For many accountants, the idea of setting up an independent practice is deeply appealing. The freedom, personal satisfaction, and financial rewards can be significant. But going it alone also brings considerable challenges—time, cost, risk, and a steep learning curve.
Since joining TaxAssist Accountants, I’ve spoken with hundreds of professionals weighing this exact decision. Some chose to strike out on their own. Others partnered with us and now run thriving practices as part of our network. And for some, self-employment wasn’t the right fit at all.
If you're an experienced accountant or finance professional contemplating your next career move, now is a good time to consider all your options—including the franchise route.
The Opportunity Ahead
The business landscape has shifted significantly in recent years with small businesses now demanding more proactive, responsive accountancy support. Combine that with frequent tax and funding changes, and there’s a growing need for quality, accessible financial advice at a local level.
Small businesses often can’t afford large firms, but still want expert support. That’s where the TaxAssist model thrives. Since 1995, our franchise network has been helping meet this demand by offering a personal, value-driven service to small and medium sized businesses and individuals.
Franchise or Independent? Key Considerations
Launching your own practice involves a long list of decisions:
- Where will you find clients?
- How will you build and market your brand?
- What systems and software will you need?
- How will you stay compliant, current, and competitive?
- Do you have a support network if you run into challenges?
Some accountants have the confidence, contacts, and resources to manage all of this independently. But many others recognise the advantages of joining a franchise, gaining access to a proven business model, national brand recognition, client lead generation, training, marketing, and ongoing technical support.
At TaxAssist, we help franchisees build scalable businesses—with many eventually stepping back from day-to-day delivery to focus on strategy and growth.
Ask Yourself These Questions
1. Are you ready for self-employment?
Self-employment can be rewarding, but it’s not for everyone. Success requires commercial awareness, drive, resilience, and strong communication skills. You’ll likely work harder than ever—especially early on—and will need to wear many hats.
2. Do you have the financial runway?
A common reason new businesses fail is cashflow. You’ll need a solid business plan and the resources to sustain yourself during the startup phase. The good news? TaxAssist is AAA-rated by the UK’s major banks. Thanks to our established model, lenders typically finance up to 70% of the required investment for franchisees.
3. Can you market and grow a business?
Even the best technical accountants may lack the skills—or time—to handle branding, marketing, and business development. That’s where a franchise like TaxAssist can give you a serious edge, helping you attract and retain clients from day one.
4. Are you prepared to manage tech and compliance?
Digitalisation is reshaping accountancy. From MTD to AI-powered automation, clients now expect fast, tech-enabled service. At TaxAssist, we’ve invested in a best-in-class software suite and provide franchisees with the tools and training needed to stay ahead—without the stress of managing it all alone.
5. Can you offer more than compliance?
Clients increasingly expect business advice—not just tax returns. TaxAssist franchisees are fully supported to expand into advisory services, with new offerings added regularly to help meet evolving client needs.
What Are Your Options?
If you’re confident you have the time, capital, and skill set to go it alone—great! Do your research, build a strong plan, and start networking.
But if you’re looking for structure, support, and the opportunity to scale faster with less risk, a franchise might be your ideal path.
TaxAssist Accountants offers:
- A recognisable national brand
- Award-winning training and support
- A scalable, client-centric business model
- Ongoing innovation and service development
- A collaborative and supportive community
If you're serious about running your own accountancy practice and want to explore how TaxAssist could help, we’d love to speak with you.
Call us on 0800 0188297 or submit an enquiry online. We have many prime territories still available and can help you assess whether our model is the right fit for your goals.
