Legal and business services
Lawyers, notaries, accountants, tax advisers, company formation agents and translators. A good adviser can save you far more than they cost, but you need to know what you are paying for.
Accountants and tax advisers
In many countries, anyone may call themselves an accountant, while titles such as Chartered Accountant or Certified Public Accountant are protected. Check membership of the relevant body, such as ICAEW or ACCA in the UK, or a state board of accountancy for CPAs in the United States. Ask whether the adviser has experience with your situation, such as cross-border income or a particular industry, and whether they carry professional indemnity insurance.
Company formation agents
Agents can register a company quickly, but you remain responsible for what is filed. Ask for copies of every document, check that the company is registered in your name on the public register, and find out what ongoing filings and fees will follow.
Notaries and translators
The role of a notary varies a great deal between countries. Documents for use abroad may need an apostille, which countries in the Hague Apostille Convention accept in place of further legalisation. Ask the receiving authority whether it needs a certified translation and who may certify it.
Before you hire anyone
- Get the scope of work and the fee in writing.
- Ask who will do the work day to day.
- Ask how you will be kept informed and how often.
- Find out how to complain and to whom.