Cloud Accounting: What It Is and Why It Matters

Cloud accounting is online-based bookkeeping and accounting software that stores your financial data securely in the cloud, instead of on a local computer. You can access your accounts, invoices, reports, and VAT returns anytime, anywhere, from any device with an internet connection.
Transactions are recorded in real-time, and you can connect your bank feeds, payroll, and invoicing tools directly to the system.

Benefits of Cloud Accounting

  • Real-time financial data — Know your cash flow, profit, and VAT position instantly.
  • Remote access — Manage your accounts from your phone, tablet, or laptop.
  • Time and cost savings — Automate invoicing, bank reconciliations, and reporting.
  • Better collaboration — Share live access with your accountant and team.
  • Automatic backups — No risk of data loss if your computer crashes.

How Park Lane Helps Clients Set Up and Use Cloud Accounting

We don’t just recommend software — we:

  • Set it up for you
  • Connect your bank feeds
  • Customise invoice templates
  • Provide hands-on training
  • Offer ongoing support and troubleshooting

This ensures you get the full benefits without the hassle of figuring it out alone.

Integrations That Simplify Your Workflow

Modern cloud accounting tools connect seamlessly with:

  • Invoicing apps (like GoCardless, Stripe)
  • Payroll software
  • CRM systems
  • Bank accounts (real-time feeds)
  • Expense tracking tools

This means less data entry, fewer errors, and faster reporting.

Payroll Software We Use

All leading cloud platforms are MTD-compatible, letting you:

  • Keep digital records.
  • Submit VAT returns directly to HMRC.
  • Stay ahead of tax legislation changes.

Park Lane ensures your cloud system is fully set up for MTD from day one.

FAQs About Data Security and GDPR

Is my data safe in the cloud?
Yes. Leading cloud platforms use bank-level encryption, secure servers, and regular backups to protect your data.

Are cloud accounting tools GDPR-compliant?
Absolutely. They’re designed to meet UK and EU data protection regulations, with clear privacy policies and user permissions to control data access.

Comparing the Top Cloud Platforms

Platform Best For Key Features
Xero Small to medium businesses User-friendly, great integrations, scalable
QuickBooks Freelancers and small businesses Easy VAT handling
     

Our Service Packages are bundled for value.

They illustrate that we have an offering for every stage of the business lifecycle.

Our Fixed fee Micro Package for small companies from just £100 + VAT monthly

Aimed at small businesses with revenue of £90k per year or more

For Your Business

  • Annual accounts prepared and filing
  • Companies House Confirmation statement filed
  • Corporate Tax Return prepared and filed
  • Payroll processing & filing for Directors and employees
  • Profit extraction advice & tax mitigation planning meeting annually
  • Access to your businesses secure e-vault
  • Accounting software available - Xero or Quickbooks

For You

  • Personal Tax Return and computation submissions
  • Payment reminders included for January & July
  • Rental accounts, share dividends, interest all included.
  • Access to your personal secure e-vault

Plus unlimited e-mail  support only from your named accountant client manager. 

Our Business Package starts from £150 + VAT monthly

 

Aimed at established businesses with revenues over £90k with an accounting system in place

For Your Business

  • Everything in our Micro Package for your business Plus
  • VAT check & filing quarterly
  • Ongoing bookkeeping advice & assistance with reconciliations
  • Pre year end meeting to identify tax saving opportunities and actions.
  • Post year end review with full explanation of results

For You

  • Everything in our Micro Package for you Plus
  • Pre tax year end meeting to identify potential tax saving opportunities
  • Review of profit extraction advice and "what if" scenario illustrations
  • 2 accountants references for mortgage or loan applications included

Plus unlimited e-mail support & unlimited telephone support from your named accountant client manager.

Our Grow & Control package from £400 + VAT monthly

Aimed at established businesses with the desire to grow and have all the numbers to hand.

For Your Business

  • Everything in our Business Package for your business Plus
  • Our assistance with planning and budgeting for your business - if you are serious you need a plan!
  • Our flagship bookkeeping service delivered by our experienced and fully trained bookkeepers.
  • Monthly or Quarterly management accounts with comments and insights
  • Quarterly review in person with your account manager - designed to identify key actions to improve or grow your business

For You

  • Everything in our Business Package for you Plus
  • Consultation on planning for business exit, sale, retirement or succession - a personal plan for you and your family.

Plus unlimited e-mail support & unlimited telephone support from a named accountant client manager.

Why Choose Park Lane Accountants

Friendly service

At Park Lane, we care about you and your business, and we’re always just a phone call or email away

Peace of mind

Our helpful, jargon-free approach takes the stress out of tax, bookkeeping, payroll, pensions and more

Grow your business

Using our experience and expertise, we can help you identify and capitalise on new opportunities

Modern tools

We use the latest cloud-based accounting software to keep your finances up-to-date, accessible and secure

We are your local accountant - always

Based in the community, we understand local needs and are proud to support other small and growing businesses. That said our reach is far and we know that our clients value the relationship we hold above everything else.

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