Updated August 2026
What a startup should budget for accountancy
A realistic first-year accountancy budget for a new UK business, from incorporation to your first year-end.
Illustrative estimate
£600 – £2,000 in year one for most new companies
Price ranges by scenario
| Scenario | Illustrative fee |
|---|---|
| Company formation and setup | £15 – £150 one-off |
| Monthly package, pre-revenue | £50 – £100 / month |
| First statutory year-end | £400 – £900 |
| SEIS/EIS advance assurance | £500 – £1,500 |
What moves the price
- Whether you are raising investment or bootstrapping.
- Grant funding and R&D claims that require detailed records.
- Founder payroll versus dividends and the planning around it.
- How quickly transaction volume grows after launch.
Common questions
When should a startup hire an accountant?
Before the first payroll run or funding round. Fixing a structure retrospectively costs far more than setting it up correctly.
Can I switch firms later?
Yes. Professional clearance and handover are routine, though check notice periods in your engagement letter.
These estimates have not been validated against a documented current sample of practice quotes. They are not measured UK market rates or an offer from a firm. Obtain an itemised quote and confirm scope and fees in an engagement letter.