Ellingsworths.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Ellingsworths.co.uk appears to be a legitimate accounting firm offering various services to small businesses, construction professionals, and charities in the UK. The site presents a clear value proposition focused on helping businesses manage bookkeeping, accounts, payroll, and tax. However, a deeper dive reveals areas where the website could enhance its transparency and ethical clarity, particularly concerning financial practices.

Overall Review Summary:

Website Professionalism: High
Clarity of Services: High
Ease of Contact: Good (phone number, enquiry forms)
Customer Testimonials: Present and seemingly genuine
Pricing Transparency: Low (no prices listed)
Terms & Conditions/Privacy Policy: Not immediately visible (critical for trust)
Regulatory Information: Chartered Certified Accountants stated, but no registration numbers or official body links are directly on the homepage.
Ethical Financial Disclosure: Lacking (no specific mention of avoiding interest-based practices)

The website effectively communicates the benefits of outsourcing accounting tasks, promising reduced tax bills, avoided penalties, and improved cash flow. The use of customer testimonials adds a layer of credibility. However, for a service dealing with financial matters, the absence of clear pricing information and easily accessible legal documents like a Privacy Policy or Terms & Conditions is a significant drawback. In the realm of ethical finance, particularly for those seeking Sharia-compliant services, the lack of explicit statements regarding interest-free (Riba-free) operations is a critical oversight. While general accounting is permissible, the methods employed must align with ethical principles. Without this clarity, a potential client seeking truly ethical financial management would need to undertake further due diligence, which diminishes immediate trust.

Here are some ethical and practical alternatives for business owners seeking accounting and financial management solutions:

Xero: A popular cloud-based accounting software often used by small businesses and accountants. It offers excellent tools for invoicing, payroll, expense tracking, and financial reporting. While the software itself is neutral, its use can be tailored to ethical financial practices. Key Features: Bank reconciliation, invoicing, payroll integration, mobile app. Price: From £15/month. Pros: User-friendly, scalable, extensive integrations. Cons: Can be overwhelming for beginners, requires a good accountant to ensure ethical compliance.
QuickBooks Online: Another leading cloud accounting platform providing comprehensive tools for managing finances, including invoicing, expenses, and tax preparation. Similar to Xero, its ethical application depends on user and accountant practices. Key Features: Expense tracking, invoicing, payroll add-on, tax preparation. Price: From £12/month. Pros: Widely supported, good reporting, strong community. Cons: Can be pricey for advanced features, setup can be complex.
FreeAgent: Particularly suited for freelancers and small businesses in the UK. It integrates invoicing, expenses, time tracking, and tax filing directly into one platform, simplifying compliance. Key Features: Invoicing, expenses, time tracking, direct tax filing. Price: From £19/month (often free with NatWest or Royal Bank of Scotland business accounts). Pros: UK tax-focused, intuitive interface, excellent support. Cons: Less robust for larger businesses, limited integrations compared to Xero/QuickBooks.
Sage Business Cloud Accounting: A robust accounting solution that caters to various business sizes, offering modules for invoicing, cash flow, and reporting. Known for its comprehensive features and scalability. Key Features: Cash flow management, invoicing, reporting, payroll integration. Price: From £12/month. Pros: Scalable, strong reporting, established brand. Cons: Can have a steeper learning curve, interface might feel less modern than competitors.
Wave Accounting: A free cloud-based accounting software designed for small businesses and freelancers. It offers invoicing, accounting, and receipt scanning, making it a cost-effective option for basic needs. Key Features: Free invoicing, expense tracking, basic accounting. Price: Free (premium add-ons for payroll/payments). Pros: Cost-effective, good for basic needs, user-friendly. Cons: Limited features, customer support can be slow.
Zoho Books: Part of the broader Zoho suite, this accounting software provides comprehensive financial management tools including invoicing, expense tracking, and inventory management. It’s a good option for businesses looking for an integrated ecosystem. Key Features: Invoicing, expense management, inventory, project billing. Price: From £10/month. Pros: Comprehensive features, part of a larger ecosystem, good automation. Cons: Interface can be cluttered, customer support varies.
KashFlow: A UK-focused online accounting software that aims to simplify bookkeeping for small businesses. It offers invoicing, VAT returns, and payroll integration, with a strong emphasis on ease of use. Key Features: Simple invoicing, VAT returns, payroll integration, bank feeds. Price: From £9/month. Pros: UK-centric, user-friendly, good for small businesses. Cons: Less feature-rich for complex needs, reporting can be basic.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Ellingsworths.co.uk Review & First Look

