1. The Parties

These Terms and Conditions form an agreement between STZ Accounting Ltd, a professional accounting and tax advisory firm registered in Scotland (“STZ Accounting”, “we”, “us”, “our”), and you, the client engaging our services (“Client”, “you”, “your”).

2. Services Provided

STZ Accounting provides professional accounting, bookkeeping, tax, payroll, and related services as requested by you and agreed in writing. The scope and nature of services will be confirmed in our engagement letter or written agreement before work begins.

Services may include:

• Bookkeeping and financial record management
• Year-end accounts preparation
• Self-assessment tax return preparation
• Corporation tax returns and planning
• VAT returns and advisory
• Payroll services
• Business tax planning and advice

3. Pricing and Payment Terms

Our fees will be agreed in advance and confirmed in a fixed-price quote or engagement letter. Prices are based on the scope of work requested and your circumstances at the time of quote.

Payment Terms: Invoices are due within 14 days of receipt. Payment must be made to the bank account specified on our invoice. Late payment may incur interest charges and may affect our ability to continue service provision.

Fees are exclusive of any applicable VAT, which will be added at the standard rate if applicable.

4. Client Responsibilities

To enable us to provide effective services, you agree to:

• Provide accurate, complete, and timely information and supporting documentation.
• Inform us of all material business transactions and financial matters.
• Ensure all records provided to us are accurate and complete.
• Respond promptly to our requests for information or clarification.
• Notify us immediately of any changes to your business structure, tax status, or personal circumstances that may affect our services.
• Maintain your own backup copies of all records and documentation.

5. Confidentiality

STZ Accounting and the Client agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding all information disclosed during the course of our engagement. This includes financial information, business operations, and personal details.

However, we may disclose information to HMRC and other regulatory bodies as required by law. We may also share information with professional advisors, software providers, and other third parties necessary to deliver services (under confidentiality agreements).

6. HMRC Authorisation

By engaging STZ Accounting, you authorise us to act on your behalf with HMRC for the purposes of submitting tax returns, communicating with tax authorities, and managing your tax affairs. You acknowledge that we will need access to your tax information and that we may represent you to HMRC.

7. Limitation of Liability

Our liability for any breach of these terms or professional negligence is limited to the fees paid by you to STZ Accounting in the 12 months preceding the claim. This limitation does not apply to our gross negligence, fraud, or matters we are prohibited by law from limiting.

8. Professional Standards

STZ Accounting provides services in accordance with professional accounting standards and best practice. However, we do not guarantee specific tax outcomes, as these depend on HMRC’s interpretation and individual circumstances.

You acknowledge that tax planning strategies involve an element of risk and that HMRC may challenge our advice. We will discuss any significant risks before implementing any strategy.

9. Termination of Engagement

Either party may terminate this engagement with 30 days written notice. Upon termination:

• We will cease work on outstanding matters (except emergency or finalisation work).
• Outstanding fees must be paid in full.
• We will provide all your financial records and documentation in good order.
• You must arrange for another accountant to take over management of your affairs.

10. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of Scotland. Any disputes arising from this engagement shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Scottish courts.

11. Contact for Disputes

If you have concerns or wish to discuss any aspect of our service or these terms, please contact us by booking a discovery call at our discovery call page or email david@stzaccounting.co.uk.

12. Modifications to Terms

STZ Accounting reserves the right to modify these terms with 30 days written notice. Continued engagement following such notice constitutes acceptance of the revised terms.