Free Accounting & Invoicing Tools for UK Security Workers
When you’re self-employed or running a small limited company, keeping your finances in order is essential — but you don’t need to spend a fortune to do it.
Whether you’re starting a security business or working as a self-employed operator, discover the best accounting software for UK security professionals in 2025.
💼 Do You Even Need Accounting Software?
Yes, even as a sole trader, you’re expected to:
- Track income and expenses
- File a self-assessment tax return
- Store records for 5 years
- Prepare for Making Tax Digital (coming in 2026 for most sole traders)
Good software makes this easier and keeps you HMRC compliant.
✅ Best Free Accounting Tools (UK)
1. Zoho Books Free Plan
Perfect for: Operatives making under £35k per year
Zoho’s free plan is specifically for UK sole traders under the VAT threshold. It includes:
- Invoicing
- Expense tracking
- Mileage tracking
- Bank reconciliation
- Basic reports
2. Wave Accounting
Perfect for: Freelancers not worried about MTD
Wave is popular in the US but available in the UK. It’s:
- 100% free (no revenue cap)
- Easy to use for basic invoicing + tracking
- Not yet HMRC-compliant (no MTD)
Best for freelancers who want something simple but effective.
3. QuickBooks Self-Employed (Free Trial)
Perfect for: Freelancers who want tax tools built-in
While not free forever, QuickBooks SE offers a free trial — and it’s incredibly easy to use:
- Syncs with your bank
- Auto-categorises expenses
- Calculates tax owed
- Generates reports for HMRC
✨ Honorable Mentions
- Excel or Google Sheets – Simple, but manual
- Crunch Free – Offers a free tier with some limitations
- FreeAgent (via NatWest/Mettle) – Free if you bank with Mettle or NatWest
🧾 Best Free Invoicing Tools (UK)
1. Zoho Invoice
- 100% free forever
- Fully customisable invoice templates
- Includes time tracking + client portal
- Mobile app available
- MTD-compliant and HMRC-friendly
2. Wave Accounting
- Unlimited free invoices and estimates
- Canada-based, but widely used in the UK
- Recurring invoicing + payment reminders
- Not MTD-compliant (best for non-VAT freelancers)
3. Hiveage (Free Plan)
- Up to 5 invoices per month (free)
- Includes mileage tracking and expense logging
- Clean interface, easy to use
- Good fit for part-time or early-stage freelancers
✨ Honorable Mentions
- Square Invoices – Great for service-based freelancers on the move
- PayPal Invoicing – Quick setup, but fees are high
- AND.CO (by Fiverr) – Easy to use, good for solo service providers
For more details, see How to Invoice Clients Properly.
📌 Final Thoughts
Accounting and invoicing doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. Whether you want a simple free tool or a future-proof app for MTD, there’s an option that fits your workflow and budget.
Check out our other resources for self-employed security workers:
Self-Assessment for Security Workers
Want More Guidance?
Visit the Self-Employed & Small Business Security Resources UK Homepage
Security Business Resources