Have you ever finished a busy month of work, checked your bank balance and realised that you still need to pay someone to complete your tax return? For many sole traders, landlords and people earning money outside their regular salary, tax filing can feel like another expense they could do without. The good news is that you do not always need to pay hundreds of pounds to get your Self Assessment tax return completed. With the right provider, you can find affordable tax returns that fit your budget without missing important details.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) reported that 11.48 million people filed their Self Assessment tax returns by the 31 January 2026 deadline for the 2024 to 2025 tax year. Of these, 97.25% were filed online.
Affordable tax returns are tax filing services that help individuals and sole traders prepare and submit their tax returns at a reasonable price. Depending on the provider, prices can start below £100 for a straightforward personal tax return, while more complicated returns may cost several hundred pounds. The final fee depends on your income sources, the records you have and the support included.
In this guide, you will learn how much a tax return costs in the UK, compare seven providers, and see how to choose a reliable service without overpaying.
How Much Does a Tax Return Cost in the UK?
Tax return fees aren’t the same for everyone. Someone on a salary with a bit of bank interest will usually pay less than a sole trader with sales, expenses and a few income streams. The more time an accountant needs, the higher the fee. So when you compare affordable tax returns, look at what’s included and not just the headline price.
The cost depends on the type of work you want, but approximate cost is:
| Type of tax return service | Approximate cost |
| Simple personal Self Assessment | £50 to £150 + VAT where applicable |
| Sole trader tax return | £100 to £350 + VAT where applicable |
| Landlord tax return | £150 to £400 + VAT where applicable |
| Company director’s personal tax return | £100 to £300 + VAT where applicable |
| Return with several income sources or capital gains | £300 to £600+ + VAT where applicable |
| Small limited company accounts and Corporation Tax return (CT600) | £300 to £800 + VAT where applicable |
| Sole trader or landlord who needs MTD quarterly updates | Often an extra monthly or annual fee on top of the return |
| Ongoing accounting support with monthly payments | £25 to £100+ per month, plus VAT where applicable |
These are rough budgeting ranges, not official UK averages or guaranteed quotes. Prices change with the provider and the complexity of your return, and VAT may be added on top—so always check whether a quoted fee is inclusive or exclusive of VAT.
Now picture a freelance graphic designer earning £28,000 from a few clients, with clear records of income and spending. Their return should be fairly cheap. Add rental income and gains from selling investments, and the accountant has extra calculations to do, so the fee goes up. Also keep in mind that the fee for preparing your return is separate from the tax you owe HMRC.
Top 7 Affordable Tax Return Service Providers in the UK
Finding a cheap Self Assessment service is easy. Finding one that explains your tax bill, answers your questions and helps you avoid mistakes takes a bit more care. Below are seven options, from one off online filing to ongoing support through the year. We have left fees out on purpose, because they change often and VAT treatment differs between providers. Check each provider’s current pricing page before you buy.
1. MyIVA
Best for: Individuals, sole traders and small firms who want affordable tax and accounting support on a one off fixed fee.
MyIVA helps small firms, sole traders and individuals manage their finances. Its services include personal tax filing, bookkeeping, tax planning and Corporation Tax support, making it useful if you need help with more than one thing.
MyIVA prepares your SA100 return, works out the figures and files it with HMRC for a one off fee that you are given before work starts. For limited companies, it also prepares and files the Corporation Tax return (CT600) as a one off service. Check the exact scope of the service, and whether VAT applies, before you order.
You can also start small and add services later. For example, a freelance designer may only need a personal return this year, then add bookkeeping or Corporation Tax support as their business grows.
Key features:
- One off fixed fee Self Assessment filing, quoted before you start
- Corporation Tax (CT600) return service for limited companies, as a one off fee
- Personal tax filing, bookkeeping and tax planning services
- Support for individuals, sole traders, landlords and small firms
Visit MyIVA to see its services and pricing.
