Filing a tax return isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. If you’re self-employed, receive rental income, earn money outside your regular employment or have multiple sources of income, working out what needs to be declared can become complicated.
Although you can complete a Self Assessment tax return yourself, getting the figures right and understanding which expenses or allowances you can claim takes time. That’s why many people choose to work with a professional.
If you’re looking for a tax return accountant in Ashford, it’s worth knowing what to look for before making a decision. The right accountant should understand your financial circumstances, explain things clearly and help you meet your tax obligations without unnecessary complications.
Here are some important things to consider when choosing an accountant for your personal tax affairs.
1. Check Their Experience with Personal Tax Returns
Not every accountant focuses on the same type of work. Some mainly deal with limited company accounts and business finances, while others also provide services for individuals, sole traders, landlords and self-employed professionals.
Before choosing an accountant, check whether they regularly handle personal tax returns and understand the different circumstances that can affect your tax position.
For example, you might need help with:
- Self Assessment tax returns.
- Income from self-employment or freelance work.
- Rental income from residential properties.
- Dividends and investment income.
- Additional income alongside your regular salary.
- Capital gains from selling certain assets.
An accountant familiar with these situations can help you understand what information HMRC requires and how your different income sources should be reported.
2. Make Sure They Understand Your Tax Situation
Your financial circumstances are unlikely to be exactly the same as someone else’s. A salaried employee with rental income will have different reporting requirements from a sole trader or someone receiving dividends from a company.
A good personal tax accountant should take the time to understand your income, expenses and financial arrangements before preparing your return.
For instance, if you’re self-employed, they may need to review your business income and allowable expenses. If you receive rental income, they’ll need details of your property income and relevant costs.
This individual approach helps ensure that your return reflects your actual circumstances rather than relying on a standard process for every client.
3. Understand What Is Included in Their Service
Before appointing an accountant, find out exactly what they will handle on your behalf.
Some accountants only prepare and submit your tax return, while others provide additional support, such as reviewing expenses, explaining tax calculations and helping you understand future tax obligations.
It’s worth asking whether their service includes:
- Reviewing your income and financial records.
- Identifying relevant allowable expenses and tax reliefs.
- Preparing your Self Assessment return.
- Submitting the return electronically to HMRC.
- Explaining your tax calculation and payment obligations.
- Answering questions about your tax position.
Knowing what’s included from the beginning helps avoid confusion later, particularly if you need advice beyond submitting the return.
4. Look for Clear and Transparent Fees
Accountancy fees can vary depending on how complicated your tax affairs are and how much work is involved.
For example, someone with one source of self-employment income may require a relatively straightforward return. A landlord with several properties, employment income and investment earnings may need more detailed preparation.
Rather than choosing an accountant based purely on the lowest advertised price, ask for a clear breakdown of the fees.
Find out whether the quoted price includes reviewing your documents, preparing the return, submitting it to HMRC and dealing with any follow-up questions.
A professional accountant should explain their charges before starting the work so you know what to expect.
5. Check Their Qualifications and Professional Standards
Tax returns contain sensitive financial information, so it’s important to choose someone you can trust.
Look into the accountant’s professional qualifications, relevant experience and approach to handling client information.
Professional accountancy qualifications, such as ACCA or AAT, can help demonstrate formal training and professional knowledge. You should also ask how your financial documents will be handled and stored.
A reliable accountant should be able to explain their working process, answer your questions and treat your financial information confidentially.
6. Consider Choosing Local Accountants in Ashford
Working with accountants in Ashford can make it easier to find support from a firm that understands the local area and is accessible when you need advice.
Although many accounting services can now be handled remotely, some people still prefer having the option to speak with an accountant locally.
For individuals and small business owners based in Ashford, Surrey, a nearby firm can offer a more personal point of contact when discussing tax returns, financial records or future planning.
It’s also worth checking whether the accountant supports clients in surrounding areas. This is particularly useful if you live in Middlesex or elsewhere in Surrey but prefer working with a firm based in Ashford.
7. Ask How They Handle HMRC Deadlines
Missing a tax return deadline can lead to penalties, so it’s important to understand how your accountant manages submissions.
For most individuals filing online, the Self Assessment deadline is 31 January following the end of the relevant tax year. For example, the online filing deadline for the 2025/26 tax year is 31 January 2027.
However, there are other deadlines to consider, including payments on account where applicable.
Ask your accountant how early they need your documents, when they aim to complete the return and whether they provide reminders about important dates.
It is still your responsibility to ensure that your return is submitted and your tax is paid on time, even when an accountant is helping you.
What Documents Should You Prepare for a Tax Return?
Once you’ve chosen an accountant, having your documents ready can make the process much smoother.
The exact information required depends on your income and financial circumstances, but you may need some of the following:
| Document or information | Why it may be needed |
| P60 or P45 | Details of employment income and tax paid |
| P11D | Information about certain employment benefits |
| Bank interest statements | Details of taxable savings interest |
| Dividend statements | Information about dividend income |
| Business income records | Details of self-employment earnings |
| Expense receipts | Evidence of relevant business expenses |
| Rental income records | Details of property income |
| Property expense records | Information about eligible property costs |
| Previous tax return | Helps provide background for your latest return |
| National Insurance number and UTR | Identification and tax administration details |
You may not need every document listed above. Your accountant can tell you which records are relevant to your particular circumstances.
Keeping financial documents organised throughout the year also makes it easier to prepare your return when the time comes.
Why Work with Budget Accountants?
At Budget Accountants, we provide personal tax and accounting support to individuals, self-employed professionals and businesses in Ashford, Surrey, Middlesex and surrounding areas.
We understand that tax returns can raise questions, particularly when you have different sources of income or are filing a Self Assessment return for the first time.
Our approach is to understand your circumstances, review the relevant financial information and help you through the filing process.
Our services include:
- Personal tax returns: Preparation and submission of personal Self Assessment tax returns.
- Self-employment income: Support with reporting business income and relevant expenses.
- Tax planning: Practical guidance to help you understand your tax position.
- Ongoing support: Help with questions about your tax obligations and financial records.
We aim to keep the process straightforward, with clear communication and transparent fees.
If you’re looking for a personal tax accountant in Ashford, we’re happy to discuss your requirements and explain how we can help. Visit Budget Accountants to learn more about our accounting services or explore our Self Assessment tax return service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an accountant to complete my Self Assessment tax return?
No, you can complete and submit your own tax return through HMRC. However, an accountant can help you understand your reporting obligations, review your figures and identify relevant expenses and tax reliefs.
How much does a tax return accountant cost in Ashford?
Fees depend on the complexity of your tax affairs and the work involved. A straightforward return may cost less than one involving rental properties, self-employment or multiple income sources. It’s best to request a quote based on your circumstances.
Can a personal tax accountant help if I am employed?
Yes. Some employees need to complete Self Assessment returns because they have additional income, certain taxable benefits or other reporting obligations. An accountant can help determine what needs to be included.
What is the difference between a tax return accountant and a personal tax accountant?
A tax return accountant generally focuses on preparing and submitting tax returns. A personal tax accountant can provide broader support with individual tax matters, including income reporting, tax planning and understanding your tax obligations. Many accountants offer both services.
Can I change my accountant if I already have one?
Yes. You can appoint a new accountant if you’re unhappy with your current service or want a different approach. Your new accountant can explain what information and authorisations are needed to help transfer your records.
When should I contact an accountant about my tax return?
It’s sensible to contact an accountant well before the filing deadline. This gives you enough time to gather documents, clarify any questions and deal with missing information without rushing.
