Who we help
Accountants for sole traders.
We keep your records straight, file your Self Assessment on time and get you ready for Making Tax Digital, so you can focus on your work.
As a sole trader, you and your business are the same person in HMRC’s eyes. Your profit is taxed through Self Assessment, and since April 2026 many sole traders also send quarterly updates under Making Tax Digital. We take care of it and make sure you claim the expenses you are entitled to.
What you need to stay on top of
Self Assessment
Register by 5 October after your first tax year, then file online and pay by 31 January each year.
Payments on account
If your tax bill is over £1,000, HMRC usually asks for advance payments on 31 January and 31 July.
Making Tax Digital for Income Tax
Quarterly digital updates apply if your qualifying income is over £50,000 from April 2026, over £30,000 from April 2027 and over £20,000 from April 2028.
Records
Keep records of income and expenses for at least 5 years after the 31 January deadline for that tax year.
VAT
Register for VAT if your taxable turnover goes over £90,000 in any 12-month period.
Services we recommend
- Self Assessment Tax ReturnsYour annual return prepared, checked and filed before 31 January.
- BookkeepingIncome and expenses recorded every month in proper software.
- Making Tax DigitalSoftware set up and quarterly updates sent to HMRC for you.
- VAT ReturnsFor when you cross the VAT threshold or choose to register.
Prefer one monthly fee?
Survive Essential compliance for small limited companies.
Profits growing? At higher profits a limited company can be more tax-efficient. We compare both with your real figures, set up the company if it makes sense, and our Survive package then covers your accounts, director’s tax return and company secretarial for one monthly fee.
Compare packagesFrequently asked questions
Do I need an accountant as a sole trader?
You don’t have to have one, but most sole traders save time and avoid penalties by using one. We make sure your return is right, your allowable expenses are claimed and nothing is filed late.
Does Making Tax Digital apply to me?
It depends on your qualifying income from self-employment and property. Over £50,000, it applies from April 2026; over £30,000 from April 2027; and over £20,000 from April 2028. We check where you stand and set you up.
What if I miss the 31 January deadline?
HMRC charges an automatic £100 penalty, even if you owe no tax, and more penalties and interest follow the longer it goes on. If you are behind, contact us and we’ll get you up to date.
Other clients we help
Landlords
Rental income tax returns, MTD and property tax advice, for one flat or a portfolio.
See how we helpLimited companies
Year-end accounts, Corporation Tax, payroll and Companies House filings in one place.
See how we helpStart-ups
The right structure, registrations and records from day one.
See how we helpEmployers
Payroll, RTI submissions, pensions and payslips, run on time every month.
See how we helpGrowing businesses
Management accounts, forecasts and advice to plan your next step.
See how we helpReady to hand over the numbers?
Tell us what you need and we’ll come back to you with a clear, no-obligation quote.