Choosing an accountant might not be as exciting as landing a new client, publishing your latest reel or launching your next campaign - but it is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your business.
Whether you’re a freelance designer, a production company or a full-blown creative agency, the right accountant doesn’t just crunch numbers. They get your world, speak your language and help you build solid financial foundations.
So how do you find that accountant? Here’s what to look for.
1. Pick someone who understands the creative industry
There’s no substitute for industry insight. The financial challenges of a content creator juggling brand deals and ad revenue are very different from those of a traditional bricks-and-mortar business. And let’s not even talk about VAT on digital downloads, YouTube income or overseas royalties…
A good creative accountant will already know what’s typical (and what’s risky), which expenses are often missed, and where the tax-saving opportunities lie. They’ll already have worked with people like you, and that makes life a lot easier.
✨ Tip: Ask whether they’ve worked with clients in your industry. Better yet, ask them to explain how they’d support someone like you.
2. Look for clear, no-nonsense communication
You want an accountant who can explain things without baffling you with jargon. Someone who’s happy to talk you through the numbers (and what they mean), not just hand over a spreadsheet and expect you to “figure it out”.
Your accountant should make you feel confident and in control — not confused and overwhelmed.
✨ Tip: Read their website or blog. If they write in plain English and seem approachable, that’s a good sign.
3. Make sure they’re proactive — not just reactive
Some accountants are stuck in the past and they only show up at year-end to file your tax return. But a good accountant keeps in touch all year round, looks ahead and helps you make better financial decisions.
They’ll flag upcoming tax changes, remind you about deadlines and suggest ways to improve your cashflow, grow your profits or structure your business more tax-efficiently.
✨ Tip: Ask what’s included in their service. Do they offer ongoing support or just year-end work? Do they check in regularly?
4. Check their tech credentials
Creative businesses often run on slick tools and cloud software, and your accountant should too. If they’re still using paper files or asking you to post receipts, it might be time to move on.
Look for someone who’s confident with apps like Xero, Freeagent, Dext, or Hubdoc and can help you automate your finances so you can spend more time creating and less time stressing.
✨ Tip: Ask what accounting software they recommend and whether they’ll help you get set up.
5. Choose someone who fits your vibe
Finally, this is a relationship, and chemistry matters.
You want someone who gets you, your goals and your way of working. Someone who listens, supports you when things get tough and celebrates your wins. That might sound a bit soft, but it really does make a difference.
✨ Tip: Have a quick intro call or meeting. You’ll know pretty quickly if it’s a good fit.
Looking for an accountant who speaks fluent “creative”?
At ESXR, we work exclusively with creative businesses, from solo filmmakers and animators to agencies and production studios. We get what you do, and we’ve built a service that supports the way you work.
So if you’re ready for less stress, more clarity and an accountant who actually gets your business, we’d love to chat.
Need help?
Why not book a meeting with us to discuss your circumstances and see how we can help.
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