How to change accountants

Changing accountants issimpler than you think.

Most people put it off because it sounds awkward. In practice, you make one decision and sign one form, and we do the rest.

How it works

Four steps, and most of them are ours.

A free
20-minute call

Tell us what you’ve got and what’s not working. No forms, no cost.

You sign
an authority

One engagement letter and authority, so we can act for you.

We collect
your file

We write to your previous accountant and link you with the ATO.

A plan,
then a rhythm

A review of where you stand, what to fix first and the key dates.

Before you switch

What it helps to have ready.

  • Your most recent tax return and, for a business, the last financial statements and BAS.
  • Your previous accountant’s name and contact details.
  • Details of any trusts, companies or super funds you’re involved in.
  • Any letters from the ATO you’re waiting to deal with.

Don’t have everything? That’s fine. We can request most of it ourselves.

Why people change

Often, there’s more than one reason.

People come to us when they can’t get hold of their accountant, when the business has outgrown a one-person practice, or when they only hear about a problem after it’s too late to fix.

With us, you’ll deal with the same team each year, hear from us before 30 June, not just at lodgement, and have a partner reviewing the work.

Because he knows our businesses so well, we are comfortable following his advice.
Dennise Simmons, Simmos Automotive Group. A TNR client for more than twenty years.
4.9Average rating from Byron Bay clients on Google
Questions people ask
Is it hard to change accountants?

No. Most of the work is ours. You agree to engage us and sign an authority, and we take care of the rest, including contacting your previous accountant and updating the ATO.

Can I change accountants mid-year?

Yes. You can change at any time. It’s often neatest after a return or BAS has been lodged, but there’s no need to wait for 30 June.

Do I have to tell my old accountant?

We can do it for you. We write to your previous accountant asking for the records we need. Many people prefer that to an awkward conversation.

How do you become my tax agent with the ATO?

For individuals, we add you to our client list through the ATO’s online services for agents. For businesses, you nominate us as your agent through Online services for business, which takes a few minutes and we’ll walk you through it.

Will I lose my records?

No. Your source documents belong to you, and the ATO keeps copies of what’s been lodged. We request the prior returns, financial statements and other records we need from your previous accountant.

What will it cost to change?

There’s no charge from us to change over. Your previous accountant may ask that any outstanding fees are settled before releasing some records.

Free 20-minute call

Ready to make the change?

A complimentary, confidential 20-minute call, by phone or Zoom. No forms and no obligation.

Book a 20-minute call

Or call the office on (02) 6685 6529