Business Details
20 Years
experience
Expert Bookkeeping Services in Colchester
Balancing Act Bookkeeping was established in 2006 by two former colleagues from HMSO, Simon Nobbs and Barry Arthur. Simon, a fully qualified CIMA accountant, and Barry, a qualified Accounting Technician, combined their expertise to create a service focused on managing client accounts so business owners can concentrate on operations. After Barry's retirement in 2011, Simon continued developing the company, maintaining a client base across diverse industries including charities, companies, sole traders, and partnerships. Our approach prioritises quality over cost, offering ethical employment practices and compliance with anti-money laundering policies supervised by CIMA. We specialise in supporting small professional and service businesses, providing tailored financial solutions.Our services include bookkeeping, payroll management, VAT returns, corporation tax filings, and self-assessment returns. We utilise Sage 50 software but adapt to other systems as needed, converting paper records into digital accounts when required. Clients benefit from transparent communication, with regular updates on tax liabilities and repayments. Our commitment to equal opportunities and professional standards ensures reliable, accurate financial management. We offer initial consultations without obligation, demonstrating our confidence in the value of our services.
Services
Bookkeeping
Payroll Management
VAT Returns
Corporation Tax Filings
Self-Assessment Returns
Annual Accounts
Management Accounts
PAYE & NIC Processing
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Established in 2006 with CIMA-qualified expertise
- Specialise in small business financial management
- Ethical practices with CIMA-supervised compliance
- Flexible software solutions including Sage 50
- Transparent communication and client-focused approach
Associations and certifications
- CIMA
What people say
Accurate financial management
Reliable compliance support
Personalised service approach
Services
Bookkeeping
We maintain accurate accounting records for businesses using Sage 50 or alternative software. Our service includes converting paper records into digital formats and producing annual accounts. Clients receive regular updates on financial status and tax obligations.
Payroll Management
We handle real-time information submissions to HMRC and maintain payroll records. Our service includes preparing payslips, annual P60s, and calculating tax payments. Businesses receive clear guidance on PAYE and national insurance liabilities.
VAT Returns
We complete and submit VAT returns based on client-provided sales and purchase data. Our service includes managing records for submission and advising on tax due or repayments. Businesses benefit from accurate, timely compliance with HMRC requirements.
Corporation Tax Filings
We prepare accounts from client data and submit annual returns to Companies House. Our service includes filing necessary company documents and ensuring compliance with statutory deadlines. Clients receive support for both record-keeping and submission processes.
Self-Assessment Returns
We complete self-assessment returns for self-employed individuals and partnerships. Our service covers income reporting, expense claims, and tax liability calculations. Clients receive guidance on deadlines and payment requirements for HMRC compliance.
People
Simon Nobbs
Director
CIMA-qualified accountant with over 15 years' experience in financial management. Specialises in small business accounting and compliance. Leads Balancing Act Bookkeeping's strategic development and client service delivery.
Barry Arthur
Former Director
Qualified Accounting Technician with extensive experience in payroll and tax compliance. Co-founded Balancing Act Bookkeeping in 2006. Retired in 2011 after establishing core operational frameworks for the business.
Questions
What accounting software do you use?
We primarily use Sage 50 but can adapt to other systems as needed. We also convert paper records into digital formats for clients.
Do you handle payroll submissions?
Yes, we submit real-time information to HMRC, prepare payslips, and manage annual P60s for businesses of all sizes.
How do you ensure tax compliance?
We maintain CIMA-supervised anti-money laundering policies and provide regular updates on tax liabilities and repayment schedules.
What business types do you support?
We specialise in small professional and service businesses, including charities, sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies.
Can you help with VAT returns?
Yes, we complete and submit VAT returns based on your sales and purchase records, advising on tax due or repayments.
Do you offer initial consultations?
Yes, we provide obligation-free initial consultations to discuss your specific accounting needs and service requirements.
