Contractor accountants for limited companies, freelancers and consultants
Running your own contracting business means managing more than client work. You are also responsible for Corporation Tax, VAT, Self Assessment, payroll, annual accounts and Companies House filings.
At Accounting People, we are specialist contractor accountants supporting limited-company contractors, IT contractors, freelancers and consultants in London and across the UK. We provide fixed-fee accounting support, practical IR35 guidance and ongoing help with tax, VAT, payroll and company accounts.
Whether you are starting your first limited company, switching accountants or need clearer support with IR35 and tax planning, our team can manage the accounting while you focus on your contracts.
Fixed-Fee Support | IR35 Guidance | Dedicated Accountant | UK-Wide Service
Who we work with
We work with contractors and freelance professionals across the UK, from people setting up their first limited company to experienced contractors looking for clearer, more proactive accounting support. We help contractors manage their accounts, tax compliance and ongoing reporting responsibilities as their businesses develop.
IT contractors
Engineering contractors
Interim professionals
Freelancers and consultants
Contractors working through limited companies
Professionals moving from permanent employment into contracting
Contractors who need help with IR35, VAT and tax planning
Speak to a specialist contractor accountant today
Whether it’s IR35, tax planning, or compliance, our expert accountants are here to give you clear answers and tailored solutions. Send us a quick message and we’ll get back to you within one working day.
What people are saying about us
Jack M.
9 months ago
Have been with Accounting People for many years - initially working with Ian and then Saad - both very genuine kind people. Overall they're very friendly, reliable, and always seem to have your back. Recommend them highly.
Adam A.
9 months ago
Accounting People have been doing my UK personal Tax returns for several years now. Their service is quick, efficient, accurate and they are always on time. And the team there is always helpful and very friendly. I can wholly recommend them without hesitation.
Mark W.
9 months ago
Having had the pleasure of working with Umair from Accounting People for a number of years now, I only have complements and praise for the services received from Umair and the wider team. They have supported all my business accounting needs from the very start and Umair has personally handled all my accounting needs, patiently offering help, advice and support at every step and I couldn’t be happier. Would not hesitate to recommend Accounting People.
Lucy G.
9 months ago
I have been working with Wajid at Accounting People for years now. He files my tax return and prepares my accounts for my rental properties. His service is brilliant - always very responsive, clear and efficient. He has been my main contact consistently throughout the years, so has delivered a really personalised service and has made it extremely straightforward to do my taxes. I would highly recommend Accounting People.
Alastair B.
9 months ago
Great communication and patience throughout the process. Made everything as painless as possible for me, excellent service!
Elaine O.
9 months ago
Accounting People supported me with my annual tax returns for a number of years now. They are responsive and supportive especially with some tax complexities which I haven't encountered before. The team have digital tools which allows me to have all the work done remotely which saves my time and makes everything work quickly. The same team member works with me each year which also makes the process easy.
K K
9 months ago
As a small business owner, Accounting People play a key role in keeping things running smoothly. They handle the tax and compliance side efficiently, so I don’t have to think about it. I deal directly with Wajid Abdul, and having one consistent point of contact makes all the difference. He’s reliable, clear, and quick to respond - exactly what you want from an accountant. Highly recommended.
Christine C.
9 months ago
The Accounting People have been supporting my accounts for several years now and I couldn't be happier with the service. Friendly, polite, patient, and ever so helpful even with sometimes random finance questions. I really like and respect them and consider Umair a very trusted advisor.
Katherine M.
9 months ago
Awesome guys, always ready to help and explain when I need them too. Thank you for all you have done over the years.
Kind regards
Katherine
MGP L.
9 months ago
I have been using Accounting People for the last few years to help prepare the annual accounts and corporation tax returns for my new company, and the service has been excellent. They are very responsive, proactive, and a pleasure to work with. Saad has been particularly helpful, explaining everything clearly and making sure that I fully understand the process. I would highly recommend them.
Patrick S.
