# Harrison Bernstein Ltd — Full Site Content > Harrison Bernstein is a Kent-based Chartered Accountancy firm established in 1994. We provide hands-on, Partner-led accounting, tax, and advisory services for everyone from self-employed individuals to large commercial groups turning over £50m+. We are a digital-first, AI-ready practice implementing a proprietary AI-native platform into the heart of our operations. --- ## Page: Homepage Harrison Bernstein Ltd | Chartered Accountants Chartered accountants providing premium tax, accounting, and advisory services for businesses and individuals across the country. ### Who We Are Harrison Bernstein Ltd was established in 1994 with a clear purpose: to provide practical, personal accountancy and tax support that helps businesses and individuals manage their finances with confidence. ### Our Services We offer a comprehensive range of accounting, tax, and advisory services: - Annual Accounts — Accurate, timely annual accounts that meet statutory requirements and give you real insight into your business performance. - Management Accounts — Regular financial reporting that gives you the visibility to track performance, manage cashflow, and make informed decisions. - Bookkeeping — Accurate, efficient bookkeeping that keeps your records up to date and your admin under control. - Payroll — Reliable payroll services that ensure your employees are paid correctly and on time, every time. - VAT Returns — Accurate VAT return preparation and filing, keeping you compliant with Making Tax Digital requirements. - Tax Planning — Proactive tax planning that helps you pay no more tax than necessary while staying fully compliant. - Personal Tax — Expert personal tax return preparation and advice for individuals, sole traders, and company directors. - Property Tax — Specialist property tax advice for landlords, property investors, and property businesses. - Cloud Accounting — Cloud accounting setup and support using Xero, helping you work more efficiently. ### Who We Help - Startups — Getting your foundations right from day one - Sole Traders — Simple, efficient support for self-employed professionals - Limited Companies — Comprehensive support for your limited company - Property Landlords — Specialist tax support for property income and investment - Growing SMEs — Practical financial support for businesses ready to scale ### Why Choose Us - Established Since 1994 — Over 30 years of experience serving businesses and individuals across Kent and the South East. - Personal Approach — A dedicated team that takes the time to understand your business and provide tailored support. - Proactive Advice — We look ahead, not just back. Our approach is designed to help you plan, save, and grow. - Cloud-Enabled — Modern cloud accounting tools that give you real-time visibility and reduce admin. - ICAEW Regulated — Chartered accountants regulated by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. - SME Specialists — We understand the challenges and opportunities facing owner-managed businesses at every stage. --- ## Page: About Us ### Our Story Harrison Bernstein Ltd was established in 1994 with a clear purpose: to provide practical, personal accountancy and tax support that helps businesses and individuals manage their finances with confidence. Based at 10 Harmer Street in the heart of Gravesend, Kent, we have grown into a team of experienced professionals serving clients across the South East and beyond. While our client base has expanded, our approach has remained the same — responsive, proactive and always focused on what matters most to you. We are an established firm that continues to evolve with new technology and the changing needs of modern businesses. We value practical thinking, responsive service and continuous improvement. ### Our Values - Driving Meaningful Client Impact — Delivering tailored, high-quality advice that creates measurable value and supports long-term success. - Powered by Digital Innovation — Harnessing technology, automation, and data to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and client experience. - Turning Data into Insight — Transforming complex financial information into clear, actionable strategies for growth. - Built for What's Next — Adapting proactively to change, ensuring clients remain resilient in an evolving landscape. - Trusted Through Integrity — Upholding the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and ethical practice. ### Our Approach We combine trusted accountancy expertise with modern cloud tools. We help clients move from basic compliance to better visibility and decision-making. Our approach is designed to support businesses that want efficient systems and room to grow. We work with clients who value responsive advice, modern processes and long-term thinking. --- ## Page: Services We offer a full range of accounting, tax, and advisory services. Each service is designed to be proactive, practical, and tailored to your needs. ### Annual Accounts Accurate, timely annual accounts that meet statutory requirements and give you real insight into your business performance. We prepare annual