5 Tips for Choosing a Cheltenham Business Accountant
Choosing a Cheltenham accountant is just like picking a business partner. Choose the right accountant and you will gain a trusted partner, someone you can rely on, someone who will take care of practicalities and someone who will also be able to advise you as your business develops.
But what do you need to look for in Cheltenham tax accountants? It’s important to carefully consider your decision so that you know you are getting the best accountants for your needs. Here are a few of the things you should consider when you are looking for a Cheltenham accountant or tax adviser.
1. Choose Local
This tip may not immediately be top of your list, given how easy it is to conduct business relationships online. At first glance, the exact location of an accountant seems to matter less nowadays when digital accountancy is on the rise, and most tasks can be accomplished without meeting face to face. However, choosing a local firm of Cheltenham accountants has its benefits. You may not want to meet very often, but you will be able to quickly connect whenever necessary. A local accountant will also be able to attend business meetings with you, and is more readily available for strategic consultations. You will also be able to get recommendations for a local firm of accountants from your contacts in the area.
2. Look For Relevant Expertise
It is important that your accountants are familiar with working alongside businesses in your industry and location. It is helpful if they understand the needs of your particular business as they will be able to offer more relevant and useful advice on business strategy and direction. It is also important to consider the size of the businesses they tend to work with. It helps if you have a firm of accountants that can grow alongside you as your business develops.
3. Find Someone Proactive
The best accountant for your business is one that is proactive about saving money. You can always hire an accountant who will simply complete your tax return, but it is much more useful to hire a firm that will also help you to develop your business by identifying ways you can save money. Accountants should be able to help you see areas where you can streamline processes or use tax laws to your advantage, not your disadvantage.
4. Compare the Options
Make sure you carefully consider a shortlist of potential candidates to make certain you are getting the best accountant for your business. Interview potential accountants so you can get a good feel for how well you will be able to work together.
5. Check the Fees
Take a close look at what you will be paying for. Is there any way you can get a cheaper deal by doing some of the tax procedures yourself? Check how much the accountancy firm will charge and what you will get for your money. The cheapest firm will not necessarily be the best, but you do need to make sure you are not paying over the odds for accountancy work.
Lee Bastin