Depending on your subscription, you'll have a few onboarding steps when you sign up that you'll need to complete to activate your account.
When you sign up to any of our accounts, you'll need to complete a range of different onboarding steps before we can fully activate your GoForma account.
Some steps are fairly straight forward (e.g. adding your communication preferences) and others can take longer to complete (e.g. setting up a Limited Company or switching accountant).
We'll need some details about your current address and contact information.
Let us know if you'd like us to email, WhatsApp or SMS you with updates.
Complete a digital verification process using your ID (passport or UK driving license) along with a liveness check
Upload a valid proof of address in the UK dated in the last 3 months to verify your identity. This can be a recent council tax bill or utility bill.
Book a welcome call with your new accountant so that they can help get you set up, answer specific questions and walk through what to expect with GoForma.
Add some basic personal tax details for payroll and self assessment filing.
If you already have a Limited Company, then you just need to search for the name and we'll extract all the details we need from Companies House and send you filing reminders.
Add a few details about your company if you're operating as a Sole Trader.
If you need to register a Limited Company, you can complete this process in your dashboard.
Add some details about your new business and we'll register you as a sole trader with HMRC.
If you have an accountant already, we need to send a professional clearance request so that we can collate all the key documents and data we need to operate as your accountants.
Add details about how you'd like us to handle your mail and where we should forward mail to.
Let us know if you're already registered for VAT, want to register for VAT or if you're unsure about VAT registration.
We need a confirmation code from Companies House so that we can file your confirmation statement, end of year accounts and make any changes to your account like additional directors or registered office.
Depending on your package we'll need to ask HMRC for authorisation to manage your personal self assessment tax filing, VAT, corporation tax and PAYE.
Once you've completed our accountant switch form, we'll send a link to your accountant to upload all the documents we need and continue to follow up with them.
Add some basic details about your industry that we'll need to get your FreeAgent accounting software up and running. If you already have FreeAgent then you can add your details here.
Schedule some time with your accountant to walk through how to use FreeAgent.
We'll remind you about your upcoming self assessment tax returns and can help you file them for an additional cost if needed.
We'll send you reminders and file your VAT returns each quarter. We'll also help you get set up with a direct debit so that you don't miss a payment.
We'll remind you about your annual confirmation statement with Companies House.
We'll send you a reminder about your annual accounts. We can help take care of your accounts for an additional cost.
We'll remind you about your annual corporation tax payments. We can help with your annual accounts and corporation tax filing for an additional fee.
We'll invite you to connect your crypto wallets to help calculate your capital gains tax for your self assessment.
We'll help you file a self assessment tax return with a capital gains tax calculation based on your crypto activity.
Sign up instantly to one of our packages, add some basic details and pay by card. You'll then be redirected to your dashboard.
To get started with GoForma you can either create a free community account or sign up for one of our paid packages.
You can sign up using a Google account or your email and we'll need a few details like your name, company name (you can just put individual if you just need a self assessment tax return) and your billing address.
We collect payment details using Stripe and we'll charge your card on sign up and then on the same day every month if you have a recurring package (e.g. you sign up on the 15th of June, you'll then be charged again on the 15th of July).
You'll receive a confirmation email detailing the next steps of onboarding when you sign up and a link to set the password to your dashboard moving forward (if you didn't sign up using your Google account).
Please be sure to double check your email address as occasionally when we have new companies and customers signing up they may put in the incorrect email address which is why you may not receive these onboarding emails. If you think you put in the wrong email address, please contact support@goforma.com
Your dashboard will limit certain onboarding steps and functionality depending on what type of account or add ons you add to your account.
Book a free 20-minute consultation with one of our accountants to ask questions about starting your business, taxes, take-home pay and general business accounting queries.
Anyone that enquires about GoForma can book in a free accounting consultation with one of our accountants. We'll ask you to confirm the type of industry that you or your company operates in so that we can ensure you speak to an accountant that specialises in that industry.
