UK’s young accountants lead surge in self-employed practices
April 15, 2025
A rising trend of young, qualified accountants establishing their own firms is reshaping the UK’s accounting landscape.
According to new data from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), the number of licensed accountants—those qualified to run their own businesses—has surged by 59% over the past seven years, with a significant spike among under-34s.
In fact, the number of licensed members under 34 has skyrocketed by 755% since 2018, increasing from 119 to 1,018.
This trend reflects the broader shift in the accounting profession, where many ‘technical’ accountants are prioritising greater flexibility and independence, challenging the conventional notion that only chartered accountants can successfully launch their own firms.
AAT’s projections suggest the number of licensed accountants could exceed 8,000 by 2030 if current growth rates continue.
Women Drive the Entrepreneurial Shift
The trend is not only shaping the profession but also shifting gender dynamics. More women are starting their own accounting businesses, with females representing 56% of AAT’s licensed accountants in 2025.
Isla Billett, Product Director at AAT, pointed out, “We’re seeing an increasing number of entrepreneurial individuals, particularly women, entering the profession with their sights set on the autonomy, flexibility, and career potential of running their own business.”
This shift mirrors the broader entrepreneurial wave in the UK, spurred by post-pandemic changes and a wider increase in self-employment opportunities.
Challenges in the Current Environment
Despite the surge in entrepreneurship, these fledgling businesses face considerable challenges. The economic environment remains tough, with high inflation and uncertainty making it difficult for new firms to find their footing.
Billett commented, “Accountants provide vital advice for small businesses within the backdrop of the current economic climate, supporting their strategic ambitions and navigating the complex web of tax rules and compliance.”
However, as she noted, new accountancy firms face many of the same hurdles as their clients, including financial uncertainty and a challenging operating environment.
The Accountant Startup Programme
To assist in overcoming these hurdles, AAT has launched the Accountant Startup Programme, developed in partnership with software company Sage.
This initiative aims to support new firms through their first critical year by offering structured guidance on everything from business identity to client acquisition and practice management.
The programme has already attracted over 250 individuals to its waiting list, highlighting the growing demand for such support.
Chris Downing, Director for Accountants and Bookkeepers at Sage, emphasised, “Starting your own practice is an exciting step that comes with many opportunities for growth. The early years can be challenging, but with the right support, accounting firms can thrive.”
The six-module programme, which is co-created by successful practice owners, offers real-world examples and practical advice tailored specifically to new accounting practices.
A Growing Trend Despite Economic Pressures
This surge in new accounting firms follows a broader trend of business startups, with 2023 witnessing 900,000 new businesses registered in the UK.
However, the economic challenges that persist—such as inflation, rising operational costs, and higher insolvency rates—mean these businesses will need to be especially strategic and resilient.
AAT’s Jonathan Stocks, Head of Community Engagement, explained, “Looking at lapses we have on licensed members, there is a notable pinch point at the 2–3-year mark, which some practices don’t get past.
“Entrepreneurs are suddenly responsible for business planning, marketing, and recruitment, all while maintaining their initial professional skillset.”
Despite these obstacles, the growth of licensed accountants highlights the continued appeal of self-employment in the sector.
It also underscores the importance of support mechanisms, such as the Accountant Startup Programme, to help ensure that new businesses can thrive in the face of both professional challenges and economic turbulence.
Case Study: Alexis Charkiw of Right Click Accounting
Among the beneficiaries of this shift is Alexis Charkiw, founder of Right Click Accounting. A former corporate credit analyst, Charkiw started her own firm after experiencing a career shift during maternity leave.
Reflecting on her journey, Charkiw shared, “When you are new and your confidence is low, it’s easy to think ‘I’m not worth that much. I will price low’. But by starting off as you intend to go on, with the correct pricing, it can really help you grow your practice in the right way.”
Charkiw’s firm has grown from £13,000 in its first year to £98,000 annually, serving clients across a range of industries.
[Accountancy Age]
