Is the time right to switch your accountants?

Switching accountants is quicker and easier than you might think.  If you feel as though you’re not getting the service you deserve, or your tax liability is not being adequately reduced, there is a way out.  It may be time to consider switching accountants.

Let’s be clear, switching accountants isn’t a decision you should take lightly, it is something that should be considered carefully. With that in mind, accountants Aston Shaw explain the six things that might be holding you back from switching:

1. You’re still waiting for your accountant to complete last year’s accounts

If you have been waiting a while for the completion of your accounts, you could be at risk of missing certain HMRC and Companies House deadlines.   Once we have received all your information, we offer a timely and efficient service, with a guaranteed 8 week turnaround of your accounts.

We will also make the relevant submissions correctly and on time, avoiding the risk of penalties and tax investigations.  You will receive your final accounts quickly, allowing plenty of time to make important decisions and plan for the year ahead.

2. You’re waiting until your business accounts year-end

All businesses are due to pay tax on profits at its year-end.   If you are considering changing accountants, you need to do so in advance of this to assess if any tax saving strategies can be implemented before your year end arrives. We will conduct a thorough review of your accounts and advise where and how we can reduce any tax liabilities.

3. You’re worried HMRC will start a tax investigation if you change accountants

HMRC do have various criteria for deciding who to investigate, but switching accountants is not one of them.

4. Your accountant is the only one who understands your business

With the implementation of new practices, procedures and systems that your current accountant may not have knowledge of, most businesses will benefit from a fresh pair of eyes.

When you switch to us, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your business and make recommendations to improve cost-effectiveness, tax efficiency and compliance procedures.

We will also help you source and implement any products, services or systems for the same purpose.

5. You don’t need an accountant; you have a bookkeeper and you do your own tax return

Bookkeepers do not require any specialist knowledge or qualifications; however, as many as 90% of our clients’  accounts, maintained by bookkeepers, contain errors and omissions, usually due to their lack of knowledge. This is especially true in the complex and ever-changing area of taxation.

We will thoroughly check your accounts, make any necessary adjustments to reduce your tax bill and ensure the return is submitted correctly and on time to avoid any penalties.

Having a properly qualified and trusted accountant is a worthwhile investment and pays for itself in the long run, the potential tax savings can be significant.

6. Switching accountants is hard and laborious

This is not true. We have put together a simple guide that will help you undertsand just how quick and easy it can be to switch accountants.  It’s clear and concise and we do most of the work for you, while you focus on your business and managing your personal affairs.

The next step?

Pop-in to any of the Aston Shaw offices in Norwich, Cambridge, Ipswich, Dereham or Great Yarmouth for a chat and a cup of coffee. Meeting face-to-face will help you make a more informed decision about whether switching accountants is right for you.

Alternatively, visit our website to book a free no-obligation meeting today and find out if switching to us is in your best interest.

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