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Accounts & Expenses

Keeping on top of your accounts is a key part of running a small business.

In this section you’ll find practical guides on recording expenses, tracking your income and expenditure, choosing accounting software, and keeping proper records for Self Assessment.

We also explain how accounting rules are changing under Making Tax Digital (MTD). From April 2026 many sole traders will need to keep digital records and submit updates to HMRC using compatible software. You can learn more in our guide to Making Tax Digital for the self-employed.

Whether you manage your bookkeeping yourself or hire an accountant, understanding how small business accounts work will save you time, money and stress.

Accounting software and accountants

  • Find the best self-employed accounting software
  • Why accounting software is essential for MTD filing
  • Accounting software vs spreadsheets
  • Do you need an accountant if you’re self-employed?
  • Compare sole trader accountants
  • How to switch accountants as a sole trader

Bookkeeping and records

  • Bookkeeping basics for small businesses
  • Accounting deadlines every self-employed person should know
  • A beginner’s guide to self-employed accounts
  • What counts as turnover?

Claiming business expenses

  • What expenses can you claim as a sole trader?
  • How simplified expenses work
  • Claiming home office expenses
  • Mileage allowance explained
  • Travel expenses for sole traders
  • Training expenses explained
  • Equipment and tool expenses

Invoices and payments

  • Free invoice templates for sole traders
  • Setting payment terms for clients
  • What to do if a client doesn’t pay
  • Using a debt recovery service
training expenses courses self employed

What training expenses can you claim if you work for yourself?

September 12, 2025
Learn which training costs you can claim when self-employed, how HMRC treats them, what records to keep, and where to enter them on your tax return.
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sole trader expenses

What business expenses can you claim as a sole trader?

September 12, 2025
As a sole trader, you can deduct many business costs from your income and pay less tax. But what counts as a legitimate business expense?
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what is turnover and how calculate self employed

What is ‘turnover’ and how do you calculate it?

September 11, 2025
Turnover is one key indicator and profit another although the two are not be confused. Our quick guide will explain exactly what turnover is, why it matters, and how to differentiate it from profit.
Read More
value a small business valuation

What is my business worth? How to value a small business

August 18, 2025
How to value a business, from earnings multiples to asset valuation. Includes guidance for small firms and sole traders, plus factors that influence price.
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personal expenses self assessment hmrc

Business owners warned as HMRC cracks down on personal expense claims

August 15, 2025
HMRC is cracking down on personal expenses claimed as business costs in Self Assessment returns. See what you can claim and the mistakes to avoid.
Read More
sole trader invoice vat no vat template

How to invoice as a sole trader – with VAT and non-VAT templates

August 7, 2025
Learn how to write an invoice as a UK sole trader, what to include, and how to handle VAT if needed - plus download free templates to get started.
Read More
questions accountant sole trader

15 smart questions to ask before choosing an accountant

August 6, 2025
Thinking of hiring an accountant? Here are 15 smart questions to help sole traders choose the right one - plus tips on fees, software, and switching.
Read More
payment terms invoice

What payment terms should I use when invoicing clients?

August 5, 2025
Setting the right payment terms helps you get paid faster. Learn what terms to use, how to handle big clients, and what UK law says about late payments.
Read More
overdue invoice sole trader

Chasing unpaid invoices as a sole trader: practical steps and your legal rights

August 5, 2025
Unpaid invoice? This guide for UK sole traders explains how to chase late payments, what the law says, and what to do if a client still doesn’t pay.
Read More
pre trading backdate expenses sole trader

Can I backdate business expenses before I registered as self-employed?

August 1, 2025
Can you claim business expenses before registering as self-employed? Find out what HMRC allows, the time limits, and how to record pre-trading costs.
Read More

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Brand new ByteStart guides
  • Do you need a separate bank account if you’re self-employed?
  • Mileage allowance for sole traders: HMRC rules and rates for 2026/27
  • Making Tax Digital is here: four things sole traders should do now
bright ideas sole trader accountant



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