Bookkeepers Burslem Staffordshire (ST5): For any person in Burslem who runs an online store, acts as a sole trader or owns a small business, it is their sole responsibility to keep accurate, "true and fair" accounting and financial records for a minimum of 6 yrs. This is in accordance with the Companies Act (2006). Failing to produce these records might leave you faced with a fine of thousands of pounds and possible disqualification as a Company Director. You can accomplish these financial recordings yourself, however when you think about the fact that according to Accounting Today over 40% of small businesses spend at least eighty hours each year on their bookkeeping activities, it can pay you to employ a professional accountant or bookkeeping company.
If you are filled with a sense of terror simply thinking about the possiblility of producing balance sheets, writing out ledgers, preparing profit, loss and fiscal reports or tracking assets and liabilities, then the time to contact a bookkeeper in Burslem for advice and guidance has arrived.
BOOKKEEPER OR ACCOUNTANT?
For many small business owners in Burslem, an obvious question when faced with this dilemma is "Precisely what is the distinction between a bookkeeper and an accountant?" The reality is that even though in the past the process of bookkeeping, was deemed beneath the experience, qualifications and skill set of an accountant, due to tremendous software improvements over the past decade or so, a lot of accountancy firms in the Burslem area will now take on bookkeeping tasks. To ensure their bookkeeping services are in step with a typical bookkeeper's fee, it is now common practice for accounting companies to charge a fixed fee for such services. This means the cost of bookkeeping is more manageable than it previously was, and is excellent news for small business owners in Burslem because it provides a greater variety of competition within this sector.
When you're thinking about the differences between an accountant and a bookkeeper, the main one is the amount of training that is required for each of these disciplines. An accountant will typically a least hold a degree in accounting with specialist training in the field of taxes and other financial and business management. While bookkeepers in Burslem will undoubtedly have a really good understanding of such procedures, they may not hold these qualifications or levels of experience and training in this field.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF A BOOKKEEPER
The bookkeeping process in the simplest of terms, is to record the day by day transactions of any business in Burslem. This will include, but is not limited to;
- Payroll services.
- Monthly reconciliations and reporting.
- The billing of clients for work completed or goods.
- Making sure that double-entry bookkeeping and accounting practices are observed.
- Logging of all financial incomings; including card, cash and electronic payments.
- Logging the receipt of invoices and ensuring payment is completed on time.
- VAT recording and submissions.
- Highlighting and rectifying any discrepancies in financial accounts.
Dependant upon the level of service you require, a professional bookkeeper might just be needed to periodically double-check your records, if you are prepared to undertake the majority of your own bookkeeping work. To enable any mistakes or problems to be discovered and rectified promptly, this should really be on a monthly basis at the bare minimum. This could be an extremely cost-effective trade-off, provided that it's possible to stay up-to-date with your monetary transactions without affecting your everyday trading activities.
If you're presently considering hiring a bookkeeper in Burslem, whatever your situation, it is fairly likely that you might be having problems with your tax and financial procedures. Offering advice and guidance on everything from stocktaking, producing expense reports and invoicing, a good bookkeeping company will also be able to help you link your business accounts with the most suitable software application to facilitate the seamless processing of your business's financial data.
One of the most vital aspects of good bookkeeping practice, is being able to correctly reconcile cash flow with accounts payable. Which means that instead of waiting for an overdue notice, which many small businesses are guilty of doing, or paying off a bill immediately, your bookkeeper will schedule bill payments to a time when your accounts are in the best possible position. Along with keeping your enterprise or business financially secure, this also maintains your reputation with suppliers and service providers. When you are inevitably focussed on the smooth running of your company, this is a balancing act that can be tough to perform as an individual.
Having someone who's not associated with the business cast an eye over your financial transactions, is another added benefit of employing an experienced bookkeeper in Burslem for your small business or if you're a sole trader. It's entirely possible that an independent assessment like this will pinpoint business patterns and trends that have been missed previously. A bookkeeper recognising a brand new opportunity or flagging an area of the business where profits are falling, is not at all unusual. Spotting these KPI's (key performance indicators) is essential for the long-term growth of any small business in Burslem.
