I'm after a big of feedback from you all. Basically how far do you go in respect of making sure clients make their statutory payments.
I take it as read that everyone informs clients in time of their obligations, but do you feel as though it's your responsibility to make sure your clients paid.
I appreciate it becomes obvious on the next round of updating their records - but how do you handle the interim?
Thanks
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Tony
Responses are intended as outline only. Formal advice should be sort from your Institutes Technical Department or a suitably qualified Accountant.
I remind my clients twice. Usually once verbally, and the second by email for the record.
I take no responsibility for their failure to pay (nor do I have any conscience, if they pay late), and only remind them as a courtesy (note I said remind them). I even make it clear in my letter of engagement, that it is there responsibility, firstly to ensure I have the necessary paperwork in time to complete a task that requires a statutory payment, and secondly that they are responsible for making statutory payments on time.
I'm very much with Bill on this one. I will tell my clients what they need to pay and by when. The rest is up to them. If they forget, or don't bother on their head be it. They use me for my bookkeeping skills, I'm not a PA and have no desire to become one.
Kris
-- Edited by kjmcculloch83 on Friday 12th of August 2011 04:31:33 PM
As with everyone else, I tell them what's due and when. In most cases I then only remind them again if HMRC contact me regarding the outstanding payment. There are a couple that I pay closer attention to but they're not the norm.
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Jenny
Responses are my opinion based on the information provided. All information should be thoroughly checked before being relied on.
Re. Income Tax, I put this in writing, usually with the SA or Accounts, and normally covering the next two or three POA / balancing payments. After that, I'm always here to ask. It's old fashioned of me, i know, but I then expect HMRC to be able to send statements on time.
Thanks for the feedback - I'm glad that everyone seems to think the same way. Two of my clients weren't too happy this week when I reminded them it's their responsibility - not mine.
@Bill - that's great advice about the letter of engagement.
-- Edited by ADAS on Friday 12th of August 2011 07:44:48 PM
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Tony
Responses are intended as outline only. Formal advice should be sort from your Institutes Technical Department or a suitably qualified Accountant.