9 months ago
I signed up with Accounting People 18 months ago. I have found the service excellent - they communicate well, deliver on time and are very client focussed.
Simon J.
10 months ago
Rashid has been extremely helpful with a number of tax queries I have had. He is quick at responding and forthcoming with his insight.
James F.
10 months ago
Once again, fantastic service and brilliant people to deal with. Thank you guys
Toni H.
10 months ago
Fantastic team - efficient, friendly, professional and always on hand to help. Would highly recommend!
Raj M.
10 months ago
I have been with Accounting People for few years now - Excellent service my designated accountant (Mr. Fawad Anis) always responds quickly to every question and guides me through all the process. He is very knowledgeable in all tax affairs. All things done on time the right way . Their online management platform is easy to use too. Very happy and will continue to use them. Thanks Fawad and Accounting People and Mr. Rashid.
Marc B.
10 months ago
I’ve been with Accounting People now for over six years. Both Sohaib and Ian have always been incredibly responsive and genuinely supportive. Their advice is clear, communication is honest, and working with them has been a great experience. Especially when there are questions I'm not sure how to answer. A highly reliable and professional team. Can't recommend them enough (well, I've introduced them to a few people over the years and will continue to do so).
Dil
10 months ago
We have been with Accounting People for a few years now. It was a smooth transition from our previous accountants and we have not had any problems since. I find them very efficient, easy to communicate with, reliable and polite. Fawad has done a great job handling our accounts, always striving to ensure client satisfaction and always on hand to handle any query. We would not hesitate to recommend them.
srikanth V.
11 months ago
Accounting People have been absolutely outstanding with their service. They are always proactive in preparing and submitting our VAT returns well before the deadline, which gives us complete peace of mind. The team is transparent, reliable, and extremely supportive throughout the entire process. They are always available to answer any questions we have, no matter how big or small.
My account manager, Asim, has been exceptionally helpful — he explains everything clearly, responds quickly, and makes the whole process smooth and stress-free. I genuinely feel valued as a client.
I strongly recommend Accounting People, and especially Asim. Keep up the great work!
anna G.
11 months ago
I have had a great experience with Umair in Accounting People. Umair filled in all the paperwork to set up my limited company in February 2022 and has overseen the accounts in the company since, producing annual financial statements. He has always been very responsive to questions and given straight forward and well explained advice (which I need!) on the best way to do things. I recommended Accounting People to a friend on the basis of my positive experience with them. She also felt that they provided an excellent service.
Minesh S.
11 months ago
Have been with Accounting People for over 5 years! Very through and helpful! Wajid has definitely helped my business finances and made everything seamless!
Blair T.
11 months ago
Accounting People have been covering my accounting needs for over 18 years. Throughout that time, they have provided excellent support and have always gone the extra mile — especially when I’ve misunderstood elements of my accounting responsibilities. I’ve recommended them countless times over the years and would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a proactive and reliable accountant. I’ve known both Ian Luke (founder) and Wajid Abdul for many years, and I will continue to use them for all of my accounting needs.
Alex N.
11 months ago
These guys are so very helpful and know there job so well. I would be so lost without them.
Steve M.
11 months ago
I use Accounting People Ltd for all three of my businesses — Synergy Wellbeing, Inspired Personal Health & Fitness, and The Boathouse Fitness Club — and I couldn’t be happier with the service.
The team are always on hand whenever I need advice, quick to respond, and genuinely supportive. Nothing ever feels like too much trouble, and it’s clear they take pride in looking after their clients properly.
As someone juggling multiple businesses, having accountants I can fully trust has made a huge difference. I highly recommend Accounting People Ltd to anyone looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, and friendly firm to handle their accounts.
Silver Fox Commercial S.
11 months ago
I’ve been with Accounting People since setting up my limited company in 2019, and I honestly couldn’t recommend them highly enough. As a contractor, having a reliable and responsive accountancy firm is crucial — and they’ve exceeded my expectations from day one.
