Let’s be honest; most of us stick with the same accountant for years, even when the service isn’t great. Why? Because it feels like the path of least resistance. What if we were to tell you though, that switching accountants is actually super easy?

Staying with the wrong accountant could be costing you time, money, and opportunities to grow your business, so it’s important that you can recognise the signs that it’s time to move on. 

Here are the main red flags that indicate it’s time (and how easy it is to switch providers).

Signs it’s time to change accountants

1. They don’t get your business

Your accountant should feel like an extension of your team, not someone you constantly need to explain things to. If they don’t understand the unique challenges of your industry or how your business operates, how can they give you the advice you need to succeed?

2. You can’t get hold of them

Ever feel like your accountant has disappeared into the void? Whether it’s slow responses to emails or unreturned calls, poor communication is a red flag. You deserve someone who’s there when you need them, not when they finally get around to it.

3. They’re not proactive

Good accountants don’t just crunch numbers; they help you plan. If your accountant is stuck in the past, focusing only on historical data and filing deadlines, you could be missing out on opportunities to save money or grow your business.

4. You’re questioning their value

If you’re not sure what you’re getting for the fees you’re paying, it’s time to ask questions. A great accountant should offer insights and advice that genuinely benefit your business, not just the bare minimum.

5. Your business has moved on, but they haven’t

As your business grows, so do your needs. If your accountant hasn’t kept pace with your progress or if they’ve grown too big to give you the attention you deserve, it’s time to find someone who’s better suited to where you are now and who can actively grow with you.

Changing accountants is easier than you think!

Switching accountants sounds daunting, but it’s a surprisingly smooth process. Most of the hard work is handled by your new accountant. Here’s how it works:

1. Find a new accountant who fits your needs

Look for someone with experience in your industry, who has a clear communication style and services that align with your goals. Don’t be shy about asking detailed questions during your search either; it’s your business, after all.

2. Notify your current accountant

Once you’ve chosen your new accountant, let your current one know. Your new accountant will usually take care of most of the transition, including requesting records and handling the formalities.

3. Hand over authority

Grant your new accountant permission to manage your tax affairs. This step is quick and straightforward, but it officially puts them in the driver’s seat for things like filing returns and working with HMRC.

Ready to make the switch?

If any of the signs above sound familiar, it might be time to switch accountants. 

While we know that changing accountants can feel daunting, it’s important to view it as an opportunity to find someone who truly supports your business. After all, with the right accountant, you’ll have access to advice that drives growth, saves money, and makes your life easier – all of which you deserve and will make such a difference to your daily life.

Need help?

We can help ease the pressure in many areas when it comes to business growth, from helping you budget and forecasting to implementing cost-saving measures and streamlining your processes. Contact us today, and we can help you make changes that will get you to reach that next step.