Helping clients pay HMRC and suppliers by credit card
Avoid HMRC late fees and smooth out seasonal cash flow
When cash flow is tight, every extra day counts. For accountants and bookkeepers supporting small businesses, finding smarter ways to manage payments can make all the difference. That’s exactly what we explored in our recent Apron webinar — how paying HMRC and other suppliers by credit card can give clients breathing room, flexibility, and even rewards.
Turning a credit card into a working-capital tool
In today’s economic climate, many business owners are feeling the squeeze. Seasonal fluctuations, delayed receivables and upcoming tax bills can put pressure on cash flow. Traditionally, businesses have relied on overdrafts, payment plans or director’s loans to bridge short-term gaps. But Apron offers another, more flexible option: using a credit card to pay bills that would normally require a bank transfer.
Through Apron, clients can pay HMRC or any supplier by card, even if that supplier doesn’t accept card payments directly. Apron processes the payment as a bank transfer on the client’s behalf, charging a transparent 2.9% transaction fee. In return, businesses can extend their cashflow, avoid costly late-payment penalties (HMRC’s can reach 8.5%), and earn credit card rewards such as Avios or cashback.
Real-world benefits for accountants, bookkeepers and clients
During the webinar, bookkeeper Cassie Tipson shared how Apron helped one of her seasonal clients manage a VAT bill during a tough quarter. “It wasn’t a long-term fix,” she explained, “but it gave them time to recover and avoid penalties. Paying HMRC via Apron lifted a huge weight off their shoulders.”
Business owner David described how he uses Apron regularly to pay suppliers and keep his retail business running smoothly. “It allows us to pay quickly, maintain supplier relationships and still take advantage of our Amex rewards,” he said. “We’ve even paid for family holidays entirely on Avios points earned from business spend.”
Simple, transparent, and seamlessly integrated
Payments through Apron are quick — funds typically reach suppliers within one to two working days. Each payment is fully traceable, integrates with Xero and QuickBooks, and includes built-in checks to prevent fraud or duplicate payments. For accountants and bookkeepers, this means less admin, fewer payment delays, and happier clients.
A win-win for everyone
Whether it’s to avoid HMRC late fees, smooth out seasonal cash flow, or make better use of credit card perks, Apron turns everyday payments into a smarter financial tool. Accountants and bookkeepers can now offer their clients a secure, transparent way to pay by card, freeing up time, reducing stress, and helping their money work harder.
Get started with Apron today