When first landing on Ellingsworths.co.uk, the immediate impression is one of professionalism and clarity. The design is clean, and the messaging is direct, focusing on common pain points for small businesses, construction professionals, and charities regarding their accounting needs. The prominent phone number (07927 912 187) and “Enquire Now” calls to action suggest an approachable service ready to engage potential clients.

Initial Website Impressions

The homepage is well-structured, guiding visitors through the services offered and the problems they aim to solve. The header is concise, providing essential navigation links such as “Home,” “Why Ellingsworths,” “Blog,” and “Contact,” along with a dropdown for “Your Business” categorising their target clients. This immediate organisation makes it easy for a visitor to understand if the service is relevant to their needs.

Stated Value Proposition

Ellingsworths articulates its value proposition clearly: helping businesses “quickly and easily get control of your bookkeeping, accounts, payroll and tax in as little as 30 days.” This promise targets a common entrepreneurial challenge – being overwhelmed by financial paperwork. They also highlight benefits like reducing tax bills, avoiding penalties, and improving cash flow, which are all significant motivators for businesses seeking accounting support. They explicitly mention working with specific sectors: Small Businesses, Construction Professionals, and Charities, which suggests specialised knowledge for these areas.

Credibility and Trust Signals

The website incorporates several trust signals, primarily through customer testimonials prominently displayed on the homepage. Quotes from clients like B Lees, P Walker, and M Kilby speak to the firm’s professionalism, friendliness, and effectiveness in managing accounts. For example, P Walker states, “Fantastic professional service! Thanks for taking the worry away from me, so that I can get on with what I do best.” These direct endorsements aim to build confidence. The mention of “Chartered Certified Accountants” adds a layer of professional accreditation, indicating adherence to certain standards.

Missing Information for Full Trust

Despite the positive initial impression, there are several key pieces of information typically found on highly trustworthy professional service websites that are notably absent or hard to find on Ellingsworths.co.uk:

Company Registration Details: While “Chartered Certified Accountants” is mentioned, official company registration numbers (e.g., Companies House registration) or specific firm registration with the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) are not immediately visible. This information is crucial for verifying legitimacy and regulatory compliance.
Physical Address Verification: A registered office address is provided (Blacksmiths House, High Street, Chipping Campden, GL55 6AT), but the lack of a clear Google Maps integration or alternative ways to confirm the physical presence might raise questions for some.
Legal Documents: The absence of direct links to a Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, or a Cookie Policy on the homepage or in the footer is a significant omission. These documents are fundamental for transparency regarding data handling, service agreements, and consumer rights, especially under UK data protection regulations like GDPR.
Pricing Structure: No indication of pricing or service packages is provided. While accounting services often require bespoke quotes, offering even a general pricing guide or starting rates can help manage client expectations and reduce initial friction.
Ethical Financial Practices: For clients seeking Sharia-compliant financial advice, there is no explicit mention of how the firm ensures its advice aligns with Islamic principles, particularly regarding avoidance of Riba (interest) or other forbidden financial practices. This is a crucial point for a comprehensive ethical review.

Ellingsworths.co.uk Features

Ellingsworths.co.uk outlines a range of accounting and tax services designed to streamline financial operations for businesses. Their features are presented as solutions to common business challenges, aiming to save clients time, money, and stress.

