Can I Hire an Accountant Just for My Self Assessment
Completing a Self Assessment tax return can be stressful, especially if you are self-employed, a landlord, or have multiple income sources. Many people wonder whether they need to hire an accountant full-time or if they can bring one in just to handle their tax return. The good news is that you can hire an accountant solely for your Self Assessment, and doing so can save you time, stress, and potentially money. This article explains how it works, what an accountant can do for you, and the benefits of getting professional help with your tax return.
Yes, you can. Many accountants offer standalone Self Assessment services without requiring an ongoing retainer or full bookkeeping support.
This means you can hire an accountant once a year to:
Prepare and submit your Self Assessment tax return.
Check your figures for accuracy and compliance.
Identify tax reliefs and allowances you may have missed.
Communicate with HMRC on your behalf if needed.
This flexible approach is ideal for freelancers, sole traders, company directors, landlords, and anyone who needs occasional support with tax filing but manages their day-to-day finances themselves.
What an accountant does for your Self Assessment
Hiring an accountant for your Self Assessment is about more than just filling in forms. They ensure that your tax return is complete, accurate, and optimised for tax efficiency.
1. Gathering and checking your information
An accountant reviews your income, expenses, and financial records to ensure everything required for your tax return is included. This may involve:
Employment income and PAYE records.
Self-employment income and business expenses.
Property or rental income.
Investment or savings income.
Dividends and other taxable benefits.
They verify that all figures are accurate, consistent, and supported by documentation, reducing the risk of HMRC queries.
2. Calculating your tax liability
Accountants use professional tax software to calculate exactly how much tax you owe or are due to reclaim. This includes:
Income Tax.
National Insurance contributions.
Payments on account (advance tax instalments).
They ensure you pay the correct amount and help you plan ahead so there are no surprises when the payment deadline arrives.
3. Claiming allowable expenses and reliefs
Many taxpayers miss out on deductions that could reduce their tax bill. Accountants know what HMRC allows and will claim everything you are entitled to, such as:
Office costs and equipment.
Mileage or travel expenses.
Professional fees and subscriptions.
Pension contributions.
Charitable donations.
For landlords and self-employed individuals, this can make a substantial difference to the final tax bill.
4. Submitting your return on time
Your accountant can file your Self Assessment online through HMRC’s system, ensuring it meets the filing deadline of 31 January for online returns.
They will also remind you of payment deadlines for Income Tax and National Insurance to help avoid penalties and interest charges.
5. Dealing with HMRC on your behalf
If HMRC raises any questions or requires clarification, your accountant can respond directly on your behalf once you grant them authorisation. They can explain your situation, provide evidence, and handle correspondence professionally, saving you time and stress.
6. Advising on future tax planning
Even if you only hire them once a year, a good accountant will offer advice on how to improve your tax efficiency in the future. They may suggest:
Ways to reduce your next tax bill.
How to plan for payments on account.
When to register for VAT or change your business structure.
This forward-looking advice can help you manage your finances better year-round.
The benefits of hiring an accountant just for Self Assessment
While some people prefer to complete their tax returns themselves, there are several clear benefits to using a professional.
Accuracy and compliance
Accountants are trained to understand HMRC’s rules and will ensure your tax return is correct. Errors can lead to penalties, fines, or even investigations, so accuracy is essential.
Time savings
Gathering information, understanding tax codes, and submitting returns can take hours. By outsourcing the task, you save valuable time that can be spent on your business or personal priorities.
Tax efficiency
An accountant knows which allowances and reliefs apply to you. They often identify savings that more than cover their fee.
Peace of mind
Knowing your tax return is handled by a professional removes the stress and uncertainty that come with DIY tax filing. You can be confident everything has been submitted properly and on time.
Representation in case of an audit
If HMRC audits your tax return, an accountant can represent you, prepare documentation, and communicate directly with HMRC on your behalf.
How much does it cost to hire an accountant for Self Assessment
The cost of hiring an accountant for Self Assessment varies depending on the complexity of your tax affairs.
A simple return (for example, a freelancer with one income source) may cost between £150 and £300.
More complex returns involving multiple income streams, property income, or capital gains may cost between £300 and £800 or more.
While it is an additional expense, the savings and peace of mind usually outweigh the cost, especially if the accountant helps you claim deductions you would have missed.
What you need to provide your accountant
To make the process smooth, you will need to give your accountant all relevant information, including:
UTR (Unique Taxpayer Reference) number.
National Insurance number.
P60s or P45s from employment.
Records of self-employment income and expenses.
Bank interest statements or dividend vouchers.
Property income records and related expenses.
Pension and investment details.
The earlier you provide these documents, the quicker your accountant can complete your return.
Choosing the right accountant for your Self Assessment
When hiring an accountant, make sure they are qualified and experienced in personal tax matters. Look for membership in professional bodies such as:
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales)
AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians)
Ask whether they offer fixed fees for Self Assessment services and if they provide additional tax advice. Personal recommendations and online reviews can also help you find a reliable accountant.
When to contact your accountant
Do not wait until January to hire an accountant. The earlier you contact them, the more time they have to review your information, plan for tax savings, and avoid last-minute errors.
Ideally, you should engage an accountant shortly after the tax year ends on 5 April to ensure everything is completed well before the January deadline.
Final thoughts
You do not need a full-time accountant to manage your tax affairs. Hiring an accountant just for your Self Assessment is a simple and cost-effective way to ensure your tax return is accurate, compliant, and submitted on time.
A professional accountant can help you claim all allowable expenses, avoid HMRC penalties, and even identify ways to reduce your future tax bills. Whether you are self-employed, a landlord, or a company director, having expert support during tax season offers peace of mind and real financial value.