake was deemed to be deliberate but not hidden\u003C\u002Fstrong>, you'll be hit with a 20-70% fine if you disclose the mistake, or 35-70% if HMRC finds it.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>If the inaccuracy was deliberate and you tried to hide it\u003C\u002Fstrong> you may be charged 30-100% in fines if you admit it, and 50-100% if you don't.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>In short, be honest and don't make any mistakes, but if you do make a mistake don't try to hide it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>What if I can't afford to pay corporation tax?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you can’t afford your corporation tax bill in full and on time, you need to get expert help and advice as soon as possible. The debt won't go away if you ignore it, it'll just get worse. You can contact HMRC about general corporation tax enquiries by calling 0300 200 3410. You'll need to have your Unique Tax Reference (UTR) to hand when calling.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Can I pay HMRC in instalments?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you can't pay your corporation tax bill in full, you might be able to pay it in instalments if you can negotiate a Time to Pay arrangement with HMRC. This will either give you more time to pay or set up a schedule so you can pay your tax in instalments.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you want to make any changes to your company tax return, you'll usually need to do it within 12 months of the filing deadline. You can do it online, using commercial software or by sending a paper return to your company's corporation tax office.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Once you notice a mistake or inaccuracy in your accounts, you must send an amendment to Companies House on paper, clearly requesting to replace the original accounts, that the new records are now the statutory accounts and that they were prepared as at the date of the original accounts.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How Bionic can help cut your business admin\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Corporation tax is another piece of business admin that can take you away from doing what you do best - running your business. The same goes for sorting your business essentials, like utilities, insurance, and finance.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So why not let the tech-enabled team at Bionic sort all that for you? We can sort your next business energy and business broadband contract, make sure you have the right insurance in place, or help you find a business loan if you need to cover expansion, cash flow, or anything in between.\u003Cbr>\n\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":1212,"linkedItems":1213},[1128],[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":1215,"linkedItems":1216},[],[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":1218,"displayTimeZone":1219},"2023-06-09T00:00:00Z","UTC",{"name":603,"type":599,"value":556,"displayTimeZone":556},{"name":605,"type":11,"value":1222},"corporation-tax\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":1224},"A Small Business Guide to Corporation Tax | Bionic",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":1204},{"name":614,"type":615,"value":1227},[1228],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":621,"type":7,"value":1230},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fcorporation-tax\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":1232,"linkedItems":1233},[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":1235,"linkedItems":1237},[1236],"category___business_finance_guide",[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":1239,"linkedItems":1240},[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":1242,"linkedItems":1243},[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":1245},[1246],{"name":1247,"description":1248,"type":645,"size":1249,"url":1250,"width":1251,"height":1252,"renditions":1253},"GettyImages-827091862 (2).jpg","A business owner in a shirt and tie sits at a computer and checks his corporation tax documents.",147595,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F86d1fa9e-940d-4b5e-9a4a-93e56da66cc8\u002FGettyImages-827091862%20%282%29.jpg",2370,1264,{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":1255},[1256],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"name":655,"type":615,"value":1258},[1259],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":1261},[],{"name":663,"type":615,"value":1263},[1264],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":1194,"collection":82,"id":1266,"language":82,"lastModified":1267,"name":1268,"sitemapLocations":1269,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"ddd9ecc0-d8cf-4e39-a0d7-34aef80493f4","2026-06-04T10:22:46.7872678Z","FINANCE GUIDE - The Bionic guide to corporation tax",[],{"elements":1271,"system":1335},{"post__title":1272,"post__summary":1274,"post__content":1276,"post__author":1287,"post__reviewer":1290,"publish_date":1293,"updated_date":1295,"url":1296,"seo__meta_title":1298,"seo__meta_description":1300,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1301,"seo__canonical_url":1304,"related_articles":1306,"categories":1309,"subfolder":1312,"tags":1315,"thumbnail_image":1318,"show_on_index_page":1324,"hide_author":1327,"hide_reviewer":1330,"hide_tags":1332},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":1273},"How do I pay myself as a small business owner?",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":1275},"\"How do I pay myself as a small business owner?\" is a question every entrepreneur faces when starting up. The Bionic blog tells you all you need to know.",{"images":1277,"linkedItemCodenames":1283,"linkedItems":1284,"links":1285,"name":585,"type":151,"value":1286},[1278],{"description":1279,"imageId":1280,"url":1281,"height":1282,"width":1282},"Hand holding pen and filling in tax forms. Calculator shows sum of 236.12 and laptop is open with spreadsheet. Small business owner is calculating how much he can pay himself.","e49234c6-0b54-4c97-bdd9-6e51316ec54f","https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3c989112-a012-40d9-a85c-0569e83ff856\u002FEssentials%20%E2%80%93%20How%20do%20I%20pay%20myself%20as%20a%20small%20business%20owner.png",400,[],[],[],"\u003Cp>As a business owner, keeping things ticking over should always be your number one priority. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sure, we may all want to be the next Jeff Bezos or Elon Musk, but the unfortunate truth is that, as a business owner, your own pay packet is last on the list of priorities. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only once things are running like clockwork - your rent is up to date and staff are being paid on time - can you even begin to think about paying yourself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But how much should that pay packet be? \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Is it right to pay yourself just enough to get by, so you can keep as much as possible in the coffers for a rainy day? Or do you deserve an executive wage as a reward for getting things off the ground?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sensible approach would be to keep your wage to a bare minimum until your business is at least turning a profit. But, even once you reach this stage, what’s a fair wage for your time and efforts?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cfigure data-asset-id=\"e49234c6-0b54-4c97-bdd9-6e51316ec54f\" data-image-id=\"e49234c6-0b54-4c97-bdd9-6e51316ec54f\">\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3c989112-a012-40d9-a85c-0569e83ff856\u002FEssentials%20%E2%80%93%20How%20do%20I%20pay%20myself%20as%20a%20small%20business%20owner.png\" data-asset-id=\"e49234c6-0b54-4c97-bdd9-6e51316ec54f\" data-image-id=\"e49234c6-0b54-4c97-bdd9-6e51316ec54f\" alt=\"Hand holding pen and filling in tax forms. Calculator shows sum of 236.12 and laptop is open with spreadsheet. Small business owner is calculating how much he can pay himself.\">\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\u003Ch2>How much should I pay myself?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As all businesses are unique and business owners’ circumstances differ, this is a hard question to answer with definitive figures, but we’ll try to at least give you a rough idea.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the one hand, the amount you pay yourself should come down to your business and its circumstances - taking into account factors such as the industry you operate in, your business model, and your turnover.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Ultimately, you should aim to strike a balance between investment in your business, and paying yourself a wage. Entrepreneurs will often take a basic wage to simply cover living expenses in the early days, as this is a way to ensure the business has maximum investment while reducing the amount of start-up capital needed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To do this, you need to work out your basic worth, and this can be done by following the steps below.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>How to work out your basic worth\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Take your basic worth (the minimum you want to make when going into business).\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Divide it by 12.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Multiply the rate of inflation by 4.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>This gives you the % to add to your monthly income.