What's involved in changing accountants (and how to find a good one)?

Choosing the right accountant can make a world of difference. A proactive accountant will share tax-saving and wealth-building ideas, be available to answer questions during the year and ensure you never end up in the ATO’s ‘bad-books’.
Common complaintsThere are two common complaints about accountants.
Firstly, that they don’t provide proactive advice, including wealth building ideas. They are so involved in their day-to-day work that they don’t stop to ask themselves; “if I was in this client’s position, what would I do?” This is an incredibly valuable question to ask. Most clients want to feel confident that if they are missing any opportunities, that their accountant will point them out.
The second most common complaint is that they are not quick to turn work around. This includes replying to emails/phone calls and completing compliance work such as tax returns. Such delays can cost clients a lot in terms of missed opportunities, delayed decision making and make it difficult to implement financial plans.
What's involved in switching accountants?Switching accountants is actually a very simple and easy task.
Once you have agreed to appoint a new accountant as your tax agent, they will immediately write to your incumbent accountant for two reasons:1. To confirm that there are no ethical considerations that may prevent them from accepting you as a new client – this is referred to as an ‘ethical clearance letter’ and is common in the accounting industry; and2. Request the transfer of your documentation including most recent year’s tax returns, any financial statements, accounting system access, depreciation and cost base schedules, entity documentation such as Corporate Constitutions for companies, Trust Deeds and so on.
As a matter of professional courtesy, virtually all accountants respond to such requests promptly and often without contacting their (past) client. If you owe any outstanding fees, it is commonplace for an accountant to withhold their clearance letter until all fees are paid in full.
Apart from signing an engagement letter with your new accountant, there is nothing you need to do.
Do you have to tell the accountant you're leaving?The short answer is no. There is no obligation to have any contact with your incumbent accountant.

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