Changing Accountants: Why It's Easier Than You Think

If you've ever considered changing accountants but decided it would probably be too much hassle, you're not alone.

One of the most common things we hear from new clients is:

"We wish we'd moved sooner."

Many business owners stay with their accountant for years, even if their needs have evolved or their businesses have grown, because they worry the process will be complicated, time-consuming or awkward.

They assume there'll be endless paperwork, difficult conversations and disruption to their business.

The reality couldn't be more different.

The biggest myth about changing accountants

There is a long-standing misconception that switching accountants is difficult. In reality, changing accountants is a straightforward process when it's handled properly.

At The Uncommon Practice, we've helped businesses of all sizes make the move over to us, and our aim is always the same - to make switching as simple and stress-free as possible.

In most cases, the only thing you'll need to do is let your current accountant know you're moving.

And if you're unsure what to say, we'll even draft the email to your current accountant for you.

After that, we'll take care of the rest.

What happens when you switch?

Once you've appointed us, we'll manage the transition on your behalf.

That includes:

• Liaising directly with your existing accountant

• Requesting all of your financial records

• Reviewing your compliance position

• Checking for any outstanding HMRC issues

• Ensuring your accounting records are complete

• Setting you up with efficient systems for managing your finances going forward

Our goal is to ensure the handover is smooth, with as little disruption to your business as possible.

Why businesses decide to change accountants

Every business is different, but there are a few common reasons people decide it's time for a fresh approach.

You might feel like:

• You're only hearing from your accountant once a year.

• You don't receive proactive advice.

• Your business has outgrown your current accountant.

• You're struggling to get timely responses.

• You want clearer communication and better technology.

• You need specialists who understand your industry.

  
  

Your accountant should be a trusted adviser, not simply someone who files your accounts.

Is there a good time to change? Should I wait for year-end?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to wait until your financial year-end to change accountants.

In fact, you can change accountants at almost any point during the year.

Your new accountant will work with your previous adviser to obtain the information needed, making the transition far simpler than many people expect.

What if I feel awkward telling my current accountant?

This is probably the concern we hear most often.

Nobody enjoys difficult conversations, but changing accountants is a normal part of business.

Professional accountants expect clients to move firms from time to time, and the handover process is well established.

If you're worried about what to say, we'll even help you write the email to your current accountant, taking one more thing off your plate.

Why clients tell us they wish they'd switched sooner

After making the move, many of our clients tell us they can't believe how easy the process was.

More importantly, they often discover the value of having accountants who proactively support their business, identify opportunities, make sure they're claiming all the reliefs and allowances they're entitled to, and help them make informed financial decisions throughout the year, not just at year-end.

Thinking about changing accountants?

If you're wondering whether you're getting the support your business deserves and needs from your current accountant, then we'd be happy to have a conversation with you.

We'll answer any questions you have and explain how the switching process works.

There would be no obligation to move to The Uncommon Practice. But if you do decide to move, we'll handle the switch for you.

Changing accountants doesn't have to be difficult.

In fact, it's much easier than you think.

Complete this form to arrange a no-obligation call about your business with The Uncommon Practice.

Alternatively, please email support@theuncommonpractice.com.