The early decisions you make can shape how your business operates for years to come.

We help you consider the right structure, understand your responsibilities and put sensible accounting arrangements in place. Our aim is to give you clarity from the beginning and support as the business develops.

How we can help

Considering sole trader, partnership and limited company structures.
Company formation and relevant registrations.
Setting up bookkeeping and accounting software.
Explaining tax and reporting obligations.
Preparing budgets, forecasts and business plans.
Planning for VAT and payroll where relevant.

Understanding your plans

We start with a conversation about the business: what you will do, who will be involved, how it will be funded and what you hope to achieve.

We explain the financial and administrative implications of the available structures, helping you make an informed choice.

Getting the essentials in place

Once the approach is agreed, we help with the relevant setup work and establish a practical routine for your records.

You will know what information to keep, how to share it with us and which deadlines need attention. We can also help you consider expected costs, cash requirements and the financial demands of the first year.

Support beyond the start

As the business grows, your requirements may change. We can review the level of bookkeeping, payroll and reporting support you need and help you plan the next steps.

Do I need a limited company?

That depends on your circumstances and plans. We explain the options and their implications before you decide.

What if the business is already trading?

We can review the arrangements already in place, identify anything that needs attention and agree a way forward.

Early registrations to be aware of

A sole trader or partner needs to register with HMRC for Self Assessment. The deadline is 5 October after the end of the tax year in which trading began.
A limited company must be incorporated at Companies House and should register for corporation tax within 3 months of starting business activity.
Registration for VAT becomes compulsory once taxable turnover passes the threshold (currently £90,000 in any rolling 12 months), and some businesses choose to register earlier. Our VAT registration guide explains the trade-offs.
If you take on staff, you will need to register as an employer before the first payday. See our guide for first-time employers.

Planning for the first year

The first year usually takes more cash than owners expect, because costs arrive before income and tax bills follow later. We help you build a simple budget and cash-flow forecast so you can see how much funding you need and when the first tax payments will fall due. Our guide to choosing between a sole trader, partnership or limited company is a good place to start.