UK advice: We currently only offer company and basic personal tax accounting options for individuals based in the United Kingdom. If you need advice on opening, operating or closing a company outside of the UK then we are unable to assist with this. If you have questions about paying yourself through a Limited Company and you're based outside of the UK then we are unable to assist. We are also unable to assist with charities or Community Interest Companies.
Typical queries: The typical thing we can help walk through on these calls are questions on company set up (limited company vs sole trader), UK accounting specific queries (e.g. VAT registration, self assessments), switching accountants, pricing, company dormancy and company closure.
As this is a free service, we would really appreciate it if you can reschedule or cancel a call 24 hours in advance to respect the time of our accountants who help provide this free advice. If you fail to cancel or reschedule a free accounting consultation call without 24 hours notice then we may choose to decline any attempts to rebook a call.
Download one of our detailed guides that cover topics ranging from company registration, taxes, take-home pay, expenses or dividends.
We currently offer more than 20 free downloadable guides that anyone can download by adding in their email address.
Once you add your email address and submit the form, we'll email you your free guide. If you sign up for a paid or community account with GoForma then you'll get access to all the guides for free.
Looking for some free support? Sign up for a free community account to access a range of guides, calculators and free support
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for Self Assessment Tax Returns
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for Annual Accounts
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for Company Closure
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for FreeAgent accounting software
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for confirmation statements
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for Limited Companies
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for Sole Traders
Here are the common FAQs we get asked about for Company Dormancy
As part of your package, you'll get access to a dedicated personal accountant that you can arrange time with.
We use calendly to make it easy to schedule a time with your accountant. We kindly ask that you provide as much detail as possible in the meeting description and please make sure to reschedule or cancel a call 24 hours before.
You can schedule a call using the link in your dashboard and by using the "Accounting discussion" link in the footer of your accountants emails.
We have partnered with Kingsbridge to provide a 10% discount on your business insurance.
When you login to your dashboard you can find the option to get a business insurance quote in your onboarding steps and in our partners list. You can then generate a quote online or you can request a call back from the Kingsbridge team to talk through your requirements.
If you find that your trading activtity is going to be low for your Limited Company for several months (e.g. going from a contract role to a permanent role) but want to keep your company running for the future then you can make your company dormant.
When you make your company dormant, we offer a 50% discount during the time that your company isn't trading. We will still need to file VAT returns, company accounts and confirmation statements during this time.
If you're considering making your company dormant then we'd recommend speaking to your accountant first.
If you'd like to add additional directors to your Limited Company then we can help register them on Companies House and add them to your monthly payroll.
You'll need to complete the additional user form in your account. This will notify your accountant who will confirm the details with you.
If your subscription onlly includes payroll for 1 Limited Company director then we will add an additiaonl £5/mo charge to your account.
We will automatically open and scan mail for customers with a package or add on that includes digital mail handling.
When your company mail arrives we will open it, scan it and upload a PDF attachment of your document to our shared client drive. We will notify you and your accountant (for customers with an accounting package) via email and include a link to your document.
With this notification you can then chose to forward your mail for an additional fee or arrange collection, otherwise we will automatically shred this on the following Friday.
You can then find your mail scans in your dashboard and in our shared client drive for future reference.
Customers with a digital forwarding package will receive a notification with a scan of the mail whenever we receive it at our address.
When you receive the notification you will be able to request forwarding or collection of your mail. If you need your mail forwarded to an address in the UK then we will forward it on a Friday and charge a postage and admin fee of £1.75 + VAT. If you need to forward to an international address, you will need to schedule your own shipping.
If we open a piece of mail that contains a bank card, we will automatically schedule to forward this to you on the Friday from when it was received.
We won't scan your bank card but will send you a notification that it has arrived. You can then check your forwarding details or request to collect your card. We will automatically add a £6 + VAT charge to your account for forwarding a bank card with special delivery.
If we open a piece of mail that contains a cheque, we will automatically schedule to forward this to you on the Friday from when it was received.
