I've been approached to do the first year accounts for a client (ended April 2013), self assessment now due.
I'm qualified and experienced, the accounts are not an issue and I've done plenty of self assessments before using clients own gateway account but this client doesn't have a gateway yet and I'm worried about the limited time available before the end of the month.
The client has signed a 64-8 which I'll be sending off tomorrow.
Some time ago I set myself up as an agent but I've never used my agent account. Can anyone tell me what I need to do in this situation?
How do I add the client to my agent logon details?
Once they are added is that it, I can just file their self assessments using my account (and their UTR number) or are there more steps to this?
Also, in future years do I then just log in as the agent and get a list of clients to choose from?
Sorry that the questions seem so basic but I'm just a bit paranoid about making a mistake.
As I say, if all of the technology is in place the self assessment is no problem. Its just the agent bit that's frightening me.
Also, if the agent bits work as I think that they should I would like to get all of my clients onto my account rather than using their accounts so even though there may still be enough time to get this client set yuup with an account I really want to do it through my agent account.
Many thanks in advance for any assistance,
Peter.
-- Edited by PABooks on Sunday 12th of January 2014 07:55:27 PM
Would apply for their account as usually just takes a couple of weeks to come through.
For your agent account login under HMRC and there should be a "services you can use" or something similar on the left hand side. Click on that and should be an option to "authorise client". You will need their 10 digit UTR and their postcode. They will be sent a code by HMRC to authorise you as agent. Should take about a week or so to come. Will start "SA" followed by 8 digits. When they get it punch the code into your agent account under the authorise client option again and that is you set up.
Will stay on your file until you delete it or someone else is appointed their agent.
Depends if you will be using HMRC software or your own software to file (assume from what you say that you will be using HMRC software) as to how you file the return.
Would advise getting all your clients set up on your agent account so you can access everyone from one login code and password.
Can also set up clients for CT returns, VAT returns, etc under your agent account.
Given the shortness of time left I would suggest buying some tax return software (I use Andica). You can buy one submission for £15 ish and submit it using your agent login.
thank you so much for your help. That really puts my mind at rest.
I'm going to have a look at Andica on the assumption that if I have their UTR and my agent login those are the only details that I will need to submit their self assessment.
It seems to be £15 for less stress as plenty of that already from other self assessments where I have gateway IDs without creating more for myself.
Thanks again, Peter
-- Edited by PABooks on Monday 13th of January 2014 09:42:18 AM