Bookkeeping and Accounts Management

The website heavily emphasises simplifying bookkeeping and accounts. They promise to help clients “get control of your bookkeeping, accounts, payroll and tax in as little as 30 days.” Key features include:

Automated Receipt Processing: “Never lose a receipt again, instantly take a photo and the evidence is stored in your accounts to claim against your tax bill.” This leverages technology to make expense tracking efficient, reducing manual data entry and potential errors.
Expert Accounts Compilation: They handle the “preparation and filing of your accounts,” ensuring they are “expertly compiled and filed on time” to avoid penalties. This suggests a comprehensive service that covers the entire annual accounting cycle.
Xero Cloud Accounting Integration: The firm promotes “free set up on Xero cloud accounting software for a limited time only,” indicating their proficiency with modern cloud-based platforms. Xero allows real-time financial tracking, collaboration, and integration with other business tools.

Tax Preparation and Planning

Tax compliance and optimisation are central to Ellingsworths’ offerings. They highlight how their services can directly impact a business’s financial health:

Tax Bill Reduction: “Discover how to reduce your tax bills, avoid late accounts penalties and improve your cashflow now.” They claim to help clients “claim for every cost and reduce your tax bills.”
Comprehensive Tax Returns: Their expert accountants manage “personal tax, VAT, CIS returns and corporation tax,” ensuring “every claim available” is made to maximise savings. This holistic approach covers various tax obligations relevant to UK businesses.
Proactive Tax Planning: “Accurate foresight on your tax bills allows you to plan ahead and put money aside for when the tax bill is due, so you can rest easy knowing you have everything covered.” This feature aims to prevent end-of-year surprises and improve financial stability.

Payroll Management

Managing payroll can be time-consuming and complex, and Ellingsworths offers to take this burden off businesses:

Full Payroll Processing: “We take care of all your payroll processing to save you time and in-house costs.” This includes calculation of wages, deductions, and submission of HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) information.
Workplace Pension Management: “We even take care of the burden of managing your workplace pension.” This feature addresses the auto-enrolment obligations for UK employers, a significant administrative task.
Employee Access via Xero App: “Allow employees to view their payslips, submit their time sheets and apply for leave from the Xero mobile or online app.” This streamlines communication and administrative tasks related to employees.

Cash Flow and Business Performance Monitoring

Beyond compliance, the firm also focuses on proactive financial management to help businesses grow: Economyseven.co.uk Review

Instant Invoicing and Payment Reminders: “Create sales invoices instantly and email them to customers, so you save time and look professional. Customers are invoiced immediately avoiding bad debts. Automated payment reminders improve cash flow.” This feature directly addresses the challenge of delayed payments.
Real-time Cash Flow Tracking: “Track bank balances, overdue sales and the payments you are due to make in real-time.” This helps businesses monitor their financial health and identify potential shortfalls early.
Performance Reporting and Forecasting: “Enjoy real time information on your business performance for the first time, so you can make the right decisions and take opportunities to grow.” They also assist with “insightful forecasting” to help clients plan strategically.

Business Planning and Finance Raising Support

Ellingsworths extends its services to strategic business development:

Business Plan and Financial Forecasts: One testimonial explicitly mentions, “Helped me prepare a business plan and financial forecasts to raise loan and lease finance to help my business grow, offering invaluable advice!” This indicates their capacity to support businesses in securing funding and mapping out future growth.
Quote Management: “Create customer quotes quickly from anywhere, even on your mobile app. See which quotes have been accepted and which you need to follow up on.” This feature supports the sales process and client acquisition.

Ellingsworths.co.uk Cons

While Ellingsworths.co.uk presents a professional front and promises significant benefits, there are several notable cons and areas where the website falls short in providing comprehensive information or instilling full confidence, particularly from an ethical standpoint and in comparison to industry best practices for online presence.

Lack of Pricing Transparency

One of the most significant drawbacks is the complete absence of any pricing information. While bespoke accounting services often necessitate custom quotes, providing at least a starting price, typical service packages, or a clear explanation of how pricing is determined (e.g., by turnover, number of transactions, services included) is standard practice for modern professional service websites. This lack of transparency can be a barrier for potential clients who want to understand the potential cost before committing to a consultation. It forces users to “Enquire Now” or “Book Consultation” simply to get a basic idea of affordability, which can be off-putting.

