Accountants play a critical role in managing the financial health of individuals and businesses. We can’t begin to imagine that we might need to consider a claim for professional negligence.

Whether it’s tax advice, auditing, or preparing financial statements, clients rely heavily on the expertise and accuracy of these professionals. But what happens when an accountant gets it wrong, and you suffer a financial loss as a result? This is where professional negligence comes in.

Professional negligence occurs when a qualified individual—such as an accountant, solicitor, architect, or financial advisor—fails to perform their duties to the standard expected of their profession, resulting in harm or loss to their client.

Simple answer, yes.  If you have suffered financial loss because of an accountant’s mistake or failure to meet their professional duties, you may have grounds for a professional negligence claim.

To bring a successful claim, you must show:

1.    Duty of care – The accountant owed you a duty to act with reasonable skill and care.

2.  Breach of duty – They failed to meet that standard

3.  Causation – Their error directly caused you a financial loss.

4.  Loss – You suffered measurable financial damage as a result.

• A business suffers a large fine because their accountant failed to submit accounts to HMRC on time.

• An accountant gives incorrect VAT advice, leading to penalties and backdated payments.

• A tax advisor recommends an aggressive tax avoidance scheme later deemed unlawful, exposing the client to HMRC investigations.

• A misstatement in a company’s accounts causes a business owner to sell for below market value.

1.  Gather Documentation

Collect all relevant contracts, emails, advice letters, financial reports, and invoices.

2.  Calculate the Financial Impact

Work out the losses you’ve suffered as a direct result of the accountant’s error.

3. Make a Complaint

You may wish to first complain directly to the accountant or their firm. If they are a member of a professional body (e.g., ICAEW or ACCA), you may also file a complaint with that regulator.

4. Seek Legal Advice

Consult a solicitor who specialises in professional negligence. They can assess your case and help you recover compensation through negotiation or litigation.

David Wingate, a solicitor at WE Solicitors LLP, is experienced in handling professional negligence claims against accountants and financial professionals.
“These cases often come down to the fine print and the evidence. But if you’ve relied on professional advice and been misled or let down, you may well be entitled to redress,”

There are strict time limits for professional negligence claims—usually six years from the date of the negligent act, or three years from when you became aware of it. It’s essential to act promptly.

Accountants are trusted advisors.  Yet even trusted professionals can make costly mistakes. If you’ve suffered financially due to negligent advice or poor service from your accountant, you don’t have to accept the loss. With the right legal support, you may be able to recover your losses and hold the professional accountable

At WE Solicitors, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to meet your needs. Born in Manchester, but with clients throughout the UK and overseas.

Whether you’re seeking compensation for an accident, advice on a business matter, or support for a negligence claim, our team of expert solicitors are here to provide clear and effective guidance every step of the way.

Good advice is crucial when dealing with complex legal issues.

Contact WE Solicitors Manchester today for support and advice you can rely on.

Call us now on 0800 294 3065 or You can email us on info@wesolicitors.com