We will send you a scan of the cheque and notify you. You can then check your forwarding details or request to collect your cheque. We will automatically add a £1.75 + VAT charge to your account for forwarding a cheque.
Your mail could be returned to sender due to two reasons:
You haven't passed our compliance checks yet
Before we can open, scan or forward your mail, we will need you to complete both an ID verification check and provide a proof of your home address.
You will need to submit these through your dashboard. There can be delays for approving these or we may ask you to resubmit your documents if:
- ID documents are blurry
- Proof of address is not in English
- Proof of address is old
- Proof of address is not acceptable
Your account has expired
If your account has gone more than 60 days overdue then all your mail will be returned to sender. You will have 48 hours to resubscribe otherwise your mail will be returned to sender.
You can resubscribe by letting us know about reactivating your subscription.
For customers with a digital mail forwarding package (e.g. we open your mail, scan it and send you a copy) - we will automatically shred your mail the following Friday from when it arrives unless you have requested to collect or forward the mail.
As an example - mail received on Wednesday 1st of April would be shredded by midday on Friday 10th April, unless you have requested to collect or forward the mail before Friday 10th April.
We do not include international mail forwarding as part of our service. If you need any mail, cheques, special documents or parcels forwarded to an address outside of the UK then you will need to schedule and pay for international delivery. You will then need to provide us with the shipping label so that we can send the mail or parcel to you.
When you receive a piece of mail or parcel that needs to be forwarded, you will receive an email notification form us.
You will then need to create your own shipping label using a service like Royal Mail, FedEx or Parcel Force. You will need to add in the details of your collection address (GoForma, 40 Bowling Green Lane, London, EC1R 0NE) and need to ensure that items are collected during our normal business hours between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Once you have confirmed and paid for your mail to be forwarded you will need to respond to our email with the collection time and shipping label.
Please note, we are only able to hold your mail for up to 14 days. If we do not hear from you then we will need to return your mail to sender or dispose of your packages.
We can't guarantee that Google will approve everyone that tries to list at our location but typically you can use Google My Business if you have a package that includes our business address.
To do this you can visit https://www.google.com to set up your profile.
Once your subscription is no longer active with GoForma, you'll need to deregister your address within 14 days on Google otherwise we will manually request removal.
We partner with FreeAgent for our accounting software and highly recommend you download their mobile app.
The FreeAgent mobile app for iOS and Android makes it easy to manage your business on the go.
You can easily add expenses, reconcile transactions and generate quotes and invoices easily.
To get started, use the links below:
If you'd like to change your card details, please send a message to support@goforma.com. We will then send a link for you to update your card details.
If your account goes over due then you can risk your subscription being cancelled and lose access to mailing services, accounting software and more.
When we are unable to collect payment from you, we will send you several reminders and try to collect payment several times or request updated payment details.
After 60 days of non-payment, we will automatically cancel your account.
At this point all your mail will be returned to sender, we will remove your FreeAgent license (you will receive a notification about taking over the payments) and you will lose access to your GoForma dashboard.
The main payment process we use is card payment with Stripe. We can arrange a direct debit if this is your preferred payment method.
You'll need to email support@goforma.com if you'd like to set up a direct debit.
You can add other users, directors or employees in your account using the form in your dashboard.
Adding additional users to your account is free but if you need support with employee or director payroll then this is an additional £5/mo per employee or director.
If you decide to cancel your account, switch accountants or your account goes overdue by 60 days then your account will be cancelled. This may vary depending on your package.
Mail returned to sender
We will return your mail to sender when your subscription ends (e.g. if your subscription renews on the 14th June and you cancel on the 1st June, we will return mail to sender from the 15th of June). You will need to remove your correspondence address on Companies House, remove a Google My Business listing and ensure this is changed on your website and any marketing materials. We will request removal on Companies House and Google My Business if we continue to receive mail.
Professional clearance
If you switch to another accounting practice then we will wait to hear from them for a professional clearance request.
