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 Burslem and also nearby in: Bradeley Village, Porthill, Chesterton, Smallthorne, Wolstanton, Bradwell, Talke Pits, Stanfield, Tunstall, Dimsdale, Hanley, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Middleport, Longport, Longbridge Hayes, and in these postcodes ST6 1AA, ST6 2AT, ST6 3JW, ST6 4AS, ST6 3EU, ST6 4GA, ST6 3BA, ST6 1DT, ST6 2AW, and ST6 4AW. Locally based Burslem bookkeepers will likely have the postcode ST5 and the dialling code 01782. Checking this should guarantee you access locally based bookkeepers. Burslem sole traders and business owners are able to benefit from these and numerous other comparable 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.
Outsourced Bookkeeping Burslem
For small and medium-sized businesses in Burslem, outsourced bookkeeping has gained popularity as a flexible and cost-effective alternative to in-house accounting. By outsourcing these services, companies can devote their attention to core activities without the concern of maintaining accurate financial records. Furthermore, it removes the burden of hiring and training full-time bookkeeping staff, which can be both time-intensive and costly, particularly for businesses operating on a limited budget.
A major perk of outsourced bookkeeping is having access to professional expertise. Many providers employ experienced accountants who stay well-versed in current regulations and best practices, so your books are kept accurate and compliant. For Burslem business owners, this expertise means fewer errors, more precise reporting, and the peace of mind that comes with getting reliable financial information without handling it themselves.
Also, outsourced bookkeeping services often incorporate advanced software to refine the process, providing businesses with immediate access to their financial data. This arrangement allows business owners in Burslem to make informed decisions rapidly, secure in the knowledge that their financial information is accurate and easily available. Ultimately, outsourcing bookkeeping can prove to be an efficient and trustworthy strategy for managing finances while concentrating on the growth of the business. (Tags: Outsourced Bookkeeping Burslem)
Tax Returns
Self-employed people or those with small businesses in the United Kingdom may be required to file a self-assessment tax return. The task can be challenging, especially for those who are not acquainted with the process. Your records can be kept organised and your tax return can be prepared on time and accurately with the help of a good bookkeeper.
There are numerous benefits to using a bookkeeper for your tax returns. To ensure that your return is completed correctly, they will have experience and expertise. This will help you avoid interest charges from HMRC, as well as penalties. Secondly, the use of a bookkeeper can save you a lot of time, stress and hassle. They'll look after the calculations and paperwork, so you can focus your attention on the business side of things. Third, essential advice on tax planning can be provided by bookkeepers in Burslem. This enables you to increase your bottom line and reduce your tax burden. (47265 - Tax Returns Burslem)
Coming Articles:
Bookkeeping for charities (article 1364).
Burslem Bookkeeping Tasks
Most Burslem bookkeepers will be prepared to provide you with the following bookkeeping services: assistance with registering for self-employment, bookkeeping services for societies, bookkeeping for freelancers, bookkeeping services for small business, bookkeeping services for charities in Burslem, accountancy packages, bookkeeping for shops, small business bookkeeping, independent bookkeeping services, maintaining fixed asset registers, bank reconciliations in Burslem, general bookkeeping services, Kashflow bookkeeping services in Burslem, landlord bookkeeping services, bookkeeping services for restaurants, bookkeeping services for tradesmen, management reports in Burslem, financial statement preparation, franchise bookkeeping, letting agent bookkeeping, Quickbook bookkeeping services, off-site bookkeeping, professional bookkeeping services, bookkeeping services for startups, bookkeeping services for self-employed, tax preparation in Burslem, bookkeeping for home-based businesses, Sage bookkeeping, company cash books, accounting and bookkeeping services, and more. Listed are just some of the activities that are accomplished by local bookkeepers. Burslem professionals will let you know their whole range of services. If there are different Burslem bookkeeper requirements that you want but cannot see here, you can mention them on the QUOTE FORM provided. We'll get back to you with information just as soon as we can.
Bookkeepers Near Burslem
Also find: Chesterton bookkeepers, Dimsdale bookkeepers, Newcastle-under-Lyme bookkeepers, Talke Pits bookkeepers, Longport bookkeepers, Hanley bookkeepers, Stanfield bookkeepers, Longbridge Hayes bookkeepers, Bradwell bookkeepers, Tunstall bookkeepers, Bradeley Village bookkeepers, Wolstanton bookkeepers, Middleport bookkeepers, Porthill bookkeepers, Smallthorne bookkeepers and more. Near to all these localities, there are companies offering bookkeeping services. Individuals and businesses are ensured easy access to the financial support necessary for effective account management through this accessibility. Residents and businesses in the area can get estimates for bookkeeping by clicking 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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If you would like to get local info on Burslem, Staffordshire look here
Bookkeepers in ST5 area, (dialling code 01782).
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