Accountancy and bookkeeping fees

Yes

Fees paid to an accountant or bookkeeper for preparing your business accounts or tax return are fully deductible. The cost of accounting software subscriptions (Xero, QuickBooks, Trame, etc.) is also deductible as a business expense.

Common questions

Can I claim my accountant's fee for doing my Self Assessment?

Yes. Accountancy fees incurred wholly for the purpose of your business are deductible. This includes your annual tax return preparation.

Can I claim the cost of job management or accounting software?

Yes. Software subscriptions used for your business (invoicing, quoting, job management, accounting) are fully deductible.

Watch out for

If your accountant also handles personal tax matters (e.g. investment income), only the business-related proportion of the fee is deductible.

HMRC sources

https://www.gov.uk/expenses-if-youre-self-employed

Last verified: July 2026 · Tax year 2026/27

Related expenses

Professional indemnity insurance Public liability insurance

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This guidance is for general information only. Tax rules change. Verify with HMRC or a qualified accountant before filing.

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