How much does an accountant cost in the UK?
The VouchQuote team ·
Most UK sole traders and small companies pay between £150 and £2,500 a year for an accountant. The spread is wide because "an accountant" can mean one tax return or a full finance function.
Typical fees
- Self-assessment tax return: £150–£400
- Self-assessment with rental income or capital gains: £250–£600
- Limited company year-end accounts and corporation tax: £600–£1,500
- Monthly package with bookkeeping, VAT and payroll: £80–£450 a month
What moves the price
The state of your records matters more than your turnover. Tidy books in Xero or QuickBooks cost far less to finish than a box of receipts. Several income sources, foreign income, staff and VAT each add work.
Questions to ask before you choose
- Which professional body are you a member of (ICAEW, ACCA, AAT)?
- Is the fee fixed, and what would make it change?
- Who will actually do my work, and how quickly do you reply?
- Do you hold professional indemnity insurance?
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Quick answers
How much does a self-assessment accountant cost?
Typically £150 to £400 for a straightforward return, and £250 to £600 if you have rental income or capital gains.
How much should an accountant cost a small business?
A small limited company usually pays £600 to £1,500 a year for accounts and corporation tax, or £80 to £450 a month for a package that includes bookkeeping, VAT and payroll.
Do I really need an accountant for my small business?
You are not legally required to use one, but most owners find the fee pays for itself in tax saved, penalties avoided and time back.
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Prices are typical UK ranges for independent freelancers and small agencies, excluding VAT. How we work out price ranges.