The conversation to have.
WHEN TO HAVE IT
Before registering, ideally.
At minimum, in your first months of trading.
WHAT TO ASK AN ACCOUNTANT
Which taxes apply to my business? What must I file, and when? What records must I keep, and for how long? What should I set aside? What do you handle, and what remains mine?
THAT LAST QUESTION
The most important.
Assuming your accountant files everything when they file only some things is a common and expensive mistake.
WHAT ELSE TO ASK
Whether registration for any particular tax is required Whether your activity has sector obligations What changes as the business grows
WHAT TO BRING
What the business does Your structure Your expected turnover Whether you have or plan staff
WHAT TO DO WITH THE ANSWERS
Write them down.
Build a calendar of obligations from them.
WHAT THAT CONVERSATION COSTS
Far less than the penalties it prevents.