FreeAgent accounting software
You will need to start paying for your FreeAgent subscription within 14 days if we paid for your subscription. Please read more in our FreeAgent license switch section to learn more and understand the process for those with a NatWest account or previous subscription.
If you have had an active FreeAgent accounting software subscription with GoForma and close or switch your account, you may need to take steps to take over the ownership of your account. This depends on how your account was created and who pays for the subscription:
If GoForma created and paid for your FreeAgent license:
If GoForma created and paid for your license, you will have a two-week grace period during which you can access or export your data. You will receive an email notifying you of this and advising what steps you need to take to either retain your FreeAgent account or cancel.
If you have a free FreeAgent license through NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, Ulster Bank or Mettle:
If you have a free license funded by NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, Ulster Bank or Mettle, your free account will continue to be free and active, so you can continue to use it as you wish. You will receive an email notification from FreeAgent once this has been completed.
If you originally created and pay for your FreeAgent license:
If you added GoForma to your FreeAgent license and still pay for your license, the billing arrangements for the account will remain with you. You will be able to access and use your FreeAgent account as before, but GoForma's access will be revoked. You will be informed when we have removed your account from our client list via email from FreeAgent.
The clock is ticking, and it’s time to get ahead of your Self Assessment Tax Return for 2023/2024. At GoForma, we understand the importance of timely filing and are here to make the process as smooth and rewarding as possible. Let's dive into why filing early is crucial, the benefits of using GoForma, and the perks we offer.Keep reading to learn more about our £100 Amazon voucher prize draw if you submit your self assessment tax return to us before 30th August 2024.
Self-Assessment Tax Declaration Dates 2023/24
Tax Year: 6 April 2023 to 5 April 2024
Registration Deadline:
- If you're self-employed or a sole trader, not self-employed, or registering a partner or partnership, you must register by 5 October 2024.
Online Tax Return Deadline:
- The deadline for submitting an online tax return is 31 January 2025.
Payment Deadlines:
- 31 January 2025: This is the deadline to pay any tax you owe for the 2023/24 tax year and your first payment on account for the 2024/25 tax year.
- 31 July 2025: This is the deadline to make your second payment on account for the 2024/25 tax year.
Late Submission Penalties
Timeliness is crucial when it comes to self-assessment tax returns. Missing the deadline can result in penalties and additional fees:
- 1 day late: A fixed penalty of £100.
- Up to 3 months late: A £10 daily penalty for up to 90 days, totaling a maximum of £900.
- 6 months late: An additional £300 or 5% of the tax due, whichever is higher.
- 12 months late: Another £300 or 5% of the tax due, whichever is higher. In severe cases, you might be fined up to 100% of the tax due.
The sooner you file, the less likely you are to incur these fines. Timely submission can save you money and stress.
Rewards or Additional Charges, the choice is yours!
To avoid the rush and potential extra charges, we recommend filing self assessment as soon as possible. Based on the dates we receive submissions, below are the rewards or additional charges.
- Received Before 30 Aug 24: no additional filing charges and **included in prize draw for a £100 Amazon voucher **
- Between 01 Sep 24 to 31 Oct 24: no additional filing charges
- Between 01 Nov 24 to 30 Nov 24: additional £15 charge
- Between 01 Dec 24 to 31 Dec 24: additional £30 charge
- Received After 01 Jan 25: additional £45 charge
Filing early not only saves you money but also helps you plan for the tax payment due on January 31st, 2025.
Why You Need to Complete Self Assessment Early
Completing your self-assessment tax return early offers numerous advantages:
- Better Cash Flow Management: Knowing your tax liability early allows you to plan your finances better. You'll have more time to save up for your tax bill, avoiding any last-minute rush.
- Avoid Penalties and Interest: Filing early helps avoid penalties for late submission. If you miss the deadline, you'll face an immediate fine, and additional penalties if the delay continues.
