Changing accountants is not only a professional decision for many businesses, but also an organisational one. In addition to choosing a new accounting provider, it is important to consider how the previous accounting records will be handed over, what documents will be required, and how much of the process will need to be managed by the company’s management.

At PKF Hungary, changing accountants follows a structured and pre-planned process. From accepting the proposal through to taking over the accounting function, our expert team coordinates the transition process. We plan the necessary steps and consultations in advance, minimising the organisational workload associated with changing accountants for the company’s management.

Transparent client due diligence, simpler administration

Client due diligence before entering into an agreement is a legal requirement for accounting service providers. We make the required information and documents to be signed available through an online document-sharing platform.

This makes it possible to track in one place what has already been received and what still needs to be completed, without having to search through long email chains and different attachments. The process is coordinated by a dedicated client liaison, who can also assist with clarifying any questions that may arise.

Meet your accounting team after signing the agreement

We build our cooperation around the way your business operates and your specific requirements, which are already assessed during the proposal stage. Once the client due diligence process has been completed and the agreement signed, we introduce you to your accounting team and your dedicated professional contact.

From the outset, it is clear who you can turn to with accounting or tax-related questions. The service start date and division of responsibilities are set out in the agreement, ensuring that the framework for the cooperation is clear from the beginning.

Full handling of authority registrations and powers of attorney

We take care of the authority registrations and powers of attorney required for accounting and tax services. The related requests for information and steps requiring the client’s involvement are coordinated through the same online platform, with clear status updates.

For further information on representation and powers of attorney before the Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration (NTCA), please see the NTCA’s guidance on representation.

We coordinate the accounting handover

The handover of the accounting records takes place between the previous accountant and PKF’s dedicated accountant, based on a document checklist tailored to the company. We request the materials relevant to the specific company and support the handover through direct professional communication.

Throughout the process, our aim is to minimise the organisational workload for management:

• management does not need to coordinate the professional details of the handover or the flow of information between the previous and new accountants;
• we review the documents and information received;
• if we identify any missing information or discrepancies requiring clarification, we inform the client so that the cooperation can begin on an orderly and properly documented basis.

Clear responsibilities after the transition

Changing accountants does not end when the documents arrive from the previous accountant. It is equally important that the new cooperation clearly defines which tasks are handled by the accountant, what information we need from the client, and who should be contacted with specific questions.

After the transition, a designated professional contact continues to support the cooperation, meaning that there is a clear point of contact for day-to-day accounting and tax matters.

A new accounting partner for your business

Changing accountants can be considered truly complete when the new cooperation is already aligned with the company’s needs, based on the necessary information and within clearly defined frameworks. At PKF, we therefore focus not only on a smooth handover, but also on establishing a solid foundation for a long-term professional relationship.

Planning to change accountants? Contact us to discuss your business needs and the possibilities for cooperation.