The small business guide to finding the perfect accountant
Running a small business means juggling countless responsibilities, and somewhere between chasing invoices and trying to understand new regulations, you realise you need professional help with your finances. The issue is choosing an accountant can feel almost as overwhelming as doing your own books.
Before you start googling “accountants near me,” take a proper look at what’s keeping causing you the most problems. Is it the looming self-assessment deadline? Bookkeeping that’s three months behind? Or are you genuinely confused about whether you’re claiming expenses correctly?
Start with what you need
Different accountants excel in different areas. Some focus purely on compliance and getting your returns filed on time, whilst others offer strategic business advice. Be honest about whether you need someone to simply tick the boxes or someone who’ll challenge your thinking about where the business is heading.
Ask around (seriously)
The best accountants rarely need flashy websites because their clients do the marketing for them. Start conversations with other business owners in your network. What works for them? More importantly, what doesn’t?
Check online reviews, but read them properly. A handful of detailed, specific reviews often tell you more than dozens of generic five-star ratings. Look for comments about responsiveness, clarity of communication and whether the accountant understands the client’s industry.
Qualifications matter, but so does experience
Any accountant you’re considering should be properly qualified and registered with a professional body – that’s non-negotiable. But beyond the letters after their name, find out whether they regularly work with businesses like yours.
An accountant might be brilliant at what they do, but if you’re a solicitor or a charity or a healthcare professional, you want someone who understands your industry and your specific challenges.
Communication styles vary wildly
Some people prefer detailed emails explaining every nuance of tax law. Others just want to know the bottom line and what they need to do next. Think about how you prefer to work and find an accountant whose communication style matches.
Pay attention during initial conversations. Are they explaining things in a way that makes sense to you? Do they seem genuinely interested in understanding your business, or are they already trying to fit you into their standard package?
Technology should make life easier
Modern accounting increasingly relies on cloud-based software that can save you time and give you real-time insights into your finances. An accountant who’s embraced this technology can often provide better service more efficiently than one still working with spreadsheets and paper files.
Ask about their systems and whether they’re prepared for ongoing changes like Making Tax Digital requirements.
Get clarity on costs upfront
Nobody enjoys surprise bills. A decent accountant will explain their pricing structure clearly and help you understand what’s included in their standard service versus what costs extra.
Remember that the cheapest option isn’t necessarily the best value. Focus on finding someone who offers the right balance of expertise, service and cost for your specific situation.
Small businesses trust us
Finding the right accountant is about more than just getting your tax return filed correctly. It’s about finding someone who understands your business and can help you make better financial decisions as you grow.
From annual accounts preparation and audits for your business to estate planning and self-assessment for you (plus so much more!), you can trust Carston ETL with all your accounting needs.
For more information, you can send us an enquiry through our website or call us on 029 2023 3223
Talk to us about your accountancy needs today.
