You send an email. No reply.
You follow up. Still nothing.
Deadlines are approaching, and your accountant has vanished.
If you’ve ever thought, “My accountant ghosted me,” you’re not alone. We hear it all the time from small business owners who feel left in the dark when they need support the most. Sometimes it’s just poor service. Sometimes it’s a pattern. Either way, you’re the one left chasing updates and crossing your fingers before every HMRC deadline.
It shouldn’t be like this. And it doesn’t have to be.
When accountants ghost you, it costs more than your time
Being ignored by your accountant isn’t just frustrating. It can lead to serious consequences for your business.
Here’s what we often see:
Late filing penalties from HMRC or Companies House
Missed VAT reclaims
Incorrect payroll and unhappy employees
Delayed tax planning opportunities
Constant stress and second guessing
The worst part is the uncertainty. You’re never sure what’s been done, what’s been missed, or what’s coming next. And when you’re running a business, that’s a lot of extra weight to carry.
5 signs your accountant is ghosting you
Not sure if it’s time to move on? Here are five common red flags:
1. They take forever to reply
You wait days or even weeks for a response. A good accountant should be easy to reach and quick to answer.
2. They disappear before key deadlines
If they go quiet before VAT returns, payroll runs, or Self Assessment season, they’re leaving you exposed.
3. You only hear from them once a year
Some accountants appear just in time to file your tax return, then disappear until next year. That’s not support, that’s a transaction.
4. Their replies are vague or confusing
If their emails are full of jargon or don’t answer your questions clearly, you’re not getting the advice you need.
5. You’re the one doing all the chasing
If you’re constantly following up to ask what’s going on, it’s a sign your accountant isn’t keeping you in the loop.
What to do if your accountant has gone quiet
If you feel like your accountant has disappeared, don’t panic. You still have time to get things sorted.
Step 1: Check your deadlines
Log into HMRC and Companies House to find your key dates. Look for VAT returns, payroll due dates, or annual accounts that might be coming up.
Step 2: Log into your accounting software
If you use Xero, make sure you still have access and check what’s been submitted recently. If your accountant controls your login, contact Xero support to transfer ownership to you.
Step 3: List what’s outstanding
Write down what your accountant should have completed by now. That might include VAT returns, payroll reports, year-end accounts, or tax estimates.
Step 4: Find a new accountant who shows up
The most important step is choosing someone who offers consistent, year-round support. You don’t have to wait for things to go wrong to make a change.
Why year-round support matters more than ever
A once-a-year accountant might be able to file your tax return, but they’re not helping you plan, grow or stay ahead. Real support means more than submitting a few forms. It means having someone on your side throughout the year.
You deserve an accountant who:
Replies promptly and clearly
Helps you understand your finances
Spots tax-saving opportunities before they expire
Prepares for deadlines instead of reacting to them
Gives you confidence, not confusion
Running a business is hard enough without having to wonder if your accountant is even paying attention.
Why businesses choose Simplex
At Simplex, we make sure you never feel ghosted again. Our clients know exactly what’s been done, what’s due, and who to contact when they need help.
Here’s what we promise:
✅ Year-round support, not just once a year
✅ Clear advice without the jargon
✅ Quick replies from real people who know your business
✅ Proactive planning to keep you ahead of deadlines
✅ Full visibility and access through Xero
We don’t disappear after tax season. We stay in touch, check in regularly, and make sure you always know what’s happening with your accounts.
Time to make a clean break?
If your accountant has ghosted you, that’s already a sign they’re not the right fit. You deserve someone who actually shows up, supports your goals, and keeps your business moving forward.
Switching to Simplex is quick and painless. We handle the handover, chase your old accountant for any missing records, and get your accounts back on track without the drama.
Tired of chasing your accountant?
You don’t have to settle for silence. You can have clarity, confidence and real support all year long.
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