The Smart Way to Start Switching Accountants in the UK
Right Guidance. Simple Steps. Confident Switching.
- Lanop is your trusted partner when changing company accountants. We show you the smart way to switch accountants.
Expert Handling
- We oversee the full procedure for changing accountants UK, from clearance letters to HMRC authorisation, giving you absolute clarity on how to change your accountant without disruption.
System Upgrade
- If needed, we advise on how to switch accounting software, manage setup, and optimise your new platform for growth.
Tailored Support
- Whether you’re moving from a small firm, planning to switch accounting firms, or navigating the changing role of accountants, we offer calm, personalised guidance at every step.
Our Seamless Switching Accountant Service
We handle the entire procedure for changing accountants, from requesting professional clearance to gathering your accounting records. This makes the process of changing accountants simple and stress free.
You don’t need to worry about what to do when changing accountants or how to inform them. We email your previous accountant directly and follow HMRC protocol for changing accountants UK and changing accountants HMRC.
Whether you're a sole trader or changing accountants limited company, we request all the documents needed for a smooth transition. This includes prior returns, bookkeeping files and anything required to switch accounting software or systems.
If you want to switch accounting platforms, we migrate your data to Xero or QuickBooks and set up your new system without disrupting your operations. It’s the best way to switch accounting systems without the usual downtime.
We make sure all legal requirements are met when changing tax accountants or changing company accountants. Your filings, deadlines and compliance status continue without interruption.
If you’re unsure about the pros and cons of changing accountants, we walk you through everything you need to know so you can make a confident move.
From collecting records to contacting your old firm, we take care of the entire changing accountants process. You simply sit back while we manage every step.
We provide a simple checklist outlining what to request when changing accountants, so you always know what’s happening behind the scenes.
Whether you're changing lanes accountants or exploring how to change your accountant, our process ensures a clean, organised move with no disruption to your business.
If your needs have outgrown your old firm and the changing role of accountants matters more than ever, we help you upgrade to the right level of strategic support.
Who We Help When You Switch Accountants
We support creators, freelancers and businesses across multiple industries, especially during the delicate process of changing accountants, ensuring your unique revenue models remain intact.
- YouTubers & TikTokers
- Instagram Influencers & Lifestyle Bloggers
- Twitch Streamers & Gamers
- Musicians, Actors & Voiceover Artists
- Podcasters, Writers & Freelancers
- Creative Consultants & Media Professionals
Understanding the Switching Accountants Process
Many business owners think twice before they Switch Accountants, not because they’re happy with the service they’re getting, but because the idea of changing feels complicated. It’s common to wonder what the procedure for changing accountants actually looks like, how HMRC updates work, or whether the change will cause disruption. These concerns often keep people stuck, even when the benefits of Switching Accountants are clear.
The truth is that the changing accountants process is straightforward when handled by the right team. In the UK, your new accountant manages the entire process of changing accountants, including contacting your existing accountant, requesting records, and updating HMRC. This is standard professional practice, which means there’s no awkwardness and nothing for you to chase. If you’re unsure about what to do when changing accountants, we guide you step by step so you never feel out of your depth.
Common Challenges When Switching Accountants
- Worrying the switch will disrupt your accounts
- Not knowing how to inform your current accountant
- Concerns about HMRC compliance during the handover
- Records scattered between different systems or software
- Fear that the process will be complicated or time-consuming
Identify Missed Deductions & Fix Past Mistakes
One of the biggest advantages of moving to a new accountant is finally getting a clear look at where you stand. Many clients come to us after years of feeling unsure whether their accounts were done properly or whether they were missing out on tax reliefs they were entitled to. When you switch to Lanop, we start with a full review of your past returns, bookkeeping and VAT records to make sure nothing important has been overlooked.
This review is especially helpful for anyone changing tax accountants because it gives you clarity on how accurate your previous filings were. We look for missed expenses, duplicated entries, incorrect allowances, or areas where you may have overpaid. If we find issues, we explain them in simple language and advise whether corrections are needed. It’s all about giving you confidence that your finances are finally being handled the right way.
