How Much Does an Accountant Cost in the UK?

The short answer

For most individuals and small businesses, accountancy fees in the UK fall into predictable bands. A straightforward self assessment tax return typically costs £150–£300. A small limited company package — accounts, corporation tax, payroll and advice — typically runs £60–£250 per month. One-off jobs such as company formation or a capital gains computation are usually quoted as fixed projects.

The honest caveat: every figure depends on complexity. Five rental properties, foreign income, or a VAT-registered business with staff all add genuine work — which is why good firms quote a fixed fee after a short conversation rather than publishing one-size-fits-all prices.

What drives the price up or down

• Business structure — sole trader accounts are simpler than limited company statutory accounts
• Transaction volume — 40 invoices a month is a different job from 4,000
• Record quality — tidy cloud bookkeeping costs less to work with than a carrier bag of receipts
• VAT and payroll — each adds recurring filings through the year
• Deadlines — work needed in a hurry, especially January, can cost more
• Advice needs — compliance-only is cheaper than ongoing tax planning

Fixed fees vs hourly rates

Traditional firms billed by the hour, which made every phone call feel like a taxi meter. Most modern practices — Bayar Hughes & Co included — quote fixed fees agreed before any work starts, usually payable monthly for ongoing packages. You know the cost in advance, and you can actually ask questions without watching the clock.

When comparing quotes, check what is included: does the monthly fee cover the directors’ personal tax returns? VAT? Payroll for your staff? References for mortgages? Two “£100 a month” quotes can be very different packages.

Is an accountant worth it?

For most business owners, yes — and not only for the time saved. An experienced accountant typically finds allowances and reliefs that DIY filers miss: home-office and mileage claims, the optimal salary-dividend mix for directors, capital allowances, pension planning. It is common for the tax saved to exceed the fee. Add penalty protection — no missed deadlines — and the maths usually favours professional help from the first year of trading.

Get an exact price in one conversation

Bayar Hughes & Co, chartered certified accountants in New Eltham, London SE9, quote fixed fees up front for everything from one-off tax returns to full company packages. Call +44 7441 347796 or message us on WhatsApp — a five-minute chat gets you a real number, free and without obligation.