Things we need for your accounts

One of the most common things we hear from new clients is that they're not sure what to send us, or they've been putting off getting started because they don't feel organised enough. The good news is that you don't need to have everything perfectly in order before you get in touch - that's what we're here for.

Here's a straightforward guide to what we typically need to get your accounts underway.

Bank transactions

This is the most important starting point. A CSV download of your business bank account works perfectly, as does a live bank feed through cloud accounting software like Xero - which we can help you set up if you're not already using it. If you have multiple accounts or a business credit card, include those too.

Invoices and receipts

We don't need to see every invoice - mainly anything unusual or significant that might need a closer look to make sure it's been accounted for correctly. If you're using Xero or Dext for receipt capture, even better. But don't let an imperfect filing system hold you up - send us what you have and we'll work with it.

VAT returns

If we already handle your VAT returns, we'll have everything we need on this front. If not, we'll need copies of your VAT returns for the relevant period along with any supporting records.

Payroll information

Again, if we run your payroll, this is already taken care of. If your payroll is handled elsewhere, we'll need the summary figures for the year - your payroll provider should be able to pull these together quickly.

Anything else?

For limited companies, it's also useful to have details of any director loans, significant asset purchases, or anything out of the ordinary that happened during the year. If you're not sure whether something is relevant, just mention it - it's always better to flag something and find out it doesn't matter than to leave it out.

The most important thing is simply to get in touch as soon after your year end as you can. The earlier we can make a start, the more time we have to make sure everything is right - and the further away your filing deadline feels.

We work with businesses across Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Scotland - and if you're not already using cloud accounting software, getting set up on Xero is often the single biggest thing you can do to make this process smoother year on year.

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If you've been with the same accountant for years and feel like the service has become a bit hands-off, switching is simpler than most people think. Find out how moving to Facts & Figures works.

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