accounts that go beyond compliance. Our team ensures your accounts are filed on time, every time, while providing clear analysis that helps you understand your financial position and make better decisions. Includes: Preparation of statutory accounts, Companies House filing, Corporation tax return preparation, Directors' report and notes, Year-end tax planning review, Post-year-end meeting to review results. Benefits: On-time filing with no penalties, Clear financial picture of your business, Identification of tax-saving opportunities, Compliance with all statutory requirements. Who it's for: Limited companies, partnerships, and sole traders who need accurate and timely accounts preparation. ### Management Accounts Regular financial reporting that gives you the visibility to track performance, manage cashflow, and make informed decisions. Management accounts give you a regular, clear view of how your business is performing. We prepare monthly or quarterly reports tailored to your needs, helping you track margins, monitor cashflow, and spot trends before they become problems. Includes: Monthly or quarterly financial reports, Profit and loss analysis, Balance sheet review, Cashflow monitoring and forecasting, KPI tracking and variance analysis, Regular review meetings. Benefits: Better financial visibility in real time, Early identification of cashflow issues, Stronger platform for business decisions, Clear tracking against budget and targets. Who it's for: Growing businesses that want regular financial insight beyond year-end accounts. ### Bookkeeping Accurate, efficient bookkeeping that keeps your records up to date and your admin under control. Good bookkeeping is the foundation of a well-run business. We help you maintain accurate, up-to-date records using modern cloud tools, reducing admin time and ensuring your finances are always in order. Includes: Transaction recording and categorisation, Bank reconciliation, Purchase and sales ledger management, Credit control support, Cloud accounting software setup and training, Regular reporting and review. Benefits: Accurate records with less admin time, Real-time view of your financial position, Reduced errors and improved compliance, More time to focus on running your business. Who it's for: Businesses of all sizes looking for reliable bookkeeping support, whether fully outsourced or alongside in-house teams. ### Payroll Reliable payroll services that ensure your employees are paid correctly and on time, every time. We manage your payroll so you do not have to worry about it. From weekly wages to monthly salaries, we handle RTI submissions, payslips, and year-end reporting, keeping you compliant and your team happy. Includes: Weekly, fortnightly, or monthly payroll processing, RTI submissions to HMRC, Payslip preparation and distribution, Year-end P60 and P11D processing, Auto-enrolment pension administration, Starter and leaver processing. Benefits: Employees paid accurately and on time, Full HMRC compliance, Reduced administrative burden, Auto-enrolment obligations met. Who it's for: Any business with employees, from first hires to established teams. ### VAT Returns Accurate VAT return preparation and filing, keeping you compliant with Making Tax Digital requirements. We prepare and submit your VAT returns on time, ensuring accuracy and compliance with Making Tax Digital. Whether you are on flat rate, standard, or cash accounting, we handle the detail so you can focus on your business. Includes: VAT return preparation and submission, Making Tax Digital compliance, VAT scheme advice (flat rate, cash, standard), Input and output tax review, VAT registration and deregistration, HMRC correspondence handling. Benefits: On-time filing with no penalties, Full Making Tax Digital compliance, Correct VAT scheme for your business, Reduced errors and better cashflow management. Who it's for: VAT-registered businesses and those approaching the registration threshold. ### Tax Planning Proactive tax planning that helps you pay no more tax than necessary while staying fully compliant. Good tax planning is about looking ahead, not just looking back. We work with you throughout the year to identify opportunities, structure your affairs efficiently, and ensure you are making the most of available reliefs and allowances. Includes: Annual tax review and planning, Dividend vs salary optimisation, Capital gains tax planning, Inheritance tax planning, Business structure review, R&D tax relief assessment. Benefits: Legitimate reduction in your tax bill, No surprises at year end, Efficient business and personal structures, Confidence that you are fully compliant. Who it's for: Business owners and individuals who want to manage their tax position proactively rather than reactively. ### Personal Tax Expert personal tax return preparation and advice for individuals, sole traders, and company directors. We prepare and file your self-assessment tax return accurately and on time, ensuring you claim all available reliefs and allowances. Whether you are a sole trader, landlord, or company director, we take the stress out of personal tax. Includes: Self-assessment tax return preparation and filing, Income and capital gains tax calculations, Claim of reliefs and allowances, Payment on account advice, HMRC correspondence handling, Tax code review. Benefits: Accurate returns filed on time, All eligible reliefs claimed, Clear understanding of your tax position, Peace of mind with HMRC compliance. Who it's for: Sole traders, company directors, landlords, and individuals with complex tax affairs. ### Property Tax Specialist property tax advice for landlords, property investors, and property businesses. Property taxation has become increasingly complex. We help landlords and property businesses navigate the rules, optimise their tax position, and stay compliant with reporting requirements including the changes to mortgage interest relief and capital gains reporting. Includes: Rental income tax returns, Capital gains tax on property disposals, Stamp duty land tax advice, Mortgage interest relief optimisation, Property business structure review, Non-resident landlord compliance. Benefits: Optimised tax position for property income, Correct capital gains calculations, Guidance on the most efficient ownership structure, Compliance with all property tax reporting. Who it's for: Landlords, property investors, and anyone buying, selling, or letting property. ### Company Formation Complete support for setting up your limited company, from registration to ongoing compliance. Starting a business is exciting, and getting the foundations right matters. We handle the full company formation process and set you up with the right structure, accounting systems, and compliance framework from day one. Includes: Company incorporation at Companies House, Memorandum and articles of association, Share structure advice, HMRC registrations (corporation tax, PAYE, VAT), Cloud accounting setup, First-year compliance calendar. Benefits: Professional setup from the start, Correct structure for your business, All registrations handled, Cloud systems in place from day one. Who it's for: Entrepreneurs, startups, and anyone looking to incorporate a new limited company. ### Company Secretarial Ongoing company secretarial services to keep your company compliant with Companies House requirements. We handle the administrative filings and compliance obligations that every limited company must meet. From confirmation statements to director changes, we ensure your statutory records are always up to date. Includes: Annual confirmation statement filing, Director and shareholder changes, Registered office services, Statutory register maintenance, Share allotments and transfers, Company name changes. Benefits: No missed filing deadlines, Statutory records always current, Reduced administrative burden, Professional handling of corporate changes. Who it's for: All limited companies that need support with ongoing Companies House compliance. ### Cloud Accounting Cloud accounting setup and support using Xero, helping you work more efficiently with real-time financial visibility. We help businesses move to cloud-based accounting systems that save time, reduce errors, and give you real-time access to your financial information. As a Xero Gold Partner, we set up, migrate, and support your cloud accounting journey. Includes: Xero setup and configuration, Data migration from existing systems, App integration and workflow design, Staff training and ongoing support, Bank feed setup and reconciliation, Custom reporting and dashboards. Benefits: Real-time access to your finances from anywhere, Less paperwork and manual data entry, Better collaboration between you and your accountant, Scalable systems that grow with your business. Who it's for: Businesses looking to modernise their financial processes or switch from desktop software to cloud-based tools. ### Making Tax Digital Full support with Making Tax Digital compliance, ensuring your business is ready for digital tax reporting. Making Tax Digital is changing the way businesses report to HMRC. We help you understand what is required, set up compliant digital records, and ensure your submissions are made on time through approved software. Includes: MTD readiness assessment, Compatible software setup and migration, Digital record-keeping guidance, Quarterly VAT submissions via MTD, Preparation for MTD for Income Tax, Ongoing compliance monitoring. Benefits: Full compliance with HMRC requirements, Smoother transition to digital reporting, Reduced risk of penalties, Foundation for more efficient financial processes. Who it's for: VAT-registered businesses and sole traders preparing for MTD for Income Tax. ### CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) Construction Industry Scheme compliance for contractors and subcontractors. We handle all aspects of CIS compliance, from contractor registrations and monthly returns to verifying subcontractors and managing deductions. Whether you are a contractor or subcontractor, we keep you compliant and help you manage cashflow. Includes: CIS registration for contractors and subcontractors, Monthly CIS return preparation and filing, Subcontractor verification, CIS deduction