What to consider when choosing an accountant

What should you consider when choosing an accountant for your contracting business?

Well there are a few things you should look out for so to help you I will list as many points as I can that will hopefully assist you when you come to make your final decision.

From working with a range of accountancy companies I have come to understand that it is best you find one that knows your business and accountancy needs. Look for accountants who specialise in your area of business for example Complete Accounting specialise in accountancy solutions for contractors. This will help you to maximse your full potential and earnings.

Make sure the company you choose provides an honest and fair service and their fees are reasonable. You will find certain companies will over charge if they think they can. However you do get what you pay for and quality is quality so do some research first and check out their testimonials and reviews.

You need an accountant that is willing to be there whenever you need them. See if they offer a service that is available to you when you need them and wont charge extra for it. You may find some companies will charge for their advice.

Can the accountant provide you with fresh advise and ideas for your tax? They should be pro-active and come up with new methods for you.

It's always good to work with an accountancy company that can deal with your queries via email to save you time and money.

If possible try and get a fixed fee for your accountancy package or get a fee that does not exceed your agreement.

Can they give you a fast response? If they're in no rush to get your business now you can expect the same level of service throughout.

Do they offer exactly what you need? I have found myself in the sales process they tend to say anything to get you on board and sometimes you are pushed into singing up to a service that does not fully meet your accountancy needs. Be confident to say no and don't be shy to ask for more.

Can they guarantee deadlines for your work to be completed? This is crucial when your self-assessment and tax returns are concerned as well as bookkeeping.

Make sure your account ticks all these boxes for you, it may incur in long time heads and problems for yourself.

For contracts in the UK I would like to recommend Complete Accounting in Hale, Cheshire who are specialist accountants for contractors and offer the highest standard of service with their accountancy solutions and bespoke online software.