Many business owners decide, often after months or years with their current accountant, that the relationship is no longer working. Slow responses, lack of proactive guidance, or advice that doesn’t align with business’s ambitions are all reasons to look elsewhere. While the idea of switching can feel daunting, the process is straightforward and largely taken care of for you.
How to make the change
The handover procedure is well established and endorsed by the ICAEW.
First, settle on a firm you feel fits the bill in terms of reputation, compatibility, communication style, cost, technological proficiency, and services provided. If you feel face-to-face meetings are important, you will probably want a local firm; for example, if your business is based in the Cotswolds, it makes sense to look for Gloucester accountants such as www.randall-payne.co.uk/services/accountancy/gloucester-accountants/.
Your chosen new firm will contact your previous accountant with a standard clearance request. This ensures all essential documents, such as tax returns, bookkeeping files, and payroll information, are transferred securely. You will usually just need to sign an engagement letter and authorise your new accountant with HMRC, which can often be done online.
When to change
You can change accountants at any point in the year; however, many businesses choose to do so at the end of a financial period, at the start of a new tax year, or when preparing for a major business milestone.
The real benefit of switching is finding an accountant who feels like a trusted partner – someone who offers tailored advice, communicates clearly, and supports your growth with confidence.