Switching accountants
Thinking about changing accountants?
It's one of those jobs that feels like a hassle — so it gets put off, year after year. In practice, changing accountant is generally straightforward, and most of the work is ours rather than yours.
Sound familiar?
The reasons business owners usually give.
None of these mean your accountant is doing anything wrong. They usually just mean the relationship isn't giving you what you need any more.
Slow responses
You send a question and hear nothing for a fortnight — by which time you've made the decision without the answer.
Only hearing from them at year-end
No contact for eleven months, then a request for records and a set of accounts to sign.
Unexpected bills
Invoices for work you didn't realise was chargeable, or a fee that has quietly crept up each year.
Not understanding the accounts
You sign them because you're told to, not because anyone has explained what they show.
Feeling like just another client
You're dealt with by whoever is free, and nobody seems to know much about your business.
You've grown, the support hasn't
The business is bigger and more complicated than it was, but the service is exactly the same as it was on day one.
The process
Switching in three steps
We handle the professional formalities. In most cases there is very little for you to do beyond saying yes.
Speak to us
Tell us about your business, your current setup and what you want from your accountant.
We handle the transition
We'll guide you through the process and deal with the necessary professional handover.
Welcome to Chiltern Accounts
We get everything set up and make sure you know what happens next.
Common questions
The things people usually worry about.
Do I have to tell my current accountant?
You'll need to let them know you're moving, but we contact them directly for the professional clearance and the records. It's a routine part of the job and it happens all the time.
Can I switch part-way through the year?
Usually, yes. There are sensible points in the year to move, and we'll tell you honestly if waiting a short while would make things simpler for you.
What if my records are behind?
That's very common and it isn't a problem. We'll look at where things stand and tell you what's involved in getting them up to date.
How long does it take?
It depends on how quickly your previous accountant responds, but the part that involves you is typically short.
Next step
Let's make the switch straightforward.
Start with a free consultation. We'll talk through your situation, explain exactly what moving would involve, and you can decide from there.