When is the best time to switch accountants?

You can switch accountants at any time of year, but if you have a choice, a few moments make the handover especially clean. Here's how to time it well, and why you shouldn't wait too long for the "perfect" moment.

Just after your year-end accounts are filed

This is the tidiest handover point. Your accounts and tax return are done, there's a clear line in the sand, and your new firm starts a fresh year with everything closed off behind them.

Well before a deadline, not during a crisis

Switching a week before your self-assessment or corporation tax deadline is possible but stressful. Give a new firm a little runway. A few weeks' breathing space means they can take over calmly and spot anything that needs attention.

When something changes in your business

• You've registered for VAT or are about to
• You're taking on your first employee and need payroll
• You're changing structure, for example sole trader to limited company
• You're planning to grow, raise finance or sell

Don't wait for perfect

The single worst time to switch is "later", if later means enduring another year of poor service. If your accountant is letting you down now, the best time is soon. A good firm will make whatever timing you choose work.

Not sure when makes sense for you? Take the free review and we'll match you with a local firm and help you plan the timing.