Switching accountants sounds like a headache, but it really doesn’t have to be. In most cases the process is free of charge, can happen at any point during the year, and your new adviser will handle the lion’s share of the handover. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready for a fresh start in no time.
Signs that it’s time for a new accountant
Not every working relationship suits every stage of your business. Sometimes you simply outgrow what your current accountant can offer. Do any of the following situations sound familiar?
- You receive little or no proactive advice on tax benefits or growth opportunities.
- Accessibility is a problem: questions go unanswered for days at a time.
- You have barely any insight into your current figures because the bookkeeping is always running behind.
- The service no longer matches your situation – for example, because you have set up a limited company or your business structure has changed.
- You’re paying a fee that bears no relation to what you’re getting in return.
Does this ring true? Then exploring other options is a sensible move, not an overreaction.
The best time to make the switch
In principle, you can change accountants at any point during the year. That said, timing is worth thinking about. The most straightforward moment is at the start of a new financial year or immediately after a completed quarter, so that your new adviser can begin with a clean opening balance. Ideally, wait until any work in progress – such as a quarterly VAT return or annual accounts – has been finalised; this avoids duplication of effort and unnecessary extra costs. Is your accountant in the middle of the annual accounts? Let them finish first and use the time in between to start your search.
How the switch works, step by step
A structured approach prevents nasty surprises. In broad terms, the process looks like this:
- Define your requirements. Start by clarifying why you want to switch and what you need from your new adviser. Think about sector knowledge, tax specialisation, or a preference for a fixed monthly fee.
- Search and compare candidates. Request quotes, read reviews and arrange a no-obligation introductory meeting. A good rapport and mutual trust are at least as important as the price.
- Check your notice period. Do you have a written agreement with your current accountant? If so, check the terms and give notice in good time – preferably in writing for confirmation.
- Sign the new agreement. Put everything in writing: services to be provided, costs, document submission arrangements and expectations around communication.
- Let the handover be arranged. Your new adviser will contact your previous firm and request the necessary documents, such as prior tax returns, annual accounts and general ledger data. You give your approval; they do the work.
With a smooth handover, the entire process is typically completed within one to two weeks, and your Eindhoven bookkeeping carries on without interruption.
Plan een vrijblijvend gesprek en ontdek wat we voor je kunnen betekenen.
Plan een gesprekYour rights during the handover
Many business owners are unaware that they have strong rights when making a switch. Your current accountant is obliged to cooperate with the transfer of your file free of charge. They may not levy any additional fees for doing so. Do you still have outstanding invoices to pay? Be aware that, in certain circumstances, an accountant may exercise a right of retention and withhold your records until the bill has been settled. Make sure any outstanding amounts are dealt with properly before you make the switch, so that the handover proceeds smoothly.
Also ensure that your new adviser is registered with HMRC as your agent without delay, so that ongoing filing deadlines and any deferral arrangements are taken over seamlessly.
What to look for when choosing a new adviser
A keen price is tempting, but it’s not the only criterion. When making your choice, also consider:
- Specialisation: does the adviser have experience with your legal structure and sector? A sole trader has different needs from a director-shareholder operating through a holding company.
- Proactive approach: do you want someone who simply processes your figures, or someone who spots tax opportunities and raises the alarm in good time?
- Accessibility and communication: short lines of communication and a dedicated point of contact make day-to-day contact far more pleasant.
- Modern way of working: does the firm use up-to-date accounting software and digital document submission? That saves you time.
- Broad range of services: can the adviser also assist with tax advice, company formation or tax matters relating to expats? That means you won’t need to go to a different firm for every issue.
Why Belastingadviseur Eindhoven
At Belastingadviseur Eindhoven, we know better than most how important a trusted sounding board is for your business. We manage the transition personally, handle the transfer of your file and make sure no tax deadlines are missed. Whether you’re a sole trader, run a limited company, or work as a director-shareholder within a holding structure: we actively think alongside you and keep your administration clear and up to date. We are part of Adviesgroep Eindhoven, the one-stop shop for business owners in the region, so you can come to one place for all your financial and legal questions.
Would you like to find out whether switching accountants is the right move for you? Get in touch for a no-obligation introductory conversation. We’d be happy to explore the best approach for your situation together.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch accountants mid-year?
Yes, you can switch accountants at any point during the year. It is, however, sensible to wait until any work in progress – such as a quarterly VAT return or annual accounts – has been completed. This avoids duplication of effort and keeps costs down. Your new accountant can then pick up seamlessly from the most recently closed period.
What does it cost to switch accountants?
In most cases, the switch itself is free of charge. Your current accountant is obliged to cooperate with the transfer of your records without levying any additional fees. Do bear in mind any outstanding invoices; these should be settled promptly to avoid delays in the handover.
Do I need to request and transfer all the documents myself?
No, you largely don't need to do this yourself. Your new accountant will typically contact your previous firm directly and request all the necessary documents, such as prior tax returns, annual accounts and general ledger data. You give your consent and they take care of the rest.
What if my old accountant refuses to cooperate with the handover?
An accountant is both professionally and legally obliged to cooperate with the transfer of a client file. If they have outstanding amounts owed to them, they may in certain circumstances exercise a right of retention. Make sure your bills are paid. If the handover still doesn't go smoothly, your new adviser can take steps to resolve the situation and keep an eye on any deadlines.
When is it a good idea to also consider broader tax support at the same time?
A switch is the ideal moment to assess whether your current tax structure still fits your needs. Is your business growing, are you considering setting up a limited company, or do you have questions about your director's salary or tax advice? Raise these points at your introductory meeting with your new adviser, so that not only your bookkeeping but also your tax strategy is properly set up.
We are happy to think along with you. For advice tailored to your situation we would gladly sit down with you. No rights can be derived from the content of this page and it may contain inaccuracies.
