How much does an accountant cost in Stoke-on-Trent?

Our fees are competitive and tailored to your needs. Book-keeping starts from £50/month for small businesses. Personal tax returns from £150. Contact us for a free, no-obligation quote specific to your requirements.

What services do you offer?

We offer comprehensive accounting services including book-keeping, payroll management, company formation, VAT returns, and personal tax returns. We serve individuals, sole traders, and limited companies across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.

Do I need an accountant for my small business?

While not legally required, an accountant can save you time and money by ensuring accurate records, maximising tax efficiency, and keeping you compliant with HMRC. Many small business owners find that professional accounting support pays for itself through tax savings and peace of mind.

What does AAT Licensed mean?

AAT stands for Association of Accounting Technicians. Being AAT Licensed means we are professionally qualified, regulated, and supervised by the AAT. This ensures we maintain high professional standards, have appropriate insurance, and follow strict ethical guidelines. Our licence number is 1002751.

My accountant retired or passed away - what should I do?

First, gather all your financial records and documents. Contact us and we can help you transition smoothly - we regularly assist clients in this situation. We will review your current position, ensure all filings are up to date, and establish a clear path forward for your accounting needs.

How do I find a good accountant near me?

Look for qualified accountants with professional body membership (like AAT), check reviews, and ensure they have experience with your type of business. We serve all areas of Stoke-on-Trent including Hanley, Burslem, Tunstall, Stoke, Fenton, and Longton, plus surrounding areas like Newcastle-under-Lyme and Stafford.

What is the deadline for self-assessment tax returns?

For paper returns, the deadline is 31st October following the end of the tax year. For online returns, it is 31st January. The tax year runs from 6th April to 5th April. We recommend submitting early to avoid last-minute stress and identify any tax owed in advance.

Can you help with company formation?

Yes, we handle the complete company formation process including registration with Companies House, setting up your company structure, advising on share allocation, and ensuring you are registered for the appropriate taxes. We also provide ongoing support once your company is established.

What records do I need to keep for HMRC?

You must keep records of all business income and expenses, bank statements, invoices, receipts, and payroll records. For self-employed individuals, keep records for at least 5 years after the 31st January submission deadline. For limited companies, records must be kept for 6 years from the end of the financial year.

When do I need to register for VAT?

You must register for VAT if your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any 12-month period (as of 2024). You can also register voluntarily if below this threshold. We can help you determine the best time to register and manage your VAT returns.

Should I be a sole trader or limited company?

The best structure depends on your circumstances. Sole traders have simpler administration but unlimited liability. Limited companies offer liability protection and potential tax efficiencies at higher income levels, but have more compliance requirements. We can analyse your situation and recommend the most tax-efficient structure.

How much can I earn before paying tax in 2024/25?

The personal allowance for 2024/25 is £12,570. You pay no income tax on earnings up to this amount. The basic rate (20%) applies from £12,571 to £50,270, higher rate (40%) from £50,271 to £125,140, and additional rate (45%) above £125,140.

What expenses can I claim as a sole trader?

Allowable expenses include office costs, travel expenses, clothing (uniforms only), staff costs, stock and materials, financial costs, premises costs, and professional fees. The key rule is expenses must be wholly and exclusively for business purposes. We can help maximise your legitimate expense claims.

Do I need an accountant if I only have a side hustle?

If you earn over £1,000 from self-employment, you must register with HMRC and file a tax return. An accountant can help ensure you claim all allowable expenses, stay compliant, and avoid penalties. For simple affairs, our basic tax return service is cost-effective and gives you peace of mind.

What are the penalties for late tax returns?

Late self-assessment returns incur an immediate £100 penalty, rising to £10 per day after 3 months (up to £900), then further penalties of 5% of tax due at 6 and 12 months. Late payment also incurs interest and penalties. We help clients avoid these by ensuring timely submissions.

Making Tax Digital 2026: What Self-Employed Need to Know

What is Making Tax Digital?

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is HMRC's initiative to modernise the tax system. Instead of annual tax returns, you will need to:

Keep digital records using compatible software
Submit quarterly updates to HMRC
File a final declaration at year-end

MTD for VAT has been mandatory since 2019. Now MTD for Income Tax Self Assessment (ITSA) is coming.

Key Dates for MTD ITSA

Date	Who is Affected

|------|-----------------|

April 2026	Self-employed and landlords with income over £50,000
April 2027	Self-employed and landlords with income over £30,000
TBC	Those with income between £20,000-£30,000 (under review)

Important: The £50,000/£30,000 thresholds are based on gross income, not profit.

Who Needs to Comply?

You will need to use MTD if you are:

Self-employed (sole trader) with qualifying income over the threshold
A landlord with property income over the threshold
Someone with both self-employment AND property income that together exceed the threshold

Exempt from MTD:

Limited companies (different rules apply)
Partnerships (delayed implementation)
Those digitally excluded (specific criteria apply)

What Changes in Practice?

Quarterly Updates

Instead of one annual return, you will submit updates four times per year:

Quarter

Covers

Deadline

|---------|--------|----------|

Q1	6 Apr - 5 Jul	7 Aug
Q2	6 Jul - 5 Oct	7 Nov
Q3	6 Oct - 5 Jan	7 Feb
Q4	6 Jan - 5 Apr	7 May

End of Period Statement

After 5 April each year, you submit a final statement with any adjustments.