How It Works
- Share your old accountant’s name, email, and any relevant access details
- We notify them, request your records, and complete HMRC authorisation
- We handle the entire transition while you relax and enjoy a seamless switch accountants process.
Post-Switch Compliance Review & Systems Health Check
Switching accountants isn’t just about moving your records from one firm to another. Once the process of changing accountants is complete, the real value begins. At Lanop, we carry out a deep compliance review to make sure everything in your financial system is correct, up to date, and fully aligned with HMRC requirements. This is especially important if you’ve had concerns about missed deadlines, inaccurate filings, or gaps in communication with your previous accountant.
Our compliance review covers the essentials: VAT returns, PAYE submissions, CT600 filings, SA100 tax returns, Companies House deadlines, UTR authorisation checks, and any outstanding HMRC correspondence. We look for missing submissions, incorrect codes, duplicated entries, and historic mistakes that could affect future filings. If anything is overdue or inaccurate, we correct it and explain exactly what was found so you can move forward with confidence.
Our Identity
Integrity, honesty, and dedication are the core values at Lanop Business & Tax Advisors. Since launching our first Putney office in 2010, we’ve grown into a fully digital, UK‑based accounting and tax advisory firm that blends expert compliance with forward‑looking guidance and business strategy.
Our team of specialized chartered tax advisors and accountants delivers a full spectrum of services including tax planning, bookkeeping, VAT, payroll, and virtual finance director support all designed to help you manage your business more efficiently and confidently.
We believe accounting is more than numbers it’s about empowering your journey through modern finance. That means applying strategic insight, breaking down complex financial processes, and acting as your trusted partner not just submitting filings.
Put simply, Lanop Business & Tax Advisors is more than an accounting firm we are your strategic ally, dedicated to guiding your financial success with integrity, precision,
FAQ
Accountants for Switch Accountants
What are the main signs it’s time to start Switching Accountants?
Hidden fees, slow replies, missed deadlines, and outdated advice are the biggest indicators. When the relationship starts hurting your finances or peace of mind, it’s a clear signal to begin changing accountants and finding a firm that offers proactive support.
How does the changing accountants process actually work?
It’s simple. Once you decide to Switch Accountants, we send the professional enquiry to your old firm, gather your records, and complete the full procedure for changing accountants on your behalf. You don’t need to chase anyone, we manage the switch end to end.
Do I need to inform HMRC before changing accountants?
No. When changing accountants HMRC doesn’t need to be told directly. We handle the HMRC Digital Handshake so the transition is official, fast, and trouble-free.
Can I switch accountants if I have a limited company?
Yes. Changing accountants for limited company works the same way. We manage payroll access, VAT, Companies House filings, software login transfers, and all compliance tasks to ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
What happens if my old accountant refuses to cooperate?
They can’t stop the switch. Even if communication has broken down, professional rules require them to respond when you’re changing company accountants. We contact them directly and collect all mandatory records, protecting you from delays.
Will I lose any financial history during the process of changing accountants?
No. The full process of changing accountants includes secure data transfer. We pull in accounts, tax returns, trial balances, and bookkeeping data so nothing is lost or interrupted.
What should I request when changing accountants?
Typically: previous tax returns, year-end accounts, trial balances, VAT records, payroll data, and software access. If you’re unsure what to request when changing accountants, we provide the full list and collect everything for you.
Can I switch accounting software at the same time?
Yes. Many clients take the opportunity to modernise systems. We guide you on how to switch accounting software, the best way to switch accounting systems, and migrate your data into Xero or QuickBooks with no gaps.
Is mid-year switching allowed even if deadlines are close?
Absolutely. The timing doesn’t matter. Changing accountants in UK can happen any time during the year. If deadlines are approaching, switching to a responsive firm actually reduces risk and ensures filings are handled properly.
What’s the pros and cons of changing accountants?
The cons are mostly misconceptions; fear of disruption or difficult communication with the old accountant. The pros are major: better advice, faster responses, improved compliance, stronger planning, and technology upgrades. For most clients, the benefits of Switching Accountants far outweigh the hesitation.