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>For example*:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Basic worth\u003C\u002Fstrong> = £25,000\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Monthly wage\u003C\u002Fstrong> = £2166.66\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Inflation rate\u003C\u002Fstrong> = 4% x 4 = 16%\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>New monthly wage\u003C\u002Fstrong> = £2166.66 + 16% = £2512.66\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>New yearly wage\u003C\u002Fstrong> = £2512.66 x 12 = £30,151.92\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Unfortunately, it’s not enough to simply break even, and your priority should be to make sure that your business is financially stable. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>When can I increase my salary? \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Again, every business is different, so there is no one size fits all answer to this question. The obvious answer would probably be that you can increase your salary when your business breaks even, but even this comes with some caveats.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s not enough to simply break even, and your priority should be to make sure that your business is financially stable. This is because every inflated overhead will impact the overall cash flow of your business. This means that paying yourself more when it's not financially robust enough can harm growth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To avoid this happening to your business, it can help to tie your salary in with your business’s growth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How to tie your salary into your business’s growth\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If your business grows by 5% over a quarter, then reward yourself with a quarterly wage bonus of the same amount, as below:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Take your monthly wage.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Multiply it by 3 (number of months in a quarter).\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Work out your bonus % based on the growth % of your business against your quarterly wage.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>For example*:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Monthly wage\u003C\u002Fstrong> = £2512.66\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Quarterly wage\u003C\u002Fstrong> = £2512.66 x 3 = £7537.98\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Bonus for the quarter \u003C\u002Fstrong>= 5% of £7537.98 = £376.89\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>*Please note: There are several ways that you can arrive at a figure when working out how much you should pay yourself. The above are simply suggested methods.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You should then reassess your salary annually, based on the growth and performance of your business. But, above all, remember to be realistic with your wage, and make sure it’s financially sustainable for your business.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If your business is paying inflated overheads, it’s worth looking at your business essentials - the tech-enabled team at Bionic can help cut your commercial energy bills and find a great deal on business phone and broadband. To see how much you could save, enter your business postcode at Bionic.co.uk.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How do I pay myself as a business owner?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>There are two main ways you can pay yourself as a business owner - through business drawings or a salary. The method you choose will depend upon whether you're a sole trader or you run a limited company.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>How do I pay myself as a sole trader?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you’re a sole trader, then all profit earned is yours. Using this money is classed as “business drawings”, and is different from taking a wage. On the downside, you are personally liable (you have unlimited liability) for your tax bills, so you need to make sure that you properly record any drawings you take from the business.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you don’t pay your tax, HMRC will come for your personal assets. Remember, the money you withdraw from your business is not taxable – but your profit, or income, is.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you are a sole trader, it could be worth setting up a separate tax savings bank account and aiming to deposit up to 25% of all net income. Then, at the end of the tax year, you'll pay a self-assessment bill. You should speak with your accountant on whether you need to have another bank account for your VAT.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch4>What are the advantages and disadvantages of business drawings?\u003C\u002Fh4>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Advantages of business dawings\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Disadvantages of business drawings\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Payment flexibility. The amount you can draw depends upon the performance of your business. This means you can earn more when your business is doing well. \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>You'll need to budget for a tax bill at the end of the year. If you don't have the funds available, you may be able to cover the cost with a business loan for tax or VAT bills.  \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Ch3>How do I pay myself if I run a limited company?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you are a limited company paying yourself, things work quite differently because you are an employee of the company, even if you are the sole employee.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In this instance, it might help to think of your business and yourself as two separate entities. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you pay yourself under £486 per month you can be exempt from paying tax, yet if you earn more, then you need to register yourself as an employer at the government website. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From there you'll receive two letters from HMRC which will include your PAYE and Accounts Office references and your activation code for PAYE online. After this, you will need to set up a payroll. Visit GOV.UK for more information on setting up and running a payroll.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Advantages of taking a salary\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Disadvantages of taking a salary\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>A regular payment that can help you budget personally and help to budget your business costs.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Less flexibility for taking a wage as it's not as easy to simply adjust your salary if your business is doing well.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Taxes are deducted in advance, so no big end of year tax bill to consider.\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cbr>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Cp>As you can see there’s a lot more to consider when deciding how much to pay yourself as a business owner, other than the figure that you will be bringing home every month. You should also take into account the tax implications that your monthly wage has and, most importantly, whether it’s financially feasible for your business to support the wage you want.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Mistakes to avoid when paying yourself as a business owner\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>There are a number of pitfalls to consider when paying yourself as a business owner. Try to avoid these common mistakes:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Not keeping your personal and business finances separate \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Opening a separate business bank account is the first thing you should do when starting a business. Any money your business makes should then be deposited into this account and business expenses should be paid from it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Keeping your business and personal finances separate will help you keep a handle on the financial health of your business and help make accounting and tax returns more straightforward.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Not paying yourself at all\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Although covering your business costs has to be first priority, not factoring in your own wages as one of those costs is almost certainly dooming your business to failure, especially if you have no other source of income.  If you can't afford to pay yourself, you should look at ways to cut business costs so you can take a reasonable cut for yourself.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Not putting money aside for an emergency fund\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you rely on your business for income, you'll need to put aside an emergency fund for both yourself and your business. This should be enough to cover at least three months' worth of business costs and three months' worth of income for yourself.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It's not always easy finding the money to put aside should you stop trading for any reason, so it might also be worth looking into business interruption insurance.