What Accountants Really Do for Normal People
Dec 10, 2025
Half of people in the UK say they don’t know what accountants actually do. Some even describe the profession as “mystical.” Others assume we mainly work for the wealthy.
But here’s the reality: most of the people I help aren’t swimming in cash. They’re small business owners, tradespeople, families, people who are juggling day-to-day pressures and just need clarity.
So, what do accountants really do? And why does it matter to normal people? Let’s bust some myths.
The Myth vs Reality of Accountants
The Myth:
We sit behind spreadsheets, file tax returns, and send fat invoices.
The Reality:
We’re problem-solvers. We’re often there when people are at their most stressed:
-
A family that’s just lost a loved one and doesn’t know where to start with inheritance.
-
A small business wondering if they can afford their first employee.
-
Someone panicking because they’ve gone over the VAT registration threshold.
In those moments, an accountant isn’t “mystical.” We’re practical. We give clarity, calm, and a plan.
Real Examples from My Clients
Here are a few recent calls I’ve had:
-
A client asked if he could take £2,000 out of his company to pay for a broken boiler. We’d already set up a remuneration plan, so I helped him take the cash safely without tax pitfalls.
-
Another was offered a company directorship but didn’t know what it meant for tax and responsibilities. One of my clients gave them my number, and I talked them through it.
-
Someone else called in a flat panic after hitting the VAT threshold. The first step? Don’t panic. The second step? I guided them through registration so it was all under control.
This isn’t about being wealthy. It’s about making decisions under pressure and having someone experienced to lean on.
Why AI and Software Aren’t Enough
I love technology. Tools like Xero, Zapier and AI tools are brilliant at cutting admin. But here’s the truth:
-
Software doesn’t talk to HMRC on your behalf.
-
AI won’t sit across from you and say, “It’s going to be all right.”
-
An app doesn’t understand your goals, your family, or the fact you want to retire at 55.
Great accountants use tech, but they also bring human judgment, experience, and care.
How to Choose the Right Accountant
Not every accountant will be the right fit. Here’s how to find one that works for you:
-
Match them to your size – If you’re a small business, you don’t need a Big Four firm. Look for someone who understands VAT, payroll, and cash flow.
-
Check their approach – I call myself a “technology accountant” because I love applying systems and automation to save clients time and money. Find someone whose approach matches your needs.
-
Be honest about what you need – Some accountants (including me) don’t do aggressive tax planning or complex R&D claims. That’s fine. The right accountant for you is one who can answer your calls, deal with your everyday challenges, and help you make smart decisions.
The Bottom Line
Accountants aren’t mystical, and they’re not just for the wealthy. We help normal people make better decisions, sleep better at night, and grow their businesses with confidence.
So next time you hear someone say, “Accountants are only for the wealthy,” you’ll know the reality is very different.
If you’re thinking about getting an accountant, I always recommend a free consultation first. That way, you and your accountant can figure out if you’re the right fit for each other.
📺 Want Business Advice You Can See in Action?
Subscribe to the AskJT YouTube channel for weekly videos on tax tips, time-saving tools, and strategies to grow your business — explained in plain English.
Want More Practical Business Advice?
Every Thursday, I send out a short, sharp roundup of the week’s best content: a podcast, blog, YouTube video, and a 60-second tip to help you grow.
No spam. No fluff. Just ideas that work.
