Shiresaccountants.co.uk Review

Based on checking the website Shiresaccountants.co.uk, it presents itself as a professional accountancy firm catering to both businesses and individuals. The site highlights a modern, friendly approach, aiming to assist clients with various financial decisions and business growth.

Overall Review Summary:

Clarity of Services: Excellent. The website clearly outlines a wide range of services, from standard accountancy, payroll, and taxation to more bespoke offerings like business advisory and company secretarial services.
Professional Accreditation: Good. They state being “gold tier partners with QuickBooks and silver accredited partners with Xero,” with all team members certified in both software, which adds a layer of credibility.
Ethical Considerations: Generally Positive. Accountancy services, when conducted ethically and without involvement in interest-based transactions (riba) or other forbidden financial activities, are permissible. The website does not explicitly mention interest-based services, focusing on core accounting, tax, and advisory roles.
Missing Information for Full Trust: Moderate. While the services are clear, the website lacks readily available information such as a clear ‘About Us’ section detailing the firm’s history, specific professional accreditations (like ICAEW or ACCA membership numbers), client testimonials or case studies, or a clear pricing structure. Contact information is present, but deeper transparency on the firm’s background could enhance trust.
User Experience: Good. The website is clean, easy to navigate, and the information is presented logically.

The detailed explanations on the website cover key areas such as statutory financial statements, year-end accounts, bookkeeping, cloud accounting, company formation, payroll, taxation, and VAT returns. They also mention supporting new businesses with financial and legal aspects. While the services align with general business needs, the absence of specific client testimonials or detailed case studies means a prospective client cannot readily verify their track record beyond the stated partnerships. For a holistic assessment, more direct evidence of client satisfaction and adherence to professional standards would be beneficial.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Accountancy Services:

Crunch: A well-established online accounting firm in the UK, offering a blend of intuitive software and human advice.
- Key Features: Cloud accounting software, dedicated accountants, payroll, VAT, self-assessment, company formation.
- Average Price: Varies based on service package, often subscription-based.
- Pros: Comprehensive packages, good for freelancers and SMEs, strong tech integration.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than basic solutions for very small businesses.
Clear Books: UK-based online accounting software designed for small businesses and accountants.
- Key Features: Invoicing, expense management, bank reconciliation, VAT returns, payroll, comprehensive reporting.
- Average Price: Monthly subscription plans depending on features.
- Pros: User-friendly interface, strong focus on UK tax rules, good support.
- Cons: Might be too basic for complex business structures.
FreeAgent: Popular online accounting software tailored for freelancers, contractors, and small businesses. Often included with NatWest/RBS business accounts.
- Key Features: Invoicing, expenses, time tracking, payroll, self-assessment, VAT.
- Average Price: Monthly subscription, or free for NatWest/RBS business customers.
- Pros: Excellent for sole traders, intuitive design, strong tax management tools.
- Cons: Less suitable for larger businesses or complex payroll needs.
QuickBooks Online: A globally recognised cloud accounting solution, widely used by businesses of all sizes.
- Key Features: Expense tracking, invoicing, payroll, inventory, reporting, tax management.
- Average Price: Monthly subscription, tiered pricing based on features.
- Pros: Scalable, extensive integrations, strong reporting capabilities, large user community.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming for beginners, some advanced features are costly.
Xero: Another leading cloud accounting software, known for its user-friendliness and comprehensive features.
- Key Features: Invoicing, bank reconciliation, expense claims, payroll, VAT, project tracking.
- Average Price: Monthly subscription, tiered pricing.
- Pros: Intuitive interface, excellent bank feeds, good for collaborative accounting, strong app ecosystem.
- Cons: Payroll feature can be less robust than dedicated payroll software.
Sage Accounting: A long-standing provider of accounting software, offering online solutions for small and growing businesses.
- Key Features: Invoicing, cash flow management, VAT, reporting, payroll integration.
- Average Price: Monthly subscription, various plans available.
- Pros: Reputable brand, strong customer support, scalable solutions.
- Cons: Interface can feel less modern than competitors, some features are add-ons.
KashFlow: UK-focused online accounting software, particularly suited for small businesses and start-ups.
- Key Features: Invoicing, payroll, VAT returns, bank reconciliation, basic CRM.
- Average Price: Monthly subscription.
- Pros: Designed specifically for UK businesses, good for VAT, user-friendly.
- Cons: Less comprehensive for very complex accounting needs.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Shiresaccountants.co.uk Review & First Look

When you land on Shiresaccountants.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of professionalism and clarity. The homepage quickly communicates its purpose: “Professional Accountants for Businesses and Individuals.” This directness is a solid start. The design is clean, with a straightforward layout that prioritises information accessibility over flashy graphics. It’s a no-nonsense approach, which is often appreciated when dealing with financial matters.

