Do I Need an Accountant if I'm Self-Employed in Stoke-on-Trent?

The Short Answer

Legally, you do not need an accountant to be self-employed. You can register with HMRC, keep your own records, and file your own tax return.

However, most self-employed people in Stoke-on-Trent find that using an accountant:

• Saves them money through legitimate tax savings
• Saves time they would rather spend on their business
• Gives peace of mind about HMRC compliance

When You Definitely Should Consider an Accountant

Your Income is Growing

Once you are earning more than £20,000-30,000, the complexity of your finances increases and the potential tax savings from professional advice become significant.

You Are VAT-Registered (or Approaching the Threshold)

VAT adds a layer of complexity with quarterly returns and Making Tax Digital requirements. Mistakes can be costly.

You Have Multiple Income Sources

Self-employment plus rental income, investments, or a part-time job makes your tax situation more complex.

You Want to Incorporate

Deciding whether to become a limited company, and handling the transition, is where professional advice pays for itself.

You Are Too Busy

If you are spending evenings and weekends on admin instead of growing your business or relaxing with family, something needs to change.

What an Accountant Actually Does For You

Tax Return Preparation

We gather your figures, identify all allowable expenses, complete your return accurately, and submit it on time.

Tax Planning

We help you understand your tax position throughout the year, not just at deadline time. This means no nasty surprises.

Expense Maximisation

Many self-employed people miss legitimate expenses. We ensure you claim everything you are entitled to.

HMRC Liaison

If HMRC has questions or opens an enquiry, we handle it for you.

Business Advice

From choosing the right structure to planning for growth, we are here to help.

The Cost vs. Benefit Question

Basic self-assessment preparation in Stoke-on-Trent typically costs £150-300 for straightforward cases.

What you get for that:

• 10+ hours of your time back
• Confidence your return is correct
• All allowable expenses claimed
• Peace of mind about compliance

Typical savings we find for clients:

• Missed mileage claims: £500-2,000
• Home office expenses: £300-600
• Professional subscriptions: £100-500
• Capital allowances: Variable but often significant

For many clients, the accountant fee pays for itself through tax savings, before you even consider the time saved.

Local Support for Stoke-on-Trent Self-Employed

At Stoke Accounting Services, we specialise in supporting self-employed individuals across the Potteries. Whether you are a tradesperson in Hanley, a freelancer in Newcastle-under-Lyme, or running a side business from Burslem, we provide:

• Personal tax returns from £150
• Bookkeeping from £50/month
• Year-round support, not just at tax time

Based at Shelton House on Stoke Road, we are your local accounting partner.

Book a free consultation to discuss your situation.