How To Switch Accountants in Bristol

Finding the right accountant for your business is a crucial decision, however many people stay with the same accountants even when the relationship no longer works for them. If any of the following apply to you, it might be time to think about switching your accountants in Bristol.

Signs You Need a New Accountant

They don’t understand your business

Do you feel like your accountant is clued up on your industry, your goals, and your specific challenges? A good accountant should tailor their advice to you and your business.

If their advice sounds generic, or they struggle to provide insight beyond preparing your tax returns, you might not be getting all the help you need.

Communication is slow or difficult

Accountants should make your life easier, not cause you stress. If you’re left waiting for emails to be answered, or you can never get hold of them when you have a question, it’s best to look elsewhere.

Lack of proactive advice

Another way your accountant can make your life easier is by helping you plan for the future. A good accountant should be there to help you to avoid headaches before they happen.

If you only ever see or hear from your accountant when you’re filing your taxes at the end of the financial year, or if they only contact you when there’s a problem, consider switching to someone who will actually guide you along the way.

They’re poor value for money

If fees are rising but the service isn’t improving, or you’re unsure what you’re actually paying for, it may be time to reassess.

You’ve outgrown them

As your business grows, your accountant should grow with you. You might have had one accountant when you first started out, but if your finances have become more complex over time, you'll need someone who can offer you more support when you need it.

Your needs have changed

Just like outgrowing your accountant can be a reason to switch, your needs might have changed for other reasons. Life events like marriage or having kids can sometimes warrant a switch too.

Signs You Should Switch Accountants

Switching accountants doesn’t have to be scary, or difficult. At Phinch, we work with businesses of all sizes across Bristol, from startups to SMEs. We know your business is unique, which is why we customise our bookkeeping, payroll, advisory, and tax planning services for you.

Unlike your previous accountant, we believe in working alongside our clients to help them grow their businesses and achieve their financial goals.

Plus, we’ll make switching accountants hassle-free too. We will coordinate with your previous one so you won’t have to lift a finger.

Steps to Switching Accountants in Bristol

If you know it’s time to switch, here’s what you can typically expect from the process:

Step 1: Interview potential accountants

Just like your current accountant shouldn’t be a lifelong commitment, you shouldn’t feel obliged to stick with the first firm you interview. Contact multiple accountants in Bristol to find the right fit.

When speaking to potential accountants, consider whether they understand your business, offer proactive support, and communicate effectively.

Step 2: Know what you’re paying for

Once you’ve found the right accountant in Bristol and are ready to commit, they’ll provide you with a breakdown of their costs and services. That way, you’ll always know what you’re paying for month-to-month.

Step 3: Authorise the transfer of information

Your new accountant will contact your old one to officially request access to your financial records, ensuring everything is up-to-date and that there are no outstanding queries.

Step 4: Sit back and relax

Once your accountant has everything they need, they’ll get set up in your account and you can sit back and relax. Your new accountant will take care of the rest.

Switching to Phinch

Here at Phinch, we pride ourselves on being approachable, proactive, and one of the best accountancy practices Bristol has to offer. With services catering to everyone from freelancers to fast-growing startups, there’s nothing we can’t handle.

Want to know how easy switching accountants can be? Speak to one of our friendly advisors today and learn how Phinch can help you take control of your finances.

Questions to ask before switching accountants

Still not sure whether you should switch accountants? Here are a few final things to consider when interviewing potential firms:

• Do they offer ongoing advice? Or do they only offer year-end services?
• Can you easily get hold of them when you have a question?
• Do they have experience working with businesses/startups like yours?
• Do they use accounting software that suits your needs?
• Can they offer you services that grow with your business?

Ready to Switch Accountants in Bristol?

Switching accountants doesn’t have to be difficult, and it could be one of the most beneficial decisions you make for your finances. By choosing Phinch, you’ll work with Bristol accountants who are approachable, proactive, and genuinely invested in your success.

If you’re thinking about switching accountants in Bristol, get in touch with Phinch today for a no-obligation chat and discover how easy the process can be.