SJD - what are the best alternatives (apart from NW)?

**northernladuk** · 29 July 2014, 18:46

SJD, NW, InTouch would be my choices. I don't see a reply within working day is a problem. You can always pick up the phone. It could also be a problem with the individual accountant so give the area manager a call to discuss. Filing last minute seems to be the norm as well but I asked for mine to be done earlier and they complied.

**Goggy** · 29 July 2014, 18:50

Originally posted by northernladuk View Post

I don't see a reply within working day is a problem.

Someone wouldn't like it, but SJD has changed my accountant 3 times at least over couple of years I was with them. But each accountant was replying very promptly.
The fact that it's no longer the case this time round makes me thinking that the company policy has changed...

**northernladuk** · 29 July 2014, 18:54

I have had 4 or 5 changes and not a problem with any of them. Maybe cutbacks mean they are busier, I don't know. By all means try someone else as I maybe a bit biased as my previous account was truly awful and screwed me over something shocking. A day to answer a mail is still bliss compared to what I had.

**ruasonid** · 29 July 2014, 19:12

I'm with inniAccounts and have been satisfied so far. Always prompt and courteous. You can set up an online demo and try it out. I have a discount code if you are interested. I find the software easy to use, good reports, etc. Will be renewing with them soon.

**Apox21** · 29 July 2014, 21:32

Am with SJD, any issues I have had with them they have dealt with to my satisfaction quickly. I did look around for cheaper alternatives i.e. local accountants but on further inspection the cost savings in reality were not great so I stuck with SJD. Heard good things about InTouch (and NW) but in reality wouldnt expect them to be any different to SJD. In reality any decent accountant who makes my life simple is worth their fee!

**mudskipper** · 29 July 2014, 21:40

I switched from SJD to InTouch, mainly for cost reasons - I was happy with SJD's service

I had 3 accountants in 2 years with SJD, so far, I've just had one with InTouch.

Never felt the urge to meet with either though.

Happy with InTouch, although they do not get things like Company Returns done as promptly after end of year as SJD did, they're still well within the required dates. They have an online portal rather than a spreadsheet.

If you do decide to go with InTouch, then if you use me as a referral, I get Amazon vouchers and you get a free month (I think!)

(PM me)

**Sausage Surprise** · 30 July 2014, 08:08

I've just changed to Crunch....much cheapness and real time info.

**ContrataxLtd** · 30 July 2014, 08:35

Originally posted by Goggy View Post

I was with SJD for several years, then when on perm and then again contracting after 2 years
I was so happy with them, that didn't have any doubts when opting for them again
They were always prompt replying emails(literally within an hour I would get a reply) and the reply was always very detailed. I also like that they have a convenient spreadsheet that helps me tracking my finances.

BUT...

This time round I'm very frustrated as they charge bit of money to them, but the service is appalling
Emails sent today at 4-5 would be get answered between 4-30 - 5-30 pm next day. Answers are very brief, that make me write a response asking for clarificatrion each time. So essentially by the midday 2 days later day I'd get a proper answer. So annoying! Certain things I had to chase up. Documents are filled to HMRC in last minute
After raising issues, I was given another accountant, but the approach to the service is still the same - late and shallow replies.

So I feel like I'm wasting money with them to be honest.

I find their spreadsheet very convenient and the fact that they had office in the City helped a lot in my previous contracting(I could easily arrange a meeting with my accountant when required), so I wouldn't opt for NW from this perspective.
Any other good alternatives?

Hi Goggy

Personally I'd be looking for an accountant that can meet your needs in terms of delivering the service you require, whether that be emails answered in full the same day, accounts done within x weeks of year end etc. rather than using location as an important factor because from experience, the need to meet with your accountant is low down on the list of requirements.

That said, if you feel you need to meet with your accountant reasonable often/when needed then chose someone who is local to you, just make sure they do specialise or have a good knowledge of contractors and their specific issues.

HTH

Martin
Contratax Ltd

**TraceRacing** · 30 July 2014, 13:31

Originally posted by mudskipper View Post

I switched from SJD to InTouch, mainly for cost reasons - I was happy with SJD's service

I had 3 accountants in 2 years with SJD, so far, I've just had one with InTouch.

Never felt the urge to meet with either though.

Happy with InTouch, although they do not get things like Company Returns done as promptly after end of year as SJD did, they're still well within the required dates. They have an online portal rather than a spreadsheet.

If you do decide to go with InTouch, then if you use me as a referral, I get Amazon vouchers and you get a free month (I think!)

(PM me)

I'm with InTouch and my year end is 30 September. I worked with them and filed my return on 1st October last year ... paid HMRC it's due in advance and just got a cheque from HMRC for £62... so it can be done...

SJD - what are the best alternatives (apart from NW)?