Limited company accountant packages can look the same on the surface. Look closer and they differ in what they include, what they leave out, and what the true yearly cost is. Here is a plain guide to what to check before you sign up.
Key takeaways
- Check exactly which filings are included: accounts, Corporation Tax return, confirmation statement.
- Ask whether payroll, VAT and your personal tax return are inside the price.
- A low headline price often means extras are charged separately.
- Read the notice period before you commit.
What does a limited company have to file?
A limited company has regular obligations. It must file annual accounts and a Company Tax Return with HMRC, and a confirmation statement with Companies House. If it pays a salary, it also runs payroll. If it is VAT registered, it files VAT returns. A package should tell you clearly which of these it covers.
What to compare in a package
| Item | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Annual accounts | Is preparation and filing included? |
| Corporation Tax return | Is it filed for me, and who calculates the tax? |
| Confirmation statement | Is the yearly Companies House filing included? |
| Bookkeeping | Is it included, or do I keep my own records? |
| Payroll and VAT | Are they inside the price or extra? |
| Director's personal tax return | Is it included? |
| Support | Can I call or email, and how quickly is a reply? |
Worked example (illustrative)
"Lee", an illustrative example, is a limited company director choosing between two packages. One has a lower monthly fee but leaves out payroll, VAT returns and Lee's personal tax return. The other costs more each month but includes all three. Once Lee added up the extras for the first package, the second was better value. The lesson: compare total yearly cost for what you need, not the headline monthly fee.
Common mistakes
- Comparing only the monthly price. Extras can double the real cost.
- Forgetting your personal tax return. Directors usually still need one.
- Ignoring the small print. Notice periods and exit fees are easy to miss.
Our limited company packages start from £75 a month. See exactly what is included on our limited company packages page. Still deciding whether to incorporate at all? Read our guide to sole trader vs limited company.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a limited company accountant package usually include?
Most packages cover annual company accounts, the Corporation Tax return, and the confirmation statement. Many also include bookkeeping support, payroll, VAT returns and a director's personal tax return, but this varies a lot between firms.
How much does a limited company accountant cost?
It depends on the size of the company and the services you need. At Berber Accounts & Tax, limited company packages start from £75 a month. Our pricing page shows what is included.
Is a director's personal tax return included?
Not always. Some packages include it and others charge separately. Ask this question early, because most directors need to file a personal return as well.
What is a confirmation statement?
It is a yearly filing at Companies House confirming your company details are up to date, such as directors, shareholders and registered address. It is separate from your accounts.
Can I switch accountant later?
Yes. You can change accountant at any time. A good firm will handle the handover, but check notice periods and any exit fees before you sign.
Related reading
How Berber Accounts & Tax helps
We are a London-based, specialist gig-economy and MTD accounting practice working with fixed monthly fees. If you would like this handled for you rather than doing it yourself, we can help.
Schedule a consultation →Written by the Berber Accounts & Tax team, 124 City Road, London EC1V 2NX, United Kingdom.
Last reviewed: 20 September 2026.
This article is general information, not personal tax advice. Speak to a qualified accountant about your own circumstances before acting on it.