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How to cut your business overheads with Bionic\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you’re paying too much for your business essentials - such as business gas and business electricity - or your broadband isn’t offering enough bang for your buck, speak to the tech-enabled team at Bionic - we could knock thousands off your annual overheads.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To find out how much you could save, get in touch with our tech-enabled experts today.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":1288,"linkedItems":1289},[1128],[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":1291,"linkedItems":1292},[],[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":1294,"displayTimeZone":556},"2022-07-13T00:00:00Z",{"name":603,"type":599,"value":556,"displayTimeZone":556},{"name":605,"type":11,"value":1297},"how-do-i-pay-myself-as-a-small-business-owner\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":1299},"How Do I Pay Myself as a Small Business Owner? | Bionic",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":1275},{"name":614,"type":615,"value":1302},[1303],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":621,"type":7,"value":1305},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fhow-do-i-pay-myself-as-a-small-business-owner\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":1307,"linkedItems":1308},[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":1310,"linkedItems":1311},[1236],[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":1313,"linkedItems":1314},[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":1316,"linkedItems":1317},[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":1319},[1320],{"name":1321,"description":1279,"type":28,"size":1322,"url":1281,"width":1282,"height":1282,"renditions":1323},"Essentials – How do I pay myself as a small business owner.png",289661,{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":1325},[1326],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"name":655,"type":615,"value":1328},[1329],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":1331},[],{"name":663,"type":615,"value":1333},[1334],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":1195,"collection":82,"id":1336,"language":82,"lastModified":1337,"name":1338,"sitemapLocations":1339,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"13ebb707-e7de-42da-be43-84a0d15d9e95","2026-06-04T09:56:38.9086753Z","FINANCE GUIDE - How do I pay myself as a small business owner?",[],{"elements":1341,"system":1403},{"post__title":1342,"post__summary":1344,"post__content":1346,"post__author":1352,"post__reviewer":1355,"publish_date":1358,"updated_date":1360,"url":1361,"seo__meta_title":1363,"seo__meta_description":1365,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1367,"seo__canonical_url":1370,"related_articles":1372,"categories":1375,"subfolder":1378,"tags":1381,"thumbnail_image":1384,"show_on_index_page":1392,"hide_author":1395,"hide_reviewer":1398,"hide_tags":1400},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":1343},"What are National Insurance Contributions (NICs) for small businesses?",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":1345},"How much National Insurance do small business owners pay? Here's all you need to know about small business National Insurance Contributions (NICs) ",{"images":1347,"linkedItemCodenames":1348,"linkedItems":1349,"links":1350,"name":585,"type":151,"value":1351},[],[],[],[],"\u003Cp>As a small business owner, you’ll need to pay National Insurance Contributions (NICs) for both yourself and any employees. But how much do you need to pay? And what are these contributions used for? This Bionic guide explains everything you need to know. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>What is National Insurance?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>National Insurance is a type of tax used to pay for certain state benefits, including the state pension, statutory sick pay, maternity leave, and some unemployment benefits. A small amount goes towards the NHS, but it’s mostly funded through general taxation, including income taxes, property taxes, capital gains, UK inheritance taxes, and Value Added Tax (VAT). \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>Who pays National Insurance?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>You’ll need to pay National Insurance if you’re an employer, an employee, or a self-employed worker. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>If you’re an employee, your NICs will automatically be taken from your wages every week or month. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If you’re self-employed, you’ll need to sort out your own contributions. This is usually done through your self-assessment tax return. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If you’re an employer, you’ll also have to pay a special rate on certain employee benefits, like company vehicles. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>You don’t need to pay National Insurance once you reach state pension age, which is currently 66 for people in the UK, even if you carry on working. But you do need to pay NICs for a set number of years to be entitled to draw a state pension. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you're unemployed, on low wages, or acting as a carer, you might qualify for National Insurance Credits. If your contributions aren’t automatically taken you can make voluntary NICs. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>What is the National Insurance increase and who's paying it? \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As part of the 2024 Autumn Statement, the government announced a rise in employer NICs and a drop in the threshold when . This means employers employees, and, the self-employed will be hit with a 1.25% increase in National Insurance from April 2022.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From April 2023 National Insurance will return to current rates and be replaced with a new health and social care tax of 1.25%. Unlike National Insurance, this will be paid by people who continue to work beyond state-pension age.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This means that for the 2022\u002F23 and 2023\u002F24 tax year, National insurance rates will be as below:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cbr>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cp>Employee\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Main\u002FHigher rate\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Employer\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cp>Self-employed \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Main\u002FHigher rate\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>2022\u002F23 NIC rates\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.25%\u002F3.25%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>15.05%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>10.25%\u002F3.25%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>2023\u002F24 NIC rates\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>12%\u002F2%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>9%\u002F2%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>2023\u002F24 social care tax\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>1.25%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>1.25%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>1.25%\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Charged on all annual earnings\u002Fprofits above:\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>£9,568\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>£8,840\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>£9,568\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Cp>That's all for next year though, in the meantime, here how NICs currently work.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How much National Insurance will I need to pay as a small business owner?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>The amount you pay in National Insurance Contributions depends on how you’re employed and what you earn. To help make sense of it all, contributions are broken down into the following classes: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>NI Class \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Who pays? \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>How is it paid? \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Class 1 \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Employees under state pension age earning more than £184 per week \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>PAYE \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Class 1A or 1B \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Employers on employee benefits or expenses \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>HMRC \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Class 2 \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Self-employed people with annual profits of more than £6,515 \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Self-assessment \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Class 3 \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Voluntary contributions. These are usually paid to fill gaps in contributions history \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>HMRC using form CF83 \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>Class 4 \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Self-employed people with profits of more than £9,568 a year \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>Self-assessment \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How much National Insurance do I need to pay for my employees?