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.
Typical cost
£600 – £2,000 in year one for most new companies
Price ranges by scenario
| Scenario | Typical 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.
Figures are indicative market ranges gathered from UK practice pricing and are not a quote. Always confirm scope and fees in an engagement letter.