Initial Impressions and User Interface

The website’s aesthetic is minimalist, utilising ample white space and clear typography. This design choice contributes to a pleasant user experience, preventing visual clutter and making it easy to digest the presented information. The navigation is intuitive, with key services listed prominently, suggesting a well-thought-out user journey. There’s no ambiguity about what Shires Accountants offers, right from the first glance.

Stated Mission and Values

Shires Accountants articulates a mission to provide “a modern, friendly approach to your accountancy needs.” They emphasise having a “diverse team on hand to assist individuals in making decisions that will further develop and grow their businesses.” This focus on client partnership and growth is a strong selling point. However, without direct testimonials or detailed case studies, it remains a statement of intent rather than a demonstrated track record. Ethical consideration implies that such a firm would operate free from interest-based transactions, ensuring all advice and services align with ethical financial practices.

Shiresaccountants.co.uk Features

Shiresaccountants.co.uk outlines a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet diverse financial needs for both businesses and individuals. The features listed are typical of a full-service accountancy firm, ranging from fundamental compliance tasks to more strategic advisory roles.

Core Accountancy Services

The website clearly highlights core accountancy offerings. These include:

Statutory Financial Statements and Year-End Accounts: Essential for Limited Companies, Partnerships, and Charities, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
Flexible Bookkeeping Services: Tailored to client needs, whether it’s a “once a month tidy up or daily processing.” This flexibility is a significant benefit for businesses of varying sizes and operational complexities.
Cloud Accounting: Leveraging popular platforms like QuickBooks and Xero. Shires Accountants states they are “gold tier partners with QuickBooks and silver accredited partners with Xero,” with all team members certified. This strong affiliation indicates expertise in modern cloud-based accounting solutions, which are increasingly vital for efficient business operations. It includes training, setup, and ongoing support.

Taxation and Payroll Services

Taxation is a complex area, and Shires Accountants addresses both personal and business tax needs:

Business and Personal Taxation: Offering a “simple no nonsense Tax Return service which maximises tax savings.” This implies a focus on efficiency and optimising tax positions for clients. Self-Assessment can indeed be a complicated task, and a streamlined service is often highly sought after.
VAT Returns: Recognising VAT as “one of the most complex taxes,” especially with “making tax digital.” They offer assistance from registration to investigations, covering all aspects of VAT compliance and planning.
Payroll & Auto-Enrolment: Providing services for clients who require payroll outsourcing, including CIS returns. This is crucial for businesses looking to offload the administrative burden of payroll processing and ensure compliance with auto-enrolment regulations.

Business Advisory and Other Bespoke Services

Beyond the standard offerings, Shires Accountants extends into more strategic and advisory roles:

Company Formation: Assisting with changing trading status or incorporating new companies, including “share structuring and bespoke directors’ agreements.” This suggests a deeper level of legal and financial guidance during critical business transitions.
Management Accounts: While not explicitly detailed under a separate heading, it’s mentioned as a “bespoke service,” indicating support for internal financial reporting crucial for strategic decision-making.
Company Secretarial Services: Another bespoke offering, likely covering compliance tasks related to Companies House filings and corporate governance.
Support for New Businesses: “If you are thinking of starting a business but need help with the financial and legal aspects, the Shires team can help you get up and running in no time.” This proactive support for start-ups is invaluable, particularly in navigating initial hurdles.

The breadth of services presented on Shiresaccountants.co.uk suggests a firm capable of handling a wide array of client requirements, from day-to-day accounting to strategic business development.

Shiresaccountants.co.uk Pros & Cons

When evaluating any professional service, it’s crucial to weigh the advantages against the potential drawbacks. Based on the Shiresaccountants.co.uk homepage, here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons.

