Selecting the right online accountant can be transformative for a small business — it affects compliance with UK tax regulations, automated reporting under Making Tax Digital, and strategic financial planning. Below is an updated comparison of leading online accounting firms in the UK, now including clear ratings where available to help you make a more informed choice.
1. The Online Accountant – ⭐ 4.9/5 (Trustpilot)
A highly rated online accounting firm with strong feedback for responsiveness, simplicity, and value for money. Clients consistently highlight fast turnaround, clear communication, and professional support for year-end accounts and tax filings.
Best suited for: Small, limited companies and sole traders who want reliable compliance support with predictable costs.
2. Clear House Accountants – ⭐ 4.9/5 (Stanmore) / ⭐ 5.0/5 (London office)
Clear House Accountants combines cloud-based accounting with proactive advisory support. While Trustpilot summaries show an approximate 3.8/5 Trustpilot score from limited reviews, local business listings suggest strong Google-style ratings (~5★) for quality, responsiveness, and detailed financial support.
Key strengths:
- Cloud accounting and tax planning
- Bespoke support for startups & SMEs
- Positive independent online testimonials
Best suited for: Small businesses and directors seeking ongoing insight alongside traditional accounting.
3. The Accountancy Partnership – ⭐ 4.5–4.7/5 (Trustpilot, ~5 K reviews)
This firm is one of the UK’s most widely reviewed online accountants, offering bookkeeping, payroll, VAT returns, and annual accounts with dedicated support. Their Trustpilot rating consistently sits around 4.7/5, reflecting a strong track record in customer satisfaction.
Best suited for: Growing small businesses that want a full accounting function outsourced under one provider.
4. eAccounts – ⭐ 5.0/5 (Company-reported rating)
eAccounts highlights excellence in cloud accounting services and tailored support for SMEs. Their rating on their own site presents them at 5.0/5 and they receive positive independent feedback for responsive service and strong digital integration.
Best suited for: Businesses adopting cloud-based accounting and digital record-keeping.
5. More Than Accountants – ⭐ ~4.8/5 (Online reviews)
Known for a comprehensive blend of accounting, tax planning, and business advisory services. Reviewers appreciate the flexible support packages and personalised approach that adapts as businesses grow.
Best suited for: Startups and SMEs looking for broader business support alongside compliance.
6. CloudBook Online Accountants – ⭐ ~5.0/5 (Client feedback)
A boutique online accounting practice with strong client satisfaction ratings. CloudBook emphasises personal service and proactive financial advice, which appeals to owner-managed companies.
Best suited for: Businesses prioritising relationship-based accounting support.
7. Low Cost Accounts – ⭐ ~4.9/5 (Reviews)
This firm specialises in affordable online accounting services, covering essential statutory filings and tax returns without premium pricing.
Best suited for: Startups and sole traders on tighter budgets.
8. UK Digital Accountant – ⭐ ~5.0/5 (Client feedback)
Focused on fully digital accounting workflows, this firm integrates cloud tools and remote support to streamline bookkeeping and compliance.
Best suited for: Tech-oriented businesses and those comfortable with a purely online service model.
9. Accounting On You – ⭐ ~5.0/5 (Client reviews)
A smaller, well-reviewed online accountant known for personalised communication, flexible support, and comprehensive bookkeeping and tax services.
Best suited for: Freelancers and service-based small businesses.
10. Ecommerce Accountants – ⭐ ~5.0/5 (Client feedback)
Specialist accounting services tailored to e-commerce businesses like Amazon, Shopify, and Etsy sellers. Strong reputation for understanding platform-specific tax and VAT requirements.
Best suited for: Online sellers requiring niche ecommerce accounting expertise.
How to Choose the Best Online Accountant
When evaluating these options, weigh the following criteria:
Service Depth: Does the provider offer payroll, VAT returns, and tax planning in addition to basic filings?
Digital Integration: Cloud accounting compatibility (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks) and specialised Xero Accountants can significantly streamline your bookkeeping.
Pricing Transparency: Compare monthly fees, fixed packages, and any additional costs for advisory work.
Client Feedback: Trustpilot, Google reviews, and independent testimonials offer insight into responsiveness and service quality.
Online accountants are a game-changer for small businesses in the UK, offering affordable, remote, and efficient financial management. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, choosing the right firm can free up your time, keep you compliant, and ultimately improve your bottom line.