Ian Luke and his team run an extremely professional outfit. When I first transitioned to a limited company, they guided me through the entire setup process and explained everything clearly, making what could have been a complicated journey feel straightforward and well-supported.
I have been assigned a dedicated Account Manager, Umair Iqbal, who has been nothing short of outstanding. He’s always available when I call, and if he’s tied up, he gets back to me the same day without fail. He explains everything patiently and clearly, is proactive in keeping me compliant, and genuinely takes the stress out of my company’s tax obligations. I’ve even entrusted them with my personal tax returns, and the service there has been just as seamless.
Accounting People handle all my VAT returns, corporation tax, and the full range of services you’d expect for managing a company’s tax liability — professionally, efficiently, and with real attention to detail.
After six years with them, I can confidently say they’re a firm you can trust. Highly recommended to any contractor or small business owner looking for dependable, responsive, top-quality accounting support.
Daniel K.
11 months ago
Wajid is the consummate professional. I have nothing but the utmost appreciation and gratitude for him, Rashid and everyone at Accounting People. Thank you for all your support and hard work over the many years!
Muhammad Omar A.
11 months ago
Highly recommend! We've worked with them for six years and they are consistently professional, knowledgeable in finance and accounting, and incredibly helpful.
Anita S.
11 months ago
I had a great experience with Wajid at Accounting People. Very efficient and thorough service and he made a stressful process feel simple and manageable - highly recommend!
Alessandro La B.
11 months ago
Umair has been great both times I have used their services. very rresponsive, professional and knowledgeable. I really appreaciated his explanations of complex topics.
Martina M.
11 months ago
I am very happy with the professional services provided by accounting people, responding in a timely manner, and explaining things well. Always there to help. I can definitely recommend their services to other companies.
hn P.
11 months ago
I have been using their accounting services since 2014 in the UK and I am very satisfied. They are professional, reliable, and always available to answer my questions. They handle my accounts accurately and on time, making everything stress-free for me. Their advice is clear and helpful, and I feel confident that my finances are in good hands. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a trustworthy accountant.
HN Pack & Storage ltd
London.
Viscount
11 months ago
I have been using Accounting People for a few years now and they certainly make the process of submitting tax returns so easy. They are very helpful and responsive and are happy to provide advice all year round. Definitely recommend.
Dhirendra J.
11 months ago
I have been with accounting people for more than 10 years, and their services are excellent. Their accoutnant and other staff are very friendly and response time is quick.
Sarah L.
11 months ago
I'm only a very small limited company but Saad has been really patient and attentive helping me right from the start when I set up over 3 years ago and continues to be. He is knowledgeable and gets back to me quickly when I ask questions. Saad and the whole team there run a smooth and professional accountancy service. Thank you!
Travel T.
11 months ago
I am using this company since 2012 they been very supportive and always there to resolve any issue.
Cj
12 months ago
I met Ian when working in financial services and I have been using the services of Accounting People Ltd for over 10 years to prepare and file my tax returns for my rental properties. My partner and mother, also use their services.
The team is always responsive, professional, and supportive. Ian is always quick to answer my emails with any queries that I have and explain things clearly.
The team at Accounting People Ltd make the tax return process straightforward, saving me both time and effort each year. Their advice has been really helpful in ensuring everything is organised efficiently and tax obligations are handled correctly.
Accounting People Ltd genuinely care about their clients and deliver a smooth, efficient service.
Contact T.
12 months ago
Accounting People have been helping us with end of year tax returns for our business for the past five years, and they are very professional and helpful. Quick in resolving any queries and would highly recommend them.
Gerald M.
12 months ago
Moderator Consulting Ltd.
Hi Sohaib & Ian,
My relationship and the service delivery from Accounting People can best be described as highly professional, supportive on all matters relating to my business, timely and courteous - always - and prepared to ‘go the extra mile’.
At a personal level it is a pleasure to be supported by your company representatives.
Many thanks for ongoing support. Best wishes,
Gerald Maguire,
Moderator Consulting Ltd.
