Quick Comparison
| Feature | QTax | TaxScouts |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Sole traders who want guided self-filing with AI | Sole traders who want a done-for-you service |
| Pricing | £49.99/year | From £169/year (basic Self Assessment) |
| Approach | AI tools + accountant review | Personal accountant files for you |
| MTD ITSA | Built-in support | Available (additional cost) |
| HMRC Filing | Direct submission (you control timing) | Accountant submits on your behalf |
| AI Features | Receipt scanning, auto-categorisation, calculations | Limited — accountant-led process |
| Professional Review | ACCA-certified review included | Accountant prepares and reviews |
| Turnaround | Instant (self-paced) | 2–7 working days |
| Free Trial | 30 days | No free trial |
How QTax Works
QTax is a self-service platform enhanced with AI. You prepare your own tax return using guided wizards, and a qualified accountant reviews it before submission:
- Upload documents — AI scans and categorises receipts, invoices, and statements
- Answer guided questions — wizards tailored to your profession and income types
- Review calculations — real-time tax summary updates as you go
- Accountant check — ACCA-certified professional reviews before filing
- Submit to HMRC — direct MTD-compliant submission
How TaxScouts Works
TaxScouts is a managed service. You provide your information and a personal accountant handles the rest:
- Sign up and answer questions — provide your income and expense details
- Matched with an accountant — TaxScouts assigns a certified accountant
- Accountant prepares your return — they handle calculations and optimisation
- Review and approve — you check and approve the final return
- Accountant submits to HMRC — they file on your behalf
Pricing Comparison
| Service | QTax | TaxScouts |
|---|---|---|
| Self Assessment | £49.99/year | From £169/year |
| MTD Quarterly | Included | Additional packages |
| Accountant Review | Included | Core service |
| Additional Income Sources | Included | May increase price |
When to Choose QTax
- You are comfortable preparing your own return with AI guidance
- You want to understand your tax position as you go
- You want the lowest price with professional review included
- You need MTD ITSA quarterly submissions included
- You want instant results (no waiting for an accountant)
When to Choose TaxScouts
- You prefer someone else to handle the entire process
- You have complex tax situations requiring hands-on accountant work
- You value the convenience of a fully managed service
- You do not want to interact with tax forms or calculations directly
The Bottom Line
QTax gives you more control and lower cost with AI-powered tools and ACCA review. TaxScouts offers convenience by handling everything for you at a higher price. Both are legitimate options — the choice depends on how involved you want to be in the process.