At £10,000 a month in card transactions, the gap between SumUp, Zettle, and Square can run to over £50 per month. This breakdown puts the real numbers side by side, including reader costs and settlement speed.
Choosing between Sage and FreeAgent comes down to what your business actually needs. FreeAgent costs nothing with certain NatWest Group accounts and files Self Assessment directly from the platform. Sage suits businesses that carry stock, need broader integrations, or already work with an accountant on the Sage platform. Here is how the two compare across the features that matter most to UK sole traders and small businesses.
Choosing the wrong business structure can cost you thousands a year in unnecessary tax. Here is what sole trader and limited company ownership actually costs in the UK in 2026, with worked figures and the profit levels where each option makes more sense.
Managing your own books as a tradesperson means staying on top of VAT returns, CIS deductions, payroll, and HMRC deadlines, all while running a business. This guide compares Xero, QuickBooks Online, and FreeAgent on the features that actually matter for UK sole traders and limited company directors in 2026, including verified UK pricing and an honest look at where each platform falls short.
Comparing FreshBooks, QuickBooks, and Xero for your trade business? Here's what each one actually does well, where each falls short, and which one is worth your money in 2026.
