Cookie Policy
Last updated: 30 December 2024
1. Introduction
This Cookie Policy explains how TaxFolio ("we", "our", or "us") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our website and use our services.
By using TaxFolio, you consent to our use of cookies in accordance with this policy. You can manage your cookie preferences as described below.
2. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile phone) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and to provide information to website owners.
Cookies can be "persistent" (remaining on your device until they expire or you delete them) or "session" cookies (deleted when you close your browser). They can be set by the website you're visiting ("first-party cookies") or by third parties ("third-party cookies").
3. How We Use Cookies
We use cookies for the following purposes:
3.1 Essential Cookies (Strictly Necessary)
These cookies are required for the website to function properly. They cannot be disabled. They include:
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| sb-access-token | Authentication session | Session |
| sb-refresh-token | Authentication refresh | 7 days |
| __stripe_mid | Stripe fraud prevention | 1 year |
| __stripe_sid | Stripe session | 30 minutes |
| cookie_consent | Stores your cookie preferences | 1 year |
3.2 Functional Cookies
These cookies enhance functionality and personalisation. They may be set by us or third parties. If you disable them, some features may not work properly.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| theme | Remembers dark/light mode preference | 1 year |
| locale | Remembers language preference | 1 year |
3.3 Analytics Cookies
These cookies help us understand how visitors use our website by collecting and reporting information anonymously. This helps us improve our services.
| Cookie Name | Provider | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics | Distinguishes users | 2 years |
| _ga_* | Google Analytics | Persists session state | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics | Distinguishes users | 24 hours |
3.4 Marketing Cookies
These cookies may be set by our advertising partners to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant adverts on other sites. They do not directly store personal information but uniquely identify your browser and device.
Currently, TaxFolio does not use marketing cookies. If this changes, we will update this policy and obtain your consent where required.
4. Third-Party Cookies
Some cookies are placed by third-party services that appear on our pages. We do not control these cookies. The third parties include:
- Stripe - Payment processing and fraud prevention
- Google Analytics - Website analytics (if enabled)
- Plaid - Open Banking connection (during bank linking only)
Please refer to each provider's privacy policy for more information about their cookies.
5. Similar Technologies
In addition to cookies, we may use similar technologies:
- Local Storage: Stores data in your browser for a better user experience (e.g., remembering form inputs)
- Session Storage: Temporary storage that is cleared when you close your browser
- Pixels/Web Beacons: Small images that help us understand how you interact with emails and our website
6. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
You can control and manage cookies in several ways:
6.1 Cookie Consent Banner
When you first visit TaxFolio, you will see a cookie consent banner. You can choose to accept all cookies or customise your preferences. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking "Cookie Settings" in the footer.
6.2 Browser Settings
Most browsers allow you to manage cookies through their settings. You can:
- Block all cookies
- Block third-party cookies only
- Delete cookies when you close your browser
- Clear all cookies manually
Please note that blocking essential cookies will prevent you from using TaxFolio.
For more information on managing cookies in your browser:
- Chrome: support.google.com/chrome/answer/95647
- Firefox: support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/cookies-information-websites-store-on-your-computer
- Safari: support.apple.com/guide/safari/manage-cookies-sfri11471
- Edge: support.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-edge/delete-cookies-in-microsoft-edge
6.3 Opt-Out Tools
For Google Analytics, you can install the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on: tools.google.com/dlpage/gaoptout
7. Legal Basis for Using Cookies
Under UK GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR):
- Strictly Necessary Cookies: Do not require consent as they are essential for the service
- Other Cookies: Require your consent before we set them
8. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy to reflect changes in our practices or for legal, operational, or regulatory reasons. We will post any changes on this page and update the "Last updated" date. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions about our use of cookies, please contact us:
Email: privacy@taxfolio.uk