- Quicker Tax Refunds: If you are due a refund, filing early means you'll get your refund sooner. HMRC typically processes early returns faster, so you could receive your refund much earlier than if you filed at the last minute.
- Peace of Mind: Completing your tax return early reduces stress and ensures you aren't rushing to meet the deadline. This also gives you more time to gather any necessary documents and correct any potential errors.
- More Time for Corrections: Filing early gives you enough time to spot and correct any mistakes before the deadline, reducing the risk of submitting inaccurate information.
- Easier Access to Support: If you need help, HMRC's support services and tax professionals are typically less busy outside of the peak filing season, so you're more likely to get timely assistance.
- Improved Budget Planning: Knowing your tax liability well in advance helps with budgeting for other financial obligations and investments.
- Avoid Technical Issues: Filing early helps you avoid the last-minute rush when the HMRC online system might be overloaded, reducing the risk of technical issues that could delay your submission.
- Impact on Benefits and Credits: If you claim tax credits or other benefits, early submission ensures that your income figures are up-to-date, preventing any disruption to your payments.
- Planning for Tax Payments: If you need to make payments on account, filing early provides clarity on these amounts and helps you plan for both the January and July deadlines.
How We Complete Your Self Assessment
Here’s how GoForma simplifies your Self Assessment process:
- Document Submission: Submit the necessary documents to our secure dashboard.
- Prompt Review: Upon receiving your documents, our team begins the review process immediately.
- Detailed Preparation: We carefully prepare your tax return, ensuring all information is correct and complete.
- Client Approval: Once prepared, we send the return to you for review and approval.
- Filing: After your approval, we submit your tax return to HMRC, keeping you informed every step of the way.
- Support: Our support team is always available to answer questions and provide guidance.
We understand the importance of quick and accurate tax return filings. Our service promises a two-month turnaround time from the date of submission. Our streamlined process guarantees you won’t miss the deadline, provided you submit your documents on time.
Don't Delay – Act Now!
Don’t wait until the deadline is looming. Filing your tax return early is a smart move that saves you money, time, and stress.
Ready to Get Started?
Log in to your GoForma dashboard today and get started on your 2023/2024 Self Assessment early to enjoy peace of mind, avoid penalties, and maybe even win big!
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact your accountant or email us at support@goforma.com. We're here to make tax season a breeze!
Welcome to GoForma, your trusted partner in accounting excellence in the UK. We understand that every business is unique, and so are its accounting needs. To ensure you get the most out of our expert accounting services in the UK, we offer a wide range of add-ons tailored to your specific requirements. Our addons are designed to simplify your accounting needs, making your experience seamless and efficient. Explore our add-ons below and discover how GoForma can boost your business.
GoForma Add-ons
Cryptocurrency Self Assessment Tax Return - £189 + VAT (One-off)
Navigating the world of cryptocurrency taxation can be daunting. Our Cryptocurrency Self Assessment Tax Return service ensures you stay compliant with HMRC regulations. For just £189 + VAT, our crypto accountants handle everything, from calculating your crypto gains and losses to submitting your tax return. Stay stress-free and let us manage your crypto taxes with precision.
Filing:
- 1 x Self Assessment Tax Return
Integrations and crypto support:
- Connect your exchanges, wallets & blockchain addresses
- Integrations with 750+ exchanges
- 10,000 annual transactions supported
- Margin & Futures trading
- Staking, Lending & DeFi
- 23,000+ cryptocurrencies
- 170+ blockchains
Self Assessment Tax Return - £120 + VAT (One-off)
Take the stress out of tax season with our Self Assessment Tax Return service. For £120 + VAT, our professional accountants will prepare and submit your self assessment tax return, ensuring accuracy and compliance. Whether you’re self-employed, a landlord, or have additional income, we’ll accurately prepare and file your tax return, so you can focus on what you do best – running your business.
