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.

VAT Registration Threshold: When Must You Register?

Current VAT Registration Threshold

As of April 2024, the VAT registration threshold is £90,000.

You must register for VAT if:

Your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period
You expect to exceed £90,000 in the next 30 days alone

How the Threshold Works

The £90,000 threshold is based on your taxable turnover - this includes most goods and services you sell, but excludes:

VAT-exempt supplies (like insurance, finance, education)
Sales of capital assets
Income from employment

Rolling 12-Month Test

HMRC does not just look at your financial year. They use a rolling 12-month test, meaning you need to check your turnover at the end of every month.

Example: If your turnover from December 2023 to November 2024 exceeds £90,000, you must register.

Registration Deadlines

Once you exceed the threshold:

You must notify HMRC within 30 days of the end of the month you exceeded
Your registration takes effect from the first day of the second month after exceeding

Example: Exceed threshold in October → Notify by 30 November → Registration effective from 1 December

Penalties for Late Registration

If you register late, you must account for VAT from when you should have registered. This means:

Paying VAT you should have charged but did not
Possible penalties based on the VAT owed

Behaviour

Penalty

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

Reasonable care	0%
Careless	0-30% of VAT owed
Deliberate	20-70% of VAT owed

Voluntary Registration

You can register for VAT even if below the threshold. Benefits include:

Pros:

Reclaim VAT on purchases
Appear more established to clients
Prepare for growth

Cons:

More administration (quarterly returns)
Must charge VAT to customers
Record-keeping requirements

Which VAT Scheme is Right for You?

Scheme

Best For

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

Standard	Most businesses, especially with high input VAT
Flat Rate	Simple businesses with low costs
Cash Accounting	Businesses with slow-paying customers

Local VAT Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Approaching the threshold? Already VAT-registered and need help? Our VAT return services start from £75 per quarter and include:

Registration assistance
MTD-compliant submissions
Scheme advice
Ongoing support

Get in touch or call 07564 919963 for a free consultation.

How the Threshold Works

The £90,000 threshold is based on your taxable turnover - this includes most goods and services you sell, but excludes:

VAT-exempt supplies (like insurance, finance, education)

Sales of capital assets

Income from employment

Rolling 12-Month Test

HMRC does not just look at your financial year. They use a rolling 12-month test, meaning you need to check your turnover at the end of every month.

Example: If your turnover from December 2023 to November 2024 exceeds £90,000, you must register.

VAT Registration Threshold: When Must You Register?

Current VAT Registration Threshold

How the Threshold Works

Rolling 12-Month Test

Registration Deadlines

Penalties for Late Registration

Voluntary Registration

Which VAT Scheme is Right for You?

Local VAT Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?

VAT Registration Threshold: When Must You Register?

Current VAT Registration Threshold

How the Threshold Works

Rolling 12-Month Test

Registration Deadlines

Penalties for Late Registration

Voluntary Registration

Which VAT Scheme is Right for You?

Local VAT Support in Stoke-on-Trent

Related Services

Need Help With Your Accounts?