What to look for
Bookkeepers handle day-to-day transaction recording, bank reconciliation, sales and purchase ledgers, VAT returns, payroll, and CIS returns. They typically work alongside an accountant — the bookkeeper produces clean monthly figures, the accountant produces year-end accounts. Cloud platforms have transformed the trade in the last decade.
- ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) or AAT membership
- Cloud-platform certification with a major UK bookkeeping provider
- Anti-money-laundering supervision (HMRC or professional body)
- Engagement letter with monthly fee scope
- Clear handover to year-end accountant if separate
- MTD-compliant for VAT and (incoming) ITSA
Typical pricing: £25-£45 per hour, £180-£600 monthly fixed fee small business, £350-£900 monthly VAT-registered (UK 2026)
Regulator / certification to look for: Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB), AAT, HMRC AML supervision