What businesses and freelance accountants usually want to know.
These answers explain how quote requests and registrations work. The terms agreed for an assignment should always be confirmed directly in writing.
What is a freelance accountant?
A freelance accountant is an independent professional who provides accountancy or finance services directly to clients, usually on a self-employed or contractor basis. Experience, qualifications, services and regulatory status vary, so businesses should check the individual’s suitability for the proposed work.
Is it free to request a quote?
Yes. Submitting a request through this website is free and there is no obligation to accept a quote or appoint an accountant.
Will a freelancer always be cheaper than an accountancy firm?
No. A freelancer may have lower operating overheads, which can make a quote competitive, but fees depend on complexity, urgency, experience and the condition of your records. Compare quotes on a like-for-like basis.
What types of business can request help?
Sole traders, partnerships, limited companies, charities and other organisations can submit an enquiry. Whether a particular accountant can help depends on their expertise and the requirements of the work.
Can I request remote support?
Yes. Much bookkeeping, reporting and accounts work can be completed remotely using secure cloud systems. You can also state that local or on-site support is required.
Are accountants on the site vetted?
Do not assume that registration amounts to endorsement or verification. Before appointing anyone, verify identity, experience, qualifications or memberships, professional indemnity insurance, data security arrangements and references where appropriate.
Do all accountants need a professional qualification?
Not every accountancy or bookkeeping task legally requires a chartered accountant, but some work requires particular competence, authorisation or supervision. Ask what qualifications and professional memberships the accountant holds and confirm they are appropriate for your needs.
Who is responsible for filing returns and meeting deadlines?
This must be agreed in the engagement terms. A business generally remains responsible for providing accurate information and meeting its obligations, even when a professional assists. Confirm who prepares, approves and submits each item.
How should confidential information be shared?
Ask the accountant about secure file transfer, device security, access controls, retention and deletion. Avoid sending sensitive accounting records through ordinary email unless suitable protection has been agreed.
What happens after I submit an enquiry?
Your details are reviewed and may be used to identify potential support. A submission does not guarantee that a quote will be available. If an accountant wishes to discuss the work, the scope and terms can be clarified directly.
How do freelance accountants register?
Complete the accountant registration form with your location, experience, services, software knowledge and availability. Registration does not guarantee enquiries or admission to any panel.
Can I change or withdraw my information?
Yes. Contact us using the details on the contact page and identify the submission you want corrected or removed, subject to any information we must retain by law.