Count.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Count.co.uk presents itself as a service offering R&D funding support and comprehensive accounting services for UK businesses. While the services themselves, such as bookkeeping, tax preparation, and R&D tax credit claims, are legitimate and necessary for businesses, a strict review from an ethical standpoint reveals some areas for concern and a lack of transparency that would make it difficult to fully recommend. The website lacks crucial elements that typically instill confidence and trust in a financial service provider, especially when dealing with sensitive financial information.

Here’s a summary of the review:

Overall Recommendation: Not Recommended without further due diligence.
Key Services Offered: R&D tax credit claims, bookkeeping, accounting, tax services (self-assessment, corporation tax, VAT).
Stated Strengths: Personal touch, unlimited expert advice, accurate financials, dedicated ICAEW ACA chartered accountants, no hidden costs.
Major Red Flags: Absence of clear pricing, no identifiable physical address, no readily available company registration details, limited social proof or independent reviews, and no clear terms of service or privacy policy links on the homepage.
Ethical Concerns: Lack of transparency regarding operational details and regulatory compliance, which are paramount for financial services. The absence of publicly accessible terms and conditions or a privacy policy raises questions about data handling and client rights.

For a service dealing with sensitive financial data, trust and transparency are non-negotiable. The current presentation on Count.co.uk’s homepage leaves too many unanswered questions for a discerning business owner seeking ethical and reliable financial support. While the services appear to be genuine business needs, the lack of crucial trust signals necessitates extreme caution.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Financial Management and Business Support:

FreeAgent
- Key Features: Cloud-based accounting software tailored for small businesses and freelancers, invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, VAT filing, MTD compliant.
- Average Price: Typically around £19-£29 per month, often included with business bank accounts.
- Pros: User-friendly interface, comprehensive features, excellent support, often integrated with major UK banks, strong security.
- Cons: Might be overkill for very small businesses with minimal transactions, some advanced features may require an accountant.
Xero
- Key Features: Online accounting software for small and growing businesses, bank reconciliation, invoicing, payroll, inventory, project tracking, multi-currency.
- Average Price: Plans start from £15 per month.
- Pros: Highly scalable, extensive app marketplace, robust reporting, widely used and supported by accountants.
- Cons: Can have a steeper learning curve for beginners, customer support primarily online.
QuickBooks Online
- Key Features: Cloud accounting solution for various business sizes, expense tracking, invoicing, tax management, payroll integration, business analytics.
- Average Price: Plans start from £12 per month.
- Pros: Feature-rich, strong integration capabilities, widely recognized, good for growing businesses.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming initially due to the number of features, subscription costs can add up.
Sage Business Cloud Accounting
- Key Features: Online accounting software with invoicing, cash flow management, VAT returns, reporting, and payroll options.
- Average Price: Plans start from £12 per month.
- Pros: Reputable brand with a long history in accounting software, good for basic accounting needs, scalable.
- Cons: Interface can feel less modern than competitors, some users report slower performance.
Crunch
- Key Features: Combines online accounting software with dedicated accountant support, tailored for freelancers, contractors, and small businesses, includes tax filing and expert advice.
- Average Price: Varies based on package, starting around £24.50 + VAT per month for software only, increasing for full accountant support.
- Pros: Hybrid model of software plus human accountant, comprehensive service, good for those needing ongoing support.
- Cons: More expensive than pure software solutions, may not suit businesses that prefer to manage everything themselves.
TaxCalc
- Key Features: Desktop and cloud-based tax and accounting software for individuals and practices, self-assessment, corporation tax, VAT, accounts production.
- Average Price: Varies significantly based on specific modules and user count, personal tax return software starts from around £35.
- Pros: Highly regarded for tax compliance, robust features for professionals, accurate calculations.
- Cons: Primarily designed for accountants or savvy business owners, not as intuitive for basic bookkeeping as cloud-first options.
GoSimpleTax
- Key Features: Specialises in self-assessment tax returns, easy data input, real-time tax calculation, direct submission to HMRC.
- Average Price: Around £49 for a single tax year.
- Pros: Very straightforward for self-assessment, good for individuals and sole traders, cost-effective.
- Cons: Limited to tax return preparation, not a full accounting software, less suitable for businesses with complex needs.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

