Is it acceptable to request a refund from an accountant in this instance...

[Dinky]

Hello

I've been with my accountant for a year and a half. I pay monthly, so year end 21/22 has been paid in full and the work completed. I've now paid six months towards year-end 22/23, but as I am unhappy with the services received, I am in the process of switching accountants.

Is it acceptable in this instance to request a partial refund for the last six months payments relating to the 22/23 year-end work that will not be carried out? I've checked the Letter of Engagement and there are no clauses regarding refunds. As a member of the ICAEW, and with no clauses saying otherwise, are they obliged to provide a partial refund, or is it a case of their discretion?

Thank you.

 

[NicoJ]

It depends on the exact terms but generally speaking the accountants i know would refund a portion of the fee. It would be reasonable for them to bill for any time up to date and refund the rest.

 

[The Resolver]

As NicoJ says it depends on the terms of the LoE but also of their full Terms of Service to which the LoE may refer as well as the reasons why you are dissatisfied with their swervice. If it was professional negligence (doing (or failing to do) something that a reasonable body of accountants undertaking the same work would not do (or not fail to do) and which results in loss to you), then you may have a valid claim irrespective of the T&Cs.

If you are prepared to pay for some months then make that an offer in an email headed "Subject To Contract and Wihout Prejudice" and say if they do not agree then you will ask the ICAEW to resolve under their dispute resolution service. The accountants would likely not want a referral to the ICAEW and so will likely accept.

 

[HFE Signs]

I think it's fair to request it, but the question really is about entitlement to any refund.

 

[Dinky]

Thanks all. My accountant refunded without issue.

 

[Newchodge]

Good result. Thanks for letting us know.