Final Declaration

This replaces the current self-assessment return and is due by 31 January (same as now).

Software Requirements

You must use MTD-compatible software to:

Record income and expenses digitally
Submit quarterly updates via API
File your final declaration

Popular options:

Xero
QuickBooks
FreeAgent
Sage

Spreadsheets alone will not be sufficient - you need software that connects to HMRC.

How to Prepare Now

1. Check Your Income Level

Add up your self-employment and property income. If over £50,000, you are in the first wave.

2. Start Using Software

Do not wait until 2026. Get comfortable with digital record-keeping now. Many businesses find the transition takes 6-12 months.

3. Improve Your Record-Keeping

MTD requires real-time records. No more shoebox of receipts at year-end.

4. Work With an Accountant

We can help you:

Choose the right software
Set up your digital records
Handle quarterly submissions
Ensure compliance

What Happens if You Do Not Comply?

HMRC will issue penalties for:

Late quarterly submissions
Inaccurate records
Missing the final declaration

The penalty points system means repeated failures lead to escalating fines.

Local Support in Stoke-on-Trent

At Stoke Accounting Services, we are helping clients prepare for MTD now. Our services include:

Software setup and training
Quarterly submission handling
Bookkeeping to MTD standards
Full compliance management

Do not leave it until 2026. Contact us or call 07564 919963 to discuss your MTD preparation.

What is Making Tax Digital?

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is HMRC's initiative to modernise the tax system. Instead of annual tax returns, you will need to:

Keep digital records using compatible software
Submit quarterly updates to HMRC
File a final declaration at year-end

MTD for VAT has been mandatory since 2019. Now MTD for Income Tax Self Assessment (ITSA) is coming.

Key Dates for MTD ITSA

Date	Who is Affected

|------|-----------------|

April 2026	Self-employed and landlords with income over £50,000
April 2027	Self-employed and landlords with income over £30,000
TBC	Those with income between £20,000-£30,000 (under review)

Important: The £50,000/£30,000 thresholds are based on gross income, not profit.

Who Needs to Comply?

You will need to use MTD if you are:

Self-employed (sole trader) with qualifying income over the threshold
A landlord with property income over the threshold
Someone with both self-employment AND property income that together exceed the threshold

Exempt from MTD:

Limited companies (different rules apply)
Partnerships (delayed implementation)
Those digitally excluded (specific criteria apply)

What Changes in Practice?

Quarterly Updates

Instead of one annual return, you will submit updates four times per year:

Quarter

Covers

Deadline

|---------|--------|----------|

Q1	6 Apr - 5 Jul	7 Aug
Q2	6 Jul - 5 Oct	7 Nov
Q3	6 Oct - 5 Jan	7 Feb
Q4	6 Jan - 5 Apr	7 May

End of Period Statement

After 5 April each year, you submit a final statement with any adjustments.

Final Declaration

This replaces the current self-assessment return and is due by 31 January (same as now).

Software Requirements

You must use MTD-compatible software to:

Record income and expenses digitally
Submit quarterly updates via API
File your final declaration

Popular options:

Xero
QuickBooks
FreeAgent
Sage

Spreadsheets alone will not be sufficient - you need software that connects to HMRC.

How to Prepare Now

1. Check Your Income Level

Add up your self-employment and property income. If over £50,000, you are in the first wave.

2. Start Using Software

Do not wait until 2026. Get comfortable with digital record-keeping now. Many businesses find the transition takes 6-12 months.

3. Improve Your Record-Keeping

MTD requires real-time records. No more shoebox of receipts at year-end.

4. Work With an Accountant

We can help you:

Choose the right software
Set up your digital records
Handle quarterly submissions
Ensure compliance

What Happens if You Do Not Comply?

HMRC will issue penalties for:

Late quarterly submissions
Inaccurate records
Missing the final declaration

The penalty points system means repeated failures lead to escalating fines.

Local Support in Stoke-on-Trent

At Stoke Accounting Services, we are helping clients prepare for MTD now. Our services include:

Software setup and training
Quarterly submission handling
Bookkeeping to MTD standards
Full compliance management

Do not leave it until 2026. Contact us or call 07564 919963 to discuss your MTD preparation.

Making Tax Digital 2026: What Self-Employed Need to Know

What is Making Tax Digital?

Key Dates for MTD ITSA

Who Needs to Comply?

What Changes in Practice?

Quarterly Updates

End of Period Statement

Final Declaration

Software Requirements

How to Prepare Now

1. Check Your Income Level

2. Start Using Software

3. Improve Your Record-Keeping

4. Work With an Accountant

What Happens if You Do Not Comply?

Local Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?

Making Tax Digital 2026: What Self-Employed Need to Know

What is Making Tax Digital?

Key Dates for MTD ITSA

Who Needs to Comply?

What Changes in Practice?

Quarterly Updates

End of Period Statement

Final Declaration

Software Requirements

How to Prepare Now

1. Check Your Income Level

2. Start Using Software

3. Improve Your Record-Keeping

4. Work With an Accountant

What Happens if You Do Not Comply?

Local Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?