6 questions to ask when finding a tax agent near you

A tax accountant in the UK essentially means someone who is authorised to discuss your tax affairs with HMRC on your behalf. They are also authorised to prepare and file tax returns on behalf of their clients.​

At Beany, we are tax accountants and accountants at the same time. ​

You’ll likely be provided with an End of Financial Year (EOFY) questionnaire, which is designed to give your accountant the information they need to prepare your tax return. With Beany, we have designed a questionnaire that takes minutes - get in touch to find out more. ​

Only a tax accountant is able to lodge on behalf of a client, and this requires authorisation and setting up HMRC. You'll also need to provide your accountant with any relevant files, such as bank statements and receipts. Your accountant may also recommend using cloud accounting software (we recommend Xero) to keep digital copies of your records.​

If you are a sole trader you need to keep records for at least 5 years five years from 31 January following the tax year for which the tax return is made.​

HMRC goes into more detail on keeping records here if you’re a sole trader, and here if you’re a company.​

Be sure the tax accountant near you is the one for you. Accountants provide tailored services to individuals and businesses - from small businesses, partnerships and companies, to trusts and freelancers and contractors. That being said, your accountant should have experience working with clients in situations similar to yours.​

Ask your accountant about the types of clients they typically work with - for example, do they work with self-employed individuals or small business owners? What industries are they experienced in? At Beany, we work with a wide range of clients, from freelancers to established businesses across a range of industries.​

A tax agent can help you minimise tax liability and maximise profits by providing expert advice. They can review your financial situation and recommend the most tax-efficient business structure. You’ll also receive advice on eligible deductions, as well as tailored strategies to reduce your tax liability.​

One of the primary reasons to work with a tax agent is to minimise your tax liability and maximise your profits. During the first consultation, ask your accountant about strategies to reduce your tax liability. They can advise you on what business expenses you can claim as deductions - such as home office expenses and motor vehicle expenses. You can quickly find yourself running into grey areas when claiming expenses, so it’s best to stay informed - we have a checklist you can download here.​

Read more: The benefits of hiring a tax agent​

In addition to the core tax-related services, accountants may offer you additional services, such as:​

The additional services offered by accountants may vary depending on the specific agent and their areas of expertise. If you’re looking for these services, be sure to check with your accountant during your first consultation.​

At Beany, we offer a range of services, including bookkeeping, payroll, and business advice. Our pricing is transparent, with fixed fees over 12 months, meaning you’ll never get a surprise bill. We also offer add-ons to our core package, such as bookkeeping services, and a to help you get your business off the ground. You can find out more here.​

Accountants can provide different levels of support depending on your needs. Some may offer ongoing support through regular consultations, while others may only provide assistance as needed - for example, when it’s time to file a tax return. If you find yourself with a good accountant, expect to receive tailored services that meet your specific needs.​

During the tax season, it's important to have support from your accountant. This is why we offer unlimited support to our clients. We're available all year round - not just during the end of the financial year - to answer any questions you have about your finances.​

Accountants communicate in many ways - from a simple phone call and email to a video call and in-person meetings. Remote services allow for greater convenience and flexibility, as you’ll be able to connect with your accountant anywhere, at any time. This is especially useful for busy business owners who find themselves constantly on the move. This means accountants can offer you a high level of service and support - without the need for the commute.​

Your accountant should be able to communicate with you personally. At Beany, our services are fully remote, meaning you save time (and money). We find that online communication is more convenient for our clients, and it allows us to offer more flexible support.​

By asking these six questions during the first consultation, you can find a tax accountant who is suited to your personal and business needs.​

Why try to find an accountant near you, when you can receive high-class service wherever you go? At Beany, we are more than just accountants - we are tax accountants as well. Our remote services enable us to provide a seamless and efficient service, no matter where you are. From filing tax and compliance to advice on how to minimise your tax, your personal accountant (and tax accountant) has you covered - get in touch today to find out more.​