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Table of Contents

Count.co.uk Review & First Look

Based on an initial review of the Count.co.uk website, the service positions itself as a streamlined solution for UK businesses seeking R&D tax credit claims and comprehensive accounting support. The homepage focuses heavily on benefits such as speed, ease, and accuracy, aiming to appeal to “ambitious SMEs.” While the value proposition is clear—helping businesses manage finances and leverage tax incentives—the website itself lacks fundamental transparency signals that instill confidence in a financial service provider.

The Missing Trust Signals

When evaluating any online service, especially one dealing with sensitive financial data, certain elements are non-negotiable for establishing trust. Count.co.uk’s homepage, unfortunately, falls short in several critical areas:

No Clear Pricing Structure: One of the most glaring omissions is the complete absence of any pricing information. While they state “No Hidden Costs” and “The monthly price we quote you is the price you pay,” this is only after a “Request a Quote” process. Transparent pricing is standard practice for professional services and builds immediate trust. Businesses need to understand potential costs upfront to make informed decisions.
Lack of Physical Address: There is no discernible physical office address listed on the homepage. For a UK-based accounting firm, this is unusual. A verifiable physical presence offers reassurance about the legitimacy and stability of the business.
No Company Registration Details: While the website mentions “ICAEW ACA chartered accountant,” there are no easily accessible company registration numbers (e.g., Companies House registration number) or VAT numbers. These details are crucial for verifying the legal entity behind the service.
Limited Legal & Privacy Information: The footer only contains a copyright notice (© 2025 Count – Accounting | All Rights Reserved). There are no direct links to essential legal documents like a Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, or Cookie Policy. This is a significant concern, as businesses need to understand how their data will be handled, stored, and protected, and what the contractual terms are.
Absence of External Social Proof: Beyond a few generic claims, the website doesn’t feature direct testimonials with names or company affiliations, case studies, or links to external review platforms (e.g., Trustpilot, Google Reviews). Independent verification through third-party reviews is vital for building credibility.
Underdeveloped Footer: The footer is minimal, lacking crucial links often found on professional business websites, such as ‘About Us’, ‘Contact Us’ (beyond the quote form), ‘Careers’, or a blog. This thinness contributes to a perception of a less established or fully transparent operation.

These missing elements collectively raise a significant red flag. In the realm of financial services, where trust is paramount, an opaque online presence can deter potential clients. Businesses are increasingly wary of services that don’t offer full transparency upfront.

Count.co.uk Features

Count.co.uk claims to offer a range of features designed to simplify financial management and maximise R&D tax credit claims for UK SMEs. These features primarily revolve around dedicated human support combined with modern accounting practices.

R&D Tax Credit Specialisation

The core offering highlighted on the homepage is their expertise in R&D tax credit claims. This involves: Quotebuilders.co.uk Review

Claim Management: They purport to manage the entire process, from initial assessment to submission.
Drafting & Submission: Their team is responsible for preparing and filing the necessary documentation.
Defence: Crucially, they also claim to “defend R&D tax credit claims,” implying support in case of HMRC enquiries or audits.
Quick & Easy Process: The emphasis is on a streamlined approach to help businesses access these significant tax incentives without hassle.

Comprehensive Accounting Services

Beyond R&D, Count.co.uk positions itself as a full-service accounting provider:

Bookkeeping: They promise “accurate books delivered monthly, on the dot,” suggesting a proactive approach to maintaining financial records.
Financial Statement Preparation: Their dedicated accountants import bank statements, categorise transactions, and prepare monthly financial statements.
Tax Services:
- Self Assessment: For individuals and sole traders.
- Corporation Tax: For limited companies.
- VAT: For VAT-registered businesses.
- Annual Accounts: Preparation and submission to ensure HMRC compliance.