2. TaxScouts
Best for: People who want an online accountant and a clear one off fee.
TaxScouts matches you with an accredited accountant who prepares and files your return. Tax advice consultations are sold separately. Check the current fee, and whether it includes VAT, on its pricing page.
Key features:
- An accountant assigned to your return
- Fixed price filing
- Separate tax advice options
3. Tax Flow Partners
Best for: Sole traders and individuals who want a one-off filing service.
Tax Flow Partners offers Self Assessment preparation and filing by a Chartered Accountant. It reviews your income, expenses and eligible tax reliefs, then gives you a tax calculation to check before anything is filed.
Key features:
- Fixed fee service
- Review of expenses and reliefs
- Calculation to check before filing
4. GoForma
Best for: Freelancers and self-employed people who may need ongoing accounting help.
GoForma offers a one off Self Assessment return. You get dedicated accountant and a review of your income and allowances. It also sells monthly accounting packages.
Key features:
- One off return or monthly packages
- Dedicated accountant
- Monthly packages if you need regular help
5. The Accountancy Partnership
Best for: Sole traders who prefer to spread costs across the year.
The Accountancy Partnership offers sole trader accounting plans that include your Self Assessment (or MTD Income Tax return, as required) in a monthly fee. That makes it a package, not a standalone return. Work out the yearly cost and compare it with a one-off fee before you decide.
Key features:
- Monthly payments instead of one big bill
- Packages for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies
6. Taxez
Best for: Individuals looking for low cost tax return filing online.
Taxez offers online Self Assessment filing and wider accounting packages. Check that their entry level service covers your income sources and whether VAT or extra charges apply.
Key features:
- Entry level online filing
- Online tax services and wider accounting options
7. Traditional accountants
Best for: People who prefer face to face meetings and a personal relationship with their accountant.
Rather than treating this as a seventh comparable provider, present it as an alternative to online fixed-fee services. A local accountant can be a good fit if you have rental income, capital gains, several income sources, or questions that are easier to discuss in person.
Fees vary substantially by location and complexity. Ask for a written quote for a straightforward Self Assessment return and compare it with the online options above, using the cost table as a guide. Expect higher fees for property, investments or business income.
Key features:
- Face to face discussions
- Ongoing, personal tax and accounting advice
A price on its own won’t tell you which one fits. If cost matters most, compare current published fees on the same VAT basis against what you actually need. If you want support all year, look at the monthly packages. Whichever you choose, check the latest prices and terms before you pay.
Fixed Fee vs Monthly Subscription vs Hourly: Which Is Cheaper?
The cheapest way to pay depends on how much help you need. If you only want your return filed once a year, a fixed fee usually makes sense. A sole trader who wants bookkeeping and tax support all year may do better on a monthly plan.
| Comparison | Fixed fee | Monthly subscription | Hourly rate |
| Payment | One payment | Paid every month | Pay for time used |
| Best for | One off tax filing | Ongoing accounting | Occasional advice |
| Budgeting | Easy to plan | Regular, predictable payments | Total may vary |
| Extra services | May cost more | Some may be included | Usually billed separately |
| Tax advice | Depends on the package | May be included | Charged for time spent |
| Record keeping | Often your job | May include bookkeeping | Depends on the agreement |
| Overall cost | Often lower for simple returns | Can be better value overall | Can rise with extra work |
Which Is Cheaper?
For a simple return, a fixed fee is usually the cheapest. You pay once and know what you’re getting. A monthly plan can work out cheaper if it covers bookkeeping and other jobs you’d otherwise pay for separately. A low fixed fee costs less over a year than a monthly plan if both only cover filing. But if the monthly plan also includes bookkeeping, the sums change. Always compare the full yearly cost and what you get for it.