management, CIS refund claims for subcontractors, Gross payment status applications. Benefits: Full CIS compliance with no penalties, Correct deductions every month, Refund claims processed efficiently, Expert guidance on gross payment status. Who it's for: Construction industry contractors and subcontractors. ### P11D Accurate P11D preparation and submission for employee benefits and expenses. If your business provides benefits to employees or directors, P11D reporting is a legal requirement. We prepare and file your P11D forms, calculate Class 1A National Insurance, and help you understand the tax implications of employee benefits. Includes: P11D form preparation and filing, P11D(b) return submission, Class 1A NIC calculations, Benefit-in-kind valuations, Payrolling of benefits advice, Employee benefit structure review. Benefits: Accurate and timely P11D submissions, Correct NIC calculations, Clear guidance on benefit reporting, Advice on tax-efficient benefit structures. Who it's for: Employers providing benefits such as company cars, private medical insurance, or other taxable benefits. ### Tax Investigations Expert representation and support if you face an HMRC enquiry or tax investigation. An HMRC investigation can be stressful and time-consuming. We provide expert support throughout the process, handling all correspondence, preparing your case, and representing you in meetings with HMRC to achieve the best possible outcome. Includes: Initial review and risk assessment, HMRC correspondence management, Document gathering and preparation, Representation at HMRC meetings, Negotiation of settlements, Post-investigation compliance review. Benefits: Professional representation from day one, Reduced stress and time commitment, Expert negotiation with HMRC, Clear guidance throughout the process. Who it's for: Businesses and individuals who have received an HMRC enquiry letter or are concerned about a potential investigation. --- ## Page: Who We Help We work with businesses at different stages of their journey, from new ventures requiring setup support to growing firms looking for better reporting, stronger systems and practical financial guidance. Based in Kent, Serving Clients Across the UK. While our office is in Gravesend, Kent, we support clients right across the country. Cloud accounting and digital tools mean location is never a barrier to excellent service. We serve clients in London, Kent, South East, Midlands, and Nationwide. ### Startups Getting your foundations right from day one. Starting a business is exciting, and the right financial setup can make all the difference. We help new businesses incorporate, register with HMRC, set up cloud accounting, and build solid financial foundations that support growth. Common challenges: Not sure which business structure is right for you. Overwhelmed by HMRC registrations and compliance. Need help setting up accounting systems. Want guidance on tax-efficient structures from the start. How we help: Company Formation, Cloud Accounting, Bookkeeping, Tax Planning, VAT Returns. ### Sole Traders Simple, efficient support for self-employed professionals. Running your own business means wearing many hats. We take care of your tax returns, bookkeeping, and compliance so you can focus on what you do best. Our approach is efficient, clear, and tailored to your needs. Common challenges: Spending too much time on admin and paperwork. Unsure whether you are claiming all eligible expenses. Worried about getting your tax return wrong. Need help understanding your tax obligations. How we help: Personal Tax, Bookkeeping, Making Tax Digital, Tax Planning. ### Limited Companies Comprehensive support for your limited company. From annual accounts and corporation tax to payroll, VAT, and ongoing compliance, we provide everything your limited company needs. Our proactive approach means we look ahead, not just at the year that has passed. Common challenges: Juggling multiple compliance deadlines. Not getting proactive advice from your current accountant. Need better financial visibility throughout the year. Want to understand your tax position before year end. How we help: Annual Accounts, Tax Planning, Payroll, VAT Returns, Company Secretarial, Management Accounts. ### Property Landlords Specialist tax support for property income and investment. Property taxation is complex and constantly changing. Whether you own a single rental property or a growing portfolio, we help you stay compliant, optimise your tax position, and make informed decisions about your property investments. Common challenges: Confused by changes to mortgage interest relief. Unsure about capital gains tax on property sales. Need help choosing the right ownership structure. Want to understand the tax implications before buying or selling. How we help: Property Tax, Personal Tax, Tax Planning, Annual Accounts. ### Growing SMEs Practical financial support for businesses ready to scale. As your business grows, your financial needs become more complex. We provide management accounts, cashflow forecasting, and practical advisory support that helps you make confident decisions