Horner Downey & Co

Chartered accountancy on the Wirral is the core of Horner Downey & Co, which looks after the books, tax and administration of businesses across the United Kingdom. Its site now says it has more than fifty years of experience, and it states that most of its growth has come by recommendation.

Who the firm works for

The practice sets out its client types plainly: contractors and freelancers, franchisees and franchisors, limited companies, partnerships, sole traders and special purpose vehicles. For contractors and freelancers it offers bookkeeping and self assessment help. For franchises it assists with financial forecasts and valuations. For limited companies, which have more complex accounting needs, it presents itself as a partner through the life of the business. Sole traders are offered a way to save time and expense, and it says it can set up special purpose vehicles to obtain tax benefits that might not otherwise be available.

Day to day accounting

The firm says it manages routine accounting, including calculating the tax and national insurance owed to HMRC. If a client decides to register for VAT, it advises, sets up the registration and calculates the quarterly bills. It introduces streamlined processes that connect with its own in house systems, and for those starting out it can carry out early steps such as registering a company with Companies House.

Range of services

Its work covers accountancy, audit, taxation, and business support and advisory services. Tax advice spans corporate and business tax, employment tax and personal tax, and the firm publishes a year end tax planning guide and commentary on government budgets for clients.

Fees and approach

The page puts the emphasis on fixed fees, timely accounts and regular updates, and says it keeps its rates reasonable. Its stated promise is to take care of the financial side of a business so the owner can concentrate on running it.