The short answer: it depends on what you need done, how tidy your records are and how complex the business is. Rather than looking for one number, it is better to understand what drives the fee and what to ask before you agree.
What affects the price
- The services you need. Accounts and tax returns only, or bookkeeping, VAT, payroll and advice too.
- The size of the business. More transactions, staff, bank accounts and invoices mean more work.
- The state of your records. Tidy records in cloud software take less time than a box of receipts.
- Type of business. Sole trader, limited company, landlord or a mix, and whether you are VAT registered.
- How often you want to talk. Yearly filing costs less than monthly reviews and regular advice.
- Deadlines. Work needed in a hurry, or catching up on years of missed filings, usually costs more.
How accountants usually charge
- An agreed fee for a defined set of work, for example annual accounts and a tax return. You know the cost in advance.
- A regular monthly fee that covers an agreed package such as bookkeeping, payroll and VAT.
- Hourly rates, often used for advice or one-off projects.
Questions to ask before you agree
- What exactly is included, and what would cost extra?
- Will you agree the fee in writing before starting?
- Who will do the work, and who will I speak to?
- How will you tell me about deadlines?
- What software do you work with, and will it suit my business?
- Are you registered with a professional body?
- What happens if my circumstances change during the year?
The cheapest quote is not always the best value
A low fee can leave out things you need, such as advice, deadline reminders or VAT work, which then become extras. Compare like with like, and ask what you get for the price.
Is it worth paying an accountant?
Many small business owners find it worthwhile. A good accountant helps you meet deadlines, avoid penalties, claim the reliefs you are entitled to and understand your numbers. You could do some of it yourself with accounting software, but mistakes and missed deadlines can be costly, and your time is worth something too.
Our starting prices
- Self Assessment: from £149
- Sole trader accounts: from £249
- Limited company accounts: from £499
- Small business accounting: from £99 a month
These are starting prices for straightforward cases. Your exact fee depends on what you need.
How we work
After a free 20-minute call, we agree our fee with you before we start work, so you know what to expect. AF Coopers & Co is registered with ACCA. See our services or book a call.
Common questions
Can I get a quote before I commit?
Yes. Book a free 20-minute call, tell us about your business and we will agree the fee with you before we start any work.
Will my fee go up if I need more help during the year?
It can if you ask for work outside what was agreed. We tell you before we do anything that would cost extra.
Is a monthly fee better than a yearly one?
It depends. A monthly fee spreads the cost and often includes regular bookkeeping and advice. A yearly fee suits simple, tidy businesses that only need accounts and tax filings.
General information only, not personal advice. Tax rules, rates and thresholds change, so check gov.uk or speak to us about your own situation.