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>As an employer, you’ll need to make contributions on your employees’ income to the tune of 13.8% on earnings above £737.01 per month. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Employer National Insurance rates\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Here is a breakdown of the rates you need to pay on behalf of your employees, as per their National Insurance category letter.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Category letter\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>£120 to £170 (£520 to £737 a month)\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>£170.01 to £967 (737.01 to £4,189 a month)\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Over £967 a week (£4,189 a month)\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>A\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>B\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>C\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>H\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>J\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>M\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Z\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>13.8% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Cp>You’ll also need to pay Class 1A or Class 1B contributions of 13.8% on employee benefits and expenses. Class 1A payments are also made on other lump sum payments, like redundancy. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For example, if an employee is given a £20,000 car as a benefit, you’ll pay a total of £2,760 in Class 1A NICs. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Your employees will also pay up to 12% on earnings between £797.01 and £4,189 a month, or 2% on earnings above that (one of the stranger aspects of NI is that higher earners pay less, the reason being this is offset by their higher rate of income tax). \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>\u003Cstrong>Employee National Insurance rates\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Here is a breakdown of the rates employees need to pay, as per their National Insurance category letter. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ctable>\u003Ctbody>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Category letter\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>£125 per week\u003Cbr>\n(£542 per month,\u003Cbr>\n£6,500 per year)\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>£242 per week\u003Cbr>\n(£1,048 per month,\u003Cbr>\n£12,570 per year)\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>£96 per week\u003Cbr>\n£417 per month\u003Cbr>\n£5,000 per year\u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>A\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>12% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>B\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>5.85% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>C\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>N\u002FA \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>N\u002FA \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>N\u002FA \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>H\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>12% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>J\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>M\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>12% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n  \u003Ctr>\u003Ctd>\u003Cstrong>Z\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>0% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003Ctd>2% \u003C\u002Ftd>\u003C\u002Ftr>\n\u003C\u002Ftbody>\u003C\u002Ftable>\n\u003Cp>It’s also worth noting that National Insurance is paid monthly, so if you have any bonus payments you’ll pay more in those months. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How much do I need to pay in Class 3 National Insurance Contributions?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you’re making voluntary NI payments, you can pay up to £15.40 a week.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Voluntary payments are usually made to fill gaps in your payment history that could see you refused benefits if they’re not covered. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Being a student can create a gap in your payment history, as students over 16-years-old only pay NIC on paid work. It’s unusual to make voluntary contributions in this instance though, as most will work for long enough after ending their studies to qualify for a state pension.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you earn less than £9,568 a year as an employee, or you’re self-employed and have profits of less than £6,515, you don’t have to make NICs. But it’s worth making any voluntary contributions you can as big payment gaps could see you refused certain benefits if you ever need them (including a state pension). \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How much do I need to pay in National Insurance Contributions as a sole trader?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you’re self-employed, you’ll fall into one of two National Insurance classes: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>Class 2 - £3.05 a week on profits of more than £6,515 \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Class 4 - 9% on profits between £9,569 and £50,270. 2% on profits over £50,270 \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>NICs are taken from any gross earnings above the threshold. If your business is run as a partnership, you’ll be taxed in the same way as a sole trader. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>\u003Cstrong>How much National Insurance do I pay as a Limited Company Director?\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you’re the director of a limited company, you’ll pay Class 1 contributions. This means you’ll pay 12% on earnings you pay yourself (via your business's payroll) between £9,568 and £50,270. As with other higher-earningemployees, you'll pay just 2% in NI if you earn more than £50,270 a year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Your company will also have to pay Class 1 NICs as your employer. This is 13.8% on earnings above £737.01 a month. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you have any ‘benefits in kind’ as a Limited Company director, such as a company car, you’ll need to pay Class 1A NICs for this benefit.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There is an exemption for any \u003Cem>trivial benefits\u003C\u002Fem> that cost less than £50 each. Directors of companies with five or fewer shareholders can’t take more than £300 of trivial benefits in a tax year. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How much will the National insurance increase cost business owners and employees?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>The bad news for business owners is that this increase will make it more expensive to employ staff, which could be a disaster for SMEs stills struggling to recover from the effects of the pandemic.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Let’s say you have one member of staff working 40 hours per week on £8.91 an hour (the current National Living Wage). As things stand, that employee will cost you £2,557.53 in NICs. But with the 1.25% increase, you’ll pay £2,789.18 a year in NICs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>That’s an extra £231.65 a year for each member of staff.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Multiply this by several employees and the costs really start to rocket.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And the changes will hit your own pay packet too. As a self-employed business owner, you’ll pay either Class 2 or Class 4 for National Insurance. The rates in both classes are less than the rates paid by SMEs and are taxed on income after business expenses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Under the new rules, sole traders and the self-employed will lose an additional 1.25 pence for every £1 earned. Given you pay your own salary, a tax on earnings is a direct reduction of income.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not only could 2022\u002F23 prove to be another tough year for small business owners, but it’ll also hit employees hard too - in the example above, our minimum wage worker will pay an extra £231.66 a year in NICs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>How Bionic can help you cut business costs\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you're paying more in tax, you might need to cut costs in other areas to help make ends meet.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Speak to the tech-enabled team at Bionic to see how much you could save on business essentials, including business energy, insurance, phone and broadband. We can even help you find a better deal on business finance, whether you're looking for funding to cover cashflow, expansion, or anything in between.  \u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":1353,"linkedItems":1354},[1128],[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":1356,"linkedItems":1357},[],[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":1359,"displayTimeZone":556},"2021-09-07T00:00:00Z",{"name":603,"type":599,"value":556,"displayTimeZone":556},{"name":605,"type":11,"value":1362},"national-insurance-contributions\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":1364},"What are National Insurance Contributions (NICs) for Small Businesses?",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":1366},"💷 How much National Insurance do small business owners pay? Here's all you need to know about small business National Insurance Contributions (NICs) 🦾",{"name":614,"type":615,"value":1368},[1369],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":621,"type":7,"value":1371},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fnational-insurance-contributions\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":1373,"linkedItems":1374},[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":1376,"linkedItems":1377},[1236],[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":1379,"linkedItems":1380},[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":1382,"linkedItems":1383},[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":1385},[1386],{"name":1387,"description":1388,"type":28,"size":1389,"url":1390,"width":1282,"height":1282,"renditions":1391},"Finance - Business Finance for Tax or VAT bills.png","White notepad with blue pen and handwritten message saying \"TAX\" in upper case letters",214634,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F1bc60517-cff9-4a48-a0c2-692dccb451ad\u002FFinance%20-%20Business%20Finance%20for%20Tax%20or%20VAT%20bills.png",{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":1393},[1394],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"name":655,"type":615,"value":1396},[1397],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":1399},[],{"name":663,"type":615,"value":1401},[1402],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":1196,"collection":82,"id":1404,"language":82,"lastModified":1405,"name":1406,"sitemapLocations":1407,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"6a85da88-dd2c-4f05-9932-12ed6e7a41ad","2026-06-04T10:24:07.7019881Z","FINANCE GUIDE - Small Business National Insurance Contributions",[],{"elements":1409,"system":1572},{"post__title":1410,"post__summary":1412,"post__content":1414,"post__author":1521,"post__reviewer":1524,"publish_date":1527,"updated_date":1528,"url":1529,"seo__meta_title":1531,"seo__meta_description":1533,"seo__add_no_index_tag":1534,"seo__canonical_url":1537,"related_articles":1539,"categories":1542,"subfolder":1545,"tags":1548,"thumbnail_image":1551,"show_on_index_page":1561,"hide_author":1564,"hide_reviewer":1567,"hide_tags":1569},{"name":143,"type":7,"value":1411},"The best small business grants 2024\u002F2025",{"name":503,"type":7,"value":1413},"Your business might be eligible for grants to help with cash flow, update old equipment, fund expansion and more. Here’s everything you need to know.",{"images":1415,"linkedItemCodenames":1416,"linkedItems":1427,"links":1519,"name":585,"type":151,"value":1520},[],[1417,1418,1419,1420,1421,1422,1423,1424,1425,1426],"n9c7a7b33_0237_01ce_5d3b_4b0e1c4018d7","ea8ddc0c_d784_01c4_2b4c_1e447d09b8cf","n81240990_22ea_0172_2dfe_f4aa3403306c","n18aab7f8_2cbe_0194_df0e_c85db112149b","n94ee4033_a29d_01da_28e5_bd2503cd79df","c30e4be1_5dc7_013f_d1ef_aad38217fee0","n9fa04ca8_594c_0108_fdfe_e83c8166e85a","fe122f68_07e3_01a7_8990_db845e9d1588","e673e6e1_768c_01c5_536c_1546105c7d24","n3e8afac0_5f36_0180_2a6f_efe6d0ea0b3c",[1428,1438,1447,1456,1465,1474,1483,1492,1501,1510],{"elements":1429,"system":1434},{"text":1430,"anchor_id":1432},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1431},"What’s the difference between a loan and a grant?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1433},"whats-the-difference-between-a-loan-and-a-grant",{"codename":1417,"collection":82,"id":1435,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1435,"sitemapLocations":1437,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"9c7a7b33-0237-01ce-5d3b-4b0e1c4018d7","2025-06-20T16:20:29.3930336Z",[],{"elements":1439,"system":1444},{"text":1440,"anchor_id":1442},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1441},"What types of business grants are available?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1443},"what-types-of-business-grants-are-available",{"codename":1418,"collection":82,"id":1445,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1445,"sitemapLocations":1446,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"ea8ddc0c-d784-01c4-2b4c-1e447d09b8cf",[],{"elements":1448,"system":1453},{"text":1449,"anchor_id":1451},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1450},"Grants for startups",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1452},"grants-for-startups",{"codename":1419,"collection":82,"id":1454,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1454,"sitemapLocations":1455,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"81240990-22ea-0172-2dfe-f4aa3403306c",[],{"elements":1457,"system":1462},{"text":1458,"anchor_id":1460},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1459},"Grants for young people",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1461},"grants-for-young-people",{"codename":1420,"collection":82,"id":1463,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1463,"sitemapLocations":1464,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"18aab7f8-2cbe-0194-df0e-c85db112149b",[],{"elements":1466,"system":1471},{"text":1467,"anchor_id":1469},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1468},"Grants for businesses with apprentices",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1470},"grants-for-businesses-with-apprentices",{"codename":1421,"collection":82,"id":1472,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1472,"sitemapLocations":1473,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"94ee4033-a29d-01da-28e5-bd2503cd79df",[],{"elements":1475,"system":1480},{"text":1476,"anchor_id":1478},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1477},"Grants for women",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1479},"grants-for-women",{"codename":1422,"collection":82,"id":1481,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1481,"sitemapLocations":1482,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"c30e4be1-5dc7-013f-d1ef-aad38217fee0",[],{"elements":1484,"system":1489},{"text":1485,"anchor_id":1487},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1486},"Grants by region",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1488},"grants-by-region",{"codename":1423,"collection":82,"id":1490,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1490,"sitemapLocations":1491,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"9fa04ca8-594c-0108-fdfe-e83c8166e85a",[],{"elements":1493,"system":1498},{"text":1494,"anchor_id":1496},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1495},"Grants for energy-efficient workspaces \n",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1497},"grants-for-energy-efficient-workspaces",{"codename":1424,"collection":82,"id":1499,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1499,"sitemapLocations":1500,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"fe122f68-07e3-01a7-8990-db845e9d1588",[],{"elements":1502,"system":1507},{"text":1503,"anchor_id":1505},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1504},"Is any other government support available for businesses?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1506},"is-any-other-government-support-available-for-businesses",{"codename":1425,"collection":82,"id":1508,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1508,"sitemapLocations":1509,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"e673e6e1-768c-01c5-536c-1546105c7d24",[],{"elements":1511,"system":1516},{"text":1512,"anchor_id":1514},{"name":150,"type":7,"value":1513},"What are the alternatives to business grants?",{"name":549,"type":7,"value":1515},"what-are-the-alternatives-to-business-grants",{"codename":1426,"collection":82,"id":1517,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1517,"sitemapLocations":1518,"type":555,"workflowStep":556,"workflow":556},"3e8afac0-5f36-0180-2a6f-efe6d0ea0b3c",[],[],"\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>*Updated November 6, 2024.\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It’s surprising how unexpected costs can crop up when you’re running a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fwhat-is-a-small-business\u002F\">small business\u003C\u002Fa>, especially when you’re just starting out. But no matter what stage your business is at, it’s likely that you’ll need to take out a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002F\">business loan\u003C\u002Fa> or some form of finance option at some point – whether to help with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fsmall-business-cashflow-guide\u002F\">cash flow\u003C\u002Fa>, update old equipment, or fund an expansion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But before you \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fbusiness-loans-explained\u002F\">compare business loans\u003C\u002Fa> it’s worth looking at what grants are available.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>30-second summary\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>A business loan is an amount you borrow and pay back monthly with interest added. A grant is money given to you that you don’t need to pay back.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>There are many grants available if your business meets certain conditions. E.g., Direct grants, resource, and training grants.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Some businesses can also qualify for tax relief government schemes including NI relief, business rates relief, employment allowance and corporation tax relief.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>Certain business types are eligible for grants including startups, young entrepreneurs, businesses with apprentices and female founders.