After a busy tax season, now is the best time of year to evaluate your relationship with your accountant. Are you satisfied with their service? Did they give you the attention and respect you deserve? Were deadlines met, and were you kept informed? If you have doubts about any of these, it may be time to consider a change. Here are 8 key signs that indicate it might be time to look for a new accountant.
1. Task-oriented, not client-oriented
Accounting is all about the numbers, great accountants remember that behind those numbers there are real people running real businesses. If your accountant is more focused on how many tasks they can complete rather than understanding your needs, you may end up feeling overlooked. A good accountant takes the time to get to know you and your business, ensuring that their advice and service is tailored to your specific situation.
2. Difficult to reach and unapproachable
An accountant who is too busy to respond to your queries or is unpleasant to deal with can be a major issue, especially when you need urgent support. If you struggle to get clear answers or feel ignored, this could be costing you both time and money, especially if you are uncertain on what services they are providing you. Accessibility, clarity and approachability are essential qualities in an accountant, as they should be there to support and guide you in your ventures.
3. High fees without justifiable value
If you find that the fees you are paying do not match the quality of service you receive, it may be time to weigh up other options. Higher fees should be reflected in expert advice, proactive service and a strong working relationship. If you are left questioning whether your accountant is worth the cost, it could be a sign to move on.
4. Reactive, not proactive
A good accountant does more than just process numbers; they actively keep an eye on your finances and flag potential issues before they become a big problem. If you find your accountant only reacts to mistakes rather than preventing them, it can show a lack of attention and care. Proactivity, such as identifying tax-saving opportunities, catching errors early, and keeping you informed, is a sign of a quality accountant.
5. Your business has outgrown them
As your business grows, your accounting needs become more complex. If your accountant struggles to keep up or lacks expertise in areas you now require, they may no longer be the right fit. A good accountant should scale with your business and offer strategic guidance to support your expansion.
6. Outdated methods and technology
While Excel continues to remain a staple in the finance world, diversity and evolution are the key to success. Modern accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, or cloud-based solutions make managing finances easier and more efficient than ever. If your accountant resists adopting new technology, they may be making your life, and theirs, more difficult than necessary.
7. Lack of personalised advice
If you feel like just another figure to your accountant, you're not getting the service you deserve. Every business is unique, and your accountant should provide tailored advice suited to your industry and financial goals. If they don't take the time to offer solutions specific to your situation, it may be time to find someone who will.
Final thoughts
Your accountant plays a crucial role in your financial well-being and business success. If you recognise any of these warning signs, it may be time to explore other options. A great accountant is proactive, approachable, and invested in helping you and your business thrive.
Contact us
If you're considering a change and need an accountant who truly understands your business, we're here to help. Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can support your financial needs with expert advice and a proactive approach.