Dedicated Accountant Model

A central pillar of their service model is the provision of a “dedicated finance expert” or “ICAEW ACA chartered accountant.”

Personal Touch: This expert supposedly knows the business and its books “from the ground up.”
Unlimited Expert Advice: Clients can contact their accountant via various channels: email, phone, WhatsApp, Zoom, or even in-person meetings. This suggests high accessibility and a focus on direct communication.
In-House Team: The website states, “Count Accountants work in-house, and respond instantly,” aiming to convey reliability and control over service quality.

Technology Integration

While not explicitly detailed, the website mentions working with “the world’s best financial tools on the market” and their “expert team is assisted by the best accounting software on the market.” This suggests an emphasis on leveraging technology to enhance accuracy and efficiency, although specific software partners are not named. This lack of specificity, however, can be a minor concern as it limits the ability to verify their claims or understand their technical infrastructure.

Transparency in Billing

Count.co.uk claims to offer “No Hidden Costs,” stating, “The monthly price we quote you is the price you pay. We will complete your annual accounts and submit any necessary tax returns to ensure your business always stays compliant with HMRC.” While this is a positive claim, the lack of an upfront pricing structure makes it difficult to verify this commitment without engaging directly.

Compliance and Reminders

They also highlight proactive compliance support: Endoftenancycleaningruislip.co.uk Review

Live Reminders: Clients receive “live reminders and status updates of your filings at your fingertips.” This is a useful feature for busy business owners to stay on top of deadlines.
Quality Control: Financials are “always quality controlled and peer-reviewed,” aiming to ensure accuracy and reduce errors.

Overall, the features described on the Count.co.uk homepage suggest a comprehensive suite of accounting and tax services delivered with a personal, expert-led approach. However, the absence of detailed information regarding pricing, company structure, and legal terms significantly impacts the perceived value and trustworthiness of these features. Without these foundational elements, the benefits described feel less tangible and carry an inherent risk for potential clients.

Count.co.uk Pros & Cons

Based on the information available on the Count.co.uk homepage, a critical assessment reveals a mixed bag of potential benefits and clear drawbacks. It’s important to weigh these carefully, especially for a service dealing with sensitive financial information.

Count.co.uk Cons

The list of “cons” is notably longer and more significant, primarily due to the severe lack of transparency on the website.

No Transparent Pricing: This is perhaps the biggest red flag. Businesses cannot gauge affordability or compare services without knowing the cost upfront. Relying solely on a “Request a Quote” model without any indicative pricing ranges creates an immediate barrier to trust and suggests a lack of openness.
Absence of Key Legal Information: The complete lack of links to Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, or Cookie Policy is unacceptable for a financial service provider in the UK. This raises serious questions about data handling, client rights, and contractual obligations. It also makes it difficult to understand cancellation policies or dispute resolution processes.
Missing Company Registration Details: No Companies House registration number, VAT number, or verifiable physical address is provided. This makes it impossible to perform basic due diligence and verify the legal entity behind “Count.”
Limited Social Proof: The website offers no genuine testimonials with identifiable client names/companies, case studies, or links to independent review platforms (e.g., Trustpilot). This absence makes it difficult to assess their track record and client satisfaction.
Generic Language: While promising, phrases like “world’s best financial tools” or “best accounting software” are vague. Without naming specific tools, it’s hard to assess their technical proficiency or integration capabilities.
Newer Online Presence: The copyright date of “© 2025” in the footer is peculiar and either a typo or suggests a very recent online establishment, which can be a concern for a service requiring a strong track record.
High Trust Required Without Precedent: Engaging with a service that handles tax and R&D claims requires immense trust. The website’s current presentation demands a leap of faith without providing the standard reassurances found with established, reputable firms.
Potential for Undisclosed Limitations: Without detailed terms, it’s unclear if there are limits to “unlimited expert advice,” specific communication channel availabilities, or what constitutes “defending” an R&D claim.

