Going limited & the best accountant

[njkingston]

Hi All

I've bee contracting for a little while using Parasol as my umbrella company. I'm looking at taking the plunge and going limited but I'm looking for some pointers first as I'm pretty green around the gills in this area.
1. Looking at other threads 3 accountancy firms look like they come out on top. www.sjdaccountancy.com, Contractor Accountants & Freelance Accountancy Services | Nixon Williams & Contractor Accountants | InTouch Accounting. What are the pros and cons of each for someone new to running a limited company?
2. What questions should I be asking of accountants when making my choice?
3. What will I need to do from set up to ongoing running of things and what will the accountant do?
4. Are there things you shouldn't leave up to an accountant?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

[cojak]

Welcome!

You'll find a lot of answers to your questions within the CUK website.

On the right you'll find CUK Navigation. >>>>>>>>>

Look down and you'll come to the First Timers section. Have a read through there.

Umbrella or Ltd? Look here: Setting up your company - Ltd or Umbrella?

Basic expenses questions answered here: Contractor Expenses - How to claim Travel and other expenses via Limited Company or Umbrella

Then pay particular attention to IR35.

And here are the rules when using company credit cards: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/payerti/exb/a-z/c/cards.htm

If you go into the Accounting/Legal forum you'll discover the thread Basic advice when running your own contractor business.

Guide to Contracts also has some good articles.

And finally - accountant recommendations - Ta-da!

Happy reading!