Four accountancy practices have been accredited under a new scheme introduced by the Professional Contractors Group (PCG) to help freelance consultants and contractors choose their accountants. Called PCG (QA), for "Quality Accountant", the scheme is designed to identify and promote accountants who have received additional training on contractor-specific tax and accounting issues and have a good understanding of how freelance businesses operate.
"We consult our members regularly," said PCG chief executive John Thomas, "and respondents to two of our surveys in 2005 told us that their choice of accountant was influenced primarily by recommendations, followed by contractor experience and knowledge of IR35 and S660A, with price being only in third place. PCG (QA) was developed in response to a clear demand from members for help in identifying the best practices for freelancers. So far, over 50 firms have applied, and we will be running the fourth training course this month."
PCG (QA) was developed and is being delivered in association with Accountax Consulting Limited, a firm of chartered tax advisers with a formidable record of winning tax and employment status cases. Managing director Dave Smith, who ran the first PCG (QA) training course and assessed the candidates’ assignments, said, "This scheme is not for everyone and there is no certainty that all candidates will be successful. Only those accountants that can demonstrate a thorough understanding of the issues that affect freelance contractors and can meet the highest professional standards will get through."
Read more: PCG QA Scheme