Here at AMR Bookkeeping Solutions we’re committed to providing a tailored and personal service to all our clients. Whether you’re a sole trader or a larger company we want to ensure you are armed with all the tools and information you need to operate successfully for many years to come.
In this blog, we’ve provided the answers to the frequently asked questions we receive from our clients, including suitable software suggestions, why you might need a bookkeeper and the services we can help you with.
I already have an accountant so why do I need a bookkeeper?
In order for an accountant to operate efficiently and understand your business’s income and expenditure without spending vast amounts of time searching for information, you will need to ensure your books and records are kept up to date. This means managing them on a day-to-day basis, which is where a bookkeeper comes in. Bookkeepers will not only keep track of your income and outgoings, but will also undertake other important tasks such as payroll processing, raising invoices, chasing overdue payments, budgeting, and cash flow planning. Bookkeepers also understand the finer details of laws and legislation surrounding company accounts so will be able to ensure your books are accurate and notify you of any discrepancies or items that need attention.
In the long run, employing a bookkeeper will save you time and money managing an array of difficult, time consuming or overwhelming tasks. This will free you up to get on with running your business.
What services does a bookkeeper provide?
Bookkeepers provide a range of services to businesses and freelancers. These include:
- Managing payroll, including pensions and auto-enrolment
- Keeping track of income and outgoings
- Managing invoices and overdue payments
- Budget and cash flow planning
- Management accounts
- Bookkeeping software training
You can find out more about the services we provide on our blog How good bookkeeping can ensure your business runs smoothly.
What software should I use for managing my books?
There are dozens of different bookkeeping software solutions available, so it can be difficult to choose which version is best for you. These include Xero, Sage and Quickbooks.
Here at AMR, we are proud to be Silver Xero Champions. Our certified bookkeeping and payroll teams can provide all the necessary training you might need to use Xero as well as ongoing support as and when you need it.
Of course, if you prefer to use an alternative software system we are always here and happy to help. It’s worth bearing in mind that your software will need to be suitable and approved for managing Making Tax Digital – an initiative introduced by the government in 2015. For more information about Making Tax Digital, take a look at our latest blog on the subject Making Tax Digital (MTD) reminder and updates.
Do you work with freelancers?
Yes. You can find out more about how we work with freelancers on our page Bookkeeping for freelancers.
How are bookkeepers regulated?
Bookkeeping is a regulated profession, which means bookkeepers must be supervised by HMRC or hold a practice licence with a recognised membership body, such as the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. Additionally, bookkeepers in the UK require an anti-money laundering licence in order to legally operate and will need to carry out due diligence checks on businesses before engaging them as clients.
How skilled is your bookkeeping team?
All our bookkeepers are fully qualified by either the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), or are highly experienced, and undergo annual Continuing Professional Development to keep up to date with changes in VAT legislation. You can find out more about our bookkeepers on our team page.
Do you have testimonials from other clients for your bookkeeping services?
Yes. You can read our client testimonials here.
If you need further information or advice about what you might be entitled to then we are here to help. Please give us a call on 01892 559480, or get in touch via our online enquiry form.