Count.co.uk Pros

Despite the significant drawbacks, some potential benefits can be inferred from the website’s claims, assuming they are fully delivered upon:

Specialisation in R&D Tax Credits: This is a niche area, and a firm truly expert in this field can offer significant value to innovative businesses, helping them unlock substantial tax savings.
Dedicated Accountant Model: The promise of a specific ICAEW ACA chartered accountant who knows the business intimately is a strong selling point, offering personalised support often lacking in larger, more impersonal firms.
Unlimited Expert Advice: If truly unlimited and responsive, this could be highly beneficial for businesses needing ongoing financial guidance and quick answers to queries.
Comprehensive Service Offering: Covering bookkeeping, various tax services (self-assessment, corporation tax, VAT), and annual accounts, it suggests a “one-stop-shop” for many business financial needs.
“No Hidden Costs” Philosophy: While lacking upfront pricing, the explicit claim of no hidden costs and a fixed monthly price (once quoted) is a positive statement, aiming to prevent unexpected charges.
Focus on Accuracy and Compliance: Claims of “perfectly categorised and reconciled transactions,” “quality controlled and peer-reviewed financials,” and “live reminders” indicate a commitment to precision and staying compliant with HMRC regulations.

In summary, while Count.co.uk articulates compelling service features, the critical lack of transparency regarding pricing, legal terms, and verifiable company details significantly undermines its credibility. For a service dealing with sensitive financial data, the risks associated with this lack of openness appear to outweigh the advertised benefits. Propertyexit.co.uk Review

Count.co.uk Alternatives

Given the significant transparency issues with Count.co.uk, exploring reputable and well-established alternatives for accounting, tax, and R&D tax credit services is highly advisable. Ethical financial management prioritises clarity, security, and proven reliability. Here are categories of alternatives and specific examples that offer greater transparency and established track records in the UK market.

Cloud-Based Accounting Software Providers

These platforms empower businesses to manage their own books, often with integration options for accountants. They are generally highly transparent with their pricing, terms, and data security.

Xero: A leading cloud accounting platform popular with small to medium businesses in the UK. Offers invoicing, bank reconciliation, VAT returns, payroll, and a vast ecosystem of integrated apps. Their pricing is clear, and they have robust security protocols.
QuickBooks Online UK: Another industry giant, QuickBooks offers comprehensive accounting features suitable for various business sizes. Known for its user-friendly interface, extensive reporting, and strong integrations. Transparent pricing and clear legal terms are standard.
FreeAgent: Particularly popular with freelancers and micro-businesses, FreeAgent simplifies invoicing, expense tracking, and self-assessment filing. It’s often offered free to business account holders with major UK banks (e.g., NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland). Its focus on simplicity and compliance is a strong point.
Sage Business Cloud Accounting: A long-standing player in the accounting software market, Sage offers scalable cloud solutions for businesses of all sizes, from basic bookkeeping to more complex financial management.

Hybrid Software & Accountant Service Providers

For businesses that want the convenience of software but also the peace of mind of a dedicated accountant, these providers offer a blend of both.

Crunch: Crunch provides a combination of cloud accounting software and unlimited advice from dedicated accountants, specifically targeting freelancers, contractors, and small limited companies. They are very transparent about their packages and what’s included.
Inzura Accountants: While not as widely known as Crunch, many smaller, digital-first accounting firms offer similar hybrid models, providing online accounting software access coupled with bespoke accountant support. Searching for “online accountants UK” will yield many reputable options.

Dedicated R&D Tax Credit Specialists

While many generalist accountants can handle R&D claims, some firms specialise in this complex area, often bringing deeper expertise and a higher success rate. When seeking these, always look for clear case studies, client testimonials, and a strong professional reputation.