Hinna I.
12 months ago
I’ve had an excellent experience working with Accounting people for the last 3 years, They are incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and always take the time to explain everything clearly. Their attention to detail and efficiency have made managing my accounts and tax matters so much easier.
Communication is always prompt and friendly, and I truly feel confident knowing my finances are in safe hands. I would highly recommend Aalyan Muhammad and Rashid Iqbal to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy accountant.
Yasmine M.
12 months ago
Great service, incredibly friendly and thorough along with being completely trustworthy and offering great advice. Would definitely recommend!
Ayyaz Q
12 months ago
Efficient service. Good communication. Easy to use online portal to upload documents. They've looked after me well. Would recommend.
Molly H.
12 months ago
Excellent professional service - very responsive to any query and prompt turnaround of work
Jayshree P.
12 months ago
I have been using Accounting People for well over 10 years to deal with my personal tax affairs and have had no reason to change. Dealing initially with Rashid and now Wajid they have always been professional but still being personable in meeting my needs. My tax return has always been dealt with in a precise and timely manner and they are always happy to answer any questions or explain things I don’t understand. Having already recommended a relative to them is a positive reflection of the quality service they provide.
Hitesh P.
12 months ago
AP provide an efficient service that is clear and understandable. Support via telephone or email is always available and are quick to respond.
saravan k
12 months ago
I’ve been working with Accounting People for several years, and they have consistently delivered outstanding services. They’ve helped me with tax planning and filings. They proactively reach out and notify us any process to follow as per forms. And, send out regular follow-up/remainders. They respond quickly with clear, practical advice, making the process stress-free. I would highly recommend Accounting People to anyone looking for a reliable, knowledgeable, and approachable accounting team who go the extra mile for their clients.
G W.
12 months ago
Ian and the team have been helping me with my tax returns for several years now after having been recommended to me by a financial advisor. They are always thorough, professional and quick to respond to my queries.
Deval R.
12 months ago
Very professional and thorough in their work!
Chris C.
12 months ago
More than accountants - advisors , support, guidance and a partner to their clients.
The team at AP are always friendly, helpful and reply quickly, nothing is ever too much and honestly couldn't recommend enough.
Elena
12 months ago
I have been with Accounting People for more than 15 years now . Ian and his team have always gone above and beyond. They are always willing to help with any queries and always respond with very clear and sound advice . I feel I am in exceptionally safe hands and highly recommend using them :0)
Ali A.
12 months ago
I really appreciate all the hard work and care you put into managing my accounts. You make tax time so much less stressful!. Rashid and his team all of them are amazing.
Niharika
12 months ago
I’ve been so impressed with the team - they’re dependable, thorough, and always keep me on top of things. Sohaib is fantastic to work with: approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely supportive. They’ve made running things so much smoother for me. I honestly couldn’t manage without them!
Krishna B.
12 months ago
Accounting People have been preparing my personal tax returns and providing me with tax advice since 2019, and their service has been flawless. They respond immediately and efficiently, are friendly and easy to deal with and charge a great deal less than my previous accountants. I would certainly recommend them.
Olie P
12 months ago
I've been dealing with Sohaib and Ian for many years now and have always been impressed by their diligence and professionalism. Always on hand to help and very approachable people.
Look forward to continued business.
Samantha W.
12 months ago
I've been with the team for over 8 years both in a personal and business capacity and have always found them to be excellent – proactive and supportive in every way. Highly recommend!
reece S.
12 months ago
Excellent knowledge, helpful and first class service. Wajid and Ian are also on hand to answer any queries I have. Would highly recommend Accounting People.
John F.
1 year ago
Very happy with Service, prompt at dealing with queries and responds to emails.
Tim U.
