For most UK-based businesses, accountancy firms play a crucial role. Currently, approximately 22,000 registered accountancy firms are catering to the diverse financial needs of businesses. Among these, the top 100 firms reign supreme, raking billions in fees yearly. However, it's the local accounting firms that often serve as the backbone of small and micro-businesses, those with fewer than ten employees.

In recent years, the online accounting option has emerged as a dynamic force, offering basic bookkeeping and compliance services for a fixed monthly fee, catering to businesses seeking cost-effective solutions.

What services can accountants provide?

Once you have decided to start a business and want to register your company with Your Company Formations , it will be time to put your business plans into action. However, knowing where to begin can take some work, especially if this is your first business.

When starting out with a new venture, an accountant can guide you through the process of selecting the most suitable legal structure for your business, whether it's a sole trader, partnership, limited liability partnership, or private limited company and provide expert advice on potential funding sources and pricing strategies.

You can manage your basic bookkeeping tasks to save on initial costs. Thanks to user-friendly accounting software, this is a manageable undertaking. However, as your business grows, you should consider outsourcing some or all of your bookkeeping responsibilities to a skilled accountant. These experts can handle various tasks, from recording financial transactions to invoicing, credit control, payroll, and preparing balance sheets.

Unveiling Tax Mysteries

An accountant can expertly navigate the complexities of business taxes, ensuring that yours complies with all legal requirements for paying HMRC business taxes. An accountant can demystify this process and streamline payroll management, freeing up your time to focus on core business operations.

The true value of having an accountant lies in their ability to provide personalised tax planning and financial guidance. By understanding your specific business goals and financial situation, they can tailor their advice to help you maximise tax savings, optimise cash flow, and make informed financial decisions that drive growth and profitability.

Dealing with Companies House

Accountants can also play a crucial role in helping your business comply with Companies House regulations. Companies House is the UK's registrar of companies and plays a vital role in maintaining the transparency and integrity of the UK business landscape.

It is responsible for incorporating and dissolving limited companies, maintaining a central register of company information, and ensuring that businesses comply with relevant government legislation.

Here's how an accountant can assist in maintaining your legal compliance:

• Preparing and filing annual accounts: Accountants possess the expertise to prepare accurate and compliant annual accounts, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of Companies House. They meticulously review financial records, identify relevant accounting standards, and ensure the accounts are presented clearly and concisely.
• Submitting confirmation statements: Confirmation statements are essential documents that confirm company details, directors' information, and registered office addresses. Accountants ensure these statements are accurately completed and submitted to Companies House within the specified deadlines.
• Maintaining statutory registers: Companies House requires businesses to maintain statutory registers, including the register of directors, share register, and register of charges. Accountants assist in maintaining these registers, ensuring they are up-to-date and compliant with the latest regulations.
• Advising on company law and governance: Accountants provide expert guidance on company law and governance matters, helping businesses navigate complex legal issues and adhere to their legal obligations. They stay abreast of changes in company law and ensure business practices align with the ever-evolving legal landscape.
• Representing the company in communications with Companies House: Accountants can act as intermediaries between businesses and Companies House, handling communications, responding to queries, and resolving any issues that may arise. They streamline communication and ensure prompt and effective engagement with the regulatory authority.
• Keeping track of deadlines and filing requirements: Accountants understand the various deadlines and filing requirements associated with Companies House. They proactively remind businesses of upcoming deadlines and ensure all necessary filings are completed accurately and on time.
• Identifying potential compliance issues: Accountants possess the expertise to identify potential compliance issues early on, preventing businesses from incurring penalties or facing regulatory action. They thoroughly review financial records and company practices to spot potential red flags and provide timely guidance.
• Providing ongoing compliance support: Accountants offer ongoing compliance support, ensuring businesses remain informed about regulation changes and adapt their practices accordingly. They serve as a trusted resource, providing guidance and support throughout the year.

By engaging the services of a qualified accountant, you can effectively manage your compliance obligations, minimise the risk of penalties, and maintain a positive reputation with Companies House.

Cloud Accounting Vs Traditional Accounting

While once the norm, traditional accounting methods are often slow, cumbersome, and prone to errors. Fortunately, cloud-based accounting has emerged as a game-changer, offering businesses a streamlined and efficient approach to financial management.

