Guide

Do you need an accountant or a tax adviser?

Reviewed by Andy Smith, Director, Abbeygate AccountancyLast updated 16th October 2026

Quick answer

An accountant keeps your books, prepares accounts and files routine returns. A tax adviser specialises in tax planning and complex situations such as selling a business, property portfolios, inheritance, residency or HMRC enquiries. Many people need an accountant all year and a tax adviser for one-off decisions.

What an accountant does

Bookkeeping, VAT, payroll and year-end accounts
Self Assessment and Corporation Tax returns
Day-to-day tax efficiency, such as salary and dividend planning
Management accounts, forecasts and business advice

When you need a specialist tax adviser

Selling or buying a business, including Business Asset Disposal Relief
Restructuring a group or creating a holding company
Property portfolios, incorporation of a lettings business, Capital Gains Tax
Inheritance tax and succession planning
Moving to or from the UK, and non-UK income
HMRC enquiries, investigations and disclosures
R&D tax relief claims

What qualifications should a tax adviser have?

Look for CTA (Chartered Tax Adviser, from the CIOT) or ATT membership, or a chartered accountant with a tax specialism. As with accountants, check for AML supervision and insurance.

Frequently asked questions

Is a tax adviser more expensive than an accountant?

Usually, per hour, because the work is specialist. But one good piece of planning often saves far more than the fee.

Can my accountant give tax advice?

Yes, most accountants give everyday tax advice. For complex or high-value matters they'll often bring in a Chartered Tax Adviser.

What is a Chartered Tax Adviser?

A member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation who has passed its CTA exams, the UK's leading tax qualification.

Who helps with an HMRC investigation?

A tax adviser with enquiry experience, ideally one who offers fee protection insurance.

Sources and further reading

This guide is general information for UK taxpayers and was correct when last reviewed. Tax rules change, so check your own position with a qualified adviser.