FAQs
Below you’ll find answers to the questions I’m asked most often.
If there’s anything you’re unsure about, or something I haven’t covered, just send me a message – I’m always happy to help.
How do I get started?
The easiest way to get started is to complete the appropriate enquiry form on the Packages page. It only takes a few minutes and helps me understand what support you’re looking for.
If you’d prefer to talk through your options, you can also send me a message or book a call via the Contact page.
There’s no pressure and no obligation – once I’ve reviewed your enquiry, I’ll confirm whether I’m the right fit and which package makes the most sense before we go any further.
What happens after I enquire?
Once I’ve reviewed your enquiry, I’ll come back to you to confirm whether I’m the right fit and which package makes the most sense for your business.
If I think you’d be better suited to a different option, I’ll explain why and let you decide. My aim is always to make sure you’re getting the right level of support.
If you decide to go ahead, you can find a breakdown of the general next steps here: What happens next
Do I need to have everything figured out before getting in touch?
No – not at all.
A lot of people worry they don’t know what to say or what information to give at this stage, and that’s completely normal.
You don’t need to overshare or have all the answers. Just give me a general idea of where you’re at and I’ll guide you from there.
I’m not sure which package I need – is that a problem?
Not at all.
Choosing the right package is something we’ll work through together. If I think a different option would suit you better, I’ll explain why and let you decide.
Do I need to be local to work with you?
No – I work remotely with clients all across the UK. Everything can be handled online, including ID checks, bookkeeping updates, and reviews.
I’ve never used a bookkeeper before. Will you explain things clearly?
Yes, absolutely.
I specialise in supporting people who’ve never worked with a bookkeeper before. I explain things in plain English and make sure you understand what’s going on – no confusing language or assumptions.
What if I’ve fallen behind on my bookkeeping?
You’re not alone – this is really common.
I offer a catch-up service to bring everything up to date before moving you onto a monthly package. We’ll agree the scope and cost upfront so there are no surprises.
How do payments work?
Monthly packages are collected by Direct Debit using GoCardless at the end of each month. It’s quick, secure, and you don’t need to remember to pay invoices.
Are your fees fixed, or will there be extra charges?
All my packages are fixed fee, so you know exactly what you’ll pay each month.
The only time there may be an additional cost is for one-off work (such as a catch-up), and this is always agreed in advance.
Is there a minimum commitment?
My monthly packages run on a rolling basis. If you decide to cancel, I ask for 30 days’ notice.
Any work already carried out isn’t refundable, but I’ll always make sure everything is left up to date and clearly handed over.
For packages that include a self-assessment tax return, this is included as part of your ongoing monthly fee across the full tax year.
Although the tax return is prepared and submitted after the tax year has ended, the work towards it happens throughout the year through regular bookkeeping, reviews, and ongoing support.
This means:
- The self-assessment tax return is only completed if the full tax year has been paid for
- If you cancel your package part way through the tax year, the tax return will not be completed
- No refunds are due if you leave mid-year, even though the self-assessment has not yet been submitted, as the monthly fees cover work already carried out during the year
If you cancel before the end of the tax year and still need a tax return completing, this can be quoted for separately.
Do you work with limited companies as well as sole traders?
Yes. Most of my clients are sole traders, but I also support limited companies.
Where needed, I work with a trusted accountant partner to make sure everything is fully covered.
Do I need to use Xero?
My main software is Xero, but I also support FreeAgent and spreadsheets.
If you’re currently using something else and are happy to switch, I can arrange the changeover for you and make sure everything is moved across properly.
If you’re not sure what’s best for your business, I’ll talk it through with you and help you decide.
How quickly do you reply to messages?
I aim to reply within 24 hours during the working week, so you’re never left wondering where you stand. You can contact me by email, and for any quick questions just send me a WhatsApp.
What information will I need to send over?
I’ll keep things as simple as possible and only ask for what I actually need.
If I’m doing your bookkeeping:
I’ll set you up with bank feeds in Xero so transactions come through automatically. Bank feeds are read-only, meaning I can see transactions but can’t move any money.
If you’d rather not use bank feeds, you can send a PDF or CSV bank statement each month instead – that’s absolutely fine.
For receipts and invoices, you’ll get access to Hubdoc or Apron. You can snap photos of paper receipts or forward email invoices, and they’ll link straight to your accounts.
If anything is missing, I’ll send you a clear list so nothing gets overlooked.
If you’re doing your own bookkeeping:
I’ll need access to your accounting software. You don’t need to share login details – just send me an invite. If you’re unsure how, I can guide you through it.
It also really helps if you let me know about any one-off or bigger changes, such as taking out a loan, buying a large piece of equipment, or anything unusual for your business. Having the paperwork for these makes a big difference in making sure your figures are accurate.
I still need to register for self-assessment or VAT – can you help?
Yes. I can register you with HMRC, explain what applies to your business, and make sure everything is set up correctly.
Once registered, I can also handle ongoing submissions and reminders so nothing gets missed.
Are your packages Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliant?
Yes. All of my packages are MTD compliant. I’ll make sure you’re signed up correctly and set up to meet MTD requirements when they apply to you.
Can you handle Making Tax Digital (MTD) for me?
Yes. If you’re on a package where I manage your bookkeeping, I’ll handle MTD for you. This includes signing you up with HMRC, making sure you’re compliant, submitting the required quarterly updates, and completing the final declaration. All of this is included in your monthly fees.
Is my data secure?
Yes – keeping your information safe is really important to me.
I use a secure online client portal for document sharing, and all accounting software I use is encrypted and industry-standard. Your data is kept completely confidential.
I’m also registered with the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) and follow strict data protection rules.