Forrester Boyd: A well-established firm with a dedicated R&D tax credit team. They provide detailed information about their process and expertise on their website.
Leyton UK: A global consultancy with a strong presence in the UK, specialising in R&D tax credits and innovation funding. They have a proven track record and extensive resources.
Randall & Payne: Another reputable firm with a specific focus on helping businesses identify and claim R&D tax credits.

Traditional Chartered Accounting Firms

For businesses preferring a more traditional relationship or requiring highly complex financial advice, working with a local or national chartered accounting firm is always a safe bet. These firms are highly regulated and transparent. Owncomforts.co.uk Review

Local ICAEW or ACCA Regulated Firms: Searching for “chartered accountants near me” or looking up firms registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) will provide a list of highly regulated and reputable professionals. They are required to meet stringent professional standards and adhere to ethical guidelines. Websites like Find an Accountant (for ICAEW firms) can be excellent resources.

When choosing an alternative, prioritise providers that clearly display their pricing, terms and conditions, privacy policy, company registration details, and verifiable client testimonials. These are the hallmarks of a trustworthy financial service provider committed to ethical and transparent operations.

How to Cancel Count.co.uk Subscription

Based on the information available on the Count.co.uk homepage, there is no explicit guidance or clear process outlined for cancelling a subscription. This lack of transparency is a significant concern and further reinforces the need for caution when considering this service.

The Missing Information

The website’s homepage, including its minimal footer, does not contain any links to:

Terms and Conditions: These documents typically outline the terms of service, including cancellation policies, notice periods, and any associated fees.
Cancellation Policy: A dedicated section explaining how to terminate the service.
Contact Page with Cancellation Instructions: While there’s a “Request a Quote” form, there isn’t a general contact page detailing how existing clients can manage their accounts or initiate cancellation.

This absence of information means that current or prospective clients have no public knowledge of how to end their service agreement, which is a critical aspect of any subscription-based financial offering.

Presumed Cancellation Process

Given the lack of online details, the most probable method for cancelling a Count.co.uk subscription would involve direct communication with their team, likely the “dedicated finance expert” they promise. The potential steps would include: Bpmhome.co.uk Review

Contacting Your Dedicated Accountant: The website emphasises “unlimited expert advice” and accessibility via “email, phone, WhatsApp, Zoom or meet in person.” It is highly likely that initiating a cancellation would require reaching out through one of these channels to your assigned accountant.
Formal Notice: Be prepared to provide formal notice of cancellation in writing (e.g., email) to ensure there’s a clear record of your request.
Understanding Notice Periods: Without public terms, it’s impossible to know what notice period might be required (e.g., 30 days, 60 days). You would need to clarify this directly with them to avoid incurring additional charges.
Data Retrieval and Transition: Discuss how to retrieve your financial data and how the transition to a new accountant or system will be managed. Ensuring you have access to all your historical financial records is paramount.
Confirmation of Cancellation: Always request written confirmation of your cancellation, including the effective date and confirmation that no further charges will be applied.

Why This is a Red Flag

The inability for a potential or current customer to easily find cancellation terms online is a significant red flag for any subscription service, especially one handling sensitive financial matters. Reputable businesses provide clear, accessible information about their policies to build trust and ensure a smooth client experience. The lack of transparency here suggests a potential for difficulty in discontinuing services or hidden contractual obligations that are not disclosed upfront. This practice is not aligned with ethical business standards where customer autonomy and clear contractual terms are prioritised.

How to Cancel Count.co.uk Free Trial

The Count.co.uk website does not explicitly mention or offer a “free trial” of its services. The primary call to action is “Start with Count today” which leads to a “Request a Quote” form. This implies that their service engagement begins with a tailored proposal rather than a generic trial period.

No Indication of a Free Trial

Website Content: There is no text, banner, or link on the homepage or in the footer that alludes to a free trial, a demo, or any period where services are offered without immediate charge or commitment.
Engagement Model: The emphasis is on a “personal touch” and a bespoke quote, which is characteristic of professional services that are customised rather than off-the-shelf.

