For many starters and self-employed people running a sole proprietorship, one question keeps coming back: how much does an accountant cost in 2025, and what alternatives are available?
Below you’ll find a clear overview with realistic prices and the different options to (partially) manage your own bookkeeping using tools like Dexxter.
What determines the cost of an accountant?
The price of an accountant mainly depends on four elements:
1. Number of invoices
The more invoices you send or receive, the more work your accountant has.
2. Complexity of your activities
Examples include foreign purchases, investments, vehicles, subsidies, or multiple VAT regimes.
3. How much bookkeeping you do yourself
If you process your own invoices or scan receipts, you usually pay less.
4. The accountant’s level of expertise
A junior profile costs less than a tax expert or an accountant who provides strategic guidance.
How much does an accountant cost for a sole proprietorship in 2025?
On average, you can expect the following prices in 2025:
| Side business | Full-time self-employed | |
|---|---|---|
| Per month | €50 – €120 | €70 – €180 |
| Per year | €600 – €1,440 | €840 – €2,160 |
Typical services included:
- processing invoices
- VAT returns
- tax optimisation
- personal income tax filing
- occasional questions
Hourly rates are usually somewhere between:
- basic profile: €65 – €85/hour
- experienced accountant: €85 – €125/hour
- senior or office manager: €125 – €180/hour
Why many accountants no longer take on new sole proprietorship clients
In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult to find an accountant with availability. Many firms have introduced a client stop.
Small files require lots of follow-up, frequent communication and generate less revenue. For accounting firms, this means low margins and a high workload.
Because of this, many freelancers choose alternatives such as managing their bookkeeping themselves using software, or a hybrid setup where they only book advice sessions when needed.
Alternatives to hiring an accountant
The good news? You’re not on your own. Even if accountants aren’t taking new clients or your budget is limited, there are three accessible alternatives that still allow you to keep your administration accurate and affordable.
1. Do your bookkeeping entirely yourself
This is by far the cheapest option.
With an easy-to-use tool like Dexxter, you can:
- create invoices and quotes
- scan receipts
- record income and expenses
- file all declarations
- view and submit automatic VAT summaries
You stay in full control and only pay for the software. Perfect for simple files and entrepreneurs who like hands-on management.
👀 Tip: Since Dexxter supports e-invoicing, you can deduct 120% of the cost as a business expense.
2. Do your bookkeeping yourself, but get advice from an accountant
If you want to save money but still have an expert look over your shoulder occasionally, this hybrid approach is ideal.
In Dexxter, you can:
- book a consultation when something becomes more complex
- request an annual check-up
- ask targeted VAT or tax questions
This keeps your costs low while still giving you a safety net.
✅ Fun fact: Dexxter collaborates with accountants, making it easy to find someone who can support you.
3. Do your bookkeeping yourself, but let an accountant file your returns
Some entrepreneurs manage their daily bookkeeping but prefer a professional to handle VAT filings or personal income tax. Dexxter works well for this approach too.
Your file is automatically organised and ready. This lets an accountant:
- file your returns very quickly
- charge less time (so lower cost)
- work more efficiently thanks to your digital input
And honestly?
With Dexxter, your returns are already 99% prepared. You can even submit them yourself in just a few clicks.
Overview: average bookkeeping costs for sole proprietorships
| Option | Annual cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Accountant | €840 – €2,160 | Those with complex files or no time |
| Doing your own bookkeeping with Dexxter | €180 (VAT exempt) / €240 (VAT liable) | Budget-conscious entrepreneurs who want control |
| Self-bookkeeping + accountant advice | €300 – €500 | Those needing guidance without high costs |
| Dexxter + accountant | €500 – €800 | Those who record their own data but outsource declarations |