1 year ago
Accounting People have been responsible for compiling our annual company (Sportonspec) accounts since 2020, and more recently our VAT returns also. Our various HMRC filing requirements are consistently dealt with in a timely fashion. Our point of contact is Umair. Wherever we've had a query the feedback has always been prompt and any explanations requested have been clear. It helps they are always keen to understand our business and objectives going forward. The service we have received from Umair and Accounting People has been excellent throughout. I would recommend them to any growing business looking for reliable and proactive accountants.
Tag K.
1 year ago
Hello, I am the Director of the Association of Ghanaian Ex-servicemen in the UK. We have been operating as a Charitable Limited Company for the past 21 years.
Accounting People Ltd has been our supporting accounting company for well over 15 years. They have been very professional in their service delivery, built an excellent relationship with us, submitted our annual accounts returns and statements on time, always at a competitive cost with no hidden additions. And they answered all relevant queries relating to our business and charitable activities all those years without any fines and misunderstandings.
I recommend them to any individuals and companies, and be rest assured that all your accounting burdens will be dealt professionally.
Antonios S.
1 year ago
I’ve used Accounting People for nearly ten years. Sohaib has been consistently responsive and genuinely helpful, with clear advice and prompt communication. Reliable, professional, and easy to work with—I highly recommend them.
Paul A.
1 year ago
I’ve been using Accounting People for ten years now since I started my own business and I’m pleased to say they make my life so much easier when it comes to company tax. I regularly deal with Umair who helps me with every small detail of my accounts and is very quick to respond to any queries I have.
The end of year tax call is no stress at all for me because I know the team look after everything for me.
They then submit their finished accounts onto an easy to use online portal for me to check over and sign and, done!
I would highly recommend them as a small business owner.
R S
1 year ago
Highly professional team. Working with them over the years for both personal and Company affairs has been an absolute pleasure. The team goes out of their way to simplify the process and ensure reporting and filings are concluded on time.
jaspal S.
1 year ago
I've had an excellent experience working with Accounting People. Their deep understanding of tax regulations and proactive approach to tax efficiency have helped me make the most of my financial position while staying fully compliant. They consistently identify opportunities to optimise my tax strategy, which has made a real difference.
What I appreciate most is their clear and responsive communication. Whether it's explaining complex matters in simple terms or keeping me updated on key deadlines and changes, they are always professional, approachable, and reliable.
I highly recommend Accounting People to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and communicative accounting firm that truly adds value.
Mark F.
1 year ago
Exceptional Accountants. I have been with them for 17+ years and still going.
Darshak S.
1 year ago
I’ve been with them since day one, introduced by a friend who still trusts their services today. From incorporating my company with Companies House to giving me clear, tax-efficient advice, they’ve always been professional, reliable, and genuinely invested in my success.
What I really value is the personal touch — they don’t just “do the numbers,” they take time to understand my goals and go the extra mile. As I start a new venture, a quick chat turned into the partner offering their full support, even stepping in to handle due diligence without hesitation.
It’s rare to find accountants who combine expertise with such genuine care. I honestly couldn’t ask for more
K G.
1 year ago
I've been a customer of Accounting People for over a decade now, and I genuinely couldn’t be happier with their service.
Their advice has helped me save time, reduce tax burdens, and stay financially organised—something that’s been invaluable in my busy professional life. One moment that really stood out was when they guided me through a complex financial situation with clarity and confidence, resulting in a great decision for my particular circumstance.
From day one, their team has been incredibly responsive, supportive, and easy to work with. They take the stress out of accounting and make everything run smoothly and efficiently. Thanks to their ongoing support and strategic insights, I’ve seen real growth and stability in my personal tax liabilities and business. I always feel like I have a trusted partner in my corner.
If you're looking for an accounting team that’s not only professional but also genuinely cares about your success, I highly recommend Accounting People. They’ve made a real difference for me.
Daniel G.
1 year ago
I've been working with Umair at Accounting People for many years and have always had an excellent experience. Highly recommend.
Thomas B.
1 year ago
Excellent service – professional, reliable, and always quick to respond. They’ve made everything straightforward and stress-free. Highly recommended.
