When you first started your business, your accountant may have simply needed to keep your accounts in order, prepare your tax return and make sure everything was filed on time. But businesses change.

This could mean a variety of factors: your turnover grows, you take on employees, your tax position becomes more complicated, cash flow becomes more important, you start making bigger decisions about investment, growth and the future of your business.

Sometimes, the accountant you started with isn't necessarily the accountant you need now. Here are five signs that your business may have outgrown its accountant.

1. You only hear from your accountant when something is due

If the only communication you receive is a reminder about your accounts, VAT or tax return, you may be missing out on valuable advice. A proactive accountant should want to understand what's happening in your business - not just what happened last year.

That means talking to you about your plans, identifying potential issues and opportunities, and helping you prepare for what's ahead.

2. You're getting your accounts done, but not getting advice

Having your accounts prepared is important but accounts should tell you more than how much tax you owe.

Your figures can help you understand your profitability, cash flow, costs and overall financial position. They can also help you make better decisions about hiring, investment, pricing and growth. If you're receiving your accounts but aren't getting any real explanation or advice about what they mean for your business, you may be getting compliance rather than genuine support.

3. You don't feel comfortable asking questions

Running a business comes with enough uncertainty without feeling like you can't pick up the phone to your accountant. You should be able to ask questions when something concerns you, whether that's about tax, cash flow, payroll, business costs or a major decision you're considering.

If you're constantly worried about whether you'll be charged for asking a question, or you're waiting days for a response, it may be time to expect more from your accountant.

4. Your accountant isn't helping you plan ahead

Tax planning, cash flow forecasting and financial planning can all help you understand what's coming and prepare for it. For example, a large tax bill shouldn't necessarily come as a surprise. Understanding your expected liability in advance can help you plan your cash flow and consider whether there are legitimate ways to improve your tax position.

The same applies to business growth. If you're thinking about taking on staff, buying equipment, investing in the business or increasing your drawings, your accountant should be able to help you understand the financial implications.

5. Your business has grown, but your accountant hasn't changed with it

Perhaps you started as a sole trader and are now running a limited company, or your turnover has increased significantly. Maybe you have employees, more complicated tax affairs, or bigger financial decisions to make.

As your business becomes more complex, your accountancy needs change too.

You may no longer need someone who simply prepares your accounts. You may need someone who understands your business and can help you make informed financial decisions.

Your accountant should do more than keep you compliant

Of course compliance matters. Your accounts need to be accurate and your deadlines need to be met. However, that shouldn't necessarily be where the relationship ends.

At Culverhouse & Co, we believe accountancy should add value beyond compliance. We work with businesses to understand their numbers, plan ahead, improve financial processes and consider the wider tax and financial implications of important decisions.

If you're wondering whether your business has outgrown its current accountant, there's no need to make a decision immediately. Start with a conversation and talk to Culverhouse & Co about what you need from your accountant.