BUSINESSES are being warning to get their tax affairs in order this month or face big fines.

If 1998-99 tax returns are not filed before the end of this month firms face fines of £100.

Accountant Mark Schofield of Haworths Chartered Accountants of Accrington said the New Year was also a good time to look at tax affairs in general.

"After the festivities it is back to reality time and nothing sobers you up quicker than the threat of the taxman!"

He also urged people to make sure they used up their capital gains tax allowance before April 5.

And he stressed people offered a company car at work might be better to ask for a salary increase instead. No one likes to pay tax let alone face penalties so it is imperative that people act promptly on a whole number of issues."

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