Choose software alone if you want to keep the records and handle the reporting yourself. Choose accountant support if you want agreed checking, bookkeeping or filing work. Compare who does each task; an MTD software subscription does not automatically include an accountant-managed return.
Compare who does the work
| Arrangement | You do | Provider does |
|---|---|---|
| Self-service software | Keep/check the records and manage reporting | Provide the software and advertised support |
| Accountant review and filing | Maintain the agreed records and answer questions | Review and submit the agreed work |
| Managed bookkeeping and filing | Supply complete evidence and review questions/figures | Maintain books and handle the work included in the engagement |
These are arrangements to compare, not standard definitions every provider follows. Ask who handles each row of work in your actual quote.
Choose around your available time
If you are comfortable recording and reconciling transactions, software alone may be enough. If you prefer to supply statements and invoices and have the books maintained for you, compare managed services. Neither approach can identify every unrecorded cash sale or private payment without your input.
Check the income sources and annual return
Confirm support for every trade and relevant property source, the chosen update periods and the annual return. Ask whether earlier records or corrections cost extra. A product being MTD-compatible does not mean its entry-level plan includes unlimited bookkeeping or specialist tax advice.
Where TaxSimba fits
TaxSimba is accountant-led. Read the current package description to see which record-keeping, review and filing jobs are included. Choose the division of work you want first, then compare the full price.
Test the service with one real month
Before choosing, describe a typical month: cash sales, card settlements, expenses, missing receipts and any property income. Ask who handles each item and what you must approve. A demo showing a connected bank account does not explain who reconciles the books or resolves a doubtful expense.
Ask TaxSimba for the responsibilities confirmed in your engagement. In particular, check whether bookkeeping is done for you or whether you supply records ready for review. Keep the answer beside the price so the package matches the amount of work you can realistically do.
Choose a working arrangement, not just a product
Illustrative example.
A landlord is comfortable collecting receipts but does not want to reconcile transactions or prepare updates. A software-only subscription may provide tools without supplying that work. A managed quote might include it, but the written scope must say so.
Compare the same list of tasks across each arrangement. Ask who resolves an unexplained transfer, checks incomplete rental statements and confirms submission. Calling a service “supported” does not by itself identify the person responsible for every task.
| Check | Practical action |
|---|---|
| Software only | Check which record-keeping and filing tasks you must complete. |
| Records kept by you, filing help | Agree review boundaries and the condition your records must arrive in. |
| Managed records and filing | Confirm covered sources, query handling, submissions and exclusions. |
Does software automatically check every tax judgement?
Do not assume so. Match its capabilities to your circumstances and identify the judgements you or an adviser must make.
Is “accountant support” the same as managed bookkeeping?
Not necessarily. Ask for the actual tasks, limits and responsibilities included in the engagement.
Download a checklist for this guide
- Income sources and complexity
- Tasks I will do myself
- Tasks the provider agrees to undertake
- Software capabilities and permissions
- Fees, exclusions and query arrangements