Three easy steps to changing accountants

by Michael Blaken

Published on 16th November 2020

A bit like switching energy supplier, or moving banks, people often avoid changing accountants because they believe it will be too much hassle, cause problems or something will go wrong in the process.

Well, you may be pleased to learn that none of the above apply. In fact, changing accountants is an easy, straightforward and risk-free process.

So if you are thinking of changing accountants, here’s how:

Changing accountants in three steps

1. Have a meeting with your new accountant (the Optimum team, if you would like to move across to us) to discuss how they can help you moving forward. At Optimum, the meeting is free of charge and tends to last an hour.
2. The accountant does all the work for you. So if are moving to Optimum, you just need to notify your current accountant with an email to say you are moving your accounts/tax affairs to us (we can provide you with the wording). Then we will write to them and request all the previous years’ accounts and tax returns – they have a professional responsibility to provide them. In fact, if your current accountant is local to us here in Swindon, we will even collect your paperwork on your behalf.
3. If you use your accountant’s offices as you registered office, you’ll need to update your stationery to reflect the new registered address. Also, let your bank know the change if this is the situation.

Are you concerned about the cost of changing accountants? Our first interview is free and thereafter we bring a great deal of added value, beyond what is outlined in our terms of business.

Against the current climate of Coronavirus and its impact on the economy, regular changes are being introduced to support businesses and workers. As your accountant, we’ll help guide you through the world of the bounce back loan, furlough scheme, SEISS grant, deferred self-assessment and VAT payments, and arranging Corporation Tax payments.

Here are just some comments from our accountancy clients:

“In the fast changing and stressful world of current business, Optimum have been a great partner to work with, and they really contribute to my business objectives in an efficient and effective manner. Dealing with them is a really pleasant experience, and through trust and professionalism they deliver exactly what I need.”

“I have worked with Optimum Professional Services since its start for not only the core accounting and tax needs of my group of companies but as a trusted adviser and sounding board for new opportunities.”

“Thanks for all your help in dealing with the whole process, without yours and the company’s help the whole situation would of been a lot more stressful.  It’s nice to know you have our backs!”

“As advisers you are being much more proactive than our previous advisers – and I think that’s good.”

If you are thinking of changing accountants and would like to talk to the team here at Optimum about ensuring it is a hassle-free process, please get in touch.

We support business owners and directors in the Swindon, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and South West area with their accounts, tax planning, and business development.