Doing your accounts will probably never become your favourite task. But accounting software may make you less prone to wanting to pull your hair out. Even if you’re not a numbers whiz.
Accounting Guides
If you are working via your own limited company, you need to keep on top of your accounting duties.
A good accountant will look after your company's affairs, however you (as a director) are utimately responsible for the accuracy of your company accounts.
Browse our accountancy guides to find out what your duties are, and what an accountant can do for you.
Your balance sheet and profit and loss account explained
You may have heard your accountant or bank manager talk about your “balance sheet” and “profit and loss account”. What do these terms mean, and what information can these documents provide you about your company?
How long should you keep your tax and accounting records for?
However you decide to work as a contractor – via your own company, or an umbrella – or if you’re a self-employed freelancer, you must keep your financial records safe for a number of years. How long depends on the type of tax.
Shutting down your company – cessation accounts
There may come a time when you decide that you no longer need your limited company. Here, a leading accountant explains the procedures you must follow when shutting down your business.
Why there is no such thing as an ‘IR35 accountant’
Although you should expect all contractor-focused professional accountancy firms to be highly IR35-literate, some still like to advertise themselves as ‘IR35 accountants’, which is a misleading term.
Successful contracting – how to maintain your accounting records
Keeping accurate accounting records is an essential task for every successful contractor. Not only can you ensure that you stay on the right side of the taxman, but you should also be able to see exactly what your financial situation is at any moment in time.