Advantages of Shiresaccountants.co.uk

The website highlights several positive aspects that would appeal to potential clients: Language4life.co.uk Review

Clear Service Offerings: The range of services is comprehensively detailed, from core accounting to bespoke advisory. This clarity helps clients quickly identify if the firm can meet their needs.
Cloud Accounting Expertise: Being Gold Tier QuickBooks and Silver Accredited Xero partners with certified staff is a significant advantage. It indicates proficiency in modern, efficient accounting software crucial for businesses operating in the digital age. According to a 2023 survey by Accountex, over 70% of UK SMEs now use cloud accounting software.
Focus on Business Growth: The emphasis on helping clients “further develop and grow their businesses” suggests a proactive, rather than merely reactive, approach to accountancy.
Comprehensive Support for Businesses: From company formation and payroll to VAT and general tax, the firm appears to offer a one-stop shop for many business financial needs, including support for start-ups.
Modern and Friendly Approach: While subjective, this stated approach aims to make financial dealings less intimidating, which can be a relief for many business owners and individuals.

Areas for Improvement and Potential Disadvantages

While the website presents a strong case, there are certain aspects that could be enhanced for greater transparency and client confidence:

Lack of Client Testimonials/Case Studies: A significant missing piece is direct evidence of client satisfaction. Testimonials or case studies would offer social proof and build trust, demonstrating real-world success stories.
Limited Information on Team and History: Beyond mentioning a “diverse team,” there’s no dedicated ‘About Us’ section detailing the firm’s history, specific accreditations of individual accountants (e.g., ICAEW, ACCA membership numbers), or key personnel profiles. This lack of transparency can make it harder for potential clients to vet the firm’s credentials thoroughly.
Absence of Pricing Information: While many accountancy services are bespoke, providing even indicative pricing tiers or a clear process for obtaining a quote would be beneficial. The absence of any pricing information might deter some initial enquiries.
No Blog or Resources Section: A blog or resources section could showcase the firm’s expertise, offer valuable insights to clients, and improve search engine visibility. This is a common feature on many contemporary accountancy websites.
General Lack of Specificity: While services are listed, detailed explanations of processes, client success metrics, or unique methodologies are absent. For example, what makes their “no nonsense Tax Return service” stand out specifically?

In summary, Shiresaccountants.co.uk clearly communicates its service offerings and technology partnerships, but a deeper dive into client success, team expertise, and transparent pricing could significantly enhance its appeal.

Shiresaccountants.co.uk Alternatives

When seeking accountancy services, exploring alternatives is a smart move, especially if you’re looking for specific features, pricing models, or a particular client-accountant relationship. The UK market offers a plethora of options, from large national firms to specialised online providers.

Traditional Accountancy Firms

Many businesses still prefer the personal touch and established reputation of traditional accountancy firms. These often have physical offices and a long history of serving local communities.

Key Characteristics: Face-to-face meetings, established local reputation, often handle complex tax planning and audits.
Pros: Personalised service, deep local knowledge, often strong network connections.
Cons: Can be more expensive, less emphasis on cloud technology unless actively modernising, may have less flexible communication channels.
Examples: Local independent firms, regional branches of larger national firms. Search for Accountants near me on Amazon for a broad overview of local services, or consult directories like the ICAEW or ACCA.

Online Accountancy Services

The rise of digital technology has popularised online accountancy services, which often combine cloud software with remote support.

Key Characteristics: Cloud-based platforms, remote communication (email, video calls), subscription-based models, often streamlined processes.
Pros: Convenience, often cost-effective, real-time access to financial data, scalable.
Cons: Less face-to-face interaction, might require clients to be comfortable with digital tools, less suitable for highly bespoke or complex legal structures requiring constant direct consultation.
Examples: Crunch, Clear Books, FreeAgent. These firms often specialise in freelancers, contractors, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Hybrid Models

Some firms offer a blend of traditional and online services, providing the flexibility of digital tools alongside the option for in-person meetings when required.

Key Characteristics: Utilise cloud software, but maintain a physical presence for client meetings, offer both remote and in-person support.
Pros: Best of both worlds, flexibility for client preferences, good for businesses transitioning to digital accounting.
Cons: Might have higher overheads than purely online models, potentially leading to higher costs.
Example: Many modern accountancy practices are shifting towards this model, adapting to client demands for both digital efficiency and personal interaction. You’d typically find these by searching for Hybrid Accountants UK and then reviewing their specific service models.

Specialised Accountants

For businesses with niche requirements, a specialised accountant might be more suitable. This could include accountants who focus on specific industries (e.g., e-commerce, property, healthcare) or specific types of tax planning.

