Accountants for IT and Software Contractors
IT contractors and software companies often qualify for R&D relief and need IR35 advice. We cover both alongside your normal accounts and tax.
- Fixed fees from £45.83 + VAT a month
- Named accountant who knows your sector
- Free first consultation, no obligation
R&D tax relief for software
Work that resolves genuine technological uncertainty can qualify, such as new algorithms or architectures, but routine development does not.
Working with overseas clients
VAT treatment depends on where the client is based, so keep invoices and client details documented.
Tax points that matter for developers
- IR35 reviews for every client or agency contract
- R&D tax relief for qualifying software development
- VAT on overseas clients and cloud or SaaS subscriptions
- Pension contributions from the company to reduce tax
At a glance
| Common issues | IR35, R&D relief, VAT on overseas clients |
|---|---|
| Relief | R&D credit on qualifying software projects |
| Fees | From £45.83 + VAT a month |
| Regulated by | ICAEW, ACCA and AAT (via Accotax) |
How we help it and software contractors
Everything a limited company needs, for one predictable monthly fee.
Year-end accounts and CT600
Statutory accounts and Corporation Tax return, filed on time.
Bookkeeping
Xero, QuickBooks or FreeAgent kept up to date.
VAT returns
Making Tax Digital returns prepared and filed.
Payroll
Director and staff payroll, RTI and pensions.
Tax planning
Salary, dividends and pensions arranged to keep more.
Company formation
Set up properly, with secretarial support.
4.9/5
Google rating
300+
verified reviews
4
London offices
1 day
quote turnaround
How it works
Switching takes minutes. We handle the handover from your old accountant.
Tell us about your work
Fill in the short form or call us.
Get one fixed price
Within one working day, no hidden extras.
We take over
Your named accountant handles the rest.
Questions from it and software contractors
Straight answers to what directors in your sector ask us most.
Can software development qualify for R&D relief?
Yes, where it resolves technological uncertainty.
Is IR35 a problem for IT contractors?
It can be, so check each contract.
Can software developers claim R&D tax relief?
Yes, if your work seeks to resolve scientific or technological uncertainty, such as developing new algorithms or overcoming technical problems, rather than routine coding. Costs such as staff time and certain software or cloud costs can qualify. We assess eligibility and prepare a claim supported by technical evidence.
How is VAT handled on software sold to overseas customers?
Business customers outside the UK are generally outside the scope of UK VAT, while sales to consumers can bring local VAT rules depending on the country. Recording each customer's location and business status is essential. We review your products and set up the right VAT treatment.
Is a software contractor usually inside or outside IR35?
It varies by contract. Fixed-scope project work with real independence is more likely to be outside IR35, while embedded roles with client control and no right of substitution are more likely to be inside. We review the contract and the way you work, then explain your likely status.
How much do accountants for it and software contractors cost?
Our fixed monthly packages start at £45.83 + VAT, and the price depends on turnover and the services you need. You get a clear quote before you commit.
Can you take over from my current accountant?
Yes. We handle the clearance letter, record transfer and HMRC agent authorisation at no extra cost on a monthly package.
Do I need to meet you in person?
No. Everything can be done online, and you are welcome to visit one of our South London offices by appointment.
Related guides and tools
Ready for a fixed monthly price?
Tell us a little about your work. A named accountant who knows it and software contractors will reply within one working day.
- Free, no obligation
- Fixed price, no hourly billing
- Call 0203 4411 258 or WhatsApp +44 7912 225796
What happens next
- We review your work. A named accountant looks at how you earn, invoice and spend as one of the it and software contractors we support.
- You get one fixed price. Within one working day, with no hourly billing.
- We take over. We handle the handover from your old accountant and set up your sector-specific tax planning.
Get your free fixed quote
We reply within one working day.