Thinking About Changing Accountants?
You don't have to put up with an accountant who doesn't get back to you.
If you’re constantly chasing your accountant, don’t understand what you’re paying for, or simply don’t feel like you’re getting the support your business needs, it may be time for a change.
Changing accountants is usually much easier than people think.
At Liburd Gallagher Accountancy, we’ll guide you through the process and take care of the handover from your existing accountant.
Thinking about switching? Let’s have a chat.
Get a Quote | Call 0207 088 8141
Why are people changing accountants?
There are plenty of reasons to change accountant.
Maybe your accountant:
- Takes days or weeks to reply to emails
- Is difficult to get hold of
- Keeps charging you for things you thought were included
- Has increased their fees without explaining why
- Doesn’t explain your accounts or tax properly
- Only contacts you when a deadline is approaching
- Has grown too large and you no longer receive a personal service
- Doesn’t offer the services your business now needs
- Makes you feel like you’re just another client number
Whatever the reason, you’re not stuck with your current accountant.
Is it difficult to change accountants?
No.
Your new accountant can deal with most of the technical side of the handover.
Once you’ve decided to move, we’ll tell you what information we need and contact your existing accountant where appropriate to arrange the transfer of your records.
You don’t need to understand the technicalities of professional clearance or work out what records need to be transferred yourself.
We’ll guide you through it.
How does changing accountants work?
1. Have a conversation with us
Tell us what you’re looking for from your new accountant and what isn’t working with your current one.
There’s no obligation to switch.
2. We’ll give you a clear quote
We’ll explain what we can do for you and how much it will cost.
You’ll know what you’re getting before you decide to proceed.
3. We contact your existing accountant
With your permission, we’ll contact your existing accountant to request the information we need to take over your affairs.
This is known as professional clearance.
4. Your records are transferred
Your existing accountant will provide the relevant information and records needed for us to take over.
We’ll review what we receive and let you know if anything else is required.
5. We take care of your future deadlines
Once the handover is complete, we’ll take responsibility for your ongoing accounting and tax work and make sure you know what needs to happen and when.
What if I don't get on with my current accountant?
You don’t need to have a problem with your accountant to change.
Your business may simply have outgrown them, you may want a more proactive service, or you might prefer dealing with a smaller firm.
You can change accountant simply because you want a better service.
What if my accounts or tax return are already in progress?
That’s not necessarily a problem.
The best time to change accountant depends on your circumstances, but you don’t always have to wait until your current accountant has finished everything.
We’ll look at where you are in the accounting cycle and explain the best way to handle the change.
If there’s an upcoming filing or tax deadline, we’ll make sure that’s taken into account before taking over the work.
Why switch to Liburd Gallagher?
An accountant you can actually get hold of
We’re a small accountancy practice, so you don’t get passed around different departments or left wondering who is dealing with your accounts.
If you’ve got a question, you can contact us.
Straightforward advice
Accounts and tax can be complicated enough without your accountant making them harder to understand.
We’ll explain things in plain English and tell you what you actually need to know.
Clear pricing
We’ll explain what we’re going to do and what it will cost before you become a client.
Ongoing support
We’re not just here once a year to file your accounts.
We’re available throughout the year when you need advice or have a question about your business.
What we can take care of
Once you’ve switched, we can deal with the accounting and tax requirements of your limited company, including:
Annual Accounts
Preparation and filing of your company’s annual accounts.
Corporation Tax
Calculation and submission of your Corporation Tax return.
Self Assessment
Personal tax returns for directors and other individuals.
VAT
VAT returns and ongoing VAT support.
Payroll
PAYE payroll for directors and employees.
Bookkeeping
Keeping your company’s financial records up to date.
Tax Advice
Straightforward advice when you’re making decisions that could affect your tax position.
Already thinking about leaving?
You don’t need to make the decision today.
If you’re unhappy with your current accountant but aren’t sure whether changing is worth the hassle, have a conversation with us.
We’ll explain how the process works, what we’d need from you and what our fees would be.
Then you can decide.
Get a Quote
Call 020 7088 8141
Frequently asked questions
Can I change accountants at any time?
Generally, yes. However, the timing can matter, particularly if your accounts or tax returns are close to a filing deadline. We’ll look at your circumstances and advise you on the practicalities.
Do I have to tell my current accountant?
You’ll need to give your new accountant permission to contact your existing accountant as part of the handover. We’ll explain what’s required.
Will my old accountant refuse to hand over my records?
Professional clearance and the transfer of records can be subject to outstanding fees, disputes or other circumstances. We’ll deal with the process professionally and explain any issues that arise.
Can you take over my company accounts?
Yes. We can take over your annual accounts, Corporation Tax and other accounting requirements and can also deal with your personal Self Assessment if required.
Can I change accountants if my company has overdue accounts?
Yes, although we’ll need to understand what’s outstanding and how close you are to any Companies House or HMRC deadlines before taking over.
Can I change accountants if I have an HMRC issue?
Potentially, yes. Tell us what’s happening and we’ll assess what needs to be done and whether we can help.
Do I need to wait until my year-end?
No. You don’t necessarily need to wait until your company’s accounting year-end to change accountants.
How long does it take to change accountants?
It depends on your circumstances, the work involved and how quickly information is transferred from your existing accountant. We’ll explain the process once we’ve reviewed your situation.
Ready for a change?
If your accountant isn’t providing the service you expect, you don’t have to stay with them.
Talk to Liburd Gallagher Accountancy about switching.
We’ll make the process straightforward and take care of the technical side of the handover.
Get a Quote
020 7088 8141