Accountants fees

[Issi]

Hi all,

I've just received my bill from my accountant - £745.00 +VAT for preparing my yearly tax return (I'm a self employed surveyor).

I think that he's doing a good job, and is probably saving me at least this amount every year, but I can't help wondering if this is a little bit pricey.

Can anybody set my mind at rest, and confirm that £745.00 to prepare a set of yearly accounts is reasonable?

[DavidY]

Issi said:

I think that he's doing a good job, and is probably saving me at least this amount every year, but I can't help wondering if this is a little bit pricey.

Look if he's do a good job and saving you money, rather than quibbling a couple of hundred on the bill, or moving to a cheaper (unknown quality) accountant, why not put your effrts into finding another paid days work during the year!!! That way you'll earn more money and still retain the account you like.

[Eric Mc]

Total rip off. I'd have charged £740.

Why is this in "Employment Matters"?

[Countdown]

Issi said:

Hi all,

I've just received my bill from my accountant - £745.00 +VAT for preparing my yearly tax return (I'm a self employed surveyor).

I think that he's doing a good job, and is probably saving me at least this amount every year, but I can't help wondering if this is a little bit pricey.

Can anybody set my mind at rest, and confirm that £745.00 to prepare a set of yearly accounts is reasonable?

I'm surprised he didn't give you a quote up front (at least a rough one). It's hard to judge whether he's overcharged or undercharged without knowing what work he has done for you. Even then, it depends on his qualifications and how much in demand he is.

[cahami]

Do it yourself? Depending on your circumstances it may not be that hard in reality and also very rewarding.

[TNJ]

All depends really - that would be 1.5 hours at my charge out rate!

[CAPP0]

Mine's c.£1200 pa for company accts, Co House returns, running PAYE, personal tax return, general and VAT advice as required. I'm fixed rate VAT so can do my returns easily myself if needed.

[zedstar]

I'll beat Eric at £739.00 + VAT.

Seriously though if you're happy with his work and he does everything you need off him then don't stress, it's not a huge fee if a little bit top heavy...

[foliedouce]

Sounds about right to me. More importantly than cost is value and relationship.

I've paid top dollar for accountants and got rubbish advice that has bitten me in the behind a few years later. Right now, I pay a similar amount to you (but I could get cheaper) but I trust them and I'm very happy with their conservative advice.

[Storer]

Sounds fine. I pay more but own 2 Ltd Co's and have personal tax completed by mine.

Seems expensive when I pay the bill but use him for lots of advice as well.

[Issi]

Thanks all for the advice, appreciate it.

[Thankyou4calling]

Issi said:

Thanks all for the advice, appreciate it.

That's fine.

I've E Mailed the invoice, £150 plus VAT.

Could you ensure its paid within 28 days.

Regards

TY4C