What is the basis period for a business starting trade?

When a business starts trading, the basis period for assessing its profits for tax purposes is indeed from the date of commencement to the 5th of April of the same tax year. This is because individuals and businesses typically prepare their accounts and pay taxes based on a tax year starting from 6th April to the following 5th April. Since the business only began operations partway through the tax year, the profit or loss will be calculated from the start date of the trade up to the end of that particular tax year, which is 5th April.

This determination is important because it allows for the correct allocation of income and expenses relevant to the period during which the business was active. Since businesses must declare profits within the tax year's parameters, capturing this time frame accurately is essential for compliance and taxation purposes.