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.

Small Business Grants & Support in Stoke-on-Trent 2025

Business Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Running a small business in Stoke-on-Trent? There is more support available than you might think. Here is our guide to grants, funding, and free help for local businesses.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council Support

Business Rates Relief

Small businesses may qualify for:

Small Business Rate Relief - Up to 100% relief for properties with rateable value under £15,000
Rural Rate Relief - For businesses in designated rural areas
Charitable Relief - For registered charities

Check your eligibility on Stoke Council website

Stoke-on-Trent Growth Hub

Free business support including:

One-to-one advice sessions
Workshops and training
Help accessing finance
Networking opportunities

Staffordshire-Wide Support

Staffordshire Business & Environment Network (SBEN)

Offers:

Resource efficiency advice
Sustainability support
Cost-saving guidance
Environmental compliance help

Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce

Membership benefits include:

Business networking
Training and development
Legal and HR advice
Export documentation

National Grants and Funding

Start Up Loans

Government-backed personal loans for new businesses:

Borrow £500 to £25,000
Fixed interest rate of 6%
Free mentoring included
No early repayment fees

Eligibility: UK resident, 18+, viable business idea

Innovate UK Grants

For businesses developing innovative products or services:

Various grant sizes available
Often require match funding
Competitive application process
Regular funding rounds

British Business Bank Schemes

Access to finance through:

Recovery Loan Scheme
Start Up Loans
Regional funds
Growth finance

Industry-Specific Support

Creative Industries

Arts Council England funding
Creative UK support programmes
Screen industry incentives

Manufacturing

Made Smarter adoption programme
High Value Manufacturing Catapult
Productivity improvement grants

Retail and Hospitality

Local council discretionary funds
Tourism support schemes
High street recovery programmes

How to Find Grants

1. Check Government Finder

Gov.uk business finance finder lets you search by:

Location
Business size
Sector
Type of support needed

2. Local Authority Websites

Both Stoke-on-Trent Council and Staffordshire County Council maintain lists of available support.

3. Growth Hubs

The local Growth Hub can match you with relevant opportunities and help with applications.

Tips for Grant Applications

Do:

Read criteria carefully before applying
Provide clear, specific information
Include realistic financial projections
Meet all deadlines
Keep records of how you spend grant money

Do not:

Apply for grants you do not qualify for
Exaggerate or mislead
Miss reporting requirements
Forget that most grants are taxable

How We Can Help

At Stoke Accounting Services, we help local businesses:

Prepare financial information for grant applications
Understand tax implications of grants
Maintain records required by funders
Plan how to use funding effectively

Many grants require up-to-date accounts and financial projections. Our bookkeeping and accounting services ensure you are always grant-ready.

Stay Updated

Grant programmes change frequently. Follow local business networks and check regularly for new opportunities. We share relevant updates with our clients as part of our ongoing support.

Business Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Running a small business in Stoke-on-Trent? There is more support available than you might think. Here is our guide to grants, funding, and free help for local businesses.

Stoke-on-Trent City Council Support

Business Rates Relief

Small businesses may qualify for:

Small Business Rate Relief - Up to 100% relief for properties with rateable value under £15,000
Rural Rate Relief - For businesses in designated rural areas
Charitable Relief - For registered charities

Check your eligibility on Stoke Council website

Stoke-on-Trent Growth Hub

Free business support including:

One-to-one advice sessions
Workshops and training
Help accessing finance
Networking opportunities

Staffordshire-Wide Support

Staffordshire Business & Environment Network (SBEN)

Offers:

Resource efficiency advice
Sustainability support
Cost-saving guidance
Environmental compliance help

Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce

Membership benefits include:

Business networking
Training and development
Legal and HR advice
Export documentation

National Grants and Funding

Start Up Loans

Government-backed personal loans for new businesses:

Borrow £500 to £25,000
Fixed interest rate of 6%
Free mentoring included
No early repayment fees

Eligibility: UK resident, 18+, viable business idea

Innovate UK Grants

For businesses developing innovative products or services:

Various grant sizes available
Often require match funding
Competitive application process
Regular funding rounds

British Business Bank Schemes

Access to finance through:

Recovery Loan Scheme
Start Up Loans
Regional funds
Growth finance

Industry-Specific Support

Creative Industries

Arts Council England funding
Creative UK support programmes
Screen industry incentives

Manufacturing

Made Smarter adoption programme
High Value Manufacturing Catapult
Productivity improvement grants

Retail and Hospitality

Local council discretionary funds
Tourism support schemes
High street recovery programmes

How to Find Grants

1. Check Government Finder

Gov.uk business finance finder lets you search by:

Location
Business size
Sector
Type of support needed

2. Local Authority Websites

Both Stoke-on-Trent Council and Staffordshire County Council maintain lists of available support.

3. Growth Hubs

The local Growth Hub can match you with relevant opportunities and help with applications.

Tips for Grant Applications

Do:

Read criteria carefully before applying
Provide clear, specific information
Include realistic financial projections
Meet all deadlines
Keep records of how you spend grant money

Do not:

Apply for grants you do not qualify for
Exaggerate or mislead
Miss reporting requirements
Forget that most grants are taxable

How We Can Help

At Stoke Accounting Services, we help local businesses:

Prepare financial information for grant applications
Understand tax implications of grants
Maintain records required by funders
Plan how to use funding effectively

Many grants require up-to-date accounts and financial projections. Our bookkeeping and accounting services ensure you are always grant-ready.

Stay Updated

Grant programmes change frequently. Follow local business networks and check regularly for new opportunities. We share relevant updates with our clients as part of our ongoing support.

Business Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent City Council Support

Business Rates Relief

Stoke-on-Trent Growth Hub

Staffordshire-Wide Support

Staffordshire Business & Environment Network (SBEN)

Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce

National Grants and Funding

Start Up Loans

Innovate UK Grants

British Business Bank Schemes

Industry-Specific Support

Creative Industries

Manufacturing

Retail and Hospitality

How to Find Grants

1. Check Government Finder

2. Local Authority Websites

3. Growth Hubs

Tips for Grant Applications

How We Can Help

Stay Updated

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?

Business Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Stoke-on-Trent City Council Support

Business Rates Relief

Stoke-on-Trent Growth Hub

Staffordshire-Wide Support

Staffordshire Business & Environment Network (SBEN)

Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce

National Grants and Funding

Start Up Loans

Innovate UK Grants

British Business Bank Schemes

Industry-Specific Support

Creative Industries

Manufacturing

Retail and Hospitality

How to Find Grants

1. Check Government Finder

2. Local Authority Websites

3. Growth Hubs

Tips for Grant Applications

How We Can Help

Stay Updated

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?