Can I Change Accountant Later if It Is Not Working?

This is one of those questions that people often feel slightly uncomfortable asking, but in my opinion, it is a very sensible one. From experience, many business owners stick with an accountant far longer than they should, usually because they assume changing is difficult, risky, or awkward.

I have to say, changing accountant is far more common than people realise, and in most cases, it is also far easier than they expect. If the relationship is not working, you are not getting value, or communication has broken down, you are not locked in forever.

In this article, I will explain whether you can change accountant, when it makes sense to do so, how the process works, and what to watch out for along the way.

Are You Allowed to Change Accountant?

The simple answer is yes. You are free to change accountant at almost any point. There is no rule that says you must stay with the same firm indefinitely, and there is no penalty for deciding a different approach is better for your business.

From experience, the only real limitations are practical ones, such as timing around year end, tax deadlines, or outstanding work. Even then, a change is usually still possible with a bit of planning.

In my opinion, the key thing to remember is that you are the client. The accountant works for you, not the other way around.

Common Reasons People Decide to Change Accountant

There are many reasons why an accounting relationship might stop working. From experience, the most common issues are not dramatic or confrontational. They tend to build up quietly over time.

Poor communication is a big one. Calls not returned, emails taking days or weeks to answer, or never feeling fully informed. Another common issue is lack of proactive advice. If your accountant only contacts you when something is due, you may start to feel unsupported.

Fees can also be a factor. Not necessarily because they are too high, but because they are unclear or do not feel justified. From experience, people are usually happy to pay for good advice, but not for silence.

When Is the Best Time to Change Accountant?

In an ideal world, changes happen at logical break points. For limited companies, this is often just after year end accounts and tax returns have been finalised. For sole traders, it is often after the Self Assessment return has been submitted.

That said, from experience, waiting for the perfect time is not always necessary. If the relationship is clearly not working, it is often better to move sooner rather than later.

In my opinion, the worst time to change is usually just before a major deadline unless there is a serious issue. However, even then, a new accountant can often step in quickly if needed.

Will My Old Accountant Cause Problems?

This is a concern I hear a lot, and I understand why. From experience, most accountants handle handovers professionally.

There is a standard professional clearance process where the new accountant writes to the old one, asking if there are any reasons why they should not accept the appointment. This is normal and routine.

Your previous accountant should also provide copies of information needed to continue the work, such as prior year accounts, tax computations, and relevant schedules. In my opinion, most issues arise not from bad behaviour, but from poor communication.

What About Outstanding Fees?

One area that can cause friction is unpaid fees. From experience, accountants are entitled to withhold certain documents if fees remain unpaid, although they cannot withhold information that belongs to you personally.

In my opinion, it is usually best to settle any outstanding invoices before changing if possible. This makes the transition smoother and avoids unnecessary delays.

A new accountant will often ask upfront whether there are any fee disputes, as this can affect how quickly they can take over.

Will Changing Accountant Affect HMRC?

This is another common worry. From experience, changing accountant does not negatively affect your relationship with HMRC.

HMRC does not care who acts for you, as long as returns are submitted correctly and on time. Your new accountant will simply register as your agent and take over communication.

In my opinion, if anything, a change can improve matters if issues have been missed or poorly handled in the past.

How Much Work Is Involved for You?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that changing accountant creates a lot of work for the client. From experience, this is rarely the case.

Most of the work happens behind the scenes. The new accountant will request information, review previous filings, and set up their systems. You may be asked to answer some questions or provide access to records, but it is usually manageable.

I have to say, many clients tell me afterwards that the process was far easier than they expected.

What Should You Look for in a New Accountant?

Changing accountant is also an opportunity to reset expectations. From experience, this is a good time to be clear about what you want.

Think about communication style, level of support, and whether you want proactive advice rather than just compliance. Consider whether industry experience matters to you. In my opinion, alignment here is more important than price alone.

A good accountant should explain things clearly, respond in a reasonable time frame, and help you feel more in control of your finances.

Can You Change Accountant Mid Year?

Yes, you can. From experience, this happens quite often, particularly where there is dissatisfaction or urgent issues to address.

The new accountant will simply pick up from the point of change. This might involve reviewing work already done and ensuring nothing has been missed.

In my opinion, mid year changes are usually manageable as long as records are up to date and both parties communicate clearly.

What If Things Have Gone Wrong Before?

Sometimes people change accountant because of errors, missed deadlines, or penalties. From experience, this can feel stressful, but it does not mean you are stuck.

A new accountant can review the situation, identify what went wrong, and often help put things right. In some cases, penalties can be appealed if there is a reasonable explanation.

I have to say, the sooner issues are addressed, the easier they are to fix.

Is It Worth Changing Accountant?

This is ultimately a personal decision. In my opinion, if you regularly feel frustrated, confused, or unsupported, it is worth considering a change.

From experience, a good accountant relationship should reduce stress, not add to it. You should feel informed, supported, and confident that your affairs are being handled properly.

Staying in a relationship that is not working out of habit rarely benefits the business in the long run.

What Usually Happens After the Change

From experience, many people notice improvements quite quickly after switching accountant. Communication improves. Questions get answered. Issues that were lingering are finally addressed.

I have to say, this often reinforces the fact that changing was the right decision.

In my opinion, the goal is not perfection, but fit. When the fit is right, the relationship works far better.

Closing Thoughts

So, can you change accountant later if it is not working? Yes, you can, and you are not alone in considering it.

From experience, changing accountant is a practical decision, not a personal failing. When handled properly, it is usually straightforward and often positive.

If something does not feel right, it is worth exploring your options. The right support can make a significant difference to how confidently you run your business.