Switch accountants

Switching to AutoBooks takes 5 minutes — we handle the rest

No awkward conversations. No chasing paperwork. We manage the entire handover from your old accountant so you don't have to.

Start your switch →
No mid-year penalty Switch completes in 5–10 working days We submit the 64-8 for you Free letter template below
How it works

Three steps, then you're done

1

Sign up with AutoBooks

Takes 5 minutes. We'll ask for your company name, UTR, and a few basic details. Nothing else needed upfront.

2

Send the letter below

Copy our pre-filled template, add your old accountant's email, and send. That's the entire 'awkward conversation' handled.

3

We take it from here

AutoBooks files the 64-8 with HMRC, requests your records, and has you fully onboarded within 5–10 working days.

Typical timeline: Day 1 — sign up & send letter  ·  Days 1–5 — AutoBooks files 64-8 and requests records  ·  Days 5–10 — full handover complete, you're live on AutoBooks
What's covered

Everything that moves across

Your old accountant provides
  • Annual accounts (all previously filed years)
  • Corporation Tax returns (CT600s)
  • VAT returns and registration details
  • Payroll records and P60s
  • Bookkeeping files or trial balance
  • Companies House authentication code
  • Any outstanding work in progress
  • Self Assessment records if filed through them
AutoBooks handles for you
  • 64-8 agent authorisation filed with HMRC
  • Professional clearance letter to your old accountant
  • Companies House filing authority
  • VAT agent registration
  • Payroll agent setup if applicable
  • Chasing the old accountant if they're slow
  • Reconciling any gaps in your records
  • Onboarding call to review your current position
Free template

Your accountant change letter

Copy this letter, fill in the orange placeholders, and email it to your current accountant. That's it.

Subject: Notice of Accountant Change — [Your Company Name] Dear [Current Accountant's Name / Firm], I am writing to inform you that I have appointed a new accountant for [Your Company Name] ([Company Registration Number]), effective from [Date — e.g. 1 June 2025]. Your services will no longer be required from this date. Thank you for your support during our time working together. My new accountants are AutoBooks (trading name of AB Books Ltd). Please transfer the following to them at your earliest convenience: • Annual accounts and corporation tax returns (all filed years) • VAT returns and registration certificate • Payroll records, P60s and RTI submissions • Bookkeeping files or trial balance • Companies House authentication code • Any work in progress or outstanding items AutoBooks contact for the handover: Name: AutoBooks Client Services Email: accounts@autobooks.co.uk Phone: [AutoBooks phone number] Please confirm receipt of this letter and your expected handover timeline. Yours sincerely, [Your Full Name] Director, [Your Company Name] [Your Email] [Date]
Common questions

Switching accountants — your questions answered

Can I switch accountants at any time of year?

Yes. No rule requires waiting until year end. Switching mid-year is fine — AutoBooks picks up bookkeeping from point of transfer. The only consideration is if your old accountant is mid-way through annual accounts; a brief timing conversation is advised.

Can my old accountant charge me for the handover?

No. Under ICAEW and ACCA professional standards, old accountants cannot charge for professional clearance or transferring records. They may charge for incomplete commissioned work (e.g. half-finished year-end accounts) but not the handover itself.

What if my old accountant delays or ignores the request?

AutoBooks chases on your behalf. If delays persist, we can escalate to their professional body (ICAEW, ACCA, or AAT) who have conduct obligations. In practice, most handovers complete promptly once AutoBooks contacts them professionally.

Do I need to inform HMRC or Companies House myself?

No. AutoBooks handles all of this — 64-8 agent authorisation with HMRC (covering CT, VAT, PAYE and Self Assessment) and Companies House filing authority update.

What if my accounts or bookkeeping are behind?

It happens frequently. AutoBooks specialises in catch-up work — it won't affect your ability to switch and there's no penalty for inherited backlogs. Catch-up work is discussed transparently in your onboarding call before any extra fees are mentioned.

Is there a notice period I need to give my current accountant?

It depends on your existing contract — most contractor accountant agreements require 30 days' written notice. Check your engagement letter. You can sign up with AutoBooks and start the handover process during any notice period.

Ready to make the switch?

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