About us — FAQ

What can we answer?

34 clear, jargon-free answers. Search below, or browse by topic.

Getting Started

How much do your services cost? +
We offer fixed-fee packages tailored to your business. Following a free discovery call, we'll recommend the most suitable package and provide a clear quote upfront.
Do you offer fixed monthly fees? +
Yes. Our fees are agreed in advance, so you'll always know exactly what you're paying and what is included.
Do you work with clients outside Oxfordshire? +
Absolutely. We support businesses, childcare providers and self-employed individuals across the UK using cloud-based accounting software and virtual meetings.
What accounting software do you use? +
We primarily work with Xero but also support clients using QuickBooks and other cloud accounting solutions.
How do I get started? +
Simply book a free discovery call. We'll discuss your business, answer any questions and recommend the most suitable package for your needs.
Can you help if I'm behind on my accounts? +
Absolutely. Whether you're a few months behind or several years behind, we can help get your bookkeeping, VAT returns, payroll and tax affairs back up to date. We'll review your situation, agree a plan and work with you to bring everything back into order as efficiently as possible.
I've missed a tax deadline. What should I do? +
Don't panic. Contact us as soon as possible and we'll review your position, identify any outstanding obligations and help minimise any penalties or further issues.
I've received a letter from HMRC. Can you help? +
Yes. Whether it's a reminder, enquiry or compliance check, we can review the correspondence, explain what it means and help you respond appropriately.
My bookkeeping is a mess. Can you sort it out? +
Yes. We regularly help businesses and self-employed individuals tidy up incomplete or inaccurate records, bringing everything up to date and ensuring future compliance.

Switching Accountants

Is it difficult to switch accountants? +
Not at all. We manage the entire process for you, making the transition as smooth as possible.
Will you contact my current accountant? +
Yes. We handle all professional clearance requests and obtain the information needed to take over your affairs.
How long does it take to switch accountants? +
Most switches can be completed within a few weeks, although timescales can vary depending on how quickly records are received.

Limited Companies

What is included in your limited company packages? +
Our packages can include annual accounts, corporation tax returns, payroll, bookkeeping, VAT returns, management accounts and ongoing support.
Do I need a separate accountant for my personal tax return? +
No. We can prepare both your company accounts and your director self-assessment tax return.
Can you help me set up a limited company? +
Yes. We can register your company, advise on share structures and help you start in the most tax-efficient way.
What is a Companies House confirmation statement? +
A confirmation statement confirms that the information held by Companies House is accurate and up to date. We can prepare and file this for you.

Sole Traders & Self-Employed

Do I need an accountant as a sole trader? +
While not legally required, an accountant can help you stay compliant, reduce your tax bill and save valuable time.
When should I become a limited company? +
This depends on your profits, future plans and personal circumstances. We'll advise whether incorporation is likely to be beneficial.
Can you help with Making Tax Digital? +
Yes. We can help you choose suitable software, maintain digital records and meet your MTD obligations.

VAT & Tax

When do I need to register for VAT? +
You generally need to register when your taxable turnover exceeds the VAT registration threshold, although voluntary registration may also be beneficial.
Which VAT scheme is right for my business? +
This depends on your industry, turnover and circumstances. We'll review your position and recommend the most suitable option.
Can you deal with HMRC on my behalf? +
Yes. Once authorised, we can communicate directly with HMRC regarding your tax affairs.
What happens if HMRC opens an enquiry? +
We'll guide you through the process, deal with HMRC where possible and provide support throughout the enquiry.
What is a tax investigation service? +
Tax investigation cover helps protect you from the professional costs associated with responding to HMRC enquiries and investigations.

Payroll & CIS

Can you run payroll for my employees? +
Yes. We provide payroll processing, pension administration and all required HMRC submissions.
Do you support CIS contractors and subcontractors? +
Yes. We provide subcontractor verification, CIS returns and ongoing CIS compliance support.
Can you help with workplace pensions? +
Yes. We can manage pension auto-enrolment obligations and pension submissions alongside payroll.

Nurseries & Child Care

Do you work with nurseries and childcare providers? +
Yes. We support nurseries, pre-schools and childminders with fee and funding income, payroll, VAT and year-end accounts.
How do you handle government funding income? +
We record and reconcile funded hours and grant income correctly, so your accounts and tax stay accurate.
Can you manage payroll for our nursery staff? +
Yes. We run payroll and pensions auto-enrolment for your team, handling PAYE and all HMRC submissions.

Advisory & Growth

What are management accounts? +
Management accounts provide regular financial information to help you monitor performance, manage cash flow and make informed decisions.
What is cash flow forecasting? +
Cash flow forecasting helps you understand future cash movements, identify potential shortfalls and plan ahead with confidence.
What is a Virtual Finance Department? +
Our Virtual Finance Department provides the support of an in-house finance team, including bookkeeping, reporting, forecasting and strategic financial guidance.
When does a business need a Virtual Finance Department? +
Typically when the business has outgrown basic bookkeeping and compliance but is not yet ready for the cost of employing an in-house finance team.
Still have questions?

Can't find your answer?
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Every business is different. Book a free 30-minute call and we'll talk through your situation and work out exactly how we can help.