Free guides made for real businesses like yours.
Creative professionals are masters of their craft — but when it comes to bookkeeping and taxes, many feel lost. Whether you’re a performer, designer, musician, or filmmaker, handling your finances doesn't need to feel overwhelming. This is your guide to making sense of it all in 2025.
As a self-employed creative, you're responsible for declaring your income and paying tax and National Insurance through the Self Assessment system. Unlike salaried workers, there’s no one doing this for you — and that’s where things can fall apart fast without proper bookkeeping for creatives.
Ditch the shoebox of receipts. Tools like Xero, QuickBooks, or even a simple spreadsheet can help you track expenses, invoices, and mileage. Good creative business bookkeeping is all about making your finances understandable, not perfect.
You can usually claim things like software subscriptions, travel to gigs or shoots, props, music equipment, marketing costs, and more. But HMRC doesn’t play around with “personal use” — which is why a creative-savvy accountant can protect you from costly mistakes.
It’s tempting to leave everything until January, but doing so creates stress, missed deductions, and even penalties. Plan ahead. Submit early. Set aside 20–25% of your earnings as you go to avoid scrambling later.
You didn’t become a creative to get buried in spreadsheets — but understanding your finances gives you freedom. With a little support, bookkeeping becomes a tool to help you thrive, not something to fear.
💡 Want a clearer, calmer way to manage your finances? Our Bookkeeping Services are tailored for creatives and freelancers — helping you keep track, stay compliant, and breathe easier.
Yes. If you're self-employed — whether as a photographer, actor, designer, or freelancer — you must register for Self Assessment and declare your income annually to HMRC.
Common allowable expenses include equipment, travel, home office use, software subscriptions, and materials used in your creative work. Always keep receipts and stay clear of claiming personal expenses.
Use tools like QuickBooks or Xero to track income and expenses throughout the year. Many creatives also benefit from working with a specialist bookkeeper who understands the industry.
Yes. In the UK, online Self Assessment tax returns are due by 31 January each year. Submitting early avoids penalties and gives you time to budget for your tax bill.
Let’s simplify your financial life. Book a free call with us today and get creative-focused support that helps you grow your business — not stress about it.