Shab
2 posts
Aug 19, 2025
11:31 PM
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If you’ve ever struggled with filing your tax return, you’ll understand why many people search for a self assessment tax return accountant. While HMRC offers guidance, the process can be time-consuming, especially if you have multiple income streams or complex financial circumstances. In the UK, accountants play a vital role in simplifying this responsibility. But how do you know when you need one, how much they’ll cost, and what to look for when choosing a professional near you?
This discussion unpacks everything you should know about finding the right accountant to manage your self assessment tax return — from costs and local options to the type of support you can expect.
Why Hire a Self Assessment Tax Return Accountant?
At its core, self assessment means you’re personally responsible for declaring your income and paying the right amount of tax. But many people find the process overwhelming for a variety of reasons:
Complex income: Freelancers, landlords, investors, or those with foreign income often find the forms complicated.
Changing tax rules: UK tax regulations frequently change, leaving individuals confused about allowances and deductions.
Time pressures: For busy professionals or business owners, completing forms can feel like an unnecessary distraction.
Risk of penalties: Mistakes or missed deadlines lead to fines, making professional support a safer option.
An experienced accountant ensures accuracy, identifies potential tax savings, and saves you from last-minute stress.
What Services Do Accountants Provide?
A self assessment tax return accountant offers more than just form-filling. Typical services include:
Calculating income tax liability: Making sure your tax is correct to the last penny.
Claiming allowable expenses: From mileage to office supplies, expenses reduce your tax bill.
Advising on tax reliefs: Marriage allowance, pension contributions, and investment reliefs are often overlooked.
Filing returns on time: Accountants submit directly to HMRC, ensuring compliance.
Keeping records organised: Many offer digital record-keeping systems for receipts and invoices.
Advisory support: They can explain how changes in your finances may affect future tax years.
For business owners, accountants may also handle VAT, payroll, and corporation tax alongside personal self assessment.
Costs of a Self Assessment Accountant in the UK
One of the most common concerns is: How much does it cost to hire a self assessment tax return accountant? Prices vary depending on the complexity of your finances and the accountant’s expertise.
Basic tax return (for individuals with straightforward income): £150 – £250.
Moderately complex return (self-employed or small landlords): £250 – £400.
Highly complex return (multiple properties, foreign income, investments): £400 – £1,000+.
Some accountants charge fixed fees, while others charge hourly rates ranging from £50 to £150 per hour. It’s always best to ask for a quote upfront so there are no surprises.
Although it’s an added expense, hiring a professional often saves more than it costs by identifying deductions you may have missed.
Finding a Local Accountant Near You
Many people prefer to work with someone nearby. Searching for a self assessment tax return accountant near me is a good start, but you’ll need to filter options carefully. Here are some ways to find reliable local help:
Recommendations: Ask colleagues, friends, or business contacts who they use.
Professional directories: The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) have searchable directories.
Google Maps and reviews: Local listings often include client feedback.
Networking events: Local business groups or chambers of commerce can connect you to trusted accountants.
Working with a local accountant means you can meet face-to-face, although many accountants also offer online consultations across the UK.
Online Accountants vs Local Firms
With technology advancing, many UK taxpayers now use online accountants. Instead of visiting an office, you upload documents via a secure portal and communicate by email or video call.
Advantages of online accountants:
Usually cheaper than traditional firms.
Flexible support available outside normal working hours.
Useful for tech-savvy individuals who prefer digital records.
Advantages of local accountants:
Personalised service with face-to-face meetings.
Better for those with complicated finances.
Local knowledge of regional tax issues, such as property rules.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your preference and comfort level.
Key Qualities to Look for in an Accountant
When choosing someone to handle your tax return, look for:
Qualifications: Chartered or certified accountants (ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
Experience: Especially with your specific type of income (self-employed, landlord, investor).
Transparent fees: Clear breakdown of costs with no hidden charges.
Good communication: They should explain things in plain English, not jargon.
Reputation: Client testimonials or reviews showing reliability.
Support availability: Check if they’ll assist if HMRC raises questions or an inquiry.
The Support You Can Expect
A good self assessment tax return accountant doesn’t just handle your numbers. They become an ongoing resource to help you:
Plan ahead for tax bills.
Manage cash flow if you’re self-employed.
Avoid common filing mistakes.
Stay updated with HMRC changes.
Build a relationship for future financial planning.
Many accountants now also offer fixed annual packages, meaning you can get year-round advice rather than just once a year.
When Should You Hire an Accountant?
It’s best not to wait until the last minute. Many accountants become overwhelmed in December and January with last-minute clients. If you want proper advice, contact them in the summer or early autumn. This gives you plenty of time to prepare records and reduces stress for both you and the accountant.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a self assessment tax return accountant can be one of the smartest financial decisions you make, particularly if your income is not straightforward. Yes, there’s a cost involved, but the benefits often outweigh the price: fewer mistakes, more savings through allowances, and complete peace of mind.
Whether you choose a local accountant near you or prefer the convenience of an online firm, make sure you pick someone qualified, transparent, and responsive. The right support will not only help you stay compliant with HMRC but also free up your time so you can focus on your business, career, or personal life.
When tax season arrives, instead of feeling stressed and unprepared, you’ll know that your return is accurate, timely, and optimised for your financial situation.
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