How to Switch Accountants in the UK – Simple Process Explained
If you’re unhappy with your current accountant – slow responses, lack of advice, or rising fees – you’re not alone.
The good news? Switching accountants is straightforward. We regularly help businesses across Oldham, Rochdale, and Greater Manchester switch accountants quickly and smoothly. Many of these clients switch due to slow response times or lack of proactive advice.
Signs It Might Be Time to Switch Accountants
- Poor communication
- Limited proactive advice
- Errors or missed deadlines
- Lack of support with growth
Step-by-Step Guide to Switching Accountants in the UK
1. Choose Your New Accountant
Look for:
- Proactive advice – Accountant Services | Trusted Business Advisors at ATS
- Qualifications and credentials – Chartered & Certified Credentials | ATS Accountants
- Experience – Celebrating 12 Years of ATS Accountants
- Local knowledge (e.g. Rochdale, Oldham, Rainford, St Helens) – Our Journey – From Oldham to Rochdale and Rainford
- Do your due diligence – check client reviews online for ATS Accountants – Client Reviews | ATS Accountants
2. Engagement & Onboarding
In most cases, your new accountant will contact your current accountant directly, request key records, and manage the transition on your behalf – meaning minimal effort is required from you.
3. Professional Clearance
Professional clearance is a standard requirement where your new accountant contacts your previous one to confirm there are no ethical or professional reasons preventing the transfer, and requests a handover of information at the same time.
In our experience, while the majority of accountants help with the process out of professionalism and courtesy, some just aren’t very good at handling the loss of clients. In those cases, we work with you to make the process as seamless as possible.
4. Transfer of Records
Accounts, tax records, and key information are transferred securely. Your old accountant will provide the main information usually including the prior year accounts and tax returns, latest VAT returns, PAYE records and references etc. You may need to provide additional information as well.
5. HMRC Authorisation
Your new accountant becomes your authorised agent – simple and quick (takes a couple of weeks to receive HMRC authorisation code via post.
Common Myths
❌ “It’s too complicated” → It’s usually handled entirely for you
❌ “HMRC will be affected” → The transition is normally seamless
❌ “It will disrupt my business” → Minimal disruption when done properly
Is It Difficult to Switch Accountants?
In most cases, switching accountants is simple and handled almost entirely for you. Your new accountant will communicate with your previous advisor, request the necessary information, and ensure a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
Final Thoughts
If your accountant isn’t adding value, it may be time to consider a change—and in most cases, switching is far simpler than people expect.
💡 At ATS Accountants, we make the switching process simple and stress-free, helping clients across Rochdale, Oldham, and beyond. Contact ATS Accountants Manchester | 0161 818 4949
FAQs
1. How long does switching accountants take?
Usually a few days to a few weeks.
2. Do I need to tell my old accountant I’m leaving?
Yes, it’s best practice to notify your current accountant in writing. A simple email or letter is sufficient. Your new accountant can handle the rest, including requesting professional clearance and any outstanding work.
3. Do I need to tell HMRC?
Your new accountant will handle this.
4. Will there be a gap in my tax or compliance filings when I switch?
Not if you plan the transition carefully. Your new accountant will review deadlines and ensure everything is filed on time. For businesses with complex reporting (like first-time audits or VAT obligations), it’s worth switching at a natural break, such as after year-end.
5. What information does my new accountant need from my old one?
Your new accountant will request professional clearance, which typically includes your accounting records, tax computations, prior-year accounts, and any ongoing work in progress. Under anti-money laundering regulations, identity verification will also be required.
6. Is there a best time of year to change accountants?
The ideal time is usually after your financial year-end, before major deadlines like corporation tax or annual accounts filings. However, if you’re unhappy with service or facing a compliance issue, switching sooner is often better.
For example, many clients switch accountants mid-year without impacting tax filings, provided deadlines are reviewed in advance.
7. What should I look for in a new accountant for my business?
Look for sector-specific experience (e.g., construction, manufacturing, charities), relevant qualifications (ICAEW, CIPFA, ACCA), proactive tax planning, and clear communication. For growing businesses, experience with audit readiness and financial controls is essential.
About the Author
This article has been written by Shahed Alam FCPFA
Shahed brings over 20 years of experience in accountancy, audit, financial control and advisory, with a strong background in risk management, governance and complex financial environments.
His career includes senior audit and finance roles with PwC, Deloitte, Grant Thornton and the Audit Commission, working across local government, NHS bodies, housing associations and FTSE-listed organisations.
