General
What types of clients do you work with?
We work with sole traders, freelancers, landlords, limited companies, and individuals across the UK. Whether you are just starting out or have been running your business for years, we have the experience to help.
On top of that, it should offer clear, actionable advice and steps to turn your goals into reality. To guide you toward the best decisions, a good plan will also lay out a variety of potential scenarios—plus some alternative ones—for you to consider.
How do I get started?
The easiest way is to book a free consultation. We will have a straightforward conversation about your situation, what you need, and how we can help. There is no obligation and no charge for that first call.
What makes Maestro Accounting different from other accountants?
We do not treat clients as case numbers. Every client gets a dedicated accountant who knows their situation, stays on top of their deadlines, and is available when they have questions. We are proactive rather than reactive, which means we flag issues and opportunities before they become problems.
Fees & Pricing
How much do your services cost?
Our fees depend on the complexity and scope of work involved. We agree everything upfront before any work begins, so there are no surprises. Get in touch for a free consultation and we will provide a clear, transparent quote.
Do you charge for initial consultations?
No. Your first consultation is completely free. We use that time to understand your situation and give you an honest view of what you need before you commit to anything.
Tax & Compliance
What happens if I miss a tax deadline?
HMRC issues automatic penalties for late filing and late payment, starting at £100 for returns filed even one day late. Interest is also charged on unpaid tax. We keep track of all your deadlines and alert you well in advance so this never becomes an issue.
Do I need to register for VAT?
You are legally required to register for VAT once your taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period. You can also register voluntarily below this threshold, which can be beneficial in certain circumstances. We can advise on whether voluntary registration makes sense for your business.
What is Making Tax Digital and does it affect me?
Making Tax Digital is HMRC’s initiative to move tax reporting online. It currently applies to VAT-registered businesses and is being extended to income tax for sole traders and landlords with income above £50,000 from April 2026, and above £30,000 from April 2027. We will make sure you are set up and compliant well ahead of any deadlines that apply to you.
How far back can HMRC investigate my tax affairs?
HMRC can typically go back four years for innocent errors, six years for careless mistakes, and up to 20 years where fraud or deliberate non-compliance is suspected. Keeping accurate records and filing correctly every year is the best protection, which is exactly what we help you do.
Limited Companies
When do I need to file my limited company accounts?
Your annual accounts must be filed with Companies House within nine months of your company’s financial year end. Your corporation tax return must be filed with HMRC within 12 months, and any corporation tax owed must be paid within nine months and one day of the year end. We manage all of these deadlines for you.
Do I need to file a self assessment as a company director?
Yes. If you receive a salary above the personal allowance, dividends, or any other income outside of PAYE, you will need to file a self assessment tax return each year. We handle director self assessments as part of our limited company service.
What is the most tax-efficient way to pay myself as a director?
The most common approach is to take a low salary up to the National Insurance threshold and draw the remainder as dividends, which are taxed at a lower rate than income. The right balance depends on your personal circumstances and we will advise on the most efficient structure for you.
BOOKKEEPING AND XERO
Do I need to use Xero to work with you?
No, though we do recommend it. As a certified Xero partner, we find it gives clients the best combination of ease of use and real-time visibility. If you are already using another platform, we can discuss the best approach for your situation.
How often will my books be updated?
For clients on our bookkeeping service, we update your records on a monthly basis as standard. This means your accounts are always current and you always have an accurate picture of your financial position.