FAQs
Do I need an accountant?
Whether or not an accountant is needed is unique to each circumstance. Some individuals for example may be happy completing their Self Assessment tax return if they are confident in what they are doing and have perhaps conducted the appropriate research. Some individuals have very simple circumstances but enjoy the peace of mind that they have an accountant they can rely on to keep their affairs in order. For us, no job is too small and whether you are a sole trader with a very small business, a landlord with rental income or you have savings interest that has fallen within the scope of being taxable, we can always help. For those who know they need an accountant, well, here we are!
Is it difficult to change accountant?
No, it doesn’t have to be. The potential hold-up can be the outgoing accountant dragging their heels in responding to what is known as the request for professional clearance. This is something that all newly approached accountants should do both out of professional courtesy to the outgoing accountant and also part of the newly approached due diligence to ensure there is no professional reason why they shouldn’t take the new client on. It is customary for the newly approached accountant to request from the outgoing accountant copies of the previous year’s accounts and tax return and other information pertinent to their preparation. If everyone works together, the changeover should be relatively smooth.
Do Cartwright & Co specialise in any particular industry?
We have clients in all sorts of industries. We could probably fill a screen with them but some examples include:
- Hospitality such as takeaways, restaurants and pubs.
- Construction such as plumbers, electricians, joiners and bricklayers.
- Civil and electrical engineering.
- Retail both online and in stores.
- Delivery drivers such as Amazon and other couriers.
- Beauty therapists.
- Hairdressers.
- Driving instructors.
- Social and domiciliary care.
- Mental health therapists.
- Management and training consultants.
- Graphic designers and web specialists.
If your industry isn’t named, don’t worry, the chances are we have clients in that field.
I'm a Subcontractor in the construction industry, can you help me with my tax return?
Of course. Cartwright & Co’s first clients, way back at the start were likely Subcontractors in the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). Over the years, we lost a number of “subby” clients by the lure of accountants that promised thousands of pounds in tax refunds. People also have a go at completing their Self Assessment tax return with what they think is the correct information. At Cartwright & Co we conduct our business the same with every client. Honest, accurate advice, always with a mind for what complies with HMRC legislation. We can’t guarantee thousands of pounds a year in tax refunds but your tax return will be completed correctly, on time and if you are due to a tax refund, great!
I'm a Subcontractor in the construction industry, I've earned more this year so I must be due more tax back from HMRC.
This isn’t true. The vast majority of Subcontractors are labour-only and although 20% CIS tax is deducted from their earnings, they are taxable at 20% and subject to 6% Class 4 National Insurance on profit over £12,570. So, the more you earn without incurring more expenses, the less of a tax refund you may be due. One thing to note, for the 2024/25 tax year, any Subcontractor earning no more than £50,270, having CIS deducted from the whole amount and not having sold, is unlikely to have any further liability when completing their Self Assessment tax return. This is due to the reduction in the rate of Class 4 National Insurance from 9% to 6%.
Can you give me a fixed fee quote?
We can in a lot of cases but not always. We charge on a time-spent basis so estimating how long it is going to take to complete a piece of work is usually difficult. We will always discuss the ins and outs of what is required and give a ballpark figure of what our fees are likely to be. We want you to be a client this year, next year and in the years to come so we will only ever charge what we can fully justify and stand by.
Are initial conversations or meetings free?
Yes, they are. We never charge for the initial introductory meeting with a new or prospective client. We always use that time to get to know the individual and business that has approached us with a view to creating a trusting relationship. We want you to leave the meeting happy that you chose us and confident in the advice and service you are going to receive.