Help centre
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers on bookkeeping, VAT, payroll and tax — or book a free call if you’d rather talk it through.
General
Who is ProKeeper?
ProKeeper is a London-based accounting and bookkeeping firm helping UK small businesses, freelancers and limited companies with bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, annual accounts and tax — on clear fixed fees.
Are you HMRC authorised?
Yes. ProKeeper is an HMRC authorised agent, so we can deal with HMRC directly on your behalf where you authorise us to.
Do you only work in London?
We’re based in London but work with clients across the UK. Most of the work is cloud-based, with calls when you need them.
Who is a good accountant in London for a small business?
Choose an HMRC-authorised practice with clear fixed fees, software that fits how you work, and responsive support around deadlines. ProKeeper is a London-based option for UK small businesses and limited companies — book a free consultation to see if we’re the right fit.
How quickly can we start?
In most cases within 1–2 weeks of signing up, allowing time for onboarding, software access and information from your previous accountant if you’re switching.
What software do you use?
We work with Zoho Books (we are a Zoho Finance partner), plus Xero and QuickBooks — MTD-compatible tools that keep your records digital and accessible. We also offer Zoho Books migration if you are switching platforms.
Bookkeeping
How is bookkeeping priced?
Fixed monthly fees based on transaction volume and complexity. We’ll quote clearly after a short consultation — no vague hourly surprises for routine work.
How do you get my bank transactions?
Usually via secure bank feeds and software integrations, then we reconcile and code everything properly each month.
Can you catch up messy or neglected books?
Yes. Catch-up work is common. We’ll assess the backlog, quote the cleanup, then put you on a steady monthly rhythm.
VAT
When do I need to register for VAT?
You must register when your VAT-taxable turnover exceeds the UK threshold in a rolling 12-month period (currently £90,000 — always confirm the latest HMRC figure). Voluntary registration can also make sense for some businesses.
What is Making Tax Digital for VAT?
MTD requires VAT-registered businesses to keep digital records and submit returns using compatible software. We handle MTD-ready processes for clients on our VAT service.
Where can I learn the VAT return boxes?
Read our guide: Understanding VAT Return Boxes — then book a call if you’d rather we file for you.
Self Assessment & payroll
Who needs to file a Self Assessment return?
Typically if you’re self-employed, a partner, a landlord, or a limited company director with untaxed income such as dividends — among other reasons. We’ll confirm for your situation.
What’s the Self Assessment deadline?
Online returns are due by 31 January following the end of the tax year (5 April). Payments on account can also fall due in July.
Do directors need payroll?
If you take a salary from your limited company, yes — PAYE/RTI applies. We run director and staff payroll as part of our payroll service.
Pricing & switching
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes — a free initial consultation to understand your business and recommend a fixed-fee package. No obligation.
Do you charge hourly?
Routine services are fixed monthly or fixed per engagement. If something unusual sits outside scope, we agree it before work starts.
How hard is it to switch accountants?
Usually simpler than people expect. We manage the professional handover and request information from your previous accountant.