Absence of Essential Legal Documents

A major ethical and practical concern is the apparent lack of easily accessible legal documents. There are no clear links to a Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, or Cookie Policy in the footer or elsewhere on the homepage. This is a critical omission for any website, especially one handling personal and financial data.

Privacy Policy: Essential for informing users how their data is collected, stored, processed, and used, in compliance with GDPR. Without it, the website risks legal issues and erodes user trust regarding data security.
Terms & Conditions: Outlines the legal agreement between the firm and its clients, detailing service scope, responsibilities, liabilities, payment terms, and dispute resolution. Its absence means clients are unsure of the explicit terms of engagement.
Cookie Policy: Required to inform users about the use of cookies and gain consent.

This deficiency makes it difficult to ascertain the firm’s commitment to data protection and transparent operational procedures, which are foundational for a trustworthy business relationship.

Limited Regulatory Information and Verification

While the website states “Chartered Certified Accountants,” it doesn’t provide easily verifiable regulatory details. There’s no direct link to the ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) register where one could confirm the firm’s or specific individuals’ chartered status. Providing firm registration numbers or individual member numbers would greatly enhance transparency and allow for quick verification by discerning clients. This lack of explicit, direct-link verification raises questions about regulatory adherence, even if the firm is indeed fully compliant.

Generic Contact Form and Lack of Live Support

The primary call to action is “Enquire Now” or “Book Consultation,” leading to what appears to be a generic contact form or simply prompting a phone call. There’s no live chat feature, which is becoming increasingly common for service-based businesses to offer immediate answers to preliminary questions. While a phone number is provided, the absence of varied, immediate contact options can be a disadvantage for users seeking quick information without committing to a full consultation.

No Defined Service Packages or Case Studies

Beyond general descriptions, there’s no breakdown of specific service packages or detailed case studies showcasing how Ellingsworths has helped specific businesses. While testimonials are present, detailed case studies (e.g., “How we saved X company Y% on their tax bill” or “Streamlined Z charity’s payroll by P%”) would provide more tangible evidence of their expertise and results. The lack of defined packages makes it harder for potential clients to compare services or understand what a typical engagement might entail.

Absence of a Blog with Deeper Insights

While there’s a “Blog” link in the menu, it’s not prominently featured on the homepage as a source of ongoing value or thought leadership. A regularly updated blog with articles offering advice, insights into tax changes, or industry trends would further establish the firm’s expertise and commitment to educating clients, enhancing their reputation as a trusted advisor rather than just a service provider.

Ellingsworths.co.uk Alternatives

When considering accounting services, especially for a discerning clientele focused on ethical financial practices, it’s crucial to explore alternatives that not only offer professional competence but also align with principles of transparency, integrity, and Sharia compliance where applicable. While Ellingsworths offers standard accounting services, its website lacks explicit details on these critical ethical considerations. Therefore, looking at a mix of dedicated ethical accounting firms and general-purpose reputable accounting software that can be utilised ethically is essential. Bushidoboy.co.uk Review

Ethical Accounting Firms (Focusing on Islamic Finance Principles)

For businesses specifically seeking accounting services that adhere to Islamic finance principles, dedicated firms that explicitly state their commitment to Sharia compliance are the preferred choice. These firms understand the nuances of Riba (interest), Gharar (excessive uncertainty), and other forbidden elements in transactions.

Albaab Accountants: While not specifically marketing themselves as “Islamic Accountants” on their homepage, firms that are clearly structured to assist faith-based organisations or mention ethical finance implicitly tend to align. For a direct Islamic accounting service, searching specifically for “Islamic accountants UK” or “Halal accounting services London” is more fruitful. A firm like Albaab, which focuses on small businesses and personal tax, would need direct inquiry to confirm Sharia compliance in their methodologies.
- Key Features (General): Small business accounting, tax returns, VAT, payroll.
- Pros: Professional UK-based accountants.
- Cons: No explicit mention of Islamic finance specialisation on their public site, requiring direct verification.
- Price: Varies by service, usually bespoke quotes.
Islamic Finance Advisory (IFA): This firm explicitly offers advisory services rooted in Islamic finance. While they primarily focus on advisory, they would be a reliable source for understanding how to structure business accounts and transactions ethically, and could potentially recommend accounting partners who align with their principles.
- Key Features: Sharia advisory, ethical investment, Zakat calculation guidance, halal business structuring.
- Pros: Specialised in Islamic finance, deep understanding of ethical principles.
- Cons: Primarily advisory, may not offer direct bookkeeping/payroll services themselves.
- Price: Consultation-based.