Traditional accounting involves a quite often lengthy and tedious process of gathering invoices, bank statements, and other financial documents, manually entering them into accounting software and waiting for your accountant to process the information. This time-consuming approach often results in outdated reports that fail to reflect the real-time financial health of your business.

Cloud-based accounting revolutionises the way businesses manage their finances.

With cloud-based accounting software, you can:

• Access your financial data anytime, anywhere: No more waiting for your accountant to process your information. With cloud-based software, you have real-time access to your financial data, allowing you to make informed decisions on the spot.
• Gain instant insights into your financial health: Cloud-based software provides real-time reports and dashboards that clearly show your cash flow, expenses, and profits. This real-time visibility empowers you to identify trends, make adjustments, and seize opportunities as they arise.
• Streamline collaboration with your accountant: Cloud-based software allows you to seamlessly share financial data with your accountant, enabling them to provide timely advice and support.

By adopting cloud-based accounting, you can:

• Improve cash flow by chasing debtors earlier: With real-time insights into your debtor list, you can proactively follow up on unpaid invoices, improving your cash flow and reducing reliance on external financing.
• Optimise expenses and boost profitability: Real-time expense tracking allows you to identify areas where you can cut costs and improve efficiency, increasing your bottom line.
• Make informed decisions for strategic growth: Real-time financial data empowers you to make informed decisions about investments, expansions, and other strategic initiatives that drive business growth.

When should I start using an accountant?

The timing of engaging an accountant can vary from business to business. However, seeking expert advice from the moment you launch your business can set your venture on a path to success.

Consider a phased approach in the early stages of your venture, handling basic bookkeeping yourself and seeking professional assistance for more complex matters. As your business matures, you can transition to a fixed monthly fee arrangement with an accountant to take the weight off your shoulders.

Remember, an accountant is a strategic advisor who can play a pivotal role in the success of your business. You can embrace their expertise to better navigate the financial complexities of your growing company with confidence.

What to consider before hiring an accountant

When it comes to the financial heart of your business, selecting the right accountant is crucial for making informed decisions, ensuring compliance, and maximising your chances of success.

Before diving into the pool of potential accountants, take some time to reflect on your specific needs and expectations. Consider the size and complexity of your business, the level of financial expertise required, and your budget constraints.

While anyone can claim to be an accountant, seeking a professional with recognised qualifications and experience is essential. Two standard designations you will encounter are chartered accountants and AAT-licensed accountants.

• Chartered Accountants: These individuals have undergone rigorous training and examinations with a chartered accountancy body like the ICAEW or ACCA. They possess a deep understanding of accounting principles and practices, making them well-equipped to handle complex financial matters.
• AAT Licensed Accountants: While not as specialised as chartered accountants, AAT-qualified accountants still possess a solid foundation in accounting principles and can handle various accounting tasks for small to medium-sized businesses.

Once you have narrowed your options, assess their communication style, expertise, and willingness to tailor their services to your needs. Feel free to ask for detailed quotes, including a breakdown of fees and services. Compare quotes to ensure you are getting the best value for your investment.

Conclusion

Selecting the right accountant is not a decision to be taken lightly. As you entrust them with the financial health of your business, it's crucial to conduct thorough due diligence and make an informed choice.

Don't rush the process. Take your time to assess potential accountants, ask questions, and gather insights from their previous clients. Understand the full scope of services they provide and the associated fees.

Ensure your accountant is regulated by a professional body, such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) or the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). This provides a safeguard against unethical or negligent practices.

Verify that your accountant holds professional indemnity insurance, protecting you if their advice leads to financial losses.

Remember, an accountant is a trusted advisor, not just a number cruncher. Their expertise can be instrumental in shaping the financial trajectory of your business. Choose wisely, and start on your entrepreneurial journey with confidence.

Further recommended reading:

Do you have a business idea floating around your head? Read our post, From Idea to Reality: Starting a Business in the UK , for a helpful guide to getting your business idea off the ground.

Do you need clarification on your role as a company director for your business? Read our post, Navigating the Duties of a Company Director, for a clear outline of your new role.