Navigating New Compliance & Reporting Rules for Small Businesses in 2025
Running a small business today means staying on top of more than just day-to-day operations.
With ongoing updates to tax, accounting, and regulatory frameworks, compliance is becoming more complex — and more important. In 2025, several key changes will impact how small businesses in Ireland manage their financial reporting and record-keeping.
Here’s what you need to know and how to stay compliant without getting overwhelmed.
1. Enhanced Digital Reporting Requirements
Ireland continues to move towards full digitalisation of tax and accounting processes. Businesses using cloud-based systems such as Xero or QuickBooks will have a clear advantage, as the Revenue increasingly expects real-time or near-real-time data submissions.
If you’re still managing finances manually, now’s the time to upgrade to compliant digital systems to avoid errors and save time.
2. Updated CRO Filing & Company Secretarial Obligations
The Companies Registration Office (CRO) has tightened deadlines and requirements for annual returns and beneficial ownership filings.
Missing these can result in late filing penalties or even loss of audit exemption. Working with an accounting firm that also offers company secretarial services can ensure your filings stay up-to-date and compliant year-round.
3. Changes to VAT & PAYE Compliance
With the new VAT thresholds introduced in Budget 2025 (€85,000 for goods and €42,500 for services), some businesses may now fall outside compulsory registration. However, voluntary registration still carries benefits — such as reclaiming VAT on expenses.
Employers must also ensure PAYE Modernisation processes remain accurate, as Revenue’s real-time reporting requirements continue to evolve.
4. ESG & Sustainability Reporting on the Horizon
While not yet mandatory for most SMEs, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) reporting is coming. Larger companies will soon need to report on carbon and sustainability metrics, and many are starting to require this data from their suppliers.
Small businesses that prepare early by tracking sustainability data will be better positioned to secure partnerships and contracts in the years ahead.
5. Preparing for Revenue’s Increased Data Matching
Revenue continues to enhance its ability to cross-check information across systems — from bank feeds and payroll submissions to VAT filings.
This means transparency and consistency across all records are vital. Automating your bookkeeping and payroll processes will help minimise discrepancies and reduce the risk of Revenue queries or audits.
6. The Role of Professional Support
Keeping pace with compliance requirements can feel like a full-time job — but it doesn’t have to be yours.
Partnering with an advisory firm like Vivano Advisory gives you access to specialists who understand the ever-changing landscape. From bookkeeping and payroll to tax filings and company secretarial services, professional guidance ensures accuracy, timeliness, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, compliance is no longer just about ticking boxes. It’s about protecting your business, improving accuracy, and building trust with customers and regulators alike.
By staying proactive — and seeking expert support when needed — small businesses can navigate these changes smoothly and focus on what they do best: growing their business.