Key Characteristics: Deep industry knowledge, tailored advice for unique challenges, often part of larger networks.
Pros: Highly relevant advice, understanding of industry-specific regulations and opportunities.
Cons: May have a narrower service scope outside their specialisation, potentially higher fees due to niche expertise.
Example: Search for Property Accountants UK or E-commerce Accountants UK to find such specialists.

When choosing an alternative, consider your business size, complexity, budget, preferred communication style, and the level of digital integration you require. Researching reviews, checking professional body registrations (e.g., ICAEW, ACCA, ATT, CIOT), and arranging initial consultations are crucial steps in finding the right fit. Always ensure the firm adheres to ethical financial principles, avoiding any involvement in interest-based dealings or other non-permissible transactions.

How to Choose an Accountant Ethically

Selecting an accountant isn’t just about finding someone competent; for many, it’s about finding a professional who operates ethically and aligns with their values, particularly within an Islamic framework. This involves scrutinising their practices to ensure they steer clear of riba (interest), deceptive practices, and other non-permissible financial activities. Tbl-housecleaning.co.uk Review

Key Ethical Considerations

When evaluating an accountancy firm, ensure they uphold the following principles:

No Riba (Interest) Involvement: The most crucial point. An ethical accountant should not be involved in facilitating or advising on interest-based loans, investments, or financial products. This means avoiding conventional banking practices that rely on interest. This extends to advice on credit cards, conventional mortgages, and any financial product where interest is charged or received.
Transparency and Honesty: The firm should be transparent about its fees, services, and any potential conflicts of interest. Dishonesty, misrepresentation, or fraud are strictly forbidden. Look for clear terms of service and direct communication.
Fair Dealings: All dealings should be conducted with fairness and justice (Adl). This applies to their billing practices, client relationships, and how they handle client funds. Exploitative pricing or hidden charges are red flags.
Avoiding Deception (Gharar): Financial transactions should be clear and free from excessive uncertainty or ambiguity. This means avoiding speculative investments or complex financial products that obscure the true nature of the transaction.
Lawful Income (Halal Earnings): The accountant’s services should only be provided for lawful business activities. They should not facilitate or enable businesses involved in forbidden industries such as gambling, alcohol, adult entertainment, or the production/sale of non-halal products.
Professional Integrity: Adherence to professional standards, confidentiality, and acting in the client’s best interest (within ethical boundaries) are paramount. This also includes avoiding bribery or corruption.

Practical Steps for Ethical Due Diligence

Ask Direct Questions: Don’t hesitate to inquire about their stance on interest-based finance, their approach to riba, and how they ensure their advice aligns with ethical financial principles.
Review Service Descriptions: Look for explicit mentions of “halal finance,” “Islamic finance advisory,” or similar terms if you require specific ethical guidance. If not explicitly mentioned, question how they handle sensitive financial matters.
Check for Professional Body Registration: Verify their registration with recognised professional bodies like the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), or the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT). While these bodies don’t enforce Islamic ethics, they do uphold codes of conduct regarding honesty, integrity, and professional competence.
Seek Recommendations: Consult trusted community members or businesses that adhere to ethical principles for their accountant recommendations.
Review Their Client Base (if possible): While confidential, sometimes a firm’s specialisations or client testimonials (if available) can give an indication of the types of businesses they serve and whether those align with ethical practices. For instance, a firm heavily marketing to gambling companies would be a concern.
Avoid Firms Promoting Conventional Loans/Credit Cards: If a firm prominently advertises or encourages conventional interest-based loans, credit cards, or investment products, it’s a strong indicator they may not align with ethical financial principles that avoid riba.

Choosing an accountant requires a thorough vetting process that goes beyond technical competence to encompass a firm’s ethical foundation, ensuring your financial practices remain aligned with your values.

Shiresaccountants.co.uk Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure of an accountancy firm is crucial for budgeting and comparing services. Unfortunately, Shiresaccountants.co.uk does not provide any specific pricing information on its homepage. This is a common practice among professional service firms, as fees often depend on the complexity and scope of the client’s needs.