What This Means for Cancellation

Since there’s no visible free trial, the concept of cancelling one doesn’t apply to Count.co.uk based on their current online presentation. Instead, the engagement model seems to be:

Request a Quote: You initiate contact to receive a customised proposal for their services.
Agreement: If you accept the quote, you would then enter into a contractual agreement.

Therefore, any “cancellation” would fall under the general subscription cancellation process, which, as previously noted, is also not transparently outlined on their website. If a potential client were to engage with Count.co.uk and receive a quote, they would need to thoroughly review the specific terms of that quote and any subsequent contract before signing. This contract would be the only place where details about the service commencement, payment terms, and crucially, any cancellation clauses, would be found.

Best Practice for New Service Engagements

For any business service, especially those handling finances, it is critical to: Mybambino.co.uk Review

Read All Contracts Carefully: Before signing any agreement, scrutinise every clause, particularly those pertaining to service duration, payment schedules, cancellation policies, and notice periods.
Ask Direct Questions: If anything is unclear, ask direct questions about trial periods (if any are verbally offered), cancellation procedures, and data handling before committing.
Seek Independent Advice: For significant financial service agreements, consider having a legal professional review the contract.

The absence of a free trial and the lack of clarity on service terms upfront mean that engaging with Count.co.uk requires a higher degree of upfront diligence and a thorough review of any personalised agreement they might offer.

Count.co.uk Pricing

A thorough review of the Count.co.uk homepage reveals a complete and notable absence of any published pricing information. This is a significant point of concern, especially for a service that aims to attract businesses seeking financial support and accounting services.

Lack of Transparency

No Price List: There is no dedicated pricing page, no breakdown of service tiers with associated costs, and no indicative price ranges for their R&D tax credit claims or accounting packages.
“Request a Quote” Only: The primary call to action related to engagement is “Request a Quote” and “Start with Count today,” both leading to a contact form. This implies that pricing is bespoke and only revealed after an initial consultation or inquiry.
Vague Commitment: While they state “No Hidden Costs” and “The monthly price we quote you is the price you pay,” this commitment is only valid after a quote has been provided, rather than offering upfront transparency to potential clients.

Implications of Undisclosed Pricing

This lack of public pricing has several negative implications from a client’s perspective and for a service aiming to be seen as trustworthy:

Hindrance to Comparison: Businesses cannot easily compare Count.co.uk’s services and costs with those of competitors. This makes it difficult for potential clients to conduct due diligence and value assessment without significant time investment in requesting quotes.
Lack of Accessibility: Many small businesses and startups operate on tight budgets and need to quickly ascertain if a service is within their financial reach before committing time to a consultation. Undisclosed pricing creates an unnecessary barrier.
Perception of Secrecy: In a market where many accounting software providers and even some accounting firms offer transparent pricing tiers, the absence of any public pricing can create a perception of secrecy or that prices might be subject to negotiation, which can be unsettling.
Potential for High Costs: While they promise no hidden costs, the lack of an upfront price makes it impossible to know if their base pricing is competitive or significantly higher than market averages for similar services.
Time Consumption: For a business owner, requesting a quote, going through a consultation, and then receiving pricing can be a time-consuming process. Many prefer to pre-qualify services based on readily available pricing.

Ethical Considerations

From an ethical standpoint, transparent pricing is a cornerstone of fair business practice, especially in financial services. It builds trust, empowers consumers to make informed decisions, and reflects confidence in the value of the service being offered. The decision not to publish any pricing details, even indicative ranges, for core services like accounting and R&D tax claims, significantly detracts from Count.co.uk’s overall credibility.

For businesses considering Count.co.uk, the primary step would be to directly contact them for a quote. However, without any baseline information, it is difficult to determine if this initial effort is worthwhile compared to alternatives that offer full pricing transparency from the outset. This lack of public information positions Count.co.uk as less accessible and less transparent than many of its competitors in the UK accounting and tax advisory market. Handlinghandsforyou.co.uk Review

Count.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating Count.co.uk against its likely competitors in the UK market for accounting and R&D tax credit services, a stark contrast emerges, primarily revolving around transparency, established reputation, and market presence.