General-Purpose Cloud Accounting Software (Used Ethically)

These software solutions provide the tools for efficient accounting. Their ethical alignment depends on how they are used and the principles applied by the user or their accountant. They offer transparency in data tracking and reporting, which is a positive from an ethical standpoint.

Xero: Widely used by small and medium-sized businesses, Xero is a robust cloud accounting platform. It allows for detailed categorisation of transactions, enabling ethical users to track income and expenses according to Sharia principles (e.g., separating interest income, avoiding forbidden expenditures).
- Key Features: Bank reconciliation, invoicing, payroll integration, expense management, real-time reporting.
- Price: From £15/month (Starter plan).
- Pros: User-friendly, extensive app marketplace, excellent reporting capabilities.
- Cons: Monthly subscription fee, requires careful setup by an ethical accountant to ensure Sharia compliance.
QuickBooks Online: Another industry leader, QuickBooks Online offers comprehensive features for bookkeeping, invoicing, tax management, and payroll. Its detailed customisation options allow businesses to categorise transactions and accounts to align with ethical financial practices.
- Key Features: Invoice and expense tracking, tax management, payroll add-on, business reporting.
- Price: From £12/month (Simple Start plan).
- Pros: Very popular, strong community support, good for various business sizes.
- Cons: Can be more expensive for advanced features, ethical usage depends on manual oversight or an informed accountant.
FreeAgent: Particularly strong for freelancers and smaller businesses in the UK. FreeAgent integrates invoicing, expenses, time tracking, and direct tax filing. Its simplicity and UK-specific focus make it appealing, and like others, it can be used ethically with careful transaction categorisation.
- Key Features: Invoicing, expense tracking, time tracking, VAT, self-assessment support.
- Price: From £19/month (often free with NatWest or Royal Bank of Scotland business accounts).
- Pros: Designed for UK tax, intuitive interface, strong for single-user businesses.
- Cons: Less scalable for larger businesses, might need an accountant to ensure specific ethical compliance.
Wave Accounting: A free, cloud-based accounting solution ideal for very small businesses and freelancers. It offers invoicing, accounting, and receipt scanning. While free, it provides basic tools necessary for tracking financial activities transparently.
- Key Features: Free invoicing, expense tracking, basic accounting reports.
- Price: Free (with paid add-ons for payroll/payment processing).
- Pros: No cost for core accounting, good for minimal needs.
- Cons: Limited features compared to paid solutions, reliance on ethical manual input for Sharia compliance.
Zoho Books: Part of the broader Zoho suite, Zoho Books offers a robust accounting solution with invoicing, expense management, inventory tracking, and more. Its customisation capabilities allow for detailed financial tracking that can be aligned with ethical principles.
- Key Features: Invoicing, expense tracking, inventory management, project billing, bank reconciliation.
- Price: From £10/month (Standard plan).
- Pros: Comprehensive features, integrated with other Zoho apps, good value for money.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming with many features, requires user diligence for ethical categorisation.

How to Cancel Ellingsworths.co.uk Subscription

The Ellingsworths.co.uk website does not explicitly detail a cancellation policy or process for their accounting services, nor does it refer to a “subscription” model in the typical sense of a software or recurring digital service. Accounting services are generally provided under a service agreement or contract, which would outline the terms of engagement, including cancellation. Uniletleeds.co.uk Review

Understanding Service Agreements

Professional accounting firms like Ellingsworths typically operate on retainer agreements or fixed-fee contracts for a set period (e.g., annually, quarterly) or specific projects. These agreements would include clauses on:

Notice Period: How much advance notice is required to terminate the service (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 days).
Outstanding Fees: Any fees due upon cancellation, including for work in progress or annual charges.
Data Handover: Procedures for transferring financial records, documents, and digital files back to the client or to a new accountant.
Penalty Clauses: Any penalties for early termination, although reputable firms usually prefer a smooth transition.