Common Pricing Models for Accountancy Services

While Shiresaccountants.co.uk doesn’t list prices, accountancy firms typically employ one or a combination of the following pricing models:

Hourly Rates: This is a traditional model where clients are billed for the actual time spent by the accountant on their tasks. Rates can vary significantly based on the accountant’s experience and the complexity of the work, ranging from £50 to £250+ per hour for experienced professionals in the UK.
Fixed Fees/Packages: Many modern firms offer fixed fees for specific services (e.g., annual accounts, self-assessment tax returns, payroll processing). This provides cost certainty for clients. Firms may also offer tiered packages for different levels of service, such as basic compliance, advisory, or full-service options. For instance, a basic self-assessment might cost £250-£500, while year-end accounts for a small limited company could range from £800-£2,000+.
Monthly Retainers: Particularly for ongoing services like bookkeeping, payroll, or management accounts, firms often charge a recurring monthly fee. This model helps businesses manage cash flow and ensures continuous support. Monthly retainers can vary widely, from £50-£100 for basic bookkeeping to several hundred pounds for comprehensive outsourced finance functions.
Value-Based Pricing: In this model, the fee is determined by the perceived value the service delivers to the client, rather than just the time spent. This often applies to strategic advisory services, business consulting, or tax planning where the savings or benefits to the client are substantial.

Why Firms Don’t Display Pricing

There are several reasons why firms like Shiresaccountants.co.uk opt not to display pricing publicly:

Customisation: Accountancy services are rarely one-size-fits-all. Each client’s situation is unique, requiring tailored solutions. A fixed price might not cover the complexities of a large business or the simplicity of a sole trader.
Scope Variability: The scope of work can change based on the client’s records, industry, transaction volume, and specific compliance requirements.
Competitive Reasons: Firms may prefer to discuss pricing directly with potential clients to avoid undercutting by competitors or to justify their value proposition in person.
Relationship Building: The initial consultation, where pricing is typically discussed, is also an opportunity for the firm to understand the client’s needs and for the client to assess the firm’s suitability.

How to Obtain Pricing from Shiresaccountants.co.uk

Given the absence of public pricing, the most effective way to get a quote from Shiresaccountants.co.uk would be to:

Contact Them Directly: Utilise their contact form or phone number for an initial enquiry.
Request a Consultation: Many firms offer a free initial consultation to discuss your needs and provide a tailored quote.
Be Prepared: Have a clear understanding of your business structure, turnover, number of transactions, employees, and the specific services you require. This will help them provide an accurate quotation.

While the lack of transparent pricing upfront can be frustrating for some, it is a standard industry practice. The best approach is to engage directly with the firm to get a personalised quote based on your specific requirements.

How to Cancel Shiresaccountants.co.uk Subscription / Engagement

Cancelling services with any professional firm, including accountants, typically involves a formal process to ensure a smooth transition and the proper handover of documents. While Shiresaccountants.co.uk does not explicitly detail a cancellation policy on their public homepage, the process generally follows standard professional practice in the UK.

Standard Accountancy Service Cancellation Process

Review Your Engagement Letter: When you first engaged Shires Accountants, you would have received an engagement letter. This document outlines the terms of service, including notice periods for termination, data handling policies, and any associated fees for disengagement. This is your primary reference point.
Provide Written Notice: It is standard practice to provide written notice of your intention to terminate services. This should be sent via email or recorded delivery, ensuring you have proof of communication. The notice period (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days) will be stipulated in your engagement letter.
Settlement of Outstanding Fees: Before final disengagement, ensure all outstanding invoices for services rendered are paid. Firms will typically not release full documentation until all fees are settled.
Request Handover of Records: Clearly request all your accounting records, statutory books, tax returns, and any other relevant documentation. This includes digital files from cloud accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero if Shires Accountants managed these on your behalf.
- Professional Clearance: Your new accountant will typically request “professional clearance” from Shires Accountants. This is a professional courtesy and a regulatory requirement where the new accountant formally contacts the previous one to confirm there are no outstanding professional reasons preventing the transfer of services.
Data Transfer and Access: Discuss how your data will be transferred. If using cloud software, ensure you gain full administrative access to your accounts or that data is exported securely. The firm should facilitate this, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations (GDPR in the UK).
Confirm Disengagement: Obtain written confirmation from Shires Accountants that your engagement has been formally terminated and all necessary documents have been handed over.

Specific Considerations for Shiresaccountants.co.uk

Given their mentioned partnerships with QuickBooks and Xero, a key aspect of cancellation will be ensuring the smooth transfer or access to your data on these platforms.

