ACCOTAX - Accountants & Tax Consultants
Welcome to ACCOTAX, a firm of Chartered Accountants in London. The firm was established in 2009 and has helped thousands of businesses and individuals...See More
ACCOTAX - Accountants & Tax Consultants
Welcome to ACCOTAX, a firm of Chartered Accountants in London. The firm was established in 2009 and has helped thousands of businesses and individuals...See More
Frequently asked questions
What should a contractor look for in an accountant?
A contractor should seek an accountant with expertise in IR35, limited company accounts, and contractor-specific tax rules. Check for ACCA, ICAEW, or AAT qualifications, which demonstrate regulated training. Experience with HMRC compliance, VAT returns, and Self Assessment is essential. Also consider communication style, software compatibility, and fixed-fee pricing. A specialist contractor accountant will proactively advise on tax efficiency and keep you updated on legislative changes.
How do contractor accountants assist with IR35 compliance?
Contractor accountants assess your working practices against HMRC's IR35 rules to determine employment status. They review contracts, help establish whether you fall inside or outside IR35, and recommend appropriate contract wording. If inside, they calculate deemed employment taxes and manage PAYE. If outside, they ensure your limited company structure remains compliant. Ongoing advice helps contractors avoid penalties and adapt to changing HMRC guidance, safeguarding your income and business.
What qualifications should a contractor accountant hold?
Look for qualifications from recognised bodies such as ACCA, ICAEW, or AAT. ACCA and ICAEW members are chartered accountants with rigorous training in tax, audit, and financial management. AAT provides a strong foundation in accounting practice. These credentials ensure the accountant adheres to professional ethics and ongoing development. Additionally, check for specialist experience in contractor accounting, as general practitioners may not fully understand IR35 or limited company rules.
How much does a contractor accountant typically charge?
Fees vary based on services and complexity. Many contractor accountants offer fixed monthly packages covering bookkeeping, payroll, VAT returns, and annual accounts. Prices often range from £75 to £200 per month. Some charge separately for Self Assessment or company formation. It is wise to compare providers on AccountingFirms.co.uk to understand what is included. Avoid choosing solely on price; consider expertise, responsiveness, and additional support for HMRC investigations.
Can a contractor accountant help with VAT registration and returns?
Yes, contractor accountants handle VAT registration with HMRC, advise on the most suitable scheme (standard, flat rate, or cash accounting), and prepare and submit quarterly returns. They ensure you reclaim allowable input VAT and comply with Making Tax Digital requirements. They also guide on VAT thresholds and when registration becomes mandatory. This support reduces administrative burden and helps avoid penalties for late or incorrect submissions.
What ongoing support can a contractor expect from their accountant?
Ongoing support includes regular bookkeeping reviews, payroll processing, dividend planning, and tax return preparation. Accountants also provide advice on expenses, capital allowances, and pension contributions. They act as a point of contact for HMRC queries and represent you in investigations. Many offer cloud accounting software setup and training. This continuous guidance ensures your company remains compliant and tax-efficient throughout the year, not just at filing deadlines.
About Accounting Firms
AccountingFirms.co.uk is the UK's dedicated accountant comparison website, helping individuals, sole traders, landlords, startups, and SMEs instantly compare accountancy and tax fees from trusted UK accounting firms.
Find and connect with qualified accountants, tax advisers, bookkeepers, and business advisers using advanced search filters, verified profiles, and genuine reviews aggregated from Google, Trustpilot, Yelp, and other trusted platforms.
Over 26,000+ UK Accountants in One Place
Explore the UK's largest independent directory of accountants regulated by professional bodies including ICAEW, ACCA, AAT, CIMA, CIPFA, AIA, IFA, and other recognised UK accountancy bodies.
Affordable Online Accounting Services
Buy fixed-fee accounting packages online with confidence. Services are delivered by experienced UK-qualified accountants and tax advisers, covering:
A Marketplace for Accountants
For accounting firms, AccountingFirms.co.uk is more than a directory. It's a powerful lead generation platform, accountant marketplace, and business growth hub, helping practices attract new clients, increase online visibility, generate qualified leads, and win more accounting and taxation work across the UK.