Business Link - Professional assistance

Professional advice and services

Will I need an accountant or a solicitor when I set up my business?

You may need to use the services of a number of different professional advisers as you set up and grow your business, for example:
 

• Accountant
• Solicitor
• Commercial agent
• Advertising agency
• Supplier
• Pension adviser

Do your research and take the time to choose an adviser you feel comfortable working with and have confidence in. Word of mouth recommendation is a good place to start.

Why might I need an accountant and how do I choose one?

Accountants’ services range from basic bookkeeping through to specialist advice on how to improve business efficiency and increase profits. Your accountant could run all the financial aspects of your business, or just some of them. Key requirements, depending on the nature of your business, include your annual tax return, PAYE and VAT records, and filing your accounts at Companies House.

Find an accountant on the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales website.

 

Why might I need a solicitor and how do I choose one?

 

A reputable and reliable solicitor can save you time and money, and help you avoid the common legal errors people make when setting up a business. For example, are you confident that you understand the legal structure of your business? Do you know what to look for when signing a rental lease on business premises? And are you sure you understand all the regulations and laws affecting your area of business?

 

Find out more about business law and using a solicitor for you business on the Law Society website.

 

Why might I need a commercial agent and how do I choose one?

 

Commercial agents sell goods and services on your behalf in exchange for a commission. They can be particularly helpful for new businesses that need to build up a customer base – both in this country and overseas.

 

For further information view our guide Choose and managing a commercial agent.

 

Why might I need an advertising agency and how do I choose one?

 

You can, of course, create and place your own advertising in the media of your choice – for example, newspapers, trade publications and local radio. This can be an effective method to raise your profile and increase sales. However, another option is to use an advertising agency who will create a professional advertising campaign for your business and manage the process for you.

 

Further information is available in our guide Choose and manage an advertising agency.

 

Why might I need an IT supplier and how do I choose one?

 

If, for example, you’re a sole trader who uses a single computer for simple administrative tasks, it is unlikely that you will need an IT supplier. However, if your business relies on an efficient IT network, you will probably need an IT supplier to ensure your business stays up and running.

 

A good and trustworthy IT supplier will understand your business, be able to suggest improvements, and keep downtime to a minimum.

 

Our guide Choose and manage your IT supplier provides further information.

 

Why might I need a pension adviser and how do I choose one?

 

Pension laws can be complicated. You will need to find out what pension will be best for you and for your employees – and what your legal obligations as an employer are.