Do I need a chartered accountant?

smartblaa

Hi,
I've set-up a small limited company in the past couple of months.
I've heard it mentioned by one or two friends that as a limited company, a chartered accountant has to submit my tax returns.

Is there any truth in this?

I'm looking for an accountant at the moment, and i'm already in discussions with one who i'm sure isn't chartered..so I may need to reconsider.

On the same note, can any of you recommend a chartered accountant in the Dublin area? As I said, its a small limited company, very basic VAT/PAYE returns, i'm the only employee etc. So i'd be hoping to get it done for a reasonable monthly rate.

Thanks in advance

tenchi-fan

No, you don't need a chartered accountant (ACA). You can also use a certified accountant (ACCA) or public accountant (CPA) accountant.

MBateson

Unless you're going to require an audit, you don't even need a qualified accountant, anyone will do even you. Obviously, a qualified accountant is best.

smartblaa

Thanks a million for the advice lads.
Given the above information, what would you think would be a fair price to be charged monthly for filing relevant returns on my behalf?

small company, vat registered, single PAYE employee, one invoice per month, IT contracting <70k turnover.

MBateson

You should look to do the monthly returns yourself, VAT and PAYE, easy once you've been shown.

You should be going in to them once a year to do the company's accounts and your personal tax return (which you can do yourself). I would say circa 500 - 1000 plus VAT depending on the accountant but shop around. Bigger firms will charge more.

You'll need to get a P35 done annually as well but if you buy software you can do it yourself.

Clanket

What MBateson said above.

We would charge in the bracket he mentioned also, + VAT, providing you are doing the VAT & PAYE returns yourself.

PM me if you want to talk further.

Clanket.