Bookkeeping Packages and Pricing: What UK SMBs Should Expect

Comparing bookkeeping prices in the UK can be confusing. Different providers bundle services in different ways, and “from £X/month” rarely tells the full story. This guide breaks down the common pricing models, typical package ranges, what’s included, and the questions to ask—so you can choose confidently.

Common pricing models in the UK

• Fixed monthly packages Predictable fee based on transaction volume/complexity. Best for most SMEs.

• Hourly billing Pay for actual time. Useful for ad-hoc work but harder to budget.

• Hybrid (fixed + overage) Fixed core package plus a fair overage for spikes (e.g., extra transactions, payroll headcount).

Typical package tiers and what’s included

• Essentials (micro to small businesses)

  • Scope: Weekly bank recs, purchase invoice processing, receipts, month-end tidy-up.

  • Add-ons: Quarterly VAT returns, basic monthly report pack (P&L, balance sheet).

  • Good fit: Non-VAT or low-volume VAT businesses.

• Standard (growing SMEs)

  • Scope: All Essentials + monthly management reports with commentary, VAT returns, supplier payments support, monthly review call.

  • Add-ons: Payroll, CIS returns, payment processor reconciliations.

• Advanced (higher volume/complexity)

  • Scope: All Standard + multi-channel eCommerce reconciliations, project/department tracking, cash flow insights, quarterly planning session.

  • Add-ons: Catch-up/cleanup projects, custom KPI dashboards.

What drives the price up or down

• Monthly transaction volume (bank lines, bills, sales invoices)

• VAT registration and complexity (partial exemption, reverse charge)

• Number of payment processors (Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, Shopify)

• Payroll headcount and CIS requirements

• Number of entities/locations and tracking categories

• Level of reporting and meetings (basic vs bespoke commentary)

• Catch-up/cleanup required at the start

How to compare quotes (apples to apples)

• Define your scope

  • Bank accounts, processors, monthly bills/invoices, VAT scheme, payroll/CIS needs, reporting cadence.

• Ask for inclusions/exclusions in writing

  • What’s included monthly vs counted as extra (e.g., end-of-year accountant liaison, urgent queries, extra transactions)?

• Clarify service levels and response times

  • Turnaround for invoices, reconciliations, month-end, VAT filing, and support queries.

• Request sample reports

  • Ask for a sample management pack to see the quality of insights and commentary.

• Check software stack

  • Xero + Dext/Hubdoc + bank feeds + any required add-ons (A2X, Float, Pleo). Confirm licence costs and who pays.

Indicative UK price ranges (to orient your expectations)

• Essentials: typically £200–£500/month

• Standard: typically £500–£1,000/month

• Advanced: £1,000+/month depending on volume and complexity Note: Cleanup/catch-up projects are usually a separate one-off quote based on backlog size.

Red flags to watch for

• Very low “from” prices with vague scope

• No discussion of transaction volumes or VAT complexity

• No sample reports, unclear response times

• No process for month-end close or VAT period lock

When a “package” should be customised

• Seasonal spikes or rapid growth

• eCommerce with multiple marketplaces

• Construction businesses with CIS and Domestic Reverse Charge

• Multi-entity groups or departmental reporting needs

Simple checklist for choosing your bookkeeper

• List your monthly volumes and core needs (VAT, payroll, CIS, reporting)

• Shortlist 2–3 Xero-certified providers

• Get written proposals with clear inclusions, add-ons, and pricing

• Review sample reports and agree communication cadence

• Start with a tidy-up/onboarding plan and a 90-day review

Mini FAQ

• Do fixed packages include VAT returns? Often in Standard and above; in Essentials it may be quarterly add-on. Always confirm.

• Can I change tiers later? Yes—good providers review volumes quarterly and adjust up/down fairly.

• What about year-end accounts and tax? Some bookkeepers handle them; others liaise with your accountant. Clarify who does what.

• How do I keep fees predictable? Keep volumes consistent, use a capture tool (Dext/Hubdoc), and stick to a weekly workflow.

Want transparent, fixed-fee bookkeeping with clear reporting? Banana Bookkeeping offers UK-wide packages built around your volumes and VAT needs—no surprises. Book a free consultation!