Numbers uncomplicated, suits unnecessary

Your Oxfordshire accounting consultant, Pat van Aalst

Clear finances, down-to-earth results

Say goodbye to stuffy suits and jargon-filled conversations. We offer financial solutions in refreshingly straightforward approach, for people who want to reach their business goals faster and achieve financial security without the accounting headache.

Free up your time, enjoy your life

I know your business is important to you. But so is your life outside the of work. Let us take care of your numbers so you can be there for life’s more important moments.

My mission is to help you create a roadmap for financial success, set achievable goals and help guide you towards them.

⁠— Pat van Aalst

Popular services

I offer a range of accounting services to help your business flourish.

Virtual Finance Manager

Leave me to manage your finance function so you can concentrate on the day-to-day running of your business.

Bookkeeping

Stay on top of your numbers with a bookkeeping solution that gives you meticulously accurate financial records.

Management Accounts

Make informed business decisions and keep your business finances under control with my management accounts service.

Corporation Tax

Meet your tax obligations with an expert solution, ensuring compliance and maximising savings for your business.

Payroll

I offer an effortless payroll solution, ensuring accurate and timely payments for your team every single time.

VAT

Simplifying this complex process by preparing and filing your VAT returns with HMRC on your behalf.

Why choose us?

Here's just a few reasons why people choose to work with us.

No-nonsense expertise

With a friendly and approachable demeanour, our solutions are easy to understand that won’t leave you scratching your head after every phone call.

Year-round support

Unlike some accountants who only seem to appear at tax time, we're here for you throughout the year to help keep your business on track.

Tailored solutions

Our services are never one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand your specific needs and create solutions that align with your goals.

Welcome to stress-free accounting

From our initial consultation, all the way through to when we start work, my seamless process ensures that you can focus on what matters, helping you leave the stress of finances behind.

Latest articles

Rising employment taxes hit UK hiring

By Pat van Aalst • May 17, 2025

Rising employment taxes are making UK businesses think twice about hiring 💼 If you’re finding it harder to justify taking on new staff lately, you’re not alone. Nearly half of UK businesses are now rethinking their recruitment plans thanks to a rise in employment taxes and overall labour costs. According to new research by Reed, 46% of employers say the recent increase in National Insurance Contributions (NICs) is directly affecting their hiring decisions. From April 6th, the rate employers pay on NICs jumped by 1.2 percentage points, while the threshold before you start paying dropped to £5,000. That’s a double hit—especially for labour-heavy sectors like hospitality and retail, where part-time staff and tight margins are common. Out of 254 businesses surveyed (together employing over 260,000 people), the average predicted hit to annual profits was a whopping 29%. That’s not small change. So what are businesses doing in response? 27% are putting hiring plans on hold 19% are postponing or cancelling pay reviews 16% are making redundancies It’s clear the increased financial pressure is forcing many to make tough decisions. These tax changes were designed to boost public finances, but without extra support, it’s becoming harder for many to grow—or even maintain—their current workforce. If your business is feeling the squeeze, don’t suffer in silence. We can help you take a closer look at your costs, staffing, and tax planning to figure out the best way forward. 📩 Let’s chat.

Business confidence hits two-year low

By Pat van Aalst • May 13, 2025

Business confidence takes a dip – what’s going on? A recent survey by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) shows that business confidence in the UK has fallen to its lowest point in two years. Rising tax bills, ongoing cost pressures, and concerns over future sales are making things tough for many businesses right now. ICAEW’s confidence index dropped to -3 in the first quarter of 2025 – down from 0.2 at the end of last year. That’s the weakest reading since late 2022. Out of the 1,000 chartered accountants surveyed, more than half (56%) flagged tax hikes as a major issue – the highest figure since this survey began back in 2004. One of the key factors behind this? Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ recent £40 billion tax package, which includes a rise in employer National Insurance contributions from April. On top of that, there are bigger global forces at play. President Trump’s renewed trade war in the US could slow down UK growth, and some forecasts even suggest GDP could flatline by 2026. There was a bit of good news in February, with the economy growing by 0.5%. But overall, the mood is cautious – especially with reports of job losses at levels we haven’t seen since 2008 (although the official data is a bit more optimistic). If your business is feeling the pinch – whether it’s around costs, cash flow, or just uncertainty – we’re always here to talk things through. Get in touch – let’s make a plan that works for you.

SPOTLIGHT ON: The State Pension changes in 2025

By Pat van Aalst • May 7, 2025

SPOTLIGHT ON: The State Pension changes in 2025: What you need to know Understanding your pension and how to maximise it. The State Pension remains a crucial part of retirement for many across the UK. While other savings and investments help, it’s a solid foundation for your retirement income. With some key changes in 2025, it’s important to stay on top of what’s happening and how it affects your plans. The New State Pension If you’re reaching State Pension age after April 6, 2016, the new system applies to you. You’ll need at least 10 years of National Insurance (NI) contributions for anything, and around 35 years for the full pension. From April 2025, the full new State Pension will rise to £230.25 per week, up from £176.45. Triple Lock – A Key to Increases The government’s triple lock ensures your pension increases each year based on the highest of three factors: inflation, average wage growth, or 2.5%. So, in years of high inflation, you can expect a better rise in your pension. Changes to the State Pension Age The State Pension age is gradually moving up to 67 between 2026 and 2028. For now, 2025 still has it at 66 for most people, but it’s worth checking if you’re in the transition years for a shift to 67. How Your NI Record Affects You To get your State Pension, you need qualifying years on your NI record. For the full pension, that’s 35 years. Gaps in your record? Voluntary contributions might help top it up, but check first if it’s worth it. Deferring Your State Pension You don’t have to claim your State Pension as soon as you’re eligible. Delaying it can increase your weekly payments. For the new pension, the increase is roughly 5.8% for each year you defer. Looking Ahead: Planning for 2025/26 If you're nearing retirement, you’ll want to think about how these changes could affect your finances. Inflation might push your State Pension up, but rising living costs could still eat into that extra cash. And if you qualify for other benefits like Pension Credit, it’s worth considering how these changes will impact them too. How to Maximise Your State Pension Check your NI record to see how many years you’ve got. If there are gaps, voluntary contributions might fill them in, but always check first. Stay informed about government changes and consider deferring your State Pension if that suits your situation. If you’re thinking about how all this fits into your plans, it can be a good idea to get professional advice. Whether you're looking at private pensions or other benefits, having the full picture helps you make the right decisions. Got questions or need help with your State Pension? Let’s chat – I’m always here to help.

Experience accounting without the headache

Book a call with me today for a refreshing approach to financial management. No suits, no jargon, just practical accounting solutions that make a difference.

Get in touch ⟶

Experience accounting without the headache

Book a call with me today for a refreshing approach to financial management. No suits, no jargon, just practical accounting solutions that make a difference.

Get in touch ⟶

Experience accounting without the headache

Book a call with me today for a refreshing approach to financial management. No suits, no jargon, just practical accounting solutions that make a difference.