Choosing the right accountant is critical for any small business. Here are the five key questions to ask before signing.
Look for accountants who are members of a recognised body: ACCA, ICAEW, CIMA or AAT. Membership means they are regulated and insured.
An accountant who specialises in your sector — construction, healthcare, retail — will understand your specific deductions, VAT rules and reporting obligations.
MTD (Making Tax Digital) compliance requires digital accounting. Ensure your accountant uses HMRC-recognised software such as QuickBooks, Xero or FreeAgent.
At peak times (January self-assessment deadline, quarterly VAT returns), your accountant needs to be responsive. Ask about typical turnaround times.
Monthly retainer vs. one-off fees — both can work. Avoid any accountant who charges based on your refund amount, as this is a red flag for aggressive tax advice.
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