Home / Guides / How to Switch Accountants
Last updated 23 October 2026. Written by the Limited Company Accountant UK team, part of Accotax. Figures are for the 2026/27 tax year; always check GOV.UK for the latest rates.
Short answer: Switching accountants takes about a week. You appoint the new firm, they request a professional clearance letter from your old accountant, receive your records and register as your agent with HMRC and Companies House.
At a glance
| Typical time | About 1 to 2 weeks |
|---|---|
| Needs | Your authority, old accountant’s records |
| Cost with us | No switching fee on monthly packages |
Steps
- Choose your new accountant and sign an engagement letter.
- They send a professional clearance request to your old accountant.
- You give them software access and records.
- They get HMRC agent authorisation and Companies House authentication codes.
- You confirm that the old accountant has been removed.
What to check
Ask for opening balances, outstanding filings, the latest accounts and any prior-year queries so nothing is missed.
Want this handled for you?
Fixed monthly fee, named accountant, free first consultation. Get a free quote or call 0203 4411 258.
The bottom line
Switching accountants takes about a week. If you would rather not do it alone, our fixed fees start at £45.83 + VAT a month.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch accountants mid-year?
Yes. Many companies switch at any time, though the clean break is often just after a filing.
Will my old accountant hold my records?
They must hand over your records, though outstanding fees can delay some items.
How much does it cost to switch?
On our monthly packages there is no extra charge for the handover.
Ready for a fixed monthly price?
Our packages start at £45.83 + VAT and cover accounts, tax and deadlines. Get a free quote or call 0203 4411 258.
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