Direct Service Model Comparison

Count.co.uk positions itself as a hybrid model: dedicated accountants using “best accounting software.” This places it in competition with:

Traditional Accounting Firms: These firms, ranging from small local practices to large national ones (e.g., MHA, Haines Watts), offer similar dedicated accountant services, tax compliance, and often R&D specialisms.
Online/Hybrid Accounting Services: Firms like Crunch and SJD Accountancy (now part of Accountor) offer online platforms combined with human accountant support, often tailored for freelancers, contractors, and SMEs.

Key Differentiators: Transparency and Trust

This is where Count.co.uk significantly lags behind its competitors.

Pricing:
- Count.co.uk: No published pricing. Requires “Request a Quote.”
- Competitors (e.g., Crunch, SJD Accountancy): Typically provide clear, tiered pricing packages on their websites, detailing what’s included in each plan. Traditional firms often provide indicative fee structures or clear engagement letters with detailed cost breakdowns.
Legal & Company Information:
- Count.co.uk: Lacks links to Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and readily available company registration details.
- Competitors: Reputable firms (online or traditional) prominently display their company registration numbers, VAT numbers, regulatory body affiliations (ICAEW, ACCA), physical addresses, and comprehensive legal documents (T&Cs, privacy policy) in their footers or dedicated legal sections. This is a fundamental requirement for professional services.
Reputation & Social Proof:
- Count.co.uk: Limited or no identifiable external testimonials, case studies, or links to independent review platforms (e.g., Trustpilot, Google Reviews).
- Competitors: Established firms actively showcase client testimonials, detailed case studies, and often have a strong presence and positive ratings on independent review sites, reflecting years of client satisfaction. For example, Crunch boasts a high Trustpilot score based on thousands of reviews.
Online Presence & Content Depth:
- Count.co.uk: A relatively sparse homepage with a focus on high-level claims. The copyright notice of “© 2025” is unusual for an active website.
- Competitors: Generally have much richer websites with detailed service pages, comprehensive blogs, resource centres, and clear “About Us” sections outlining their history, team, and values. This depth builds authority and trust.

R&D Tax Credit Specialisation Comparison

For R&D tax credits, Count.co.uk competes with:

Specialist Consultancies (e.g., Leyton UK, Forresters): These firms focus almost exclusively on R&D and often boast extensive experience, a high success rate, and deep technical knowledge. They provide detailed insights into the R&D process, client success stories, and their team’s qualifications. They will also clearly outline their fee structure (often a percentage of the claim, or a fixed fee).
General Accountancy Firms with R&D Teams: Many larger and mid-sized accounting firms have dedicated R&D tax teams. They leverage their existing client relationships and broader tax expertise.

Count.co.uk’s claim to “manage, draft, submit, and defend” R&D claims is similar to what established specialists offer. However, without verifiable credentials, client success stories, or transparent pricing for this complex service, it’s difficult to assess their actual effectiveness or compare their value proposition with industry leaders. Quartersestateagents.co.uk Review

Conclusion of Comparison

In essence, Count.co.uk appears to offer services similar to many established accounting firms and R&D specialists in the UK. However, its significant lack of transparency regarding pricing, legal terms, company details, and verifiable social proof places it at a considerable disadvantage compared to its ethical and reputable competitors. For any business, especially one handling sensitive financial data and navigating complex tax incentives, choosing a service provider with a strong, transparent, and verifiable track record is paramount. Competitors, by their very nature, work to establish and maintain this level of trustworthiness, which Count.co.uk currently fails to demonstrate through its online presence.

FAQ

What is Count.co.uk?

Count.co.uk is a website that presents itself as a provider of R&D funding support and comprehensive accounting services for ambitious Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the UK.

What services does Count.co.uk claim to offer?

