Define the need before comparing firms
List the entity, sector, transaction volume, payroll, VAT, overseas activity, reporting, fundraising and advice needed now and over the next year. Separate compliance from bookkeeping, reporting, planning and strategic support.
Verify status and relevant experience
Accountant and tax adviser do not always indicate the same qualifications or protections. Check claimed membership directly with the named body and ask about comparable businesses.
Put scope and responsibilities in writing
The engagement should state deliverables, frequency, information deadlines, approval steps, exclusions, fees and termination terms. Clarify who registers, files, pays and monitors notices.
Test communication and insight
Agree a named contact, usual response times and meeting rhythm. Useful advice should explain the issue, evidence, choices, consequences and next action in language the founder understands.
Check technology, access and security
Establish who owns the accounting subscription and how the company can export its ledger, documents and reports. Review permissions, multi-factor authentication, backups and subcontractors.
Recognise warning signs fairly
Concerns include unexplained missed deadlines, persistent unreconciled balances, unclear fees, inaccessible records or advice that cannot be explained. Raise concerns and judge the correction response against the engagement.
Switch without losing control
Appoint the new adviser, agree responsibilities and authorisations, then coordinate clearance and records transfer. Do not assume the handover is complete until access and balances are tested.
Founder checklist
- Define services and future complexity
- Verify credentials
- Sign a clear engagement and fee schedule
- Confirm communication and approvals
- Protect company access to data
- Plan clearance, exports and live deadlines
Frequently asked questions
Must an accountant have a specific qualification?
The market includes different titles and memberships. Verify claimed credentials and understand protections applying to the service.
Can I change accountant during the year?
Usually, yes, but timing, engagement terms, live filings and handover records need careful management.
Who is responsible if a filing is late?
The engagement allocates tasks, but company directors retain statutory responsibility. Monitor deadlines even when an agent files.
Should the accountant own my software account?
The company should preserve reliable access and export rights regardless of the commercial setup. Agree ownership and exit arrangements.
