Blog
Your questions, answered
Straight answers to the things business owners ask us most.
Still not sure? Book a free call and just ask.
Getting started and switching
How easy is it to switch to Abbeygate?
Very easy, because we do the heavy lifting. We speak to your current accountant, handle the professional clearance and move everything across for you. There is very little for you to do, and no gap in your compliance.
Do you only work with Xero, or other systems too?
Around 95% of our clients are on Xero, because we find it the most user friendly. It also means our whole team are Xero experts, so we work efficiently and spend more of our time actually helping you rather than wrestling with software. We do support clients on other systems too, particularly where we run an in-house finance function from your office, or provide outsourced FD and advisory support.
Can you migrate my data to Xero?
Yes. We look after the whole transfer to Xero for you, and we give you as much training as you need to feel completely comfortable. You will not be left to work it out on your own.
Do I have to be based in Suffolk to work with you?
No. We work with ambitious business owners across the UK using cloud tools like Xero. We are proud to be local for clients who value face to face time, and for the in-house finance function we come into your office.
Our proactive service
Why do you call yourselves proactive when others say the same?
Most accountants review your year after it has finished, hand over a set of accounts, a tax bill and their invoice, and leave you little time to pay. That is the standard, and it has never really helped the business owner. We build in three month reviews to check you are on the right path, tax efficient and heading in the right direction, claiming everything you can. At nine months we forecast to your year end with an estimate of your corporation tax, up to a year before you pay it. That is true proactive help, because we can then tell you what to do to reduce your tax and move the needle on your finances.
Can you help me reduce my tax bill?
Yes, through year round planning rather than a rushed conversation after your year end. Our three and nine month reviews are where we spot the opportunities early, all completely legitimate.
Can you act as our Finance Director?
Yes. Our outsourced FD service gives you board level commercial insight and someone in your corner on the big decisions, without the cost of a full time salary.
Fees
What does my monthly fee include?
Your monthly fee includes fair usage for advice, questions, calls, training and support. Anything well outside the norm is agreed as a new piece of work up front, so there are never any surprise bills.
How is your pricing structured?
We work on a fixed monthly fee, tailored to your business and agreed with you up front, so the cost is spread across the year and you always know where you stand. No surprise bills, ever.
Technology and your team
How do you use technology and AI?
We use technology and AI to remove the manual, repetitive work, which gives us more time for the conversations that actually help you. It makes us faster and more accurate, and your data stays secure throughout.
Will I have a dedicated point of contact?
Yes. You will have a client manager who knows your business, backed by a full team so there is always cover and the right expertise on hand.
Are you regulated?
Yes. We are AAT licensed accountants, working to their code of ethics. Regulated, ethical and trusted.
Do you specialise in my industry?
We have deep specialisms in the motor trade, hospitality, construction and trades, and digital and media agencies, alongside general owner managed businesses.
xeroPlatinum Partner
Let's have a proper conversation about your business.
No suits, no jargon, just straight-talking advice. Book a free, no-obligation call and see the Abbeygate difference.