Is a Cheap Tax Return Worth It? Red Flags to Watch For
Yes, it can be, as long as the service covers what you need. Picture a sole trader who picks the cheapest provider they can find. The provider simply types in the figures they’re sent. Nobody checks for missed expenses, and the rental income is reported wrongly. The saving vanishes when HMRC asks questions or a bigger bill turns up.
Here are the warning signs to watch for:
- Unclear pricing: If a provider won’t explain extra charges for rental income, dividends or other income, walk away. Surprise fees are the quickest way to lose the saving.
- No clear service agreement: You should know who prepares the return, who files it and whether you get to approve it first.
- Promises of guaranteed savings: A good provider explains which allowances might apply. It shouldn’t promise a refund before seeing your records.
- Poor communication: If basic questions go unanswered before you’ve paid, it won’t get better afterwards.
A low fee only helps when you get the service you need. Read the details before you commit.
How to Choose an Affordable Tax Return Provider
Picking the right provider is about balancing price, support and the type of return you have. Get two or three quotes and ask each provider the same questions. That makes it much easier to see who really offers affordable tax returns and who just advertises a low starting price.
- Check the full price: Ask whether VAT is included and whether extra income sources cost more. Compare self assessment accountant fees on a like for like basis.
- Check what’s included: Look for preparation, HMRC filing, tax calculations and help with questions.
- Think about your income: A simple personal return needs less support than one with self-employment, property or investments.
- Ask about deadlines: A good provider tells you which documents they need and gives you enough time to file.
- Check experience: Ask who will handle your return and whether they’ve dealt with your type of income before.
- Check credentials: ask whether the accountant belongs to a professional body such as ICAEW, ACCA, AAT or CIOT, and whether the firm is registered with HMRC as an agent.
If you’re a sole trader, an individual or a small firm that wants affordable filing alongside other accounting help, MyIVA is a good place to start. Its published £99 Self Assessment fee, excluding VAT, gives you a clear starting point. Review the service details at MyIVA before you go ahead.
Ready to File Without Overpaying?
MyIVA prepares and files personal and company tax returns for a one off fixed fee, and you see the fee before you start.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a tax return cost in the UK?
A simple personal return often costs £50 to £150, while sole trader and landlord returns usually cost more. Returns with property, capital gains or several income sources can reach £300 to £600 or more. VAT may be added.
What is the cheapest way to file a tax return?
You can file online yourself through HMRC’s official service and pay no accountant’s fee, if it suits your situation. If you’d like professional help, compare low cost online accountants.
Is it worth paying an accountant for a simple tax return?
It can be, especially if you’re unsure about allowable expenses, reliefs or how to report your income. If your affairs are simple and you feel confident, filing it yourself may be enough.
Can I get a cheap tax return if I’m a sole trader or landlord?
Yes. Several providers offer online filing and fixed fee services. Tell them about your self-employment or rental income at the start, because it can change the price.
Do I need to file a tax return if I’m employed?
Not always. You may need to if you have certain untaxed income, owe the High Income Child Benefit Charge or meet another HMRC rule. Check the official HMRC guidance.
Is a fixed fee tax return all inclusive?
Not always. It may cover preparing and filing your return but leave out bookkeeping, tax advice or complicated calculations. Ask for a written list of what’s included and what isn’t.
How long does it take to file a return with an online accountant?
It depends on how complex your finances are and how quickly you send over your documents. A simple return can be done fast, but ask for a realistic timescale before you start.
Conclusion
Finding affordable tax returns in 2026 doesn’t mean grabbing the lowest price and hoping for the best. Compare fees, check what’s included and think about the type of return you have. A clear fixed fee is a sensible choice if all you need is annual filing.
If you’re a sole trader, a landlord or someone with more than one income source, ask yourself whether you need extra help with expenses, reliefs or record keeping. MyIVA’s Self Assessment service is listed at £99 excluding VAT, while its Corporation Tax return service is currently £199 + VAT.
Visit MyIVA to explore the services, check the latest prices and get your return sorted.
