# CS & Co — Complete Service & Industry Guide

This is the extended reference for CS & Co (Chris Syrimis & Co.), Chartered Certified Accountants in London. For a summary, see /llms.txt.

## About CS & Co

CS & Co is a firm of ACCA-registered Chartered Certified Accountants and Registered Auditors based at 97 Judd Street, London WC1H 9JG. Founded in 1990 by Chris Syrimis, the practice has grown through experience, knowledge and client satisfaction. The firm provides a comprehensive range of accountancy, tax, audit, and advisory services to individuals and businesses across the UK and internationally.

The firm is registered by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) to carry out tax advisory services and company audit work. This ensures the highest professional standards are maintained.

## Full Team

### Partners
1. **Chris Syrimis FCCA** — Partner. Over 35 years in business. Expertise in helping clients expand internationally. Fellow of the Chartered Certified Accountants. Speaks English and Greek.
2. **Shapour Refahi** — Partner. Over 35 years in business. Specialist in service industries and VAT recovery. Speaks English and Farsi/Iranian.
3. **Stefanos Spyrou FCCA** — Partner. 15+ years with the firm. Specialty area is taxation, helping clients adapt to changing regulations and technology. Fellow of the Chartered Certified Accountants.

### Staff
4. **Keyvan Kiani** — Accountant. 15+ years with the firm.
5. **Niki Lambi** — Payroll Manager.
6. **Akis Antoniou** — Accountant.
7. **Mario Refahi** — Accountant.
8. **Constantinos Syrimis** — Accountant.
9. **Gustavo Camarotte** — Trainee Accountant.
10. **Aliki Syrimis** — Accountant.

## Detailed Services

### Financial Accounts & Audits
Preparation of statutory accounts for limited companies, partnerships, and sole traders. Registered auditors providing audit services for companies requiring statutory audits. We ensure compliance with UK GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

### Tax Returns & Advice
Corporation tax returns, partnership tax returns, and strategic tax advice for businesses. We help minimise your tax liability through legitimate tax planning strategies while ensuring full HMRC compliance.

### Bookkeeping & VAT Returns
Day-to-day bookkeeping, VAT registration, quarterly VAT returns, and VAT advice. MTD-compliant using Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage. We handle flat rate VAT, standard rate VAT, and partial exemption calculations.

### Payroll & CIS Schemes
Full payroll bureau services including RTI submissions, auto-enrolment pension compliance, P11D preparation, and Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) returns for contractors and subcontractors.

### Company Formations
UK company formation, company secretarial services, registered office address, and ongoing compliance. We handle Companies House filings, articles of association, and shareholder agreements.

### Personal Tax Returns
Self-assessment tax returns for individuals, directors, landlords, and high-net-worth individuals. Capital gains tax calculations, rental income reporting, and foreign income declarations.

### Tax Planning & Wealth Management
Strategic tax planning to minimise liability across income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax. Wealth structuring advice for business owners and high-net-worth individuals.

### Property Tax Advice
Specialist property tax advice for landlords, property developers, and investors. Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), capital gains tax on property, and rental income taxation.

### Inheritance Tax Planning
IHT planning strategies including trusts, gifts, business property relief, and agricultural property relief. Will planning coordination with solicitors.

### HMRC Investigations
Professional representation during HMRC enquiries, compliance checks, and full investigations. We negotiate with HMRC to achieve the best outcome and minimise penalties.

### Financial Planning
Independent financial advice on pensions, investments, retirement planning, and protection. Working with qualified financial advisers to create comprehensive financial plans.

### Making Tax Digital (MTD)
Full MTD compliance support including software setup (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage), digital record-keeping training, and quarterly submissions for VAT and income tax.

### Business Development & Consultancy
Strategic business advice, business plans, cash flow forecasting, and management accounts. We help businesses grow through data-driven decision making.

### European VAT Recovery
VAT recovery on business expenses incurred in EU countries. We handle the reclaim process for travel, conferences, and business costs across Europe.

### Research & Development Tax Credits
R&D tax relief claims for SMEs and large companies. We identify qualifying R&D activities and expenditure to maximise your tax credit or reduction.

### Small Business Accounts
Tailored accountancy packages for startups, freelancers, and small businesses. Affordable, fixed-fee services covering accounts, tax, and compliance.

## Industries — Detailed

CS & Co provides specialist accountancy services across 31+ industries. Each industry has unique tax considerations, compliance requirements, and financial challenges that our team understands:

- **Construction**: CIS scheme compliance, reverse charge VAT, contract accounting
- **Restaurants & Hospitality**: Tronc schemes, VAT on food, staff tips taxation
- **IT & Technology**: R&D tax credits, IR35 compliance, software capitalisation
- **Dental Practices**: NHS vs private income, associate agreements, practice valuations
- **Law Firms**: SRA accounts rules, client money handling, partnership taxation
- **Property Development**: SDLT, section 106, VAT on new builds
- **Aviation & Cargo**: Import/export VAT, customs duties, international operations
- **Charities**: Gift Aid, SORP reporting, restricted funds
- **Estate Agents**: Client money accounts, commission structures, branch accounting
- **Pharmaceuticals**: R&D credits, patent box, clinical trial accounting

## Frequently Asked Questions — General

**Q: What services does CS & Co offer?**
A: CS & Co offers tax returns, audits, bookkeeping, VAT returns, payroll, company formations, business advisory, financial planning, inheritance tax planning, R&D tax credits, and HMRC investigation support.

**Q: Where is CS & Co located?**
A: 97 Judd Street, London WC1H 9JG — in Bloomsbury, central London, near King's Cross, St Pancras, and Euston stations.