It can often be embarrassing to chase up a late payment if your business gives out invoices. Some of that embarrassment can be taken away by having an individual outside your normal business bubble make that telephone call or visit to your client. If you are troubled with a consistent late or non-payer there are legal options that a bookkeeper can employ to help to clear up the issue before the situation ends up in a claims court.
SOLE TRADER'S BOOKKEEPING REQUIREMENTS
The legal requirements for bookkeeping if you are a sole trader, are comparatively straightforward and simple. It is stated that sole traders must keep a record of income and expenditure on a month by month basis and keep all invoices and receipts. Whilst this may sound easy it is still recommended that you retain the services of a competent bookkeeper. So that you will be able to claim back all bonafide business expenses from HMRC, a specialised sole trader bookkeeper in Burslem can give you advice on what must be done. This could include consumables, items such as laptops, stationery, rent and bills if you work from home and advertising expenses. For more detailed advice, speak to your bookkeeper, and learn how they may be able to help your small business to flourish and grow going forward.
BOOKKEEPING FOR ONLINE TRADERS
Certain business enterprises that operate in niche markets, may need to employ a specialist bookkeeper. You're going to need a bookkeeper in Burslem who's familiar with exchange rate transfers, online payments, international and cross-border taxes and multi-currency processing, if you run an online store for example. If the same shop sells goods you produce or hold, then managing your inventory on a 24 hours a day basis is a massive concern, after all the internet does not sleep, therefore neither should your bookkeeping software or services.
A remote virtual office can also be provided in conjunction with your bookkeeping service. This can be useful in enabling a sole trader or online only business to have a postal address and telephone service to offer a physical connection to their client base. Not all Burslem bookkeepers will be able to provide this service, but it is worth discussing the possibilities if it's needed.
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND AFFILIATIONS
It isn't necessary for a certified bookkeeper in Burslem to have a university degree, and a good number of the bookkeeping qualifications are held at Diploma and Certificate level. Qualifications can be obtained through further education colleges and universities but there's also a growing selection of courses available online.
Bookkeepers are represented by two primary certification and training organisations:
The AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians): With certified bookkeepers entitled to use the letters AATQB after their name, the AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) provides a training schedule with advanced qualifications. They can then become registered AAT bookkeepers, backed up by this reputable organisation, which assures a certain standard of service for their customers. Bookkeepers who are members of the AAT can can be subject to tribunal and disciplinary processes if a complaint is made against them or they are found to have breached the code of practice. This helps to preserve the trustworthiness of the AAT membership.
The ICB or Institute of Certified Bookkeepers: Keeping their associated members up-to-date with the latest trends, the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers or ICB is the largest bookkeeping organisation on the planet, providing accreditation to bookkeepers, along with reference material and training.
By going to their websites, you're able to inspect the register of ICB or ATT members, to verify the accreditations of any bookkeeper in Burslem. Undertaking such checks is generally advisable before you actually hire any bookkeeper in Burslem.
Bookkeeping services are available for those living in in Burslem and also in nearby places like: Chesterton, Talke Pits, Wolstanton, Stanfield, Middleport, Smallthorne, Longport, Bradeley Village, Dimsdale, Porthill, and in these postcodes ST6 3EH, ST6 2AF, ST6 4EE, ST6 4AQ, ST6 2EN, ST6 4AX, ST6 4BA, ST6 2EP, ST6 2AZ, and ST6 4GQ. Local Burslem bookkeepers will likely have the phone code 01782 and the postcode ST5. Checking this should confirm you are accessing local bookkeepers. Burslem sole traders and business owners are able to utilise these and many other bookkeeping related services.
What Are the Main Advantages of Using a Bookkeeper in Burslem Over an Accountant?