and build stronger systems. Common challenges: Outgrowing basic bookkeeping and compliance-only support. Need regular management information to make decisions. Want better systems and processes as the team grows. Looking for an accountant who understands growth. How we help: Management Accounts, Cloud Accounting, Payroll, Tax Planning, Annual Accounts, Making Tax Digital. --- ## Page: Cloud Accounting & Digital Tools The way businesses manage their finances has transformed. From paper ledgers to cloud platforms, and now AI-powered tools, we guide you through every stage of this evolution. ### The Evolution of Accounting Each wave of change has made accounting faster, more accurate and more valuable. We have guided clients through every transition and are ready to help you embrace what comes next. The Paper Era: For decades, accounting meant manual ledgers, paper receipts and filing cabinets. Data was siloed, slow to process and prone to human error. Year-end was a scramble and real-time visibility was impossible. The Cloud Revolution: Cloud platforms like Xero transformed accounting with automated bank feeds, real-time dashboards and anytime access. Collaboration became seamless and MTD compliance became straightforward. Many businesses are at this stage today. The AI Era: AI is the next leap forward. Intelligent automation handles categorisation, anomaly detection and predictive forecasting. Your accountant spends less time processing and more time providing strategic advice that drives your business forward. Whether you are still working from spreadsheets, already on the cloud, or ready to explore AI-powered tools, we can guide you through the transition at a pace that works for your business. As a Xero Gold Partner, we set up, migrate and support your digital accounting journey from start to finish. ### Xero Gold Partner What This Means for You: - Expert, certified support — your finances are managed by highly experienced professionals who specialise in cloud accounting with a proven track record across a large client base. - Seamless integrations and tailored workflows — we connect your tools and build efficient processes that streamline your day-to-day finances. - Priority support and faster resolution — as a Gold Partner, we have direct access to Xero's support team and the latest features before they roll out widely. - Smarter decisions, better cash flow — with real-time reporting and proactive financial insights, we help you improve cash flow and drive growth with confidence. ### Why Cloud Accounting? - Real-Time Access — View your financial position from anywhere, at any time, on any device. - Less Paperwork — Digital records and automated bank feeds mean less manual entry and fewer errors. - Better Collaboration — Work more closely with your accountant through shared access to up-to-date data. - Scalable Systems — Cloud tools grow with your business, from startup to established company. - MTD Compliant — Meet Making Tax Digital requirements with approved, compatible software. - Integrated Workflow — Connect your accounting with invoicing, payments, expenses and payroll apps. ### How We Help 1. Assess — We review where you are today - paper, spreadsheets, or legacy software - and map out the right digital path for your business. 2. Migrate & Automate — We handle setup, data migration and configuration, connecting cloud tools and automation so the transition is smooth. 3. Optimise with AI — We introduce AI-powered insights, automated reporting and intelligent workflows, then provide ongoing support as the technology evolves. --- ## Page: FAQ ### Do you work with startups? Yes. We help new businesses from the very beginning, including company formation, HMRC registrations, cloud accounting setup, and first-year compliance. We enjoy working with business owners who are building something new. ### Do you support Xero and cloud accounting? Absolutely. We are experienced Xero advisors and help clients set up, migrate to, and get the most from cloud accounting. We also support other platforms and can advise on the best solution for your business. ### Can you help us switch from our current accountant? Switching accountants is straightforward and we manage the whole process. We contact your current accountant for a professional handover, transfer your records, and ensure there is no disruption to your compliance. ### Do you work with limited companies and landlords? Yes. We work with limited companies of all sizes and have specialist expertise in property tax for landlords and property investors. Our team understands the specific challenges and opportunities for both. ### Can you help with payroll and VAT? Yes. We provide full payroll services including RTI submissions, auto-enrolment, and year-end processing. We also prepare and submit VAT returns, including full Making Tax Digital compliance. ### Do you offer ongoing advice, not just year-end accounts? Proactive advice is central to how we work. We provide regular management accounts, tax planning throughout the year, and are always available to discuss questions and opportunities as they arise. ### Can meetings