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If you qualify for a grant, to make sure you get it – apply as soon as you can, hire a consultant if needed and have evidence of your eligibility on hand to show why you need the funding.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>If you don’t qualify for any grants, you can apply for a business loan. Bionic can help advise the best route to take if you’re considering this option.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n9c7a7b33_0237_01ce_5d3b_4b0e1c4018d7\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What’s the difference between a loan and a grant?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>When you take out a loan, you need to repay the amount borrowed plus interest in a set number of repayments, as agreed with the lender. However, if you get money through a grant, then you don’t need to pay it back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Most loans are offered by private lenders that add interest to the amount you borrow as a charge for their service. The government does offer loans, such as \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fstart-up-loans\u002F\">startup loans\u003C\u002Fa>, which are available to help people start a new business or grow an existing one.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Grants are usually publicly funded schemes awarded to businesses by the government or a charitable organisation or trust. They come with certain conditions attached, as they’re designed to help those who need the money most or promote a public cause. The Prince’s Trust Enterprise program, for example, offers development awards of up to £500 to help younger people access training courses, cover job licence fees, buy tools, equipment or uniforms for a job or qualification, and more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"ea8ddc0c_d784_01c4_2b4c_1e447d09b8cf\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What types of business grants are available?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>A range of business grants are available in the UK, each for different purposes. This includes:  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Direct grants - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Direct grants are those that involve cash being given directly to a business to help fund a specific project. These schemes usually involve fund matching, which means any money you raise to pay for the project will be matched by the same amount of grant funding - essentially, you need to put up half of the money needed. In most cases, there will also be conditions about how the money can be spent. This is to make sure you’re acting in good faith and spending the money on the project it was raised for. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Resource and training grants - \u003C\u002Fstrong>If you want to invest in skills or need access to resources and expertise to get a project off the ground, then the following resource and training grants are a great option. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch2>A list of small business grants for 2024\u002F2025\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Col>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Innovate UK Smart Grants - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Innovate UK Smart Grants are designed to encourage innovation. This grant funds projects that develop new products, services, or processes. Grants range from £25,000 to £2 million and can be accessed by UK-registered companies in any industry focused on innovation that contributes to the economy or solves global challenges. You can apply for funding directly on \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fsmall-business-grants\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Innovate UK’s\u003C\u002Fa> website. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme (GBVS)\u003C\u002Fstrong>: This grant is designed for small businesses needing faster, more reliable internet. It covers partial costs to upgrade to gigabit-capable broadband, benefiting companies in rural and underserved areas where connectivity is crucial. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Research and Development (R&D) Grants\u003C\u002Fstrong>: The UK government is committing over £20 billion to R&D and high-growth sectors, especially in engineering, biotechnology, and life sciences. SMEs in these industries will have increased access to funding for innovation and partnerships, potentially benefiting from government support for new product development and market expansion. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Regional Development Funds\u003C\u002Fstrong>: Several regional funding programs offer tailored grants across the UK. For example, the \u003Cstrong>Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund\u003C\u002Fstrong> and \u003Cstrong>Midlands Engine Investment Fund\u003C\u002Fstrong> provide support for growth, development, and job creation in those regions. Each fund has its specific eligibility criteria based on location and business type. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Woodland Creation Planning Grant (WCPG)\u003C\u002Fstrong>: This grant supports businesses focused on sustainability and the environment, particularly for projects involving forestry. Funds up to £30,000 are available to create compliant woodland designs, encouraging environmentally conscious business practices. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Heritage Enterprise (HE) - UK - \u003C\u002Fstrong>Funding to help restore neglected historic buildings and sites and unlock their economic potential. Businesses with buildings in need of restoration can apply. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Flexible AI Upskilling Fund pilot -\u003C\u002Fstrong> The Flexible AI Upskilling Fund pilot scheme will support small businesses in the professional services sector by match-funding AI skills training for their employees. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Apprenticeship and Training Grants\u003C\u002Fstrong>: These grants help businesses invest in workforce development, covering costs related to training and assessment for apprentices. Some schemes offer funding to businesses that hire apprentices or upskill their employees. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Local Business Support – \u003C\u002Fstrong>It's worth checking to see if your local authority offers business support grants to fund training workshops, expert advice, business accelerators, and other forms of training.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Business Support Networks\u003C\u002Fstrong> - Sometimes other business owners – or former business owners – are the best people to turn to for expert support. Business support networks help business owners get peer-to-peer advice. This can be especially useful if your business is involved in new technologies or has certain best-practice initiatives. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Business support helplines \u003C\u002Fstrong>- You can get advice and financial help for your business from a range of government-backed schemes. This includes things like help with tax, exporting, and writing a business plan. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fbusiness-support-helpline\">Visit the government site\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Bionic Business Insurance Prize Draw \u003C\u002Fstrong>– This is not a grant as much, but could save your business money! Win up to £5,000 for your business insurance policy. Buy a policy with us to be automatically entered into a draw every quarter and to win your policy for a year. Enter until May 2025. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fcloud.email.bionic.co.uk\u002Finsurance-prize-draw\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read the terms and conditions.\u003C\u002Fa> \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Fol>\n\u003Ch2>What about tax relief?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Despite what the adverts say, tax can be taxing when you’re running a business. That’s why there are a number of government schemes designed to help cut the tax burden on small businesses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>National Insurance relief\u003C\u002Fstrong> – If you have any employees, you might be able to claim National Insurance relief of up to £5,000. However, this is the total allowable relief for each business, not for each employee, and you won’t be eligible if you run a limited company that has only one company director and no other employees. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Business rates relief\u003C\u002Fstrong> – If your business occupies one property with a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fcorrect-your-business-rates\">rateable value\u003C\u002Fa> of less than £15,000, then you might be eligible for business rates relief. In 2025, the UK government will provide eligible, occupied, retail, hospitality, and leisure properties with a 40% relief, up to a cash cap limit of £110,000 per business. Alcohol duty for draught products will also be reduced, providing relief for pubs and small brewers, promoting economic resilience within these industries.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Employment Allowance\u003C\u002Fstrong> - This enables you to reduce the national insurance contributions you pay for your staff by up to £5,000 per year. In 2025, the Employment Allowance will rise to £10,500, reducing National Insurance costs for over 865,000 small businesses. This relief is intended to reduce costs for the micro businesses across the UK.  \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Corporation Tax relief\u003C\u002Fstrong> – The current main rate of Corporation Tax is 25% on company profits, as of April 2023. This was previously 19%. But you may be able to claim 'Marginal Relief' if your business has taxable profits of less than £50,000, meaning you could still pay the 19% rate (small profit rate). Marginal Relief works in gradual increases between the small profit rate and the main rate of 25%. So, if you have taxable profits between £50,000 and £250,000 you could be eligible.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>\u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fcorporation-tax-rates\u002Fallowances-and-reliefs\">Check the government website\u003C\u002Fa> for information on allowances and reliefs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch2>Who is eligible for grants? (Offer types of grants for each group)\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>In some cases, the type of business grants you’re eligible for depends on your current circumstances.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n81240990_22ea_0172_2dfe_f4aa3403306c\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>Grants for startups\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Not to be confused with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fstart-up-loans\u002F\">Startup loans,\u003C\u002Fa> which are government-backed unsecured loans that can be used to help start a new enterprise or grow an existing one, startup grants are available for a range of business needs. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>The Prince’s Trust Enterprise Program\u003C\u002Fstrong>: Targeting young entrepreneurs aged 18-30, this program offers grants alongside mentorship, especially for those starting new ventures. It's aimed at providing foundational support to overcome financial and operational barriers. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS)\u003C\u002Fstrong>: Although a tax relief program, SEIS is a valuable resource for startups wanting investment. It provides tax relief to investors in early-stage businesses, making it easier for startups to attract investment. Businesses can raise up to £150,000 under SEIS, which is great for potential investors because of the tax advantages. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Social Enterprise Funding\u003C\u002Fstrong>: For startups focused on social impact, UnLtd offers funding and support for social entrepreneurs addressing community issues. Their \"Starting Up\" awards offer up to £5,000, while the \"Scaling Up\" awards provide higher funds. These grants are suitable for entrepreneurs creating positive social or environmental change. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Regional grants may also be available. For more information, \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance-support\">check the 'finance and support for your business' page on the government's website\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n18aab7f8_2cbe_0194_df0e_c85db112149b\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>Grants for young people\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As well as The Prince’s Trust, there are a number of other grants available to people aged 18 to 30 who are looking to start their own business, including: \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>UnLtd \u003C\u002Fstrong>– Provides funding and support for social entrepreneurs with social change at the heart of everything they do. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Shell LiveWIRE \u003C\u002Fstrong>- Provides access to knowledge, skills, networks and resources to help young people realise their business goals, create jobs, provide sustainable income, and drive innovation. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>ARFOR Programme Support Fund\u003C\u002Fstrong> - Grants of £5,000 to £75,000 are available, to fund up to 70 per cent of total project costs in Welsh speaking communities. All projects must be completed by December 31, 2024. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n94ee4033_a29d_01da_28e5_bd2503cd79df\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>Grants for businesses with apprentices\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>You can get funding from the government to pay for apprenticeship training and assessment or as an incentive payment for other costs. If your business pays the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fguidance\u002Fpay-apprenticeship-levy\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Apprenticeship Levy\u003C\u002Fa>, you’ll get a grant to spend on training and assessing your apprentices and the government will add 10% to this.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If your business doesn’t pay the levy, you’ll pay 5% towards the cost of training and assessing your apprentice and the government will pay the remaining 95%, up to a funding maximum. This money will be paid directly to the training provider, and you’ll need to arrange how and when to pay your 5% directly to them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"c30e4be1_5dc7_013f_d1ef_aad38217fee0\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>Grants for women\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>With male-owned businesses more likely to attract funding, organisations are increasingly looking to fund women in business and give them a more even opportunity to succeed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>You can check out the business grants available specifically to women in our guide to grants for female entrepreneurs.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n9fa04ca8_594c_0108_fdfe_e83c8166e85a\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>Grants by region \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>You might be able to get a grant, or some support based on where your business is based. Many counties have their own initiatives to help the area, whether that’s creating more jobs or assisting graduates. Often, there are pools of money put towards these initiatives that you could qualify for.   \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Energy Efficiency Grants for East Sussex - \u003C\u002Fstrong>East Sussex businesses focused on reducing energy use can access grants between £200 and £1,000, covering up to 40% of project costs. This funding supports energy-saving measures, like improved lighting, heating, and other \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fenergy-efficient-lighting-saving-your-business-money\u002F\">energy-efficient\u003C\u002Fa> upgrades, to lower overall energy expenses. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Birmingham Commercial Vehicle Grant\u003C\u002Fstrong> - For small businesses in Birmingham, this grant assists businesses in upgrading their vehicles to meet Clean Air Zone (CAZ) standards. The grant provides up to £180,000 per applicant, with a maximum of £15,000 per heavy goods vehicle or £4,000 per light vehicle. This funding helps small businesses cover costs related to purchasing or upgrading low-emission vehicles. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Scottish Growth Scheme - \u003C\u002Fstrong>In Scotland, small businesses can apply for financial support through the Scottish Growth Scheme, which offers loans and equity funding. The scheme supports growth for all types of businesses, with funding of up to £500 million for business expansion and job creation within Scotland. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Cardiff Growth Fund - \u003C\u002Fstrong>This fund provides grants of £2,500 to £10,000 for Cardiff-based SMEs to cover up to 50% of project costs. It is aimed at helping local businesses expand and make new investments, and improving Cardiff’s regional development. Applications close on December 31, 2024. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cp>Find out if there are any local grants in your area by visiting your local city council’s website. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"fe122f68_07e3_01a7_8990_db845e9d1588\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch3>Grants for energy-efficient workspaces \u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>There are many government incentives and grants for business owners who think ‘green’.  Essentially, this means \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002F\">improving energy efficiency\u003C\u002Fa> in the workplace and reducing carbon emissions. So, if you were planning to refurbish anytime soon, if you go green you could get funding towards it.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>The Clean Growth Fund\u003C\u002Fstrong>: Established by the UK government and private investors, this fund aims to support early-stage companies that can help the UK reach its net-zero target by 2050. It focuses on startups and SMEs developing clean technologies in sectors such as energy, waste management, and sustainable manufacturing. Investments range from £500,000 to £5 million. \u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>The Energy Entrepreneurs Fund\u003C\u002Fstrong>: This scheme, also part of the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-energy\u002Fguides\u002Fnet-zero-for-small-businesses\u002F\">UK’s Net Zero\u003C\u002Fa> Innovation Portfolio, provides grants to SMEs developing low-carbon technologies, with a focus on renewable energy, carbon capture, and energy efficiency improvements. