How to Switch Accountants Without the Stress

You might be scared that switching providers will hurt your connection with your current one, cause you to lose key financial data, or make it tougher to complete your taxes.

September 12, 2025

A lot of people who own businesses are afraid of the idea of switching accountants. You might be scared that switching providers will hurt your connection with your current one, cause you to lose key financial data, or make it tougher to complete your taxes. Changing accountants doesn't have to be complicated, though.

Choosing the right professional partner can have a major impact on your company's growth, compliance, and peace of mind. At Ashmans Accounting in Adelaide, we routinely help new clients transfer accountants without any hassles. We make sure that the transition goes properly and that they can start fresh.

This is a step-by-step guide on how to switch accountants in Australia without any problems.

Why Business Owners Decide to Switch Accountants

Not every firm needs the same kind of accountant. Business owners often decide to make changes for these reasons:

  • Lack of proactive advice on tax savings and financial strategy
  • Slow response times or poor communication
  • Limited experience with small business accounting or industry-specific needs
  • Unexpected or unclear fees
  • Desire for a local accountant in Adelaide with more personalised service

You might want to look for a new accountant if the one you have isn't assisting you with your ambitions for the future.

Step 1: Review Your Current Agreement

Before you make the transition, read through your current contract or engagement letter. Some accounting firms might need to be told before a relationship ends.    Checking the terms makes sure that everyone follows them and stops arguments that don't need to happen.

You can find out if you owe any money, filed your taxes, or need to do any compliance work by calling your present accountant.

Step 2: Choose the Right Accountant for Your Needs 

Another option to acquire better aid for your business is to switch accountants.    When you are thinking about hiring a new accounting firm, keep these things in mind:

  • Experience: Do they know how to obey the requirements for small enterprises and Australian tax law?
  • Are they more than just bookkeepers?  Do they also offer cash flow management, business guidance, and tax planning
  • Technology: Do they use cloud-based accounting software like MYOB or Xero to make it easier to report?
  • Location and ease of access: A local accountant in Adelaide can use digital tools to help you in a way that is unique to you.
  • Reputation: Check for industry awards, client case studies, or reviews.

We are pleased to be more than just mathematicians at Ashmans Accounting.  We help firms in Adelaide stay financially stable.

Step 3: Notify Your Current Accountant

Letting your current accountant know what you have decided is the right thing to do.    You can do this in writing, which is usually a short letter or email. Be nice and professional.

This step makes sure that both sides can readily and clearly converse to each other.

Step 4: Professional Clearance and Handover

Your new accountant in Australia will ask your old one for "professional clearance" when you hire them. This is a standard step in the process that makes sure:

  • Your old accountant has no ethical objections to the switch
  • Any important compliance matters are communicated
  • All necessary documents are transferred securely

This professional courtesy keeps the process simple and reduces risk.

Step 5: Transfer Your Records

Your accountant doesn't own your money records. If you change accountants, your new one will ask your previous one for the following:

  • Tax returns and lodged BAS statements
  • Financial statements and reports
  • Workpapers
  • Copies of correspondence with the ATO
  • Access to cloud accounting systems (Xero, MYOB, QuickBooks, etc.)

Having these records transferred promptly ensures no compliance deadlines are missed during the transition.

Step 6: Ensure Compliance Continuity

Business owners are most worried about missing tax filing deadlines during the shift. Your BAS, PAYG, or annual tax filings will be filed on time by a good accountant.

At Ashmans Accounting, we have the following steps for new employees:

  • Reviewing past lodgements for accuracy
  • Identifying any outstanding obligations
  • Creating a compliance calendar for future deadlines
  • Ensuring the ATO and ASIC records are updated with your new representative details

This proactive plan decreases stress and makes sure that nothing will be missed.

Step 7: Build a Relationship with Your New Accountant

It's not only about shifting data when you switch; it's also about making it easier for people to work together. Set up a meeting to talk about your business goals, difficulties, and plans for the future after the transition is over.

A great accountant should act as a trusted advisor, helping you with:

By aligning with your goals, your new accountant can provide advice that goes beyond compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Switching Accountants in Australia

Is it legal to change accountants mid-year?

Yes, you can switch accountants at any time in Australia. The key is ensuring proper handover and compliance continuity.

Will it upset my old accountant?

Changing accountants is common practice. As long as you handle the process professionally, most firms will cooperate.

Do I need to notify the ATO?

Your new accountant will update the ATO with their details once they’re officially engaged.

How long does the process take?

With clear communication, most handovers can be completed within 1–2 weeks.

Last thoughts

It doesn't have to be hard to switch accountants. If you read over your agreement, pick the correct partner, and follow a specified handover process, you can be sure that everything will stay the same and that you will have peace of mind.

We at Ashmans Accounting in Adelaide make sure that the move goes off without a hitch. Our staff is here to help you with anything, from getting more proactive guidance to clear prices to individualised care.

Call Ashmans Accounting right now if you want to understand how to move accountants in Australia with confidence.