There are a few benefits to using a bookkeeper as opposed to an accountant, including:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Bookkeeping services are usually more cost-efficient compared to accounting services, which makes them a smart choice for sole traders, small businesses and start-ups looking to save on expenses.
- Expertise: Bookkeepers frequently have a more specialised focus on day-to-day financial record-keeping and transaction management, which can make them more efficient and effective in these tasks.
- Customisation: Bookkeepers can provide services that are tailored to a business's particular needs, unlike accountants who might have a more standard approach.
- Availability: Bookkeepers are usually more accessible and ready to answer questions and provide support in comparison to an accountant, who may only be reachable during specific times.
- Time: By outsourcing bookkeeping, business owners can save time and focus on other important aspects of their business for example marketing and sales.
That being said, you need to note that while bookkeepers can provide invaluable support, they may not have the same level of expertise or qualifications as an accountant in certain aspects such as tax preparation or financial planning. In such cases, it might be necessary to go to an accountant for more specialist services.
Using a Bookkeeper for Tax Returns
A self-assessment tax return may be required for those with small businesses or self-employed people in Burslem. This task can be especially challenging if you aren't acquainted with the process. A good bookkeeper can help you with keeping your records in order and preparing your tax return on time and accurately.
Employing a bookkeeper for your tax returns can be beneficial in a variety of ways. Correct completion of your return is ensured by their expertise and experience. This will help you avoid any penalties or interest that HMRC may charge. Secondly, the use of a bookkeeper can save you a lot of hassle, stress and time. They'll take care of all of the calculations and paperwork, so you can focus your attention on your business. Third, Burslem bookkeepers can provide you with valuable advice on tax planning and other financial strategies. This can help you to minimise your tax liability and maximise your profits. (83543 - Tax Returns Burslem)
Burslem Bookkeeping Tasks
Most Burslem bookkeepers will be able to provide you with the following accounting and bookkeeping services: maintaining fixed asset registers, payment services, tax return preparation, Kashflow bookkeeping services, bookkeeping services for freelancers, Self-Assessment tax returns, company cash books in Burslem, bookkeeping for pubs, PAYE & wages, personal tax returns, accountancy packages, off-site bookkeeping services in Burslem, franchise bookkeeping services, Quickbook bookkeeping, bookkeeping services for societies, bookkeeping services in Burslem, cheap bookkeeping services, general bookkeeping services, profit & loss reports, bookkeeping for self-employed people in Burslem, professional bookkeeping services in Burslem, tax returns, VAT returns, Sage bookkeeping, accounting and bookkeeping, assistance with registering for self-employment, bookkeeping services for charities, bookkeeping for limited companies, double-entry bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, and more. Listed are just a selection of the tasks that are carried out by local bookkeepers. Burslem companies will let you know their entire range of bookkeeping services. If there are additional Burslem bookkeeper requirements that you need but cannot see here, you can mention them on the QUOTE FORM provided. We'll get back to you with specifics just as soon as we are able.
Bookkeepers Near Burslem
Also find: Smallthorne bookkeepers, Talke Pits bookkeepers, Wolstanton bookkeepers, Bradeley Village bookkeepers, Chesterton bookkeepers, Stanfield bookkeepers, Middleport bookkeepers, Longport bookkeepers, Dimsdale bookkeepers, Porthill bookkeepers and more. Near to most of these towns and villages, there are individuals offering bookkeeping services. This level of accessibility makes it straightforward for individuals and businesses to secure the financial help needed for managing their accounts effectively. Bookkeeping quotations are available to area residents and businesses with a click here.
Bookkeeping Services Burslem
- Self-Assessment Bookkeeping
- Small Business Bookkeeping
- Tax Preparation
- Bookkeeping Price Quotes
- Sole Trader Bookkeeping
- Bookkeeping Services
- Cash Flow Solutions
- Payroll Services
- Wages and PAYE
- Credit Control
- VAT Returns
- Double-Entry Bookkeeping
- Cheap Bookkeeping
- Self-Assessment Tax Returns
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Bookkeepers in ST5 area, (dialling code 01782).
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