LJ Modern Bookkeeping Limited

09/07/2026

We're still trying to take it all in...

We are absolutely delighted (and a little surprised!) to share that LJ Modern Bookkeeping has been named a Finalist for Bookkeeping Team of the Year at the Accounting Excellence Awards 2026. 🏆

When we started LJ Modern Bookkeeping, our goal was simple: to provide accurate, reliable bookkeeping with exceptional customer service and genuinely care about the businesses we support. To now be recognised alongside some of the very best firms in the UK is something we never imagined and are incredibly proud of.

This achievement wouldn't have been possible without the dedication, hard work and commitment of our fantastic team. Thank you to every member of LJ Modern Bookkeeping for the care, professionalism and passion you bring every single day. This recognition belongs to all of us.

We would also like to thank our wonderful clients for placing their trust in us. Your continued support means everything, and it's a privilege to be part of your business journey.

We're looking forward to attending the awards ceremony in September, celebrating with fellow finalists and enjoying what promises to be an incredible evening.

Whatever the outcome, being named a finalist is an achievement we're immensely proud of.

17/06/2026

Perrigo Consultants highly recommends LJ Modern Bookkeeping. We work together with Claire, and she is always professional, friendly and extremely knowledgeable. She explains everything clearly and makes the whole bookkeeping process feel straightforward and stress-free for clients. Her attention to detail and approachable manner really stand out. A fantastic service from start to finish, definitely 5 stars!

Perrigo Consultants highly recommends LJ Modern Bookkeeping. We work together with Claire, and she is always professional, friendly and extremely knowledgeable. ★★★★★

23/04/2026

If you work in construction, staying on top of your CIS paperwork is essential to keeping your books accurate and avoiding problems later down the line.

CIS statements, invoices, and deduction records all play an important role in making sure your tax position is correct. Missing paperwork can lead to delays, incorrect figures, and extra stress when it’s time to complete returns or prepare for year-end. Keeping everything organised as you go makes life much easier and helps avoid a last-minute scramble.

Top tips to stay organised:

• Keep all CIS statements safe and in one place
• Upload paperwork regularly rather than leaving it to pile up
• Check that deductions match what you’ve been paid
• Ask for missing statements as soon as possible

Staying organised with your CIS paperwork keeps your records accurate, your tax correct, and your business running smoothly.

Little and often really does make CIS bookkeeping much easier.

21/04/2026

What Can LJ Modern Bookkeeping Help You With?

Running a business is busy enough without worrying about keeping your books in order. At LJ Modern Bookkeeping, we support small businesses, sole traders, and landlords by taking care of the numbers so you can focus on what you do best.

Here are just some of the ways we can help:

• Day-to-day bookkeeping to keep your records accurate and up to date
• VAT return preparation and submission to HMRC
• CIS bookkeeping support for construction businesses
• Help with Making Tax Digital (MTD) readiness and quarterly updates
• Cloud software setup and support, including Xero and Dext
• Catch-up bookkeeping if things have fallen behind
• Ongoing support and friendly advice when you need it

Whether you’re just starting out or feeling overwhelmed with paperwork, we’re here to make bookkeeping simpler and stress-free.

If you’d like to find out how we can support your business, get in touch to book your free 30-minute consultation.

19/04/2026

Stay in Control of Your VAT

VAT returns can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re busy running your business. At LJ Modern Bookkeeping, we help small business owners stay organised, compliant, and in control by taking the stress out of the VAT return process.

How we can help:

• Prepare your VAT return accurately from fully checked records
• Reconcile your accounts to ensure nothing is missed
• Submit your VAT return directly to HMRC on time
• Provide reminders so deadlines don’t sneak up on you
• Give clear guidance so you understand your VAT position

Having the right support in place helps you stay in control of your numbers and avoid last-minute stress.

With LJ Modern Bookkeeping by your side, VAT doesn’t have to be a headache.

16/04/2026

Record Cash Payments Straight Away

Cash payments are easy to forget if they’re not recorded at the time, but missing even small amounts can cause confusion later on. Whether cash is coming in or going out, noting it down straight away helps keep your records accurate and your accounts balanced.

Why it matters:

• Cash transactions are easy to overlook if left too long
• Missing records can lead to inaccurate accounts
• It helps avoid confusion at VAT return or year-end time
• Keeps your books clear and up to date

Getting into the habit of recording cash payments as they happen saves time, reduces stress, and keeps your finances running smoothly.

Little and often really does make bookkeeping much easier.

14/04/2026

Before making any payment, always take a moment to double check supplier bank details, especially if you receive an email saying their details have changed.

Invoice fraud is becoming increasingly common, with scammers sending very convincing emails that look like they’ve come from genuine suppliers. These messages often ask you to update bank details urgently, and if payments are sent to the wrong account, they can be very difficult, and sometimes impossible, to recover.

Taking a few extra minutes to verify bank details directly with your supplier, using a trusted phone number, can protect your business from significant financial loss. It’s a simple step, but one that can safeguard your cash flow, your business reputation, and your peace of mind.

Always verify first, pay second, a quick check today can prevent a very costly mistake tomorrow.

12/04/2026

It can be tempting to put HMRC letters to one side, especially when you’re busy running your business, but ignoring them can quickly turn a small issue into a much bigger and more expensive problem.

HMRC letters often include important information about deadlines, payments due, tax code changes, or requests for information. Opening them as soon as they arrive gives you time to understand what’s needed and take action before penalties or interest are added.

Staying on top of HMRC correspondence helps you stay organised, avoid unnecessary stress, and keep your business finances running smoothly. And remember, if you’re ever unsure what a letter means, it’s always better to ask for help rather than leave it sitting unopened.

Open it, act on it, and deal with it early, it’s the simplest way to avoid costly surprises and stay in control of your business finances.

09/04/2026

Add tax payment dates to your calendar, your future self will thank you!

Missing tax deadlines can lead to unnecessary penalties, interest, and a lot of stress that’s easily avoided. By adding key dates like VAT returns, PAYE, and Self Assessment payments into your calendar, you’ll stay organised, in control, and ahead of the game.

A simple reminder today can save you money and sleepless nights later — and keep those dreaded brown envelopes away!

06/04/2026

Let’s Chat About Your Business

Are you feeling unsure about your bookkeeping, falling behind with your records, or simply wondering if there’s an easier way to manage your finances? At LJ Modern Bookkeeping, we offer a free 30-minute consultation to help you understand what support is available and how we can help make your bookkeeping simpler.

During your free consultation, we can:

• Talk through your current bookkeeping setup and any challenges you're facing
• Explain the services we offer and how they can support your business
• Discuss software options and ways to improve your processes
• Answer any questions you have about VAT, bookkeeping, or upcoming requirements like Making Tax Digital
• Help you understand the next steps, with no pressure or obligation

Our aim is to give you clarity, confidence, and practical advice so you can focus on running your business, knowing your bookkeeping is in safe hands.

If you’d like to find out how LJ Modern Bookkeeping can support you, get in touch to book your free 30-minute consultation, we’d love to help.