1) Why choose a qualified bookkeeper over a firm of accountants?

A qualified bookkeeper has been trained to perform a wide range of tasks, principally in connection with bookkeeping of course, but additionally to include year end accounts preparation and in many cases completion of Self Assessment Tax Returns, as is true of Accubooks. Thus a qualified bookkeeper is able to perform most of the tasks required by small businesses. The fee levels charged by a bookkeeper are considerably less than those of a firm of accountants. Therefore most businesses can get the same job done but at a drastically reduced price. (Re limited companies, see the services section of this website.)

2) How much do you charge?

As each business varies in its requirements, it is not possible to quote a general fee level. However, we always agree an hourly rate in advance and in certain cases it may be possible to quote a fixed fee. Where ongoing bookkeeping services are being provided we will of course bill on a regular (eg monthly or quarterly) basis so that clients can budget their finances.

3) Why should I choose Accubooks?

At Accubooks we pride ourselves on the highly personalised and friendly service we offer. We also aim to achieve the utmost accuracy in all work that we do. Accurate financial records are absolutely essential so as to make sound financial decisions and maximise the profitability of your business. We want to be able to repay the trust that our clients invest in us, a desire that is also borne out by the value for money that we are able to offer. You can also benefit from the unique experience gained by the proprietor of Accubooks whilst working within accountancy practices, meaning that you can be guaranteed a professional service.

4) Are you able to offer tax advice?

Qualified bookkeepers, although accomplished professionals, are not qualified tax advisors. Whilst Accubooks can prepare the Self-Assessment Tax Returns of most individuals (including Partnership Returns) and give some basic tax advice in connection with them, when it comes to the more complex personal Tax Returns (such as those involving advanced aspects of Capital Gains Tax), or tax planning issues and all tax matters pertaining to limited companies, the services of a qualified tax consultant will need to be engaged. Having said that, the requirements of the average individual, running a small unincorporated business, are well within the scope of services offered by Accubooks - at a vastly reduced cost compared to a firm of accountants.

5) Why should I consider outsourcing my bookkeeping?

The costs involved with employing an 'in-house' bookkeeper can be quite high. Think of the costs of operating a PAYE scheme, staff training, covering sickness and holidays, etc. In addition, the accounting software can be very costly. Therefore engaging the services of Accubooks can save you time and money, as well as relieve you of a potential headache!

6) Will you be able to work at my offices?

We recognise that in some cases it is logistically necessary to work at a client's offices. However we do prefer to work from our office as we have the latest accounting software installed and we can generally operate more efficiently.

7) What areas do you cover?

Although based near Worthing, West Sussex, we offer our services throughout the Sussex area. In many cases, after an initial face-to-face consultation, it is quite possible to then conduct matters entirely via the post, phone and internet. Where it is required that we work at clients' premises, then our services will be limited to, say, a 20 mile distance from Worthing, West Sussex.

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