Many business owners stay with an accountant they are unhappy with because they assume changing will be difficult, awkward or disruptive. In reality, switching accountants is usually a straightforward process—and your new accountant will manage most of the handover for you.
You can change accountant at any point during the year. While the end of a financial year can sometimes be a convenient time, there is no need to wait if you are not receiving the service, communication or support your business needs.
Why do businesses change accountants?
There are many reasons you might consider moving, including:
- Slow responses or difficulty getting answers
- Unexpected fees or a lack of clarity over costs
- Accounts and tax returns being completed at the last minute
- Little proactive tax or business advice
- Outdated bookkeeping processes
- Feeling that your business has outgrown the service being provided
- Simply wanting a more personal and supportive relationship
Changing accountant does not need to involve any disagreement. Businesses evolve, and sometimes you need a different level or style of support.
How does the process work?
Once you have decided to appoint us, we will provide an engagement letter setting out the services and fees agreed. We will also complete the necessary identity and anti-money laundering checks.
With your permission, we then contact your previous accountant to request professional clearance and the records required to take over your affairs. This may include previous accounts and tax returns, supporting schedules, payroll information and relevant bookkeeping records.
We will also arrange the appropriate HMRC authorisations and help transfer or set up access to systems such as Xero. You do not need to manage conversations between the two practices—we will coordinate the handover and let you know if anything further is needed.
Before changing, it is sensible to ensure that any outstanding fees owed to your previous accountant have been settled, as this can sometimes delay the release of records.
Will changing accountant disrupt my business?
A properly managed handover should cause very little disruption. We will review upcoming filing deadlines, confirm what has already been completed and identify anything requiring urgent attention.
If your accounts, VAT returns, payroll or tax submissions are currently in progress, we will agree the best handover date with you so that responsibilities are clear and nothing is missed.
A fresh start for your finances
At Ascot Bookkeeping & Accounting, we are a friendly team of six experienced ACCA, AAT and ICB-qualified accountants and bookkeepers. We combine the knowledge and resources of an established practice with the personal, approachable service of a smaller firm.
Whether you need help with bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, annual accounts, Corporation Tax, Self Assessment or more proactive financial support, we will take the time to understand your business and explain everything clearly.
If you are considering changing accountant, an initial conversation is completely confidential and carries no obligation. Contact us to find out how we can make the transition simple, organised and stress-free.