Support:
- Dedicated 1-on-1 self assessment accountant
- Online dashboard
- Filing notifications and reminders
- Basic tax insights and expense analysis
- WhatsApp support
Filing:
- 1 x Self Assessment Tax Return
Confirmation Statement - £49 + VAT (One-off)
Keeping your company's information up to date with Companies House is crucial. Our Confirmation Statement service, available for £49 + VAT, ensures that your confirmation statement is filed correctly and on time. Avoid penalties and keep your company records accurate with GoForma.
Filing:
- 1 x Confirmation Statement
Crypto Capital Gains Tax Report - £69 + VAT (One-off)
Included in our Cryptocurrency Self Assessment Tax Return service, the Crypto Capital Gains Tax Report is also available as a standalone add-on for £69 + VAT. This detailed report breaks down your crypto transactions, calculating your gains and losses to help you understand your tax obligations. Stay informed and in control of your crypto investments with our expert support.
FreeAgent Amazon Integration - £6 + VAT (per month)
Integrate your Amazon seller account with FreeAgent effortlessly for just £6 + VAT per month. Automatically sync your Amazon sales data with your accounting software, saving you time and reducing errors. Simplify your e-commerce accounting with this seamless integration.
Additional Monthly Payroll - from £5 + VAT (per month)
As your business grows, so does your team. Managing payroll for multiple employees can be complex. Our additional monthly payroll service starts at just £5 + VAT per month per additional employee. We handle all aspects of payroll, ensuring timely and accurate payments. Focus on growing your business while we take care of your payroll needs.
Filing:
- Monthly payroll and PAYE filing with HMRC
Registered London Business Address - from £20 + VAT (per month)
Enhance your business presence with a prestigious London address. For as little as £20 + VAT per month, you can use Registered London Business Address for official correspondence and on public records. Benefit from mail handling and forwarding services, ensuring you never miss important correspondence. It’s an affordable way to boost your business’s credibility and appeal.
Virtual office:
- London Business Address
- Digital Mail Forwarding
- Meet clients in our cafe
- Book a London meeting room from £60/hour
- Use for Google My Business listing
Special Purpose Vehicle Requirements - from £30 + VAT (per month per property)
If you’re involved in property investment or other ventures requiring a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), we’ve got you covered. Our experts will help set up and maintain your SPV, starting at £30 + VAT per month per property. We assist with the specific accounting and compliance needs of SPVs, ensuring you meet all regulatory requirements.
Ready to Simplify Your Accounting?
Unlock the full potential of your business with GoForma's comprehensive add-ons. Whether you're dealing with cryptocurrency, self-assessments, or specialised business needs, our expert team is here to support you every step of the way. Our addons are designed to meet your specific needs, offering you convenience, expertise, and peace of mind.
**Book a Free Consultation **today to learn more about our services and how we can tailor them to fit your business. Partner with GoForma and experience hassle-free, professional accounting like never before.
Why Choose GoForma?
- Your Dedicated Accountant: Partner with a dedicated accountant who understands your business inside out.
- Personalised Approach: Enjoy a personalised approach and tailored solutions designed specifically for your financial needs.
- Transparent Pricing: Benefit from transparent pricing packages with no hidden fees, so you always know what you're paying for.
- Proactive Updates: Stay compliant with proactive updates on the latest tax laws and regulations.
- Maximise Tax Efficiency: Trust our commitment to maximising your tax efficiency and minimising your liabilities.
- Industry Expertise: Leverage our diverse industry expertise to get specialised insights and advice.
- Certified Professionals: Work with certified accountants who bring credibility and professionalism to every interaction.
- Deadline Reminders: Never miss a deadline with our regular reminders, ensuring timely submissions and compliance.
- FreeAgent Platinum Partner: Take advantage of our partnership with FreeAgent for top-tier accounting software integration.
- Trust: Join thousands of our satisfied clients who trust us with their accounting needs. Check out our reviews on Google and Trustpilot.
Maximise your efficiency and let GoForma handle your accounting needs. With our flexible add-ons, you get the customised support your business deserves. Join the many satisfied clients who trust GoForma with their accounting today!