Accountants for Small Businesses

From sole traders to growing SMEs, our accountants for small businesses services help business owners manage tax, bookkeeping, and financial planning efficiently. At Palmers, we understand the challenges of running a small business and provide tailored accounting solutions to support compliance, growth, and profitability

Free up your time

so you can focus on running
your business

Stress-free finances

Easier tax planning, bookkeeping
and growth strategy

From compliance to growth

Solid financial support with actionable financial insights

Common Pain Points for Small Businesses

Running a small business often means juggling client work, admin, and financial management.

As specialist accountants for small businesses, we understand these challenges and provide accounting solutions to keep finances clear, compliant, and actionable.

Problems we solve for small businesses

I only find out how my business is doing months after year-end.

Palmers gives you real-time reporting and forecasting, not just historical accounts. You’ll know how your business is performing right now and what’s coming next, so you can make proactive decisions instead of reacting too late.

I don’t really understand the numbers my accountant sends me.

We cut through jargon. Instead of spreadsheets full of figures, Palmers provides clear dashboards, visuals, and plain English explanations, so you can instantly see what’s driving profit and where action is needed.

We’re growing sales, but cash is always tight.

Many accountants focus on turnover. We focus on cash flow and profit. Our monthly reporting highlights margins, identifies where money leaks out of the business, and helps you keep more of what you earn.

I don’t know if I can afford to grow

Palmers builds what-if scenarios—hiring staff, moving premises, taking on new contracts—so you can stress-test your plans before you commit. That way, you grow with confidence, not guesswork.

I don’t know which customers or products are really profitable.

We break down your numbers to show which areas of the business generate profit and which drain resources. That means you can focus on your best opportunities and stop wasting effort on the wrong ones.

I feel like I’m on my own with the numbers.

Being a business owner can be a lonely place but with Palmers, you get an accountable partner who explains, advises, and guides. We work alongside you to turn insights into clear action plans, helping you build a business that’s not just bigger, but better.

I’ve had no financial training—I don’t know what I don’t know.

That’s why Palmers created the Profit Academy, a 7-week programme designed specifically for business owners with no financial background. It teaches you the essentials of cash flow, margins, customer value, and growth strategies, so you build the knowledge and confidence to run your business like a seasoned CEO.

We provide accounting for small businesses, whatever your structure.

We help all types of small businesses with tax planning and clear, actionable financial insights that enable growth and scaling.

Focus on running your business while we take care of your accounts.

Sole traders & freelancers

manage irregular income and personal/business tax efficiently
Start-ups

establish the right company structure and streamline accounts
Micro SMEs

optimise cash flow, payroll, and VAT reporting
Growing businesses

scale operations with accurate financial reporting and growth planning

Why Choose Palmers for Small Business Accounting?

Specialist accountants for small businesses, helping ambitious business owners make brilliant business decisions

We created Palmers Accounting to help entrepreneurs make smart financial decisions to achieve their unique business vision.

We have extensive experience with business clients across all sectors and are passionate about empowering growth for your business.

With a high level of understanding about your specific field, we’ll help you overcome all the issues that small businesses are uniquely challenged with.

I have worked with a couple of different accountants since setting up my business, both were excellent at what they do but neither provided the insightful information on my business that Palmers have. I can see at a glance the revenue drivers, profitability, average order value, customer retention rate and net worth of the company, plus plenty of other useful detail. These are all vital to help me grow my business.

Palmers have been my accountants since I first started my business; they have helped me find my feet and been a huge support. The team are able to explain even the most complex accounting concepts in plain English and always offer no-nonsense, pragmatic advice on broader areas than purely accountancy.

I love working with Palmers Accounting, they treat my business like it’s their business.

Palmers has provided me with invaluable advice and support as my business has grown and evolved. I’ve worked with them since setting up my business and the team is fantastic. They've looked after all my day-to-day accountancy needs whilst also providing insightful reporting; helping me to manage my business effectively. I’d highly recommend working with them.

When we decided to start a new business venture and buy the freehold to our local pub, the advice and guidance Adam and the team at Palmers provided was invaluable. From advising on the right company structure and setting up our operation and securing a significant VAT refund, Adam has been instrumental in ensuring we have the thriving business we always dreamed of.

Comprehensive and Specialist Accountants for Small Businesses

Our accounting services are tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs and small businesses who want to make growth-focused business decisions.

Bookkeeping & Cloud Accounting

We streamline your accounts with Xero or QuickBooks, giving you accurate, real-time financial data. That means no more chasing receipts or waiting until year-end, you’ll always know where your business stands.

Self-Assessment & Company Tax Returns

Say goodbye to last-minute stress. We handle self-assessments and company tax returns with precision, ensuring everything is filed on time and tailored to your small business needs.

VAT Compliance & Quarterly Filings

VAT can be confusing—but it doesn’t have to be. We ensure accurate reporting, timely submissions, and full compliance for all your taxable sales, so you stay on the right side of HMRC.

Payroll Management

From PAYE to pensions, we take care of payroll so you don’t have to. Our service ensures your staff are paid correctly and on time, while you remain fully compliant with regulations.

Cash Flow Forecasting & Budgeting

Avoid nasty surprises with our cash flow forecasting and budgeting support. We help you plan for seasonal fluctuations, smooth out cash gaps, and build financial resilience into your business.

Growth Strategy & Management Accounting

We don’t just crunch numbers, we interpret them. Through management accounts and strategic planning, we provide actionable insights that help you scale your business profitably and sustainably.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here some quick answers to accounting matters related to accounting for small businesses

Why do small businesses need specialist accountants?

Small businesses often have irregular income, complex expenses, and limited time for bookkeeping. Specialist accountants for small businesses ensure taxes are correct, VAT and payroll are compliant, and financial planning supports growth.

How can Palmers help with VAT for small businesses?

Palmers offers tailored VAT services, including registration guidance, quarterly filing, and reclaiming allowable expenses, ensuring small businesses remain fully compliant.

Can Palmers help with cash flow and growth planning?

Yes — we provide cash flow forecasting, budgeting, and growth strategy planning to help small businesses manage finances and scale profitably.