Sage launches first free accounting solution for sole traders

On the 5^th of April, Sage announced the launch of two new plans, as part of its Sage for Accountants product, both geared to help 4.5m UK businesses digitise their record keeping. Crucially, one of them is the first free product of its kind to help sole traders with faster, compliant online self-assessment. The plan also helps connect sole traders with bookkeepers and accountants, often a significant moment for a growing business.  

We know that businesses that digitise their processes are more successful, and the sooner we can help small businesses and sole traders start on that journey, the better, whether it’s a side hustle, part-time role or simply a self-employed role. The new plans have been designed to ensure no one is being left behind in the digital tax revolution and help sole traders and smaller businesses thrive. 

It is estimated that 92% of SMBs use accountants or bookkeepers to help with self-assessments. In using Sage’s new free tool, those companies may reduce the work they and their accountant need to do. Importantly, that will save time and cost. For accountants, the savings in time alone means they can increase the number of SMBs they support. For sole traders, it can also help get them ready ahead of upcoming changes in how tax is collected. 

From April 2026, the government’s Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self-Assessment (MTD for ITSA) will apply to unincorporated sole traders and landlords with an income of more than £50,000. This will mean businesses and property owners will need to make records and income tax self-assessment submissions digital using compatible software. The change was supposed to come into effect in 2024 but has since been delayed, giving sole traders and accountants longer to ensure they are prepared. 

This is one if the areas where the Sage Accounting software will make its biggest impact, for businesses that are yet to take advantage of systems and processes being digitised. In these uncertain economic times, it’s crucial that sole traders and accountants and bookkeepers get all the support possible.  

Sage Accounting Individual Free Plan 

The first free plan available for the accountant sector, the Sage Accounting Individual Free plan is aimed at self-employed taxpayers with simple tax needs who like to do their own self-assessment returns.  

Sage Accounting Individual Plan 

This paid plan offers the benefits of the free one, with some valuable added services such as financial reporting. The plan is designed to significantly reduce or eliminate manual data entry, transforming the accountant’s capacity and efficiency while bolstering their confidence to advise their clients using smart reporting.  

How it works 

The new Sage Accounting plans are now fully up-and-running, with free tools available on sign-up. Users will receive a starter kit with tools and support they need to get set up on the platform, including the client management tool, award winning support from Sage product experts, access to free Sage member training, talks and articles, and to Sage Points to grow future discounts on Sage’s products. 

This free ‘starter kit’ will get users set up on the platform, after which they can add additional tools to their package, to manage everything from bookkeeping and payroll to tax. The product is fully customisable, meaning beyond the free starter kit, users will only pay for what they need. Sign up for Sage Accounting here.