Lovewell Blake Chartered Accountants and Financial Planners - Bury St. Edmunds

All our offices have free, on-site parking so there is no need to call ahead if you are dropping in records, attending an event or meeting with one of our team.

We would be delighted to speak to you if you are looking for an adviser. We would encourage you to contact us in advance of your visit so that someone with a knowledge of your business sector and type can be available to meet you.

Generally it is simple to change accountants. Both the incoming and outgoing firm should communicate directly and pass information across. Make sure you consider the timing of a change and where your year end and payroll reporting dates fall. Changing regularly, however, can be counter productive to an ongoing service, so take time to choose your new adviser well and time the move at the right time.

Meet them.  We would always suggest that you meet with at least two or three accountants to compare their services, fees, and approach. Ensure they understand your business needs and use compatible accounting software. Most accountancy firms offer this as a free initial consultation and would be pleased to give you the time to be on hand to answer your questions and explain how they can add value to your business.

1. Check qualifications: look for accountants who are certified or chartered. This means they are members of recognised professional bodies like ICAEW (Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales) or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). This gives you reassurance that they hold themselves to a high natural standard for advice and expertise.

2. Ask for recommendations: reach out to your professional network, including business partners, colleagues, and industry associations, for referrals.

3. Use online directories: search for those that meet your needs, those that are within your local area or region. Don’t however overlook those further afield, with advances in online communications, a good accountant is better than one that happens to be next door.  

4. Check reviews and references: look for reviews online and ask for references from their current clients to gauge their reliability and expertise.

5. Understand their services: make sure the accountant offers all the services you need, such as tax returns, financial reporting, accountancy, payroll, and business planning.