Getting your business set up properly from the start
Starting a new business is exciting, but it also comes with important financial and legal responsibilities. Decisions made in the early stages – often before you’ve earned much income – can have a long-term impact on tax, compliance and how easy your business is to manage.
At Haupa Associates, we work with startups and new businesses across many sectors. Our role is to help you start on the right footing, avoid common mistakes, and put simple systems in place that support growth rather than create problems later.
We keep things clear, practical and proportionate – especially in the early stages.
Common challenges for startups
Many new business owners come to us because they want help with:
- Choosing the right business structure (sole trader vs limited company)
- Understanding tax and reporting obligations
- Setting up bookkeeping properly from day one
- Avoiding early compliance mistakes
- Knowing what costs can be claimed
- Understanding how and when tax will be due
Without clear guidance early on, these issues often become more complicated later.
How we support startups and new businesses
Our services for startups focus on structure, clarity and simplicity.
Choosing the right structure
One of the first decisions is whether to operate as a sole trader or limited company.
We explain the differences clearly, including:
- Tax implications
- Reporting requirements
- Ongoing responsibilities
This helps you choose the structure that suits your plans – not just what sounds easiest at the time.
Bookkeeping setup
We help set up bookkeeping properly using Sage, so your records are organised from the beginning.
Good bookkeeping early on:
- Saves time later
- Reduces errors
- Makes tax returns easier
- Supports future growth
👉 Learn more about Bookkeeping
Self-Assessment or company accounts
Depending on your structure, we support you with:
- Self-Assessment tax returns (for sole traders),
👉 Learn more about Self-Assessment Tax Returns
- Annual accounts and Corporation Tax (for limited companies)
👉 Learn more about Annual Accounts & Corporation Tax
We make sure filings are accurate and submitted on time, with clear explanations throughout.
Ongoing support as you grow
As your business grows, your accounting needs will change.
We can support:
- VAT registration and returns (when required)
- Payroll for directors or employees
- Better reporting and financial visibility
You won’t be locked into services you don’t need – we adjust support as your business evolves.
Which package suits startups best?
Most startups benefit from starting simple.
Early-stage sole traders
Often start with:
- Standalone Self-Assessment support, or
- A Basic monthly package once activity increases
New limited companies
Usually benefit from:
- The Basic package initially
- Moving to Intermediate as payroll or VAT becomes relevant
We’ll always recommend what fits your current stage, not what you might need years down the line.
Transparent pricing from day one
We believe startups should always know where they stand.
- Fixed monthly packages
- Accounting and payroll software charged separately at cost, for full transparency
This keeps budgeting simple and predictable.
What we need from you
To support your startup effectively, we’ll typically need:
- Basic business information
- Income and expense records
- Clear communication as things develop
The earlier we’re involved, the easier it is to keep everything structured.
Why startups choose Haupa Associates
Startups work with us because we provide:
- Clear explanations without jargon
- Practical support tailored to early-stage businesses
- Simple systems that scale
- Transparent pricing
- Calm, professional guidance
We focus on helping you build strong foundations.
Book a free 30-minute review
If you’re starting a new business and want clarity around accounting, tax and setup, book a free 30-minute review.
We’ll talk through your plans and explain the best way to move forward – with no obligation.