be done online? Yes. We offer meetings in person at our Gravesend office, by phone, or by video call. We work in whatever way suits you best. --- ## Page: Careers We are a forward-thinking firm building for where the profession is heading, not where it has been. If you want to do meaningful work with modern tools alongside a team that values initiative, we would love to hear from you. ### Current Openings #### Senior Accountant / Manager Category: Accounting & Finance Location: Kent / Hybrid Salary: £60,000–65,000 DOE + Bonus Type: Full-time, Permanent Contact: recruitment@hblca.com About Harrison Bernstein: Harrison Bernstein is a Kent-based chartered accountancy practice with a broad and growing client base. We work with everyone from self-employed individuals and property landlords to small limited companies, multi-unit franchise operators, and large commercial trading groups turning over £50m+. Whatever the size or complexity, we provide hands-on, Partner-led service. What sets us apart is that we are implementing a unique AI-native platform and client-facing AI agent into the heart of our practice. This is not a bolt-on tool — it is a core part of how we deliver services, and our accountants work directly alongside the team building it. The Opportunity: We are looking for a Senior Accountant to take full ownership of large, complex multi-entity client portfolios. You will manage end-to-end accounting, compliance, and reporting for client groups turning over £50m+, while also overseeing a handful of smaller groups and companies. What We Offer: Competitive base salary of £60,000–65,000, long-term progression pathway with potential equity participation, ACCA subscription fees and CPD fully funded, employer pension contributions, generous holiday allowance, hybrid working arrangement, direct access to Partner-level leadership, and the rare opportunity to work at the intersection of accounting and AI product development. --- ## Page: Contact Whether you are starting a business, switching accountants, or looking for better financial visibility, we are here to help. Phone: +44 1474 537 810 Email: enquiries@hblca.com Address: 10 Harmer Street, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 2AX Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:00pm --- ## Page: Blog / Insights ### When Should a Small Business Move to Cloud Accounting? If you are still relying on spreadsheets or desktop software, it may be time to consider cloud accounting. Cloud accounting platforms like Xero give you real-time access to your financial data from anywhere. The switch does not need to be complicated. A good accountant will handle the migration for you. If your business is VAT-registered, cloud accounting also helps you meet Making Tax Digital requirements. ### What Should Growing Businesses Track Monthly? Year-end accounts tell you where you have been. Monthly management information tells you where you are going. Key areas to track include revenue and gross margin, cashflow, overheads, and payroll costs. Management accounts do not need to be complex — a simple profit and loss, balance sheet, and cashflow summary can make a significant difference. ### Year-End Preparation Checklist for Limited Companies A practical checklist: review your profit position, update your bookkeeping, check your fixed asset register, review directors' loan accounts, gather documents for your accountant, and book a pre-year-end meeting. ### Payroll Basics for First Hires Taking on your first employee comes with new responsibilities. Register as an employer with HMRC, run payroll with RTI submissions, set up auto-enrolment pensions, provide payslips, and handle year-end reporting (P60 forms, P11D). ### Making Tax Digital: What You Need to Know Making Tax Digital (MTD) is HMRC's initiative to move the UK tax system online. MTD for VAT is already in effect. MTD for Income Tax Self Assessment begins April 2026. Cloud accounting software like Xero is fully MTD-compatible and handles most requirements automatically. --- ## Brand & Assets For machine-readable brand data, see: https://www.hblca.com/brand.json For logo assets: https://www.hblca.com/brand/ ### Colours - Primary: brand-800 #1a3a2a (deep forest green) - Accent: accent-500 #c9a84c (warm gold) - Text: neutral-900 #111916 (warm near-black) ### Typography - Headings: Libre Baskerville (serif) — tradition, trust, premium - Body: Inter (sans-serif) — clean, modern, legible ### Tone of Voice We are: Professional but approachable. Confident, not boastful. Modern and forward-looking. Clear and jargon-free. Proactive, not reactive. We avoid: Overly formal or legalistic language. Technical jargon without explanation. Aggressive sales messaging. --- ## Contact Information Harrison Bernstein Ltd 10 Harmer Street, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 2AX, United Kingdom Phone: +44 1474 537 810 Email: enquiries@hblca.com Recruitment: recruitment@hblca.com Website: https://www.hblca.com LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/company/harrison-bernstein-ltd- ICAEW Regulated | Xero Gold Partner | Established 1994 | Company No. 02979317