Kyri A.
1 year ago
I have been a client with Accounting People since 2015, and it's been a pleasure working with the Team, who have been handling my Company accounting affairs, as well as my personal tax matters. They are extremely personable, professional and timely in my dealings, and whilst I have recommended friends in the past would highly recommend Accounting People to any firends and family.
Vimal J.
1 year ago
I’ve been working with Accounting People for several years now, and they’ve consistently provided outstanding support with both my personal and joint tax affairs, including my self-assessment as a software engineer and income from a rental property.
Their team is always responsive, professional, and proactive — whether it’s helping with documentation, answering tax queries, or reminding me of upcoming deadlines. The entire process is efficient and well-organized, which has made managing our finances much easier.
They’ve not only saved us time and stress, but also helped reduce our tax burden through smart, tailored advice. A great example was their guidance on handling rental income more effectively, which resulted in meaningful tax savings.
Thanks to their expertise, I’ve been able to stay focused on my work while feeling confident that our finances are in good hands. I would highly recommend Accounting People to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and trustworthy accounting partner.
Serkan Y.
1 year ago
I have been using Accounting People for many years and am very pleased with their service for all my company and personal accountancy and tax requirements. They are a friendly, extremely knowledgeable team of professionals who work efficiently and diligently. They are always very helpful and nothing is ever too much trouble. I highly recommend them.
Tony W.
1 year ago
We've worked closely with Accounting People for over 10 years and can honestly say we have consistently received positive support and advice and will continue to work with Ian and the team to support our growth. Great service and a pleasure to work with, Thanks for all your help and support. Tony Ward, MD, Cornerstone Technologies Ltd
Carlota G.
1 year ago
I’ve been working with Accounting People for two years and I have recommended them to work colleagues. They’ve made a world of difference in my financial life — both personally and professionally.
From day one, they’ve provided exceptional support in managing my UK taxes with ease, while also helping me seamlessly reconcile my Spanish and English tax obligations. They’ve also made obtaining my UK certificates of tax residency a total breeze — something that used to feel overwhelming!
The team has been incredibly responsive, efficient, and knowledgeable. Their approach to accounting is not just easy — it’s stress-free. I always feel like I’m in safe hands.
Ben B.
1 year ago
Sohaib and the team are a pleasure to work with. They've supported my business for 4+ years and counting.
milo W.
1 year ago
I couldn't speak more highly of Accounting People LTD. As a small business owner AND someone who isn't great at accounting or book keeping etc. they've consistently helped ensure everything that goes through HMRC is punctual, thorough and minimal effort my end. Even when I've asked then to dumb things down for me to understand, or if i've asked them questions I am sure a most accountants would want more money for, or when I've forgot important deadlines even though they've sent me countless reminders, they've been patient and always ensured I was up-to-date. Plus they're always looking to help the tax side of business run as efficiently as possible, so much so that I think I save far more than I pay them! I didn't think doing my taxes would be this easy. Cheers APL!
navid J.
1 year ago
I have been working with Accounting People for the past 3 years, and my overall experience has been excellent. Their team is highly responsive and supportive, and the accounting process has been very easy and efficient, saving me valuable time.
My account manager, Sohaib, has been outstanding. He is professional, attentive, and always quick to provide clear and practical advice.
One of the biggest differences I’ve noticed is how Accounting People’s guidance has made financial decisions smoother and given me peace of mind, knowing that my accounts are in capable hands.
I would strongly recommend Accounting People to anyone looking for a reliable and knowledgeable accounting partner.
Lise T.
1 year ago
The team at Accounting People, and Sohaib in particular, have been true partners for my business and myself over the last 5 years, offering solid advice and clear explanations, whilst always being responsive and friendly. I highly recommend them!
Safia M.
