Frequently asked questions

A bookkeeper looks after the day‑to‑day side of your finances. 

They keep your records up to date, organise your receipts, set up your software, and make sure everything is accurate and ready for tax.

Alliance Bookkeeping is also licenced for Self Assessments and MTD IT, so you can just use me as a one stop shop if you prefer. 

An accountant usually steps in at the end of the year. 

They use the information from your bookkeeping to prepare your year‑end accounts and deal with more complex tax planning.

The simplest way to think about it is this: a bookkeeper keeps everything running smoothly all year. 

Your accountant uses that information to do the year‑end work.

We work alongside each other, not instead of each other.

Most people realise they need a bookkeeper when the admin starts taking over their evenings, or when they’re not sure what they’re meant to be keeping, saving, or submitting. 

If you’re guessing your way through your records, avoiding your accounts, or worrying about Self Assessment or MTD IT, that’s usually a sign you’d benefit from support.

A bookkeeper gives you clarity, time back, and a calm, predictable routine so you always know where you stand. 

In a word, NO.

Anyone can call themselves a bookkeeper in the UK. 

There’s no legal requirement to be qualified, insured, or regulated. That means the level of training (if any) and accuracy can vary a lot.

I’m ICB‑qualified, which means I follow professional standards, keep my knowledge up to date, and work under a recognised code of ethics.

It also means I’m trained in bookkeeping, Self Assessments, and MTD IT, so you get a safe, reliable one stop shop.

Choosing a qualified bookkeeper gives you peace of mind that your records are accurate, compliant, and handled properly.

I support sole traders, landlords, and small businesses with calm, practical bookkeeping. 

This includes keeping your records up to date, setting up or tidying your software, preparing and submitting Self Assessments, and making sure you’re fully ready for MTD IT without any stress. 

I explain everything in plain English and at a pace that works for you. 

If you’re not sure what you need, we’ll talk it through together and find the simplest way forward. 

No. The portal is there to make life easier, not harder.

If you prefer email, your bookkeeping software, or even WhatsApp, that’s your choice.

I’ll always offer the simplest option that works for you and your business.

Some clients love the portal because everything is in one place. 

Some never touch it. 

Both are absolutely OK.

 Yes 

Everything is done online so you can work with me from anywhere., although I much prefer to meet people in real life, that way we both know who we are dealing with.