Last updated: June 2026 · Reviewed by the AccountingFirms editorial team (UK qualified-accountant network)
Quick answer: Most UK accountants charge between £25–£50 per hour or a fixed monthly fee of £60–£250 for small businesses. A self-assessment tax return typically costs £150–£350, while annual limited company accounts and tax run from £750 to £1,500+. Your final fee depends on turnover, complexity, and the services you bundle.
If you’re weighing up whether to hire an accountant, the first question is almost always the same: how much does an accountant cost in the UK? Fees vary widely depending on your business size, the services you need, and how your accountant charges. This 2026 guide breaks down realistic price ranges across the UK so you know exactly what to expect, what drives the price up or down, and how to avoid overpaying.
Get in touch with our skilled professionals for expert UK tax and accounting solutions specialised to minimise your tax burden and resolve your financial challenges efficiently.
How much does an accountant cost in the UK? (2026 fee table)
Here are typical UK accountancy fees for individuals and small businesses in 2026:
| Service | Typical UK cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Self-assessment tax return | £150–£350 |
| Sole trader / self-employed accounts | £300–£600 per year |
| Limited company accounts & corporation tax | £750–£1,500+ per year |
| Bookkeeping | £25–£50 per hour / £100–£300+ monthly |
| Payroll | £4–£8 per payslip + monthly base fee |
| VAT returns | £100–£400 per quarter |
| Combined small-business package | £60–£250 per month |
These are guide figures. Your actual quote depends on transaction volume, how organised your records are, and whether you bundle services together.
What affects how much you pay?
1. The complexity of your finances
A freelancer with one income stream costs far less to manage than a growing limited company with payroll, VAT, multiple income sources and stock. The more moving parts, the higher the fee.
2. How your accountant charges
There are two common models. Fixed monthly fees give predictable costs and usually include cloud software and support. Hourly billing (often £125–£300 per hour for a qualified accountant) can be cheaper for one-off jobs but harder to budget for ongoing work.
3. Your location in the UK
Accountants in London and the South East typically charge 20–40% more than firms in the North, Midlands, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland. Because many UK accountants now work remotely, you’re no longer limited to firms on your doorstep, so comparing across regions can cut your bill significantly.
4. Qualifications and experience
Chartered and certified (ACA, ACCA, AAT) accountants often charge more than unqualified bookkeepers, but for complex tax work that expertise can save you far more than the difference in fee. Look for membership of a recognised body and professional indemnity insurance.
Is hiring an accountant worth the cost?
For most businesses, yes. A good accountant typically pays for themselves by claiming allowable expenses you’d miss, keeping you compliant with HMRC deadlines, and freeing up hours you can spend earning. The real cost of not having one is often missed reliefs, late-filing penalties, and avoidable stress. If you’d like a deeper breakdown, see our guide to accountant fees and cost comparisons.
How to avoid overpaying for an accountant
- Get at least three quotes and compare what’s actually included.
- Ask for a fixed, all-in price so there are no surprise add-ons.
- Keep your records tidy — clean bookkeeping lowers your fee.
- Bundle services (accounts, tax, payroll) for a better overall rate.
- Compare local and remote firms to find the best value.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does an accountant cost for a small business in the UK?
Most small businesses pay between £60 and £250 per month for combined accounts, tax and bookkeeping, depending on turnover and the services included.
How much does an accountant charge for a self-assessment tax return?
A straightforward self-assessment return usually costs £150–£350. Returns with rental income, capital gains or multiple income sources cost more.
Is it cheaper to do my own accounts?
Doing it yourself saves the fee but risks missed deductions and penalties. For many businesses, an accountant saves more than they charge.
Do accountants charge a fixed fee or by the hour?
Both. Fixed monthly fees are popular for ongoing work because they’re predictable, while hourly rates (around £125–£300) suit one-off tasks.
How much does a limited company accountant cost in the UK?
Annual accounts and corporation tax for a limited company typically cost £750–£1,500+, often available as a monthly package that includes payroll and VAT.
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