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Checklist · Previous accountant
Client Takeover Checklist for Accountants
Managing the professional handover process.
Built by a practising Chartered Accountant · Unlimited users · 60-day free trial · Last updated 23 September 2026
Quick answer
Taking over a new client requires professional clearance, receipt of all necessary financial records, and ensuring no filings are missed during the transition. Use this checklist to standardise your takeover procedure and ensure all compliance requirements are satisfied before you start working for your new client.
Why is the professional clearance process so important?
Clearance ensures that you are aware of any reason not to act for the client and that the previous accountant is informed. It’s a core ethical requirement for accountants.
Failing to perform proper clearance can lead to professional disciplinary issues.
It’s also your first opportunity to learn about any potential 'red flags' with the client's accounting history.
What items should you request during handover?
Request all relevant tax records, historical accounts, bank statements, and details of any outstanding filings. This ensures you have a complete picture from day one.
Key takeover items
- Professional clearance request
- Copies of previous years' accounts
- Details of outstanding tax liabilities
+ 2 more in the full download
Checklist preview
0/4 done · showing 4 of 15 itemsThe full 15-item checklist is in the download below. Enter your name and email to get it as a Word or PDF file.
This is a standard checklist. Each firm's requirements may vary, so please cross-check everything against current GOV.UK, Companies House and professional body guidance before relying on it.
See it working with your own clients
A 30-minute walkthrough using your services, deadlines and templates.
Turn this into a task and subtask template in Remindoo
Save each group as a task with subtasks, attach it to the right service and let recurring tasks create it for every client, every period. Each item gets an owner and a deadline, and nothing depends on someone remembering to print the list. See task and subtask templates.
What are the common mistakes?
- Assuming the previous accountant will automatically send everything
- Not requesting the breakdown of balances
- Starting work before clearance is obtained
- Missing upcoming filing deadlines during the handover
- Failing to check for MTD status changes
“Managing deadlines and tasks is much easier.”
Frequently asked questions
What if they don't reply?
Follow up once, then if still no response, note your attempts and document them, but you may proceed if no ethical reason not to.
Is clearance legally required?
It is an ethical requirement set by professional bodies like ICAEW, ACCA, and AAT.
What do I do about missing data?
Document exactly what is missing and inform the client immediately; don't guess figures.
How do I update HMRC?
You must be registered as an agent and update your status through the HMRC online services portal.
Can I charge for this?
Yes, include a 'set-up' fee in your onboarding to cover the time spent on handover and initial review.
What if I find historical errors?
Discuss them with the client first, then document the plan to correct them.
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Sources
Last updated 23 September 2026. General guidance, not regulatory advice.
Why a single client record matters
When client details, deadlines, documents and conversations are spread across inboxes and spreadsheets, time goes on searching instead of on client work.
One version of the truth
Everyone sees the same services, contacts, deadlines and notes for each client.
Accurate deadlines
Companies House sync brings in company details and filing dates, reducing manual errors.
Better client service
A full timeline means anyone can answer a client question with the history in front of them.
Secure document sharing
A client portal is safer than sending financial documents as email attachments.
Practical tips from UK practice
- Import companies from Companies House rather than typing details by hand.
- Record every service a client takes, so recurring work is created automatically.
- Add a short note after every important client call.
- Ask clients to upload documents through the portal rather than by email.
Related Remindoo features
Written and reviewed by Waqas Sagar ACA FCCA FMAAT, Chartered Accountant with 18+ years in practice. Founder and MD of Accotax, an ICAEW, ACCA and AAT regulated London practice that has served over 5,000 clients, and founder of Remindoo. Guidance is general; check current GOV.UK and professional body guidance for your firm.
What UK practices say about Remindoo
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