Simplify Your Finances with Expert Sole Trader Accounting Services

Being your own boss is rewarding, but managing the numbers can get overwhelming. At Lanop Business & Tax Advisors, we provide expert sole trader accounting that takes the stress out of bookkeeping, tax returns, and HMRC compliance. Our personalised accounting services for sole traders are built to save you time, reduce risk, and boost your profits. Whether you need sole trader bookkeeping, tax planning, or powerful accounting software for sole traders, we make your finances simple and smart.

Smarter Tools, Expert Advice, and Reliable Sole Trader Accounting Services

At Lanop, we go beyond the numbers. Our expert sole trader accounting services help you stay compliant, save time, and grow your business with clarity, confidence, and complete support.

Expert Guidance

Our experienced sole trader accountants manage your sole trader bookkeeping, accounts, and tax returns, ensuring full HMRC compliance, no missed deadlines, and peace of mind with every aspect of your sole trader accounting.

Smart Software

We recommend the best sole trader accounting software UK businesses trust, including QuickBooks and Xero. Our accounting packages for sole traders include setup, support, and seamless integration tailored to your needs.

Personalised Support

No two businesses are alike. Whether you’re a contractor or freelancer, we deliver bespoke accounting for sole traders that simplifies compliance and helps you grow with confidence and tailored financial strategies.

Expert Sole Trader Accounting Services

Managing your finances as a sole trader shouldn’t feel like navigating a maze. We’re here to simplify things. At Lanop, we offer sole trader accounting services that keep you on track with compliance, clarity, and confidence, whether you’re just starting or ready to elevate your approach.

Accurate Bookkeeping and Digital Record-Keeping

You don’t have to drown in receipts. Our sole trader bookkeeping uses trusted tools like Xero or QuickBooks to keep your records tidy and HMRC-compliant. This means real insight into your finances, and more time to focus on your actual work.

Stress-Free Self-Assessment Tax Returns

Filing your tax return doesn’t have to be a yearly headache. Our experienced sole trader accountants take care of your self-assessment from start to finish, gathering the right data, submitting everything correctly, and making sure you avoid penalties. It’s one less thing to worry about, and one more thing done right.

Annual Accounts Prepared with Precision

When it’s time to file your year-end accounts, we make sure nothing is missed. Our detailed preparation of sole trader accounts gives you a true picture of your business finances. Everything is formatted for HMRC requirements and tailored to reflect your unique trading activity.

VAT Services & Support

If your business is VAT registered, we manage the entire process for you. From VAT registration to calculating and submitting returns, our accountants for sole traders ensure everything is handled correctly and on time. We keep your business fully compliant while helping you understand exactly what you’re paying.

Strategic Tax Planning

Why pay more tax than you need to? Our proactive tax planning service helps you claim what you're entitled to and minimise your liability within the law. Your dedicated sole trader accountant will walk you through every opportunity to legally reduce your tax bill and maximise your income.

Cloud Accounting Setup and Training

We will help you move to smart, digital accounting. From choosing the right accounting software for sole traders to providing full setup and training, we make the transition seamless and efficient.

HMRC Registration and Business Setup Support

Whether you’re just starting out or making a switch, we handle your registration with HMRC, set up your UTR, and help you decide whether operating as a sole trader or limited company is right for you.

Support with Penalties and HMRC Disputes

Mistakes happen, and when they do, we’ve got your back. If you receive a penalty or face a dispute with HMRC, our expert team will step in immediately. We’ll handle the appeals process, draft professional responses, and speak to HMRC on your behalf through our trusted sole trader accounting services.

Stay Compliant with MTD and Quarterly Filing

Making Tax Digital is no longer optional. We’ll help you stay on the right side of the rules by migrating your records into HMRC-approved sole trader accounting software. Once you’re set up, we’ll automate your quarterly filings to keep you compliant without lifting a finger.

Who We Help

We work with a wide range of sole traders across the UK, including:

If you file a self-assessment tax return and operate under your own name, you fall under this category.

Registering Your Business with HMRC 

Starting out as a sole trader means you need to register with HMRC if your earnings go above £1,000 a year. The deadline for this is 5 October after the tax year ends and missing it can lead to fines or complications.

At Lanop, we take care of the entire registration process for you. From signing you up with HMRC to getting your Unique Taxpayer Reference, we handle it all. We’ll also explain exactly what records you need to keep, so you stay organised and compliant without any guesswork.