Recommended Steps for Cancellation

Given the absence of public information, the most direct and proper way to cancel services with Ellingsworths would involve the following steps:

Review Your Engagement Letter/Contract: The very first step is to locate and review the signed engagement letter or contract you have with Ellingsworths. This document is legally binding and will contain all the specific terms and conditions regarding service termination. Pay close attention to the notice period required and any financial obligations upon cancellation.
Formal Written Notice: Draft a formal letter or email clearly stating your intention to terminate the services. Include:
- Your business name and client reference number (if applicable).
- The effective date of cancellation, ensuring it complies with the notice period specified in your contract.
- A request for confirmation of receipt of your cancellation notice.
- A request for details on the handover process for your financial records and any outstanding matters.
Communication and Discussion: Follow up your written notice with a phone call to your primary contact at Ellingsworths. Discuss the transition plan, ensure all loose ends are tied up, and confirm the handover of your financial data. This proactive communication helps ensure a smooth and amicable separation.
Data Handover and Confirmation: Ensure all your financial documents, digital records (e.g., Xero access, payroll data), and tax information are properly transferred back to you or directly to your new accountant. Obtain written confirmation that all relevant data has been transferred and that there are no outstanding issues.
Final Invoice and Payment: Settle any final invoices for services rendered up to the termination date. Verify that all charges are accurate and as per your agreement.

Importance of Professional Handover

A professional and organised handover is crucial to avoid disruptions to your business operations, especially concerning tax deadlines and ongoing compliance. Ensure that all necessary data is transferred securely and completely to your new accounting provider. This typically involves sharing access to cloud accounting software, providing copies of historical financial statements, tax returns, and any other relevant documentation.

Ellingsworths.co.uk Pricing

As previously highlighted, one of the most significant omissions on the Ellingsworths.co.uk website is the complete absence of pricing information. Unlike many modern service providers, there are no published rates, service packages, or even a general indication of how their fees are structured. This lack of transparency can be a considerable barrier for potential clients evaluating their options.

What the Website Indicates About Pricing (Indirectly)

While no specific figures are available, the website implies a bespoke, consultation-based pricing model. This is typical for traditional accounting firms where services are tailored to the unique needs and complexities of each client’s business. Phrases like “Enquire Now” and “Book Consultation” are used as the primary calls to action, suggesting that pricing is determined after a discovery call to assess the client’s specific requirements.

The website also mentions offering “free set up on Xero cloud accounting software for a limited time only.” This indicates a potential upfront saving for new clients who adopt Xero through Ellingsworths, but it doesn’t clarify the ongoing monthly or annual fees for the accounting services themselves.

Common Pricing Models for Accounting Services

Typically, accounting firms employ one or a combination of the following pricing models:

Hourly Rates: Clients are charged based on the time spent by the accountant on their tasks. This model can be unpredictable in terms of total cost.
Fixed Fees/Packages: A set fee is agreed upon for a defined scope of work, often on a monthly or annual basis. This provides cost certainty for the client. Many firms offer tiered packages (e.g., Basic, Standard, Premium) with varying levels of service inclusions.
Value-Based Pricing: Fees are determined by the perceived value the service delivers to the client, rather than just time or cost. This model often involves a deeper understanding of the client’s business goals.
Per-Transaction/Volume-Based: Common for bookkeeping or payroll services, where fees are calculated based on the number of transactions, employees, or invoices processed.
Percentage of Turnover/Profit: Less common for core accounting, but sometimes seen for advisory or consultancy roles.

Given Ellingsworths’ emphasis on solving pain points like “reducing tax bills” and “improving cashflow,” it’s plausible they lean towards a fixed-fee or value-based model, particularly if they offer comprehensive packages for their target niches (small businesses, construction, charities).

