Accountant recommendations for IT contractor in Milton Keynes

gsf600y

About to go contracting for first time, and am looking for accountant to help advise and manage things.

Could anyone recommend an account in MK area, or maybe a national accountant that's decent?

I basically need help forming the Ltd company, doing the accounting, and advice on expenses and TAX, and the most tax efficient way of structuring things, involving the wife, etc, so want an accountant I can talk to and get help from.

Thanks

Pennywise

Probably no need for a local one, plenty of online accountants that live and breathe IT contractors & freelancers. Just a few pointers:-

1. Big isn't always best. You may end up with a conveyor belt of "account managers" some of whom are trainees, who you'll deal with for a year or two before they move on. Some of the big names have appalling customer service and high levels of complaints.

2. Choose either a qualified/regulated firm or get a recommendation if you're thinking of an unqualified one. Unlike a lot of other professions, accountancy isn't regulated, anyone can call themselves an accountant.

3. A smaller firm, or one man band, is usually more than adequate for IT contractors and freelancers as long as it's an area that they are accustomed to. Lots of well respected and often recommended accountants are sole traders.

For a full service like you ask for, the going rate is about £100 per calendar month, all inclusive, to include the online accounting/book-keeping system. You may find cheaper and you'll also find more expensive, but cost isn't any indicator of quality or service.

happywarmgun

Interview three accountants. Ask only one question: What is the square root of 144?

If there is a pause before the chap says 12 - don't hire him.

If he says's 12 instantly - don't hire him.

If he pauses, looks at you and says, "What number are you looking for?"

There's your man.

(boom boom tish, the oldies are goldies!)

Dave_the_Ginger_Cat

It may be worth looking at Umbrella companies. No idea how the costs compare, but I know it takes a load of grief out of stuff