Choosing the right accountant is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a small business owner. Your accountant doesn’t just help with taxes—they become a financial partner who can guide you through every stage of your business journey. 

At East London Accountants, we’ve supported hundreds of startups, sole traders, and growing businesses across the capital. Here’s a detailed guide to help you find the best accountant for your small business. 

Why Your Choice of Accountant Matters 

Your accountant can: 

• Help you stay HMRC-compliant 
• Reduce your tax liability legally 
• Offer strategic advice as your business grows 
• Save you time and reduce admin stress 

The wrong accountant, however, could cost you money, time, and unnecessary penalties. 

Step 1: Identify Your Business Needs 

Before hiring anyone, ask yourself: 

• Do I need help with bookkeeping, payroll, or VAT? 
• Do I want tax planning and advice? 
• Am I looking for a long-term business partner or one-off support? 
• Do I want cloud-based accounting (e.g. Xero, QuickBooks)? 

A clear picture of your requirements helps you choose someone who meets your specific needs. 

Step 2: Look for Experience with Small Businesses 

Not all accountants specialise in small businesses. Choose someone who: 

• Understands your industry and challenges 
• Knows how to work with small budgets 
• Offers services tailored to sole traders, freelancers, or limited companies 

East London Accountants, for example, has over 20 years of experience working with London’s small business community. 

Step 3: Ask the Right Questions 

When speaking with potential accountants, ask: 

• What services are included in your fee? 
• Do you offer fixed packages or charge hourly? 
• Will I have a dedicated point of contact? 
• What accounting software do you use? 
• How will you help me save tax or grow my business? 

Their answers will help you judge their transparency, experience, and suitability. 

Step 4: Check for Software Compatibility 

The best accountants use modern cloud platforms such as: 

• Xero 
• QuickBooks 
• Sage 

These tools allow for: 

• Real-time financial visibility 
• Automated invoicing and expense tracking 
• Seamless collaboration with your accountant 

Ensure your accountant is certified in your chosen platform and can help with setup. 

Step 5: Read Reviews and Get Referrals 

Look for: 

• Google Reviews 
• Testimonials on their website 
• Recommendations from other business owners 

Avoid firms with poor communication or limited availability. 

Step 6: Understand Their Pricing 

Beware of hidden fees or unclear pricing structures. Ask for a clear breakdown of: 

• Monthly vs annual costs 
• Additional charges (e.g. payroll, VAT, year-end returns) 
• What happens if your business grows or needs change 

East London Accountants offers transparent, fixed-fee packages for startups and small businesses. 

Step 7: Prioritise Communication and Support 

Your accountant should: 

• Respond promptly to your queries 
• Provide jargon-free explanations 
• Be proactive with reminders and updates 

Choose someone who sees you as a valued client—not just a number. 

Why Choose East London Accountants? 

We specialise in supporting small businesses across London. Our services include: 

• Free startup consultations 
• Full bookkeeping, payroll, and VAT support 
• Tax planning and year-end accounts 
• Cloud software setup and training 
• Friendly, qualified professionals with over 20 years of experience 

We work with businesses of all sizes, from sole traders to growing limited companies, across a wide range of sectors. 

Book Your Free Small Business Accounting Consultation 

Still looking for the right accountant? Contact East London Accountants for a free consultation today. Let’s discuss your goals and find the best way to support your business with clear, reliable financial guidance.