Frequently Asked Questions
Table Of Content
For Business
Accounting
Yes. We work with all major accounting platforms, including Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and KashFlow.
Yes. We prepare both statutory accounts and the associated tax returns, ensuring full compliance in one integrated service.
We will send you a personalised request before your year-end for the information we need. It is essential you provide this to us on time so that we can meet your statutory filing deadlines, otherwise Companies House may issue penalties for late submission
Audit and Assurance
Yes — we can complete audits either on-site or remotely, depending on what works best for your team.
If your business meets 2 of the 3 statutory criteria, yes. If not, you can still choose to have a voluntary audit.
It depends on the size of your business and how quickly we receive the required information. Most audits take 1-3 months, but our hands-on planning approach keeps it moving.
We hold a closing meeting to explain the findings clearly, answer your questions, and offer any practical recommendations.
Voluntary audits can boost credibility with lenders, investors, and shareholders. They also help identify improvements and strengthen financial controls.
Absolutely. We agree the plan with you at the start and stay in regular contact — so you’re never left in the dark.
Bookkeeping
Absolutely. If you prefer to handle the day-to-day, we offer a Check & File service. We review your books, correct any issues, confirm the VAT figure, and submit it to HMRC for you.
You don’t have to – but we highly recommend it. Using accounting platforms like QuickBooks or Xero keeps everything tider and less stressful, and Dext helps make the process faster by automating the data-capture side. We can help you get set up and even offer discounted pricing.
Yes — we offer flexible payment options to help spread the cost, so bookkeeping support is affordable and predictable.
We can provide training sessions on QuickBooks, Xero and Dext to help you become more confident and in control.
Cash basis uses the transactions going in and out of your bank account during the VAT period. Accruals includes any invoices dated in that period — whether paid or not. We can help you figure out which method works best for your business.
Yes – we’ll remind you as soon as your VAT period ends and your return is due, and we’ll also confirm once it’s been submitted so nothing gets missed or left unpaid
Business Advisory
Our advisory services are best suited to businesses with a turnover of £1M+, but the Financial Clarity Pack can be a great fit for slightly smaller businesses too. If you’re unsure, we’ll help match you with the right level of support.
The first step is a short discovery call with Pascal to talk through your goals and challenges. From there, we’ll recommend the right level of support and outline a clear next step — whether that’s a Financial Clarity Pack, Fractional FD engagement, or sale preparation.
Think of it as a journey. If you’re just getting started, our Start-Up Success will help set strong financial foundations. If you want a clear picture of your current position, the Financial Clarity Pack is a focused one-off. If you need ongoing strategic support, Fractional FD is ideal. And if you’re planning to sell, our Business Sale Support will help you maximise value. We’re happy to talk you through what’s best for your situation.
Typically, around 2–3 weeks from receiving your information. We’ll provide a clear timeline at the outset and walk you through every step so nothing gets missed.
This is far beyond standard accountancy. We help you understand your financial position, build forecasts, challenge assumptions, and align your numbers with your growth strategy. We become your strategic finance partner, not just your accountant.
Many clients use the Clarity Pack as a springboard into deeper support. Some move on to Fractional FD services for ongoing strategic leadership, while others use it as a one-off strategic check-in. There’s no obligation to continue — the choice is yours.
That’s exactly why this service exists. Pascal and the team explain everything in plain English — no jargon, no judgement. Whether you’re financially confident or just getting started, we tailor how we communicate to suit you.
The Financial Clarity Pack is a single, one-off project designed to give you total visibility of where your business stands right now.
Fractional FD Support is an ongoing partnership — giving you board-level financial leadership and strategy without hiring a full-time FD.
Yes. We can collaborate seamlessly with your existing finance team, or provide support in areas where you need extra expertise. If you’re already working with Griffiths Marshall for accounting, it integrates even more smoothly.
Payroll
Absolutely. If you prefer, we can support specific areas like pensions, CIS or submissions — so you only outsource what you need.
Yes. We take care of all pension admin, including auto-enrolment and redeclarations, so you stay compliant without the paperwork.
Yes. We offer flexible payment options so you can spread the cost and keep cash flow predictable.
It depends on the size of your team, but for many businesses, it saves several hours each week or month — time you can spend growing your business instead.
HMRC can issue penalties if payments or submissions are late. That’s why we build clear timelines with you and send reminders to keep everything on track.
Yes — that’s the heart of what we do. We manage the entire process, so payday happens like clockwork.
For Life
Business Tax
Absolutely. We focus on strategy, making sure your tax decisions support your growth aspirations.
Yes — but most of our clients prefer keeping everything in-house with us so it’s seamless and stress-free.
No. When we complete your year-end accounts, we also prepare and submit your CT600. It’s all wrapped up in one clear, simple process.
Pricing depends on the size and complexity of your business. We’ll give you a clear, upfront quote with no surprises.
We can scale with you — updating your tax planning as your business evolves.
We cover Corporation Tax, Income Tax, VAT, CIS, Capital Gains Tax, VAT, Employment Taxes and more – all tailored to your business
Probate
Yes. As accountants, we’re well placed to handle IHT calculations and submissions as part of the probate process.
Yes, in most cases. If there’s no will, we can also help apply for a grant of letters of administration.
Typically 6-9 months, depending on the complexity of the estate. Obtaining the grant usually takes 10–12 weeks and the remainder of the time is spent administering the estate. Timescales are often reliant on third parties such as the Probate Office and Financial Institutions.
One where there:
- is a valid will
- are no more than one residential property
- are no more than 3 bank or building society accounts
- are no other assets
- are no more than 3 beneficiaries
- are no disputes between the beneficiaries on the distribution of the assets
- is no inheritance tax due and the executors do not need to submit a full account to HMRC
- are no claims made against the estate
If there is no will, multiple properties and bank/building society account and assets such as stocks and bonds, there will be additional costs. We can advise you once we have reviewed all the necessary information.
Probate is the legal process of administering someone’s estate after they pass away. It gives you the legal right to manage their assets, pay debts, and distribute their estate.
Yes — one of our experienced partners will guide you throughout.
Personal Tax
Yes — it can. Declaring less income may lower your tax bill, but it can also make borrowing harder. We help you find the right balance.
Yes. We identify allowances, reliefs, and planning opportunities so you pay only what’s due — not a penny more.
Our personal tax service starts at £300 + VAT. If your situation is more complex, we’ll give you a clear quote before any work starts.
Of course. We’ll take care of everything from calculations to submission, but we’ll also flag any decisions that might affect you down the line.
Just your income details and relevant documents — we’ll do the rest.
That’s why we’re here. We’ll explain everything in plain English, so you know what’s happening and why.