Cloud Software Access: Confirm whether Shires Accountants holds the primary subscription for your QuickBooks or Xero account. If so, discuss transferring ownership of the subscription to your name or your new accountant, or ensuring all data is exported.
Payroll Data: If they handle your payroll, ensure you receive all payroll records, P60s, P45s, and pension auto-enrolment details.
Company Secretarial Records: If they provide company secretarial services, ensure all Companies House filings and statutory records are up-to-date and accessible.

While the website doesn’t offer a specific ‘cancel subscription’ button (as it’s a service firm, not a direct subscription product), the process would be managed through direct communication with their team, following the terms outlined in your initial agreement. Always keep a detailed record of all communications and documents during the cancellation process. Plumbingexams.co.uk Review

Shiresaccountants.co.uk vs. Competitors

Comparing Shiresaccountants.co.uk with its competitors involves looking at various aspects, from service breadth and technological integration to transparency and perceived value. In the UK market, accountancy firms range from sole practitioners to large corporate entities, each with a unique selling proposition.

Service Breadth and Specialisation

Shiresaccountants.co.uk: Presents itself as a comprehensive firm for both individuals and businesses, offering standard compliance services (accounts, tax, VAT, payroll) and bespoke advisory (company formation, business advisory). Their explicit mention of QuickBooks and Xero partnerships is a strong point, suggesting expertise in widely used cloud platforms.
Competitors (e.g., Crunch, FreeAgent, Local Firms):
- Online Accountants (e.g., Crunch, FreeAgent): Often specialise in specific segments like freelancers, contractors, or small e-commerce businesses. They typically integrate their services tightly with their own proprietary cloud software or preferred platforms. Their strength lies in automation and streamlined processes, often at competitive monthly subscription fees. They might offer less bespoke advisory for complex scenarios.
- Local Traditional Firms: May offer deep local market knowledge and a highly personalised, face-to-face service. They might have less emphasis on cloud accounting unless they have actively modernised, and their pricing structures can vary widely. Their specialisation might be geographical or industry-specific.
- Larger Regional/National Firms: Tend to handle more complex tax planning, audits, and international business. They have larger teams and deeper resources but come at a higher cost.

Technological Integration and Cloud Accounting

Shiresaccountants.co.uk: Clearly prioritises cloud accounting, evident from their QuickBooks and Xero partnerships. This positions them well in the modern accounting landscape, where cloud software is becoming standard for efficiency and real-time data access.
Competitors:
- Online Accountants: Often pioneers in cloud integration, sometimes even developing their own bespoke platforms alongside popular ones. They typically offer a high degree of automation.
- Traditional Firms: Vary significantly. Some have fully embraced cloud technology, while others may still rely on desktop software or more manual processes, potentially leading to less efficient data exchange.

Transparency and Pricing

Shiresaccountants.co.uk: Lacks transparent pricing or testimonials on its homepage. This is a common industry practice but can be a disadvantage when compared to firms that offer clear package pricing or client reviews.
Competitors:
- Online Accountants: Many are highly transparent with pricing, often displaying clear monthly subscription tiers on their websites. They frequently feature client testimonials and case studies prominently.
- Traditional Firms: Similar to Shiresaccountants.co.uk, they often require a consultation for a quote, making direct price comparison challenging without engagement.

Client Focus and Support

Shiresaccountants.co.uk: Emphasises a “modern, friendly approach” and a diverse team, aiming to help businesses grow. The specific mention of supporting new businesses is a notable focus.
Competitors:
- Online Accountants: Rely heavily on online support channels (chat, email, video calls). Their support models might be more structured around self-service tools with accountant oversight.
- Traditional Firms: Often offer a more hands-on, relationship-driven approach, with dedicated account managers and regular in-person meetings.

Overall Positioning

Shiresaccountants.co.uk appears to position itself as a modern, full-service firm with a strong emphasis on cloud technology. They seem to cater to a broad spectrum of clients, from individuals to SMEs, providing a comprehensive set of services. Their competitive edge would lie in their stated friendly approach and certified expertise in leading cloud platforms, assuming their implementation and client service match these claims. For clients seeking a blend of traditional accountancy expertise with modern cloud efficiency, they could be a good fit, provided direct engagement clarifies their service model and ethical compliance.

FAQ

What services does Shiresaccountants.co.uk offer?