Count.co.uk claims to offer R&D tax credit claim management (drafting, submission, defence), bookkeeping, monthly financial statements, and tax services including self-assessment, corporation tax, VAT, and annual accounts preparation.

Is Count.co.uk’s pricing transparent?

No, Count.co.uk does not display any pricing information on its homepage. Potential clients must “Request a Quote” to learn about service costs.

Does Count.co.uk offer a free trial?

Based on the website’s content, Count.co.uk does not explicitly mention or offer a free trial period for its services. Engagement seems to begin with a customised quote. Highpeakbookstore.co.uk Review

How can I contact Count.co.uk?

The website indicates that clients can contact their dedicated accountant via email, phone, WhatsApp, Zoom, or in-person meetings. For new inquiries, a “Request a Quote” form is available.

Are there any testimonials or case studies on the Count.co.uk website?

The Count.co.uk homepage does not feature identifiable client testimonials, detailed case studies, or links to independent review platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews.

Does Count.co.uk mention its physical address or company registration details?

No, the Count.co.uk homepage does not clearly display a physical office address, company registration number (e.g., Companies House), or VAT number.

What accounting software does Count.co.uk use?

The website states they are “assisted by the best accounting software on the market” and work with “the world’s best financial tools,” but it does not name specific software platforms or partners.

Does Count.co.uk guarantee R&D tax credit claim success?

The website states they “manage, draft, submit, and defend R&D tax credit claims,” implying a comprehensive service, but it does not explicitly guarantee success rates. Careremedies.co.uk Review

What is an ICAEW ACA chartered accountant, as mentioned by Count.co.uk?

ICAEW ACA refers to a professional qualification from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, signifying a high standard of accounting expertise and ethical conduct. Count.co.uk claims its accountants hold this qualification.

Is Count.co.uk suitable for large corporations?

The website primarily targets “ambitious SMEs,” suggesting its services are tailored for small to medium-sized businesses rather than large corporations.

What are the main ethical concerns regarding Count.co.uk?

The main ethical concerns stem from the lack of transparency regarding pricing, company registration details, physical address, and easily accessible legal documents like Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Are there alternatives to Count.co.uk for R&D tax credit claims?

Yes, alternatives include specialist R&D tax credit consultancies like Leyton UK or Forrester Boyd, and many established general accounting firms with dedicated R&D teams.

What are common alternatives for general accounting services in the UK?

Common alternatives for general accounting services in the UK include cloud-based software like Xero, QuickBooks Online UK, and FreeAgent, as well as hybrid service providers like Crunch and traditional ICAEW/ACCA regulated accounting firms. Pjward.co.uk Review

How does Count.co.uk claim to handle tax compliance?

Count.co.uk claims to offer expert tax support, preparing and filing self-assessment, corporation tax, and VAT returns, along with providing live reminders and status updates for filings.

Does Count.co.uk promise “no hidden costs”?

Yes, Count.co.uk explicitly states, “No Hidden Costs,” and that “The monthly price we quote you is the price you pay,” which is a positive claim, though the initial quote is not transparent.

How do I cancel a Count.co.uk subscription if there’s no online process?

If there’s no online process, cancelling a Count.co.uk subscription would likely involve direct communication with your dedicated accountant via their stated channels (email, phone, etc.), requesting a formal cancellation and confirming any notice periods or data retrieval processes.

Is the Count.co.uk website secure?

The website uses HTTPS, indicating encrypted communication. However, the lack of a clear privacy policy link makes it difficult to understand their full data security and handling protocols beyond the technical encryption.

What is the copyright year shown on Count.co.uk?

The copyright year displayed in the footer of the Count.co.uk website is “© 2025 Count – Accounting | All Rights Reserved,” which is an unusual future date for an active website. Stonehousefurniture.co.uk Review

Should I consider Count.co.uk for my business?

Based on the current website’s significant lack of transparency regarding pricing, company details, legal terms, and verifiable social proof, it is advisable to proceed with extreme caution and consider more transparent and established alternatives in the UK market for financial and accounting services.