1 year ago
I would have no hesitation in recommending Accounting People Ltd due to the consistently stellar service I have received from them. I have employed their services for over 7 years to file my annual tax returns and they have consistently done an amazing job and made my tax filings very easy and stress free for me. They have also liaised with HMRC on my behalf on some very sensitive and complicated matters with very favourable outcomes. They have saved me time and significantly reduced my tax burdens, getting me tax refunds where they were due with speed and efficiency. Huge shout out to Sohaib Naveed in particular who I have worked with the most and who has handled many of mine and my family's complex tax affairs over the years - he is super knowledgeable, time and cost efficient and very responsive.
Anisha P.
1 year ago
I’ve used the services of Accounting People for over 7 years now, for my self-assessment tax returns, and I honestly couldn’t recommend them more highly. From the start, they’ve made the entire process incredibly easy, efficient, and completely stress-free.
What really stands out is how proactive they are, they take the time to offer genuinely helpful advice tailored to my situation.
The team are experts and always responsive and supportive. Any time I’ve had a question (and there have been a few!), they’ve come back quickly with clear, helpful answers. That level of service and attention has made a huge difference, and I have far more confidence in how my finances are managed.
If you're looking for someone to take the stress out of self-assessment and give you solid, proactive advice along the way, I’d wholeheartedly recommend them.
Anique T.
1 year ago
Accounting People Ltd have been outstanding in their communication and responsiveness. They consistently provide clear, timely updates and are always quick to address any queries. Their professionalism and reliability make them a pleasure to work with.
Fahad N.
1 year ago
This is the best accountancy firm. All staff is very helpful and knowledgeable. They ensure that you understand accounts and have a dedicated account manager that manages the company and acts as a service manager. I would highly recommend Accounting People especially my accountant Abdul Wajid.
Common Contractor Accounting Mistakes That Cost You Money
Most contractors we speak to have made at least one of these mistakes, and most didn’t realise until it was too late.
Not understanding IR35 properly can create significant tax and compliance risks for contractors. An incorrect status assessment can lead to the wrong tax treatment and, where tax has been underpaid, potential liabilities, interest or penalties. The rules apply differently depending on the engagement and who is responsible for determining employment status, so each contract should be considered on its own facts.
Failing to identify legitimate business expenses is another common issue. Depending on your circumstances and business structure, costs such as travel, professional subscriptions, equipment and working-from-home expenses may qualify for tax relief. The rules vary by expense and situation, so claims should be supported by appropriate records.
Salary and dividend planning also needs careful consideration. The most appropriate approach depends on your company’s profits, your personal circumstances and the tax rules in force. Dividends can only be paid from available company profits and must be properly declared and recorded.
And then there’s leaving everything until the last minute. Late Corporation Tax returns, missed VAT deadlines and overdue Companies House filings can all create unnecessary penalties, interest and administrative pressure.
Working with specialist contractor accountants who understand your situation can help reduce these risks and identify issues before they become more difficult to resolve.
Specialist Contractor Accounting Services
Our contractor accounting services are built around the needs of limited company contractors, freelancers and consultants, with support covering tax, reporting and ongoing compliance.
Setup, Compliance & HMRC Registrations
We support you with Companies House filings, Corporation Tax returns, Self Assessment and relevant HMRC submissions, helping keep your reporting accurate and organised. We help you stay on top of key filing deadlines and reduce the risk of avoidable penalties.
IR35 & Tax Planning
The off-payroll working rules, commonly known as IR35, can affect how a contractor engagement is taxed and who is responsible for determining employment status. We help you understand how the rules may apply to your engagement, review your contracts and working practices, and plan your tax affairs appropriately.
Accounts, tax & reporting
We support you with annual statutory accounts, Corporation Tax reporting and VAT returns, preparing the relevant filings and helping you understand your company’s financial position throughout the year.
VAT, payroll & ongoing contractor compliance
We manage your VAT returns, payroll submissions and bookkeeping, helping keep your financial records organised, your reporting obligations on track and your business finances easier to manage.
Local expertise, UK-wide support
Whether you’re based in London, the South East or elsewhere in the UK, we can provide contractor accounting support remotely. You’ll have a dedicated point of contact and can communicate with our team by phone, email or video call.
