Why a Specialist Accountant Matters
Amazon selling has specific accounting complexities that a general high-street accountant may not understand. FBA fee structures, international VAT obligations, inventory valuation for stock held at Amazon, and the nuances of Amazon settlement reports all require expertise. An accountant who works with ecommerce businesses will save you more money (through correct tax planning) than the premium they charge over a general accountant.
What to Look For
Experience with Amazon or ecommerce clients is the top priority. Ask specifically whether they have other Amazon seller clients and understand FBA fees, VAT on marketplace sales, and inventory accounting for Amazon businesses. Cloud accounting expertise is important — you want an accountant comfortable with Xero, QuickBooks, or similar software rather than one who works primarily with paper records.
Questions to Ask
How many Amazon sellers do you work with? Do you understand how Amazon settlement reports work? Can you advise on VAT registration and international selling obligations? Do you provide proactive tax planning advice or just compliance? What software do you use? How quickly do you respond to queries? What are your fees and what is included?
Cost Expectations
For a sole trader Amazon seller, expect to pay five hundred to one thousand pounds per year for annual accounts and Self Assessment. For a limited company, expect one thousand to two thousand pounds per year for statutory accounts, Corporation Tax, and basic advisory. Larger, more complex businesses pay more. Do not choose solely on price — a good accountant saves you significantly more in tax than the fee difference between cheap and quality advice.
When to Engage One
Ideally, engage an accountant before you start your Amazon business so they can advise on the best structure from the beginning. If you have already started, engage one once your turnover approaches the VAT threshold or once your profits are high enough that tax planning matters. The earlier you get proper advice, the fewer expensive mistakes you make.