Shiresaccountants.co.uk offers a comprehensive range of services including statutory financial statements, year-end accounts, bookkeeping, cloud accounting setup and support (QuickBooks and Xero), company formation, payroll and auto-enrolment, business and personal taxation, VAT returns, and general business advisory for new and existing companies.

Is Shiresaccountants.co.uk suitable for individuals or businesses?

Yes, Shiresaccountants.co.uk states that they are here to help “from individual personal tax through to Limited companies,” indicating they cater to both individuals and various business structures.

What cloud accounting software do Shiresaccountants.co.uk work with?

Shiresaccountants.co.uk are “gold tier partners with QuickBooks and silver accredited partners with Xero,” and all their team members are certified on both software platforms.

Do Shiresaccountants.co.uk offer bookkeeping services?

Yes, they offer “flexible bookkeeping services,” whether you need a once-a-month tidy-up or daily processing.

Can Shiresaccountants.co.uk help with company formation?

Yes, Shiresaccountants.co.uk provides a company formation service that can include share structuring and bespoke directors’ agreements.

Does Shiresaccountants.co.uk provide payroll services?

Yes, their payroll team provides services for clients who require payroll services, including CIS returns, and can assist with auto-enrolment.

How does Shiresaccountants.co.uk handle taxation?

Shiresaccountants.co.uk offers a “simple no nonsense Tax Return service” for both business and personal taxation, aiming to maximise tax savings and simplify the Self Assessment process.

Can Shiresaccountants.co.uk assist with VAT returns?

Yes, they can help with all aspects of VAT, from registration to investigations, particularly noting the complexity of VAT with “making tax digital.” Copycast-studios.co.uk Review

Is there pricing information available on the Shiresaccountants.co.uk website?

No, the Shiresaccountants.co.uk website does not publicly display specific pricing information for its services. You would typically need to contact them for a tailored quote.

Does Shiresaccountants.co.uk offer business advisory services?

Yes, business advisory is listed as one of their more bespoke services, indicating they offer strategic guidance beyond basic compliance.

How do I get a quote from Shiresaccountants.co.uk?

To get a quote from Shiresaccountants.co.uk, you would typically need to contact them directly via their website’s contact form or phone number to discuss your specific needs.

What is an “engagement letter” and why is it important with an accountant?

An engagement letter is a formal document outlining the scope of services, responsibilities of both parties, fees, and terms of the engagement. It’s crucial because it forms the contract between you and the accountant, detailing the terms of service and any cancellation policies.

How do I formally cancel services with an accountancy firm like Shiresaccountants.co.uk?

Typically, you would need to provide written notice as per the terms outlined in your engagement letter, settle any outstanding fees, and request the handover of all your financial records and data. Your new accountant may then request professional clearance.

Do Shiresaccountants.co.uk support new businesses?

Yes, the website explicitly states that if you are thinking of starting a business and need help with the financial and legal aspects, the Shires team can assist you.

What does “making tax digital” mean for VAT returns, and how can Shiresaccountants.co.uk help?

Making Tax Digital (MTD) is a UK government initiative to modernise the tax system by requiring businesses to keep digital records and submit VAT returns using MTD-compatible software. Shiresaccountants.co.uk can help by ensuring your records are digital and submitting returns compliantly.

Are Shiresaccountants.co.uk’s services suitable for charities?

Yes, the website mentions having “vast experience in preparing statutory financial statements and year end accounts for… Charities.”

What are the benefits of using cloud accounting for a small business?

Cloud accounting offers benefits such as real-time financial data, remote access to records, automated bank feeds, improved collaboration with your accountant, and enhanced security compared to traditional desktop software.

How important is it for an accountant to be certified in software like QuickBooks and Xero?

It is very important. Certification ensures the accountant has expert knowledge of the software, enabling them to set up, manage, and troubleshoot your accounts efficiently, as well as provide effective training and support. Occubox-storage.co.uk Review

Do Shiresaccountants.co.uk offer any other bespoke services not listed?

The website mentions “Other Services” as a category, suggesting they offer additional bespoke services tailored to client needs beyond the explicitly listed ones, particularly related to starting a business.

What is the primary focus of Shiresaccountants.co.uk’s approach to accountancy?

Shiresaccountants.co.uk aims for a “modern, friendly approach to your accountancy needs,” focusing on assisting individuals and businesses in making decisions that will further develop and grow their operations.