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.

What is Making Tax Digital?

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is an HMRC initiative requiring businesses to keep digital records and submit tax returns using compatible software. MTD for VAT is already mandatory for VAT-registered businesses. MTD for Income Tax Self Assessment will become mandatory from April 2026 for self-employed individuals and landlords with income over £50,000.

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.

Self-Assessment Tax Return Deadlines & Penalties 2024/25

Key Dates for 2024/25 Tax Year

The 2024/25 tax year runs from 6 April 2024 to 5 April 2025. Here are the critical deadlines you need to know:

Registration Deadline

5 October 2025 - Register for self-assessment if you have not filed a return before

Filing Deadlines

31 October 2025 - Paper tax return deadline
31 January 2026 - Online tax return deadline
31 January 2026 - Payment deadline for tax owed

Late Filing Penalties

HMRC takes deadlines seriously. Here is what happens if you miss them:

Time After Deadline

Penalty

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

1 day late	£100 fixed penalty
3 months late	£10 per day (up to 90 days = £900)
6 months late	£300 or 5% of tax due (whichever is greater)
12 months late	Additional £300 or 5% of tax due

Total potential penalty for being 12 months late: £1,600 plus percentage penalties

Late Payment Penalties

If you owe tax and pay late:

30 days late - 5% of tax unpaid
6 months late - Additional 5%
12 months late - Additional 5%

Plus interest charged on all late payments from the due date.

Who Needs to File a Self-Assessment Return?

You must file if you:

Are self-employed with income over £1,000
Are a company director (unless only paid through PAYE with no other income)
Have rental income
Have capital gains to report
Have foreign income
Have income over £100,000
Need to claim tax relief on pension contributions or charitable donations
Are a higher rate taxpayer with savings income

How to Avoid Penalties

1. Start early - Do not leave it until January

2. Keep good records - Throughout the year, not just at tax time

3. Use an accountant - We handle deadlines for you

4. Set reminders - Calendar alerts for key dates

5. File even if you cannot pay - The filing penalty is separate from payment penalties

Need Help With Your Tax Return?

At Stoke Accounting Services, we prepare and submit self-assessment returns for individuals across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. Our personal tax service starts from £150 and includes:

Full return preparation
Expense review to maximise deductions
On-time submission guaranteed
HMRC correspondence handling

Key Dates for 2024/25 Tax Year

The 2024/25 tax year runs from 6 April 2024 to 5 April 2025. Here are the critical deadlines you need to know:

Registration Deadline

5 October 2025 - Register for self-assessment if you have not filed a return before

Filing Deadlines

31 October 2025 - Paper tax return deadline
31 January 2026 - Online tax return deadline
31 January 2026 - Payment deadline for tax owed

Late Filing Penalties

HMRC takes deadlines seriously. Here is what happens if you miss them:

Time After Deadline

Penalty

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

1 day late	£100 fixed penalty
3 months late	£10 per day (up to 90 days = £900)
6 months late	£300 or 5% of tax due (whichever is greater)
12 months late	Additional £300 or 5% of tax due

Total potential penalty for being 12 months late: £1,600 plus percentage penalties

Late Payment Penalties

If you owe tax and pay late:

30 days late - 5% of tax unpaid
6 months late - Additional 5%
12 months late - Additional 5%

Plus interest charged on all late payments from the due date.

Who Needs to File a Self-Assessment Return?

You must file if you:

Are self-employed with income over £1,000
Are a company director (unless only paid through PAYE with no other income)
Have rental income
Have capital gains to report
Have foreign income
Have income over £100,000
Need to claim tax relief on pension contributions or charitable donations
Are a higher rate taxpayer with savings income

How to Avoid Penalties

1. Start early - Do not leave it until January

2. Keep good records - Throughout the year, not just at tax time

3. Use an accountant - We handle deadlines for you

4. Set reminders - Calendar alerts for key dates

5. File even if you cannot pay - The filing penalty is separate from payment penalties

Need Help With Your Tax Return?

At Stoke Accounting Services, we prepare and submit self-assessment returns for individuals across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. Our personal tax service starts from £150 and includes:

Full return preparation
Expense review to maximise deductions
On-time submission guaranteed
HMRC correspondence handling

Self-Assessment Tax Return Deadlines & Penalties 2024/25

Key Dates for 2024/25 Tax Year

Registration Deadline

Filing Deadlines

Late Filing Penalties

Late Payment Penalties

Who Needs to File a Self-Assessment Return?

How to Avoid Penalties

Need Help With Your Tax Return?

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?

Self-Assessment Tax Return Deadlines & Penalties 2024/25

Key Dates for 2024/25 Tax Year

Registration Deadline

Filing Deadlines

Late Filing Penalties

Late Payment Penalties

Who Needs to File a Self-Assessment Return?

How to Avoid Penalties

Need Help With Your Tax Return?

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?