QuickBooks vs FreeAgent UK (2026)
Two popular choices for UK freelancers and sole traders — we compare pricing, Self Assessment support, MTD compliance, and ease of use.
Our Verdict
Choose FreeAgent if you're a UK freelancer or sole trader — especially if you bank with NatWest or RBS (making it free). Choose QuickBooks if you have employees, need payroll, want a lower entry price, or plan to grow your team.
QuickBooks
Pros
- Lower starting price
- Built-in payroll on most plans
- Excellent mobile app
- Good phone & chat support
- Scales well for small teams
Cons
- User limits on lower plans
- US-owned company
- Fewer integrations than Xero
FreeAgent
Pros
- Free with NatWest/RBS business accounts
- Purpose-built for UK freelancers
- Excellent Self Assessment support
- Simple, clean interface
- Strong time tracking
Cons
- Limited scalability
- Fewer integrations
- No inventory management
Frequently Asked Questions
Is QuickBooks or FreeAgent better for sole traders?
FreeAgent is purpose-built for UK sole traders and freelancers, with excellent Self Assessment support and a simple interface. QuickBooks is better if you have employees, need payroll, or plan to grow your team.
Is FreeAgent cheaper than QuickBooks?
FreeAgent is free for NatWest, RBS, and Ulster Bank business account holders. Otherwise it costs £19/mo. QuickBooks starts at £10/mo for sole traders. If you bank with NatWest/RBS, FreeAgent is clearly better value.
Which has better Self Assessment support?
FreeAgent has the edge for Self Assessment — it's designed specifically for UK sole traders and freelancers, with built-in SA tax calculations and direct HMRC submission. QuickBooks also supports Self Assessment on its Sole Trader plan.
Can I use FreeAgent and QuickBooks together?
There's no need to use both — they cover similar ground for sole traders. However, some businesses use FreeAgent for personal tax and a separate tool for business accounting. Most users find one platform sufficient.