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Ch3>Tips for getting a grant\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>You should only ever apply for a business grant once you’re sure you meet all the eligibility criteria, but there are some things you can do to help your application.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Contact the awarding body before applying\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>It might help to get in touch with the awarding body to let them know a little more about your business. This could be especially useful if there’s an issue that’s holding up your application as you’ll have a contact who will know your business and can offer advice on the next steps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Apply as soon as possible\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As you can imagine, awarding bodies get inundated with applications. This means it’s best to get your application in as early as possible.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you apply as soon as the grant opens, competition won’t be as fierce as it’s likely that fewer people will know about it. The key to applying early is to keep searching to see when suitable grants become available.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Consider a consultant\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>If you don’t have time to keep an eye on upcoming grants or to search what’s currently out there, a grant consultant can do the work for you. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Consultants will know the best ways to apply, keep track of applications, and even communicate with awarding bodies. This can be useful if you’re applying to a large body that’s more difficult to contact.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Although consultants can be quite expensive, it could be a price worth paying if their expertise helps you land the funds you need. A word of caution though, some awarding bodies don’t accept applications submitted through consultancies.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Pay close attention to the grant’s objectives\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>It’s important that you know exactly what you’re applying for and that you’re sure your business can meet the requirements of the grant. You’ll need to show evidence of this and explain why you need the funding and how you’ll use it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"e673e6e1_768c_01c5_536c_1546105c7d24\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>Is any other government support available for businesses?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>Aside from grants, there are various other government schemes that can help with funding and business costs, including:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cul>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund \u003C\u002Fstrong>- Delivered by the British Business Bank and available to businesses in the north of England, the \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.npif.co.uk\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund\u003C\u002Fa> can provide funding to help get your micro business off the ground or grow your business through debt finance or equity injection.\u003C\u002Fli>\n  \u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Venture Capital Schemes \u003C\u002Fstrong>- The government has four schemes that offer tax relief to investors. This can help you attract investment to raise money and help with business growth plans. \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.gov.uk\u002Fguidance\u002Fventure-capital-schemes-raise-money-by-offering-tax-reliefs-to-investors\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">You can find out more, including eligibility criteria, on the government website\u003C\u002Fa>. \u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003Cobject type=\"application\u002Fkenticocloud\" data-type=\"item\" data-rel=\"component\" data-codename=\"n3e8afac0_5f36_0180_2a6f_efe6d0ea0b3c\">\u003C\u002Fobject>\n\u003Ch2>What are the alternatives to business grants?\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\u003Cp>If you aren’t eligible for a grant or you’ve had an application turned down, it might be worth considering a \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002F\">business loan\u003C\u002Fa>. Working with \u003Ca href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fthinkbusinessloans.com\u002F\" data-new-window=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Think Business Loans\u003C\u002Fa>, the finance division of Bionic, you can compare a range of loans and lenders to find finance that fits your business.\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":588,"type":15,"value":1522,"linkedItems":1523},[1128],[],{"name":593,"type":15,"value":1525,"linkedItems":1526},[],[],{"name":598,"type":599,"value":1218,"displayTimeZone":1219},{"name":603,"type":599,"value":556,"displayTimeZone":556},{"name":605,"type":11,"value":1530},"small-business-grants\u002F",{"name":608,"type":7,"value":1532}," The Best Small Business Grants 2024\u002F2025 | Bionic ",{"name":611,"type":7,"value":1413},{"name":614,"type":615,"value":1535},[1536],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":621,"type":7,"value":1538},"https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002Fguides\u002Fsmall-business-grants\u002F",{"name":624,"type":15,"value":1540,"linkedItems":1541},[],[],{"name":628,"type":15,"value":1543,"linkedItems":1544},[1236],[],{"name":633,"type":15,"value":1546,"linkedItems":1547},[],[],{"name":637,"type":15,"value":1549,"linkedItems":1550},[],[],{"name":641,"type":23,"value":1552},[1553],{"name":1554,"description":1555,"type":645,"size":1556,"url":1557,"width":1558,"height":1559,"renditions":1560},"GettyImages-1287030300.jpg","Small business owner talking on mobile phone to arrange a business grant for her startup.",220382,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F4812fc2c-c9de-44cc-8a0b-4e305c5173d1\u002FGettyImages-1287030300.jpg",847,412,{},{"name":649,"type":615,"value":1562},[1563],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"name":655,"type":615,"value":1565},[1566],{"name":618,"codename":619},{"name":659,"type":615,"value":1568},[],{"name":663,"type":615,"value":1570},[1571],{"name":652,"codename":653},{"codename":1197,"collection":82,"id":1573,"language":82,"lastModified":1436,"name":1574,"sitemapLocations":1575,"type":670,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"ab38d671-3d5a-4349-9f2d-718f6933ec3a","FINANCE GUIDE - SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS",[],{"codename":133,"collection":82,"id":1577,"language":82,"lastModified":1578,"name":1579,"sitemapLocations":1580,"type":1183,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"06673435-c029-4bc4-a682-7f4388a90c10","2026-07-21T13:28:54.6577528Z","Content Block - Guides - Finance",[],{"elements":1582,"system":1607},{"title_left":1583,"text_left":1585,"cta_button_text":1592,"cta_link_url":1594,"image_right":1596},{"name":162,"type":7,"value":1584},"Not your usual boring business content!",{"images":1586,"linkedItemCodenames":1587,"linkedItems":1588,"links":1589,"name":1590,"type":151,"value":1591},[],[],[],[],"Text Left","\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Sign-up to The Backbone\u003C\u002Fstrong>, our free fortnightly newsletter for anyone who owns, runs, or works in one of the millions of businesses across the UK. Get the inside track from real business owners just like you\u003C\u002Fp>",{"name":49,"type":7,"value":1593},"Yes, sign me up",{"name":52,"type":7,"value":1595},"https:\u002F\u002Fbackbone.bionic.co.uk\u002Fsign-up",{"name":1597,"type":23,"value":1598},"Image Right",[1599],{"name":1600,"description":1601,"type":28,"size":1602,"url":1603,"width":1604,"height":1605,"renditions":1606},"backbone-image.png","Backbone cover photo",144987,"https:\u002F\u002Fassets-eu-01.kc-usercontent.com:443\u002F77bbf83a-1306-0152-fea5-3b5eaf937634\u002F3212614b-64af-47bf-8de8-bb4b18ed29cb\u002Fbackbone-image.png",452,403,{},{"codename":134,"collection":82,"id":1608,"language":82,"lastModified":1609,"name":1610,"sitemapLocations":1611,"type":1612,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"31d6b6b9-30ef-4f5a-bde5-ec18f1823f86","2024-11-19T13:47:59.5857742Z","Content Block - Image with CTA - Ins Backbone",[],"content_block___image_with_cta",{"elements":1614,"system":1615},{},{"codename":135,"collection":82,"id":1616,"language":82,"lastModified":1617,"name":1618,"sitemapLocations":1619,"type":135,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"27c81dfe-7041-4ad0-913b-6f7b41ef4a2b","2024-11-12T12:29:58.1483257Z","Content Block - Social",[],{"name":1621,"type":7,"value":1622},"Meta Title","Business Finance for UK SMEs | Compare Funding with Bionic",{"name":1624,"type":7,"value":1625},"Meta Description","Compare business finance options for UK SMEs with Bionic. Find funding to manage cash flow, buy equipment, or expand and get expert help to choose the right product.",{"name":1627,"type":7,"value":1628},"Meta Canonical","https:\u002F\u002Fbionic.co.uk\u002Fbusiness-finance\u002F",{"name":1630,"type":615,"value":1631},"Meta Robots",[1632],{"name":1633,"codename":1633},"index",{"name":1635,"type":615,"value":1636},"Meta Aggregate Schema",[],{"codename":1638,"collection":82,"id":1639,"language":82,"lastModified":1640,"name":1641,"sitemapLocations":1642,"type":1643,"workflowStep":88,"workflow":82},"seo_commercial_mortgage__copy_","f3c65d59-042c-4899-b13a-0655245a709d","2026-03-26T08:28:45.2148437Z","SEO Business Loans",[],"seo_product_page",1784734894359]