Sage 50
Desktop-rooted accounting for established businesses.
by Sage Group
Makes sense if you already run Sage 50 or need its depth. Most sole traders and landlords will be better served by a lighter cloud tool.
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Overview
Sage 50 (formerly Sage 50cloud) is Sage's long-standing desktop-based accounting software with cloud connectivity. MTD Income Tax submission for sole traders is built into version 33.1 and later, on subscription licences. It's a heavier, more expensive product than Sage's cloud-only Sage Accounting.
+Pros
- ✓Mature, powerful for established businesses
- ✓Native MTD Income Tax submission from v33.1
- ✓Wide accountant familiarity
−Cons
- ✕Expensive next to cloud-only tools
- ✕Desktop-rooted — heavier than modern cloud apps
- ✕Overkill for simple sole-trader or landlord affairs
Sage 50 — frequently asked questions
Does Sage 50 support MTD for Income Tax?+
Yes. MTD for Income Tax submission for sole traders is built into Sage 50 version 33.1 and later. The functionality is available on subscription licences across the Essentials, Standard and Professional tiers.
How much does Sage 50 cost?+
Sage 50 Essentials starts from around £20 per month. The Standard and Professional tiers cost considerably more. It's a notably more expensive product than Sage's cloud-only Sage Accounting.
What's the difference between Sage 50 and Sage Accounting?+
Sage Accounting is Sage's lighter cloud-only product, cheaper and aimed at small businesses. Sage 50 is the older, more powerful desktop-rooted software with cloud connectivity, aimed at established businesses — and it costs more.
Is Sage 50 a good choice for a sole trader or landlord?+
Usually no. Sage 50 is powerful but heavy and expensive. Most sole traders and landlords are better served by a lighter, cheaper cloud tool. Sage 50 makes sense mainly if you already use it or genuinely need its depth.