Written by the TaxTune Editorial Team · Reviewed by our qualified accountants · Updated for 2026
The quick answer If your affairs are simple, doing your own books and tax is reasonable. Once you have a limited company, VAT, payroll, property or several income sources, an accountant usually saves more than the fee by claiming everything, avoiding penalties, and freeing your time for the business.

When doing it yourself works

A sole trader with one income stream, modest turnover and no VAT can often manage with careful bookkeeping and a straightforward return. The forms guide you, and the tax is easy to check.

When an accountant pays for itself

  1. You run a limited company. Accounts, a CT600, payroll and dividends all carry deadlines and rules that are easy to get wrong.
  2. You are VAT registered. Schemes, the digital link rules and quarterly filing add real risk.
  3. You have property or several income sources. More moving parts means more that can go wrong and more reliefs to claim.
  4. Your time is valuable. Hours spent wrestling with tax are hours not spent earning or growing.

Not sure whether you need an accountant?

We will tell you honestly. If your affairs are simple we will say so. If an accountant would save you money and stress, we will show you how much. TaxTune works on a clear fixed fee.

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We handle your bookkeeping, accounts, tax and filings, claim everything you are entitled to, and keep you compliant, so you can get on with the business. Fixed fee.

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Frequently asked questions

Should my business use an accountant?

If your affairs are simple, doing it yourself is reasonable. Once you have a company, VAT, payroll, property or several income sources, an accountant usually saves more than the fee.

Can I do my own company accounts?

You can, but they must follow accounting standards and file correctly at Companies House and HMRC. Many directors use an accountant to avoid penalties and rejected filings.

Will an accountant save me money?

Often yes, by claiming every allowable expense and relief, structuring your affairs efficiently, and avoiding penalties. For anything beyond the simplest cases the saving frequently exceeds the fee.

How much does an accountant cost?

It depends on what you need. We work on a fixed fee agreed up front, based on your circumstances, so there are no surprises.

Is it risky to do my own business tax?

For simple affairs, no. For companies, VAT and more complex situations, mistakes can be costly, which is where professional help earns its keep.