Just like any other business an accountant needs to retain certain information for their clients by law. They have to store this information for a minimum period of time and if they don’t they will be subject to significant fines and penalties.

An accountant must keep the following information

• Financial statements produced for clients
• Working papers and lead schedules which show how the final figures have been calculated.
• Copies of corporation tax returns
• Individual self assessments for directors if submitted by the accountant
• Dividend paperwork
• Resolutions
• Annual confirmation statements
• Share registers and transfer forms
• Company Memorandum and Articles of Association (if the accountant acts as the registered office for the business)

These are the more common documents which must be retained by your accountant. The list isn’t exhaustive and other documents may be subject to these rules.

We cannot emphasise enough the importance of recording and maintaining your business records. Ensuring this information is stored safely is the responsibility of the company directors. If HMRC were ever to investigate your business then it’s vital you are aware of what records you must keep. We have further information on what records you must keep here.

If you’re ever not sure of what documentation you should keep then it’s always best to save it just in case. Or run it by your accountant before you dispose of any important information.