My Accountant has passed away and my taxes due

marklefty1

I have just found out my accountant of 15 years who was a sole trader passed away, and her funeral was last week. Her daughter contacted me after a few of my emails to find out my accounts progress to her Mum to tell me whilst I was semi awake. Does anyone know what happens as her daughter suggested that there would be a agreement in this situation and the accounts would be passed on to another accountant. I dont want to put pressure on the family as this is not the time. I have spoken with HRMC and I suggested paying a sum to offset my tax and they have given me 2 weeks to comeback. Because of the last year I am part employed part self employed so this not the same as any other year. I was going to see if she had a  membership body I can ask, her title states Certified Practising Accountant.

kazwookie

I would suggest you contact another local accountant and ask them what would happen, also ask them if they are able to help you, explain what has happened.

In the mean while make a part payment to HMRC, say half of what you paid last year to show willing.

Jeremy535897

Sole practitioner chartered accountants should appoint an alternate in the event of this happening. Certified practising accountants are members of ICPA, a sort of umbrella body open to chartered and certified accountants, and those qualified by experience. If you are qualified by examination, you would normally use that designation, like chartered accountant. Her daughter should give you the details of any alternate, as it seems there is one, but you don't have to use them. I take it that your books are with them, so if you want to appoint a new accountant, you need the books back.