TERMS
Most accountants insist you sign 'Terms of Agreement'. These are usually unnecessarily long and therefore they are unlikely to be read and understood. In any case, many of them are little more than a get-out clause to shift the blame for any problems over to you.
We don't work in this way. Instead, here is a short list of the things that we should both be able to take for granted between us:
1 You must provide us with all the paperwork, books and documentation required for the accounts, returns and/or other reports to be prepared. We are happy to discuss what is required in advance.
2 Remember that we act as agents between you and the authorities, who have wide powers of inspection. You must not withhold anything and you must tell us about everything that may affect the production of correct accounts, returns etc.
3 Once we both agree that we have all the necessary information and explanations, we will prepare accounts, return(s) and/or other reports to comply with the relevant legislation (or to meet your specification, where applicable). We will use our professional knowledge and experience to do this as quickly and efficiently as possible. In order to do so, we must follow certain routines and procedures in all cases. We will contact you during the job if we have any questions.
4 All our fees are time-based, which we believe is the fairest method. As it is impossible to know in advance how long a particular job will take, we give estimates, not quotes. Keeping to these terms will result in the lowest charges.
5 Payment of our fees is due 14 days after receipt of our invoice unless alternative arrangements have been made in advance.
6 We reserve the right to carry out credit checks on you and/or your business.