Common Challenges Sole Traders Face

Inaccurate or incomplete records
Missing tax deadlines or paying penalties
Using outdated or no accounting software
Confusion about what expenses can be claimed
Difficulty managing VAT and HMRC expectations

Expert Support for HMRC Penalty Appeals and Dispute Resolution

If you’ve missed a Self-Assessment deadline or faced a penalty from HMRC, you’re not alone, and there is usually a way to resolve the issue. HMRC penalties start at £100 but can quickly increase with daily charges and further fees if left unchallenged.

At Lanop, our sole trader accounting services include guiding you through this process. We carefully review your situation and, when appropriate, prepare a detailed appeal on your behalf, explaining any “reasonable excuse” such as illness, family emergencies, or technical problems. You won’t have to face HMRC alone, as we manage all communication to make the process as smooth as possible.

How It Works

Free consultation to understand your goals
Income & platform review, UK and global
Accounting setup, cloud-based, fully digital
Ongoing support, tax planning, filings, WhatsApp access
International advisory, for relocation, expansion, and UAE structuring

Seamless Making Tax Digital Compliance and Filing Support for Sole Traders

HMRC’s Making Tax Digital (MTD) initiative is changing the way taxes are reported in the UK. As a sole trader, this means you’ll need to keep digital records and start sending updates to HMRC more frequently.

From April 2026, if your self-employed income is over £50,000, quarterly submissions will replace the single annual Self-Assessment. A year later, in April 2027, the threshold lowers to £30,000, bringing most sole traders into the MTD system.

At Lanop, we make sure your transition to digital reporting is simple and stress-free. As part of our sole trader accounting services, we provide full MTD setup and support, including:

1- Choosing and setting up HMRC-recognised software like Xero, QuickBooks, or Zoho Books

2- Linking your bank feeds and invoices for real-time recordkeeping

3- Generating and reviewing quarterly summaries to ensure accuracy before each submission

Our experienced team will also train you to use your chosen platform confidently. Before anything is submitted, we review every return for accuracy, so you stay compliant and penalty-free.

Still using spreadsheets or paper records? No problem. We’ll safely migrate your data, clean up any gaps, and get your business fully MTD-ready without the last-minute panic.

Our Identity

Integrity, honesty, and dedication are the core values at Lanop Business & Tax Advisors. Since launching our first Putney office in 2010, we’ve grown into a fully digital, UK‑based accounting and tax advisory firm that blends expert compliance with forward‑looking guidance and business strategy.

Our team of specialized chartered tax advisors and accountants delivers a full spectrum of services including tax planning, bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, and virtual finance director support all designed to help you manage your business more efficiently and confidently.

We believe accounting is more than numbers it’s about empowering your journey through modern finance. That means applying strategic insight, breaking down complex financial processes, and acting as your trusted partner not just submitting filings.

Put simply, Lanop Business & Tax Advisors is more than an accounting firm we are your strategic ally, dedicated to guiding your financial success with integrity, precision,

FAQ

Accountant for Sole traders

Do You Need an Accountant as a Sole Trader?

You don’t have to hire an accountant as a sole trader, but many find it worthwhile. Having a sole trader accountant means your tax returns are done right and on time, and you won’t miss out on claiming every expense you’re entitled to. It takes the stress off your shoulders, so you can spend more time growing your business instead of dealing with paperwork.

What Software Should Sole Traders Use?

We usually recommend cloud-based options like Xero, QuickBooks, or FreeAgent. These are trusted by HMRC and meet the requirements of Making Tax Digital. They make managing invoices, expenses, and reports straightforward. We’ll talk about how you work and find the best fit for you. Then we’ll set it all up, so your records are clear and compliant.

Which Expenses Can You Claim?

Most things related to running your business can be claimed. Think travel costs, supplies, phone bills, software subscriptions, and even a slice of your home bills if you work remotely. We’ll review your spending carefully to make sure you’re not missing out on anything allowed by HMRC. Our goal is to keep more money in your pocket.

Can You Help Me Register as a Sole Trader?

Definitely. We handle everything from registering with HMRC to getting your Unique Taxpayer Reference. We also make sure your records meet compliance from day one. If you’re unsure whether to stay a sole trader or switch to a limited company, we’ll explain the pros and cons so you can make the right choice.

What If I Already Use Accounting Software?

That’s no problem. Whether you’re using QuickBooks, Xero, or something else, we can work with your current system. If it’s not the best fit, we’ll recommend an alternative and safely move your data across. Our priority is to make sure your software supports your business perfectly.

How Do I Get Started?

It’s easy. Just call or book a free consultation online. We’ll ask about your situation and what you need, then send you a personalized quote within 24 hours. No pressure, no fuss. Just clear, professional support to help you succeed.