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A sole trader reviewing their accounts with an online accountant

Accountant for Sole Traders

Fixed fee, online accountants for the self-employed across the UK

We prepare and file your Self Assessment, keep your books in order, handle Making Tax Digital and make sure you claim every allowable expense. You pay one agreed monthly fee, and a qualified accountant is on hand whenever you need one.

  • Self Assessment filed for you
  • Making Tax Digital ready
  • No hidden costs
  • Free switching service

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Get your sole trader quote

Tell us a little about your business and we'll send your fixed fee quote.

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In short

What does an accountant for sole traders do?

An accountant for sole traders prepares and files your Self Assessment tax return, keeps your business records up to date, works out your Income Tax and Class 4 National Insurance, and makes sure you claim all allowable expenses. They also handle HMRC deadlines, VAT and Making Tax Digital, so you stay compliant and don't pay more tax than you need to.

  • Self AssessmentPrepared, checked and filed before 31 January
  • BookkeepingIncome and expenses recorded in cloud software
  • Making Tax DigitalQuarterly updates submitted to HMRC for you
  • Tax planningExpenses, allowances and payments on account reviewed

See what a sole trader package costs

Our sole trader prices are set out clearly on one page, so you can compare packages before you speak to us.

Fixed fee accountant for sole traders

A fixed fee accountant for sole traders agrees one monthly price before any work begins. You aren't billed by the hour, so calling with a question about an expense or a letter from HMRC never adds to your bill.

  • Spread the cost of your accounts across the year
  • Know your fee before you commit
  • Ask questions without watching the clock

Online accountant for sole traders

As an online accountant for sole traders, we work with you by phone, email and video. You upload receipts and bank data to cloud software instead of posting paperwork, and we can support you wherever you are in the UK.

  • Snap receipts on your phone
  • Bank feeds keep records up to date
  • Open weekday evenings and Saturdays

How it works

Getting started takes a few days, whether you're new to self-employment or switching from another sole trader accountant.

  1. Tell us about your business

    Share your trade, turnover and the help you need. We confirm your fixed monthly fee before any work starts.

  2. We get you set up

    We register you with HMRC if needed, become your tax agent, connect your bank and set up your software.

  3. We handle your deadlines

    Your records are kept up to date, your returns are filed on time, and you'll know what tax to put aside.

Sole trader tax: key facts for 2026/27

The figures and deadlines that matter most if you're self-employed in the UK.

Topic2026/27 position
Personal Allowance£12,570 of profit is tax-free
Income Tax20% up to £50,270, 40% up to £125,140 and 45% above
Class 4 National Insurance6% on profits between £12,570 and £50,270, and 2% above
Class 2 National InsuranceNo longer payable; treated as paid if profits are at least £7,105
Trading allowanceThe first £1,000 of trading income is tax-free
Registering with HMRCBy 5 October after the end of the tax year you started trading
Self Assessment deadline31 January (online), with tax due the same day
Payments on account31 January and 31 July, if your last tax bill was over £1,000
VAT registrationRequired once taxable turnover passes £90,000 in any rolling 12 months
Making Tax DigitalApplies if qualifying income is over £50,000

Sources: GOV.UK National Insurance, GOV.UK Income Tax rates, GOV.UK VAT registration. Income Tax bands shown apply in England, Wales and Northern Ireland; Scotland sets its own.

Making Tax Digital for sole traders

Sole traders with qualifying income above the threshold must keep digital records and send HMRC a short update every quarter, then a final declaration by 31 January. We set up compatible software and submit every update for you.

Get MTD readyHow MTD works

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax: who it applies to and quarterly deadlines
Qualifying incomeMTD applies from
Over £50,0006 April 2026
Over £30,0006 April 2027
Over £20,0006 April 2028 (planned)

Quarterly updates are due by 7 August, 7 November, 7 February and 7 May. Qualifying income is your gross self-employment and property income.

Sole traders we work with

Every trade has its own expenses and tax questions. These are some of the self-employed people we support.

Already have an accountant?

You can switch to us at any time of year. We contact your current accountant and take care of the handover, so nothing is missed.

Sole trader or limited company?

Many people start as sole traders because it's simple. As profits grow, a limited company can become worth considering. Here's how the two compare.

FeatureSole traderLimited company
Setting upRegister for Self Assessment with HMRCRegister the company with Companies House
Tax on profitsIncome Tax and Class 4 National InsuranceCorporation Tax, then tax on salary and dividends
LiabilityYou're personally responsible for business debtsLiability is usually limited to the company
PaperworkOne tax return a year, plus MTD updates if they applyCompany accounts, Corporation Tax return and confirmation statement
PrivacyYour figures stay privateSome company details appear on the public register

The right choice depends on your profits, plans and personal circumstances. We'll run the numbers for you as part of your service. Accountants for limited companies

Sole Trader FAQs

Do sole traders need an accountant?

There's no legal requirement to use an accountant as a sole trader. Many people choose one because it saves time, reduces the risk of mistakes and penalties, and often lowers their tax bill by making sure every allowable expense is claimed. It also means someone is handling HMRC deadlines and Making Tax Digital for you.

How much does an accountant for sole traders cost?

The cost depends on your turnover, how much bookkeeping you need, and whether you're registered for VAT or CIS. With us you pay one fixed monthly fee, agreed before we start. You can see our current packages on the sole trader pricing page, or request a quote tailored to your business.

What does a fixed fee accountant for sole traders include?

It typically covers your Self Assessment tax return, year-end accounts, tax calculations and support throughout the year for one agreed price. You can add services such as bookkeeping, Making Tax Digital quarterly updates, VAT returns and CIS refunds.

Can an online accountant for sole traders help with Making Tax Digital?

Yes. We can set up MTD-compatible software for you, keep your digital records and submit your quarterly updates and final declaration to HMRC. Making Tax Digital for Income Tax applies from 6 April 2026 if your qualifying income is over £50,000, and from 6 April 2027 if it's over £30,000.

Are accountancy fees tax deductible for sole traders?

Yes. Fees for preparing your business accounts and the business parts of your tax return are an allowable expense, so they reduce your taxable profit.

What expenses can a sole trader claim?

You can claim costs incurred wholly and exclusively for your business. Common examples include stock and materials, business travel, tools and equipment, phone and internet use, working from home, insurance and professional fees. If your expenses are low, you may be able to use the £1,000 trading allowance instead.

When does a sole trader need to register for VAT?

You must register for VAT once your taxable turnover passes £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period, or if you expect it to pass £90,000 in the next 30 days alone. You can also register voluntarily below the threshold if it benefits your business.

Can I switch accountants part way through the year?

Yes. You can switch at any time. We contact your current accountant for the information we need, become your tax agent with HMRC, and make sure your deadlines are covered.

See all FAQs

Speak to an accountant for sole traders today

Tell us about your business and we'll confirm your fixed monthly fee, with no obligation.