Question 1

Do I need an accountant for my UK startup?

Accepted Answer

Yes — UK limited companies are legally required to file annual accounts and a corporation tax return with HMRC. An accountant ensures compliance, maximises allowable expenses, and typically saves far more than their fee.

Question 2

Do I need an accountant for my Irish startup?

Accepted Answer

Yes — Irish limited companies must file annual accounts with the CRO and a corporation tax return with Revenue. Ireland's 12.5% corporation tax rate on trading income is one of Europe's lowest, making proper tax planning especially valuable for startups.

Question 3

How much does a startup accountant cost?

Accepted Answer

FoundrBooks pricing starts from €99/month for sole traders and freelancers, €249/month for limited companies and SaaS businesses, and €449/month for high-growth and e-commerce businesses. All plans include bookkeeping, tax returns, and an AI tax assistant.

Question 4

What is the corporation tax rate in Ireland for startups?

Accepted Answer

Ireland charges 12.5% corporation tax on trading income and 25% on non-trading income such as rental and investment income. New start-up companies may also qualify for relief under Section 486C, which can reduce corporation tax to nil where the liability is €40,000 or less.

Question 5

Am I better off as a sole trader or limited company in the UK?

Accepted Answer

As a sole trader you pay income tax on all profits at 20–45%. As a limited company you can take a salary plus dividends, which is often more tax efficient once profits rise, though the right answer depends on your profit level, how much you need to draw, and your plans for the business.

Question 6

When do I need to register for VAT?

Accepted Answer

In the UK you must register once taxable turnover exceeds £90,000 in any rolling 12-month period. In Ireland the registration thresholds are €85,000 for the supply of goods and €42,500 for the supply of services.

Question 7

Can FoundrBooks help with R&D tax credits?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ireland's R&D tax credit is 35% of qualifying expenditure following Budget 2026 and is refundable over three annual instalments. In the UK, the merged R&D expenditure credit is 20%, and loss-making R&D-intensive SMEs may instead qualify for Enhanced R&D Intensive Support. FoundrBooks assesses eligibility and prepares the claim.

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