Why Transparency Matters

For prospective clients, transparent pricing, even if indicative, serves several purposes:

Budgeting: Helps businesses budget for accounting expenses.
Comparison: Allows for easier comparison with other accounting firms or software solutions.
Expectation Management: Sets clear expectations about what is included in the service for a given price.
Trust Building: Openness about costs builds trust, reducing the perception of hidden fees.

The lack of any pricing indication means that a business owner must invest time in a consultation before understanding if Ellingsworths’ services are within their financial reach or competitive in the market. While this approach encourages direct engagement, it can deter those who prefer to conduct preliminary research and cost analysis independently. Surevoip.co.uk Review

Ellingsworths.co.uk vs. Other UK Accounting Firms

Comparing Ellingsworths.co.uk to other UK accounting firms requires looking beyond just services offered and delving into their online presence, transparency, and overall approach. While Ellingsworths positions itself as a competent, client-focused firm, certain aspects of its digital presentation differ from some of its contemporaries.

Transparency and Online Information

Ellingsworths.co.uk: As noted, Ellingsworths lacks public pricing, terms and conditions, and clear regulatory verification details on its homepage. The emphasis is on direct contact for custom quotes.
Leading Online Accounting Firms (e.g., Crunch, Mazuma, Raedan): Many modern UK accounting firms, especially those with a strong online presence or those targeting freelancers and small businesses, offer clear, tiered pricing packages directly on their websites. For example, Crunch provides transparent monthly prices for various packages (e.g., for freelancers, limited companies, contractors), detailing exactly what’s included. Similarly, Mazuma Accountants is known for its fixed-fee “bag and tag” service with published rates. Larger firms like Raedan also tend to have more detailed service descriptions and a stronger digital footprint with comprehensive blogs and case studies.

Target Audience and Niche Specialisation

Ellingsworths.co.uk: Explicitly targets “Small Businesses, Construction Professionals, and Charities.” This niche focus suggests specialised knowledge and tailored advice for these sectors.
Competitors: Many firms also specialise. For instance, some focus purely on tech startups, while others cater to specific medical professions. The general trend is towards specialisation to offer more relevant expertise. Ellingsworths’ clear segmentation is a strength in this regard.

Technology Integration

Ellingsworths.co.uk: Promotes “free set up on Xero cloud accounting software,” indicating a commitment to modern cloud-based solutions. This aligns them with forward-thinking firms that leverage technology for efficiency.
Competitors: Most contemporary accounting firms are highly integrated with cloud platforms like Xero, QuickBooks Online, and FreeAgent. Some even develop their own proprietary portals for client communication and document exchange. The embrace of cloud software is standard practice across the industry.

Customer Engagement and Support

Ellingsworths.co.uk: Relies on phone calls and enquiry forms. Testimonials are prominently featured, speaking to customer satisfaction.
Competitors: Many online firms offer a wider range of support channels, including live chat, dedicated account managers, comprehensive online knowledge bases, and client portals. The trend is towards instant support and self-service options where appropriate. Testimonials are common across the board, but some firms also present detailed case studies or client success stories.

Ethical and Sharia-Compliant Considerations

Ellingsworths.co.uk: Makes no explicit mention of adherence to Islamic finance principles or Sharia compliance. This means clients seeking such services would need to undertake significant due diligence through direct inquiry.
Specialised Ethical Firms: There are dedicated accounting firms in the UK that explicitly cater to the Muslim community, offering services that ensure transactions, investments, and business operations are Sharia-compliant. These firms often highlight their expertise in Zakat calculations, Riba-free financing, and ethical investment structuring. For example, firms like Albaab Accountants or those specifically marketing “Islamic accounting” would detail their approach to ensure ethical finance. This is a critical differentiator for a specific segment of the market.

