Get in touch
Get in touch

The Biggest Compliance Mistake Business Owners Make (And How to Avoid It)

May 20, 2025

When it comes to managing your business finances, you probably expect accountants to highlight complex errors, miscalculating VAT, misreporting income, or missing filing deadlines. But in our latest Business Success Conversation, Edith revealed something much simpler (and far more common):

"The biggest mistake anyone makes is not talking to us."

Let’s be honest - when do you speak to your accountant?

Many business owners still treat their accountant like a filing service. They drop off the numbers once a year and hope for the best. But here's the problem with that: if you're making business decisions - about purchases, investments, or restructuring - without speaking to someone who understands the full financial picture, you're flying blind.

At Carthy Accountants, we see this all the time. A client buys a car, signs up for a new lease, or invests in new equipment without checking in. And while the decision might feel right at the time, they often miss critical details that affect cash flow, tax efficiency, or upcoming legislation.

It’s like skipping the solicitor

As Edith puts it:

"People don’t make legal decisions without a solicitor. They don’t get a mortgage without a broker. So why do so many try to make major financial decisions without talking to their accountant?"

We couldn’t agree more. In fact, 60% of UK businesses don’t even use an accountant. That’s a huge number of people missing out on tax savings, forward planning, and peace of mind.

And what’s even more surprising? Sometimes, all it takes is a five-minute chat to spot a smarter route. We’ve had quick conversations that saved clients £300–£400 in tax, without diving into their full accounts.

why do so many try to make major financial decisions without talking to their accountant?

Communication is your best investment

You know your business best. We’re not here to tell you how to run it. But we can help you:

  • Avoid financial pitfalls
  • Time your investments smartly
  • Navigate tax rules with confidence

If you're about to make a big move—buy a vehicle, hire a new team member, change your structure—don't wait until your year-end review to find out it was the wrong call.

We’re not just here to file your accounts.

We're here to help you build a business that works for you. That means open, honest communication. That means regular check-ins. That means never having to second-guess whether your decisions are the right ones.

If your accountant doesn’t feel like part of your team, it might be time to have a chat with us.

Get the Business You Want

At Carthy Accountants, we believe your finances should support your goals, not surprise you with setbacks. It starts with one conversation.

📞 Get in touch with us today and let’s talk about where your business is headed.

Get the business you want.
Get in touch using the form below now, call 01785 248939 during office hours and speak to Client Services or email us.
+44 (0) 1785 248939
info@carthyaccountants.co.uk

FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

Get in touch

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.
Name
What is most important to you?
chevron-down
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram