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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
late payment safe collections

Late payment debt recovery service for ByteStart visitors (with Safe Collections)

October 8, 2024
Struggling with late payment? ByteStart visitors get exclusive rates with Safe Collections – no upfront fees, free claim review, and fast results.
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Why you need a cash flow forecast, how to produce one + downloadable templates

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Clever Accounts

Sole Trader Accounts
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5/5 Google Rating, Self Assessment, VAT, MTD-ready. ByteStart partner

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bright ideas sole trader accountant



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