Overall, Ellingsworths.co.uk appears to be a traditional accounting firm with a modern twist (cloud integration), but its online presence lacks the full transparency and detailed information commonly found on leading digital-first accounting services in the UK. For clients prioritising immediate information or those seeking explicit ethical/Sharia-compliant services, other firms might offer more clarity upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Ellingsworths.co.uk offer?

Ellingsworths.co.uk offers a range of accounting services including bookkeeping, payroll management, tax preparation (personal, VAT, CIS, corporation tax), cash flow monitoring, business performance reporting, and support with raising finance.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk provide pricing information on its website?

No, Ellingsworths.co.uk does not provide specific pricing information, service packages, or a general fee structure on its website. Pricing is typically determined after a consultation to assess individual client needs.

How can I contact Ellingsworths.co.uk?

You can contact Ellingsworths.co.uk via phone at 07927 912 187, or by filling out an “Enquire Now” or “Book Consultation” form on their website.

Is Ellingsworths.co.uk a legitimate accounting firm?

Yes, Ellingsworths.co.uk identifies itself as a “Chartered Certified Accountants” firm, implying adherence to professional standards set by the ACCA. However, direct regulatory registration numbers are not immediately visible on the homepage for quick verification.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk use cloud accounting software?

Yes, Ellingsworths.co.uk explicitly mentions and offers “free set up on Xero cloud accounting software for a limited time only,” indicating their use and proficiency with modern cloud-based platforms.

What types of businesses does Ellingsworths.co.uk work with?

Ellingsworths.co.uk primarily works with Small Businesses, Construction Professionals, and Charities, suggesting a specialisation in these sectors.

Are there customer testimonials on the Ellingsworths.co.uk website?

Yes, the website features several positive customer testimonials prominently on its homepage, highlighting aspects like professionalism, friendliness, and effectiveness of their services.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk offer a free trial of its services?

The website does not mention a “free trial” of their full accounting services. They do offer a “free set up on Xero cloud accounting software” for new clients. Swanseaminibushire.co.uk Review

Where is Ellingsworths.co.uk based?

Ellingsworths.co.uk lists a registered office address at Blacksmiths House, High Street, Chipping Campden, GL55 6AT, indicating a UK base.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk help with tax reduction?

Yes, the website states that their experts “make every claim available so that you save money and can rest easy knowing that everything is taken care of for you,” aiming to help clients reduce their tax bills.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk handle payroll and workplace pensions?

Yes, they explicitly state they “take care of all your payroll processing” and “take care of the burden of managing your workplace pension.”

What is the process to get started with Ellingsworths.co.uk?

The website directs potential clients to “Enquire Now” or “Book Consultation” for a free discovery call, implying that the process begins with an initial discussion of needs.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk provide support for cash flow management?

Yes, they offer features to “Track bank balances, overdue sales and the payments you are due to make in real-time” and aim to “improve cash flow and profits.”

Are there any legal documents like a Privacy Policy or Terms & Conditions on the Ellingsworths.co.uk website?

No, there are no readily accessible links to a Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, or Cookie Policy visible on the homepage or in the footer of Ellingsworths.co.uk.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk provide specific advice on Sharia-compliant finance?

The website does not explicitly mention offering services or advice specific to Sharia-compliant finance or Islamic accounting principles. Clients seeking such services would need to make direct inquiries.

How does Ellingsworths.co.uk help with receipt management?

They offer a feature that allows clients to “instantly take a photo and the evidence is stored in your accounts to claim against your tax bill,” indicating a digital receipt processing system.

Can Ellingsworths.co.uk help with business planning and raising finance?

Yes, one testimonial mentions they “Helped me prepare a business plan and financial forecasts to raise loan and lease finance,” suggesting they offer support in these areas.

Does Ellingsworths.co.uk offer online chat support?

No, the website does not appear to offer a live chat feature for immediate online support. Communication channels are primarily phone and enquiry forms. Doctor-saniflo.co.uk Review

What is the copyright year shown on Ellingsworths.co.uk?

How do I know if Ellingsworths.co.uk’s services are suitable for my business size?

Ellingsworths explicitly markets its services to “Small Businesses,” suggesting they are well-suited for SMEs, along with construction professionals and charities.