> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://sourcesheets.gitbook.io/sourcesheets-new-seller-blueprint/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://sourcesheets.gitbook.io/sourcesheets-new-seller-blueprint/part-5-shipping-sales-and-your-first-payout/12.3-accounting-and-bookkeeping.md).

# 12.3 When You Need Accounting & Bookkeeping

Once real revenue starts flowing through your LTD, proper bookkeeping stops being optional. This doesn't need to happen on day one, but it's worth setting up before things get complicated.

## Why This Matters for an LTD

Unlike a sole trader, your limited company has its own filing obligations: annual accounts, a Confirmation Statement, and a Corporation Tax return, regardless of how much you've actually sold. Getting behind on this creates real problems later, so it's better to have a system in place early rather than trying to reconstruct months of transactions after the fact.

## What Good Bookkeeping Looks Like at This Stage

At a minimum, you want a clean record of what you spent on stock, what Amazon paid you, what fees were deducted, and what other business costs you incurred (subscriptions, shipping, prep centre fees, and so on). Your inventory tracker from Module 9 and Amazon's own transaction reports cover most of the raw data, the job is keeping it organised as your volume grows.

## RTAccounting

We're partnered with RTAccounting, who specialise in Amazon seller accounts specifically, meaning they already understand FBA fee structures, VAT thresholds, and how Amazon payouts should be reconciled, rather than treating your business like a generic retailer. As a SourceSheets member, you get access to their support as part of your setup.

## When to Actually Bring Them In

You don't need a full accountant relationship before your first sale. A sensible point to bring one in properly is once you've had a few payout cycles and a real transaction history to work from, or as your first Corporation Tax or VAT deadline approaches. Waiting until the deadline is close to get organised is the mistake to avoid, not getting an accountant on day one.