Running a small business means wearing every hat — including the one you never wanted. If VAT deadlines, payroll runs, and year-end paperwork are eating into time you should be spending on customers and growth, that's exactly where we come in. We're a Grays-based accountancy working with small businesses across Essex and East London, and we handle the numbers properly so you don't have to think about them.
Are you a limited company director, startup founder, or sole trader in Grays, Essex, or the surrounding London boroughs? If you're spending more time on admin, receipts, and HMRC deadlines than on running your business, you're not alone — it's one of the most common frustrations small business owners tell us about. Most people didn't start a business because they wanted to become their own bookkeeper.
Running a small business means wearing every hat, including the one you never wanted. If VAT deadlines, payroll runs, and year-end paperwork are eating into time you should be spending on customers and growth, that is exactly where we come in. We are a Grays-based accountancy working with small businesses across Essex and East London, and we handle the numbers properly so you don't have to think about them.
Are you a limited company director, startup founder, or sole trader in Grays, Essex, or the surrounding London boroughs? If you are spending more time on admin, receipts, and HMRC deadlines than on running your business, you are not alone. It is one of the most common frustrations small business owners tell us about. Most people didnot start a business because they wanted to become their own bookkeeper.
At Tax Return Assist, we are based right here in Grays, Essex. Not a call centre somewhere you will never visit. We work with a genuine mix of local small businesses: shops, tradespeople, hospitality venues, online sellers, and independent contractors across Essex and East London. Whatever your business looks like day to day, we take the time to understand how it actually runs before we touch a spreadsheet.
Local and reachable. Based in Grays, not hundreds of miles away. You can call, email, or come in and talk face to face. Fixed monthly fees. You know exactly what you are paying, with no surprise bill at year end. One dedicated accountant. You deal with the same person who actually knows your business, not a different voice every time you call. Cloud accounting, set up properly. We connect your bank feeds and manage your bookkeeping software, so your numbers are accurate all year round, not just tidied up in a rush. We chase the deadlines, not you. VAT, payroll, Companies House filings, corporation tax and tracked and filed on time, every time.
1) Bookkeeping : accurate, current financial records using cloud software, so you always know where you stand.
2) VAT returns : quarterly VAT prepared and filed, with advice on whether you're on the right scheme.
3) Payroll : monthly payroll for you and your staff, including payslips, PAYE, and pension auto-enrolment.
4) Year-end accounts : statutory accounts prepared and filed on time, whether you're a sole trader, partnership, or limited company.
5) Corporation tax & self-assessment : calculated correctly and filed before any deadline is close.
6) Tax planning : ongoing advice, not a once-a-year conversation, aimed at legally keeping more of what you earn.
7) Companies House filings : confirmation statements and director changes handled for you.
How much does a small business accountant cost in Grays, Essex?
Our monthly accounting service starts from £75 per month and covers bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, and year-end accounts. The exact price depends on your business size and transaction volume. we give you a fixed quote upfront.
Do I still need an accountant if I already use Xero or QuickBooks?
Software records transactions, but it won't tell you if you are claiming the right expenses or structuring your tax efficiently. We set up and manage the software for you and make sure everything going into it is accurate and compliant.
Can you help if I want to switch from my current accountant?
Yes — we handle the entire handover, including requesting your records from your previous accountant, so there are no admin on your end.
Do you only work with businesses in Grays?
No, we support small businesses across Essex, East London, and further afield across the UK, all handled remotely by phone, email, and cloud software.
How quickly can you get me set up?
Most businesses are fully operational within a week, including bank feeds and cloud accounting software. we handle the technical setup.