Specialist Support for Consultants and Interim Professionals
We support contractors, consultants and interim professionals with IR35 considerations, VAT where relevant, payroll and RTI, dividend planning and year-end compliance.
We help with:
- IR35 support: practical guidance to reduce avoidable risk
- Tax-efficient income: salary and dividend planning
- VAT & digital compliance: registration and quarterly returns using compatible software where required
- Expenses: clear, defensible claims guidance
- Accounts & filings: support with Companies House and HMRC submissions and key filing deadlines
Contractor Accounting for Different Working Setups
We support contractors with different company structures, contract arrangements and reporting requirements. Our contractor accounting support can include:
- Limited company contractors and consultants: accounts, tax and ongoing company compliance
- Contractors affected by IR35 and off-payroll working: support understanding the relevant tax and status responsibilities
- VAT and payroll clients: VAT reporting, payroll, RTI and related accounting support
- Contractors with multiple income streams or contracts: accounting support for more complex financial arrangements
Our approach is practical, proactive and tailored to the way you work.
Why Contractors Choose Accounting People
Contractors choose Accounting People for specialist accounting support across IR35, VAT where relevant, payroll and RTI, and year-end compliance.
- Experienced contractor accountants
- Proactive, clear accounting and tax support
- Cloud-based contractor accounting for clarity and control
- Support for Ltd company contractors & consultants
Alongside filing and compliance, we provide practical support to help you understand your tax position, manage risk and stay in control of your finances.
Our Fantastic Clients
Trusted Contractor Accountants in London & Across the UK
We support contractors and consultants across London and the UK using cloud-based accounting systems and flexible remote communication. Whether you are based locally or elsewhere in the country, you can access the same contractor-focused accounting, tax and compliance support.
Our service is designed around your contracts, reporting requirements and deadlines, helping you keep your contractor finances organised and your compliance responsibilities under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need specialist contractor accountants or will any accountant do?
A general accountant may be able to handle standard accounts and tax filings, but contractors can also face issues such as IR35, off-payroll working rules, VAT, payroll and limited company remuneration planning. A contractor accountant with relevant experience can provide support that reflects the way contractors operate and the specific compliance responsibilities involved.
How do contractor accountants help with IR35?
The off-payroll working rules, commonly known as IR35, can apply when you provide services through your own intermediary and would have been an employee for tax purposes if you had provided those services directly. Who is responsible for determining employment status depends on the type and size of the client. We can help you understand how the rules apply to your engagement, review your contracts and working practices, and identify the relevant compliance responsibilities.
What do contractor accountants actually do day to day?
We can support contractors with annual accounts, Corporation Tax returns, VAT returns where relevant, Self Assessment, payroll and Companies House filings. We can also provide ongoing guidance on salary and dividend planning, business expenses and IR35-related considerations, depending on your circumstances.
How much do contractor accountants cost?
Fees vary depending on what’s included. At Accounting People we offer transparent fixed monthly pricing with no hidden extras, so you know exactly what you’re paying from day one. Get in touch for a no-obligation quote.
Can I switch to Accounting People from my current accountant?
Yes. With your authority, we can help manage the transition by contacting your previous accountant and arranging the transfer of the relevant accounting records and information. We aim to make the switch as straightforward as possible while keeping disruption to your business to a minimum.
Do you work with IT contractors specifically?
Yes. We support IT contractors with annual accounts, Corporation Tax, VAT where relevant, payroll and ongoing company compliance. We can also help you understand the IR35 and off-payroll working considerations that may apply to individual engagements and how they affect your accounting and tax responsibilities.
Speak to a Specialist Contractor Accountant Today
Whether you’ve just started contracting, you’re switching from another accountant, or you’ve been managing things yourself and know it’s time for proper support, we’d love to have a conversation.
No obligation, no jargon, no pressure. Just a straight conversation about what you need and whether we’re the right fit.