How much does a small business accountant cost in the UK?
GoForma's fees depend on your business structure and the services you need. Packages start from £22 per month for sole traders and £28 per month for limited companies. Packages with a dedicated accountant and all filings included start from £44 per month for sole traders and £88 per month for limited companies. Use our instant quote tool to get your bespoke price in seconds.
Do I need an accountant for my small business?
You are not legally required to hire an accountant, but the vast majority of small business owners benefit significantly from professional accounting support. An accountant saves time, reduces tax legally, and helps you avoid costly errors or missed deadlines.
Can I switch from my current accountant to GoForma?
Yes, switching to GoForma is simple. We handle the entire handover process, including contacting your current accountant and transferring your records.
Can GoForma help me choose between sole trader and limited company?
Yes. Choosing the right business structure is one of the most common questions GoForma accountants address. Limited company status tends to become more tax-efficient when your profits exceed approximately £30,000 to £35,000 per year.
Can a small business accountant reduce my tax bill?
Yes. A qualified accountant can reduce your tax legally by claiming allowable expenses, advising on salary and dividends, selecting the right VAT scheme, and ensuring you use all available reliefs including capital allowances and pension contributions.
What is the difference between a small business accountant and a bookkeeper?
A bookkeeper records day-to-day financial transactions. A small business accountant provides a higher level of service: they prepare statutory accounts and tax returns, provide tax planning advice, and represent you with HMRC. At GoForma, both services are included in your monthly fee.
What accounting software does GoForma use?
GoForma uses FreeAgent as its primary accounting software platform. FreeAgent is fully MTD-compatible for both VAT and Income Tax, and is included in all packages at no extra cost. GoForma also supports Xero and QuickBooks for clients who prefer those platforms.
What is Making Tax Digital and does it affect my small business?
Making Tax Digital (MTD) is HMRC's initiative to move UK tax administration to a fully digital system. MTD for VAT applies to all VAT-registered businesses. MTD for Income Tax Self Assessment applies from April 2026 to self-employed individuals with income over £50,000. GoForma sets every client up on MTD-compatible software from day one.
Can startups get support from GoForma?
Yes. From choosing the right structure to setting up accounts and managing tax, GoForma gives new business owners practical guidance from day one so you start trading on the right footing.
Does GoForma offer accounting services outside London?
Yes. GoForma serves clients across the whole of the UK including Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, and Cardiff. Our cloud accounting, video calls, and fast online support mean you get the same expert service wherever your business is located.
Can I speak to a real accountant at GoForma?
Yes. Every GoForma client is assigned a named, qualified accountant as their dedicated point of contact. GoForma does not use automated chatbots or call centres.
What do I need to give my accountant for small business tax returns?
For small business tax returns, you will need to share records such as income, expenses, bank statements, invoices, and receipts. FreeAgent makes this straightforward with automated bank feeds and receipt scanning.