Change can be daunting for many of us but it doesn’t mean the process of it is.
Sticking to the same service because that’s what you’re used to is no reason to miss out, especially if it can save you time and money.
Looking around for an accountant should be treated as if looking for a new house, you want to ensure you feel comfortable when you’re there, ensure you’re getting the best deal, and you need to make sure you’re getting all the information upfront, so there are no nasty surprises after you’ve moved.
There are many reasons why people stick with the same accountant for so long, a big reason is that people trust that their accountant is the best, and is doing the best for them, but how would you know if you have nothing else to compare it to?
People have an assumption that all accountants are the same, they vary so much and finding someone that gets and understands you is important, as important as you getting and understanding them.
You don’t want to feel alienated. Use your free consultation not to only get the information you need but to get a good judge of character, are they speaking your ‘type of language’ or are they full of jargon?
If you’re considering making a change, ask yourself:
- Do you understand everything they explain to you? And if you don’t, are they helpful in helping you to understand?
- Do you find them approachable?
- Are they good value for money? Or are you finding that they’re adding that cup of coffee on your accountancy bill…
- Did they respond to your commutations quickly and efficiently?
- Are your tax files done within good timing?
- Are they making decisions on what is best for you and your business?
If you answered no to most of the questions, then you should consider that change!
Most people assume that changing over from one accountant to another is a hassle, but it only takes four simple steps…
How to change accountant
Step 1 – inform your current accountant
Trying to end things with your current accountant may feel a bit awkward but ending it on good terms is important and will make the process go a whole lot smoother, especially since you need them to communicate to your new accountant to hand over any paper-work.
Step 2 – disengagement letter
Your current accountant will need to provide a disengagement letter, which will be sent to your new accountant.
It will provide any relevant information and details of work completed so far, including key dates.
Step 3 – Letter of clearance
This will come from your new accountant, it’s a letter requesting clearance and any relevant paper-work.
They will include- if any, reasons to not take you on as a new client, its essential the ‘speak now, or hold your peace’ part you have at a wedding.
Step 4 – Authorisation to deal with HMRC
You will need to sign a 64-8 form to authorise your new accountants to deal with HMRC on your behalf, the form can be found here on the HMRC website – https://www.gov.uk/appoint-tax-agent
It may take a few weeks for this process, depending on any hold-ups that may arise.
Once it’s done, it’s done! and on to new beginnings
Here at diamond Accounts we love seeing new faces and welcome everyone and anyone to come in and have a chat, get to know us and what we’re about, while we get to know you and understand how we can help you best, over a nice cup of coffee…or glass of wine, which is free, of course.