**Q: Is CS & Co ACCA registered?**
A: Yes, CS & Co is registered by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) for tax advisory and company audit work.

**Q: How can I contact CS & Co?**
A: Phone: 0207 388 4887. Email: info@csandco.com. Office hours: Monday–Friday 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM.

**Q: Does CS & Co help with Making Tax Digital?**
A: Yes, CS & Co is fully MTD compliant and works with Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage.

**Q: Can CS & Co help with HMRC investigations?**
A: Yes, we provide professional representation during HMRC enquiries and investigations.

**Q: What industries does CS & Co work with?**
A: Over 30 industries including construction, hospitality, IT, dental, law firms, property, aviation, charities, and many more.

**Q: Does CS & Co work with individuals and businesses?**
A: Yes — personal tax returns, self-assessment, and financial planning for individuals; full accountancy services for businesses of all sizes.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Tax Returns & Advice

**Q: What is a Self Assessment tax return?**
A: A Self Assessment tax return is a form submitted to HMRC each year to report your income, capital gains, and claim tax allowances. It applies to the self-employed, company directors, landlords, and anyone with income not taxed at source. The deadline for online filing is 31 January following the end of the tax year.

**Q: Do I need an accountant to file my tax return?**
A: While not legally required, using a qualified accountant like CS & Co ensures you claim all available reliefs and allowances, avoid costly mistakes, and meet HMRC deadlines. Professional advice often saves more in tax than the cost of the service.

**Q: What is Corporation Tax and when is it due?**
A: Corporation Tax is a tax on the profits of UK limited companies. The current main rate is 25% for profits over £250,000, with a small profits rate of 19% for profits under £50,000. It must be paid within 9 months and 1 day after the end of your accounting period.

**Q: What tax reliefs are available for small businesses in the UK?**
A: UK small businesses can claim reliefs including the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA), R&D tax credits, Employment Allowance, small business rate relief, and various capital allowances. CS & Co specialises in identifying all reliefs applicable to your business.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Financial Accounts & Audits

**Q: Does my company need an audit?**
A: Most small companies are exempt from statutory audit if they meet two of three criteria: turnover under £10.2 million, balance sheet total under £5.1 million, or fewer than 50 employees. CS & Co can advise whether your company qualifies for exemption.

**Q: What is included in financial accounts preparation?**
A: We prepare full statutory accounts including profit and loss, balance sheet, and notes to the accounts, formatted for Companies House and HMRC submission. We also provide management accounts for internal decision-making.

**Q: How long does the audit process take?**
A: A typical audit takes 1 to two months depending on the size and complexity of your business. CS & Co works efficiently to minimise disruption while ensuring a thorough, independent review of your financial position.

**Q: What is the difference between a statutory audit and a management audit?**
A: A statutory audit is a legal requirement providing an independent opinion on your financial statements. A management or systems audit is voluntary and focuses on evaluating internal controls and operational efficiency. CS & Co offers both services.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Bookkeeping & VAT

**Q: What is MTD for VAT?**
A: Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT requires VAT-registered businesses to keep digital records and submit VAT returns using compatible software. CS & Co is fully MTD compliant and can help you transition to digital bookkeeping platforms like Xero, QuickBooks, or Sage.

**Q: How often do I need to submit VAT returns?**
A: Most UK businesses submit VAT returns quarterly, covering three-month periods. Returns and payments are due one month and seven days after the end of each VAT period. CS & Co handles the entire process, ensuring timely submission and payment.

**Q: Can CS & Co do my bookkeeping at my premises?**
A: Yes. CS & Co offers flexible bookkeeping services either at your business premises or in-house at our central London office on Judd Street. We also cover short-term projects such as holiday or illness cover for your bookkeeping staff.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Payroll & CIS

**Q: What is the CIS scheme?**
A: The Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) is an HMRC scheme requiring contractors to deduct tax from payments to subcontractors and pass it to HMRC. CS & Co handles all CIS registration, monthly returns, and compliance for both contractors and subcontractors.

**Q: Can I outsource my payroll to an accountant?**
A: Yes. CS & Co provides a fully managed payroll service including payslips, P60s, P45s, pension auto-enrolment, RTI submissions, and HMRC compliance. Outsourcing payroll is cost-effective and removes the burden of keeping up with changing legislation.

**Q: What are RTI submissions?**
A: Real Time Information (RTI) requires employers to report PAYE information to HMRC every time they pay employees, rather than at year-end. CS & Co handles all RTI submissions as part of our payroll service, ensuring full compliance.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Company Formations

**Q: How long does it take to form a company in the UK?**
A: With CS & Co, a new limited company can typically be registered with Companies House within 24 hours. We handle all paperwork including memorandum and articles of association, registered office setup, and initial filings.

**Q: What is the best business structure for tax efficiency?**
A: The optimal structure depends on your circumstances. A limited company often provides tax advantages over sole trader status, including lower corporation tax rates and dividend planning opportunities. CS & Co will advise on the most tax-efficient structure for your situation.

**Q: Do I need a company secretary?**
A: Private limited companies are no longer legally required to appoint a company secretary, but having one ensures statutory obligations are met. CS & Co offers ongoing company secretarial services to keep you compliant with Companies House requirements.

**Q: What are the ongoing obligations after forming a company?**
A: You must file annual accounts, a confirmation statement, corporation tax returns, and maintain statutory registers. CS & Co manages all of these obligations so you can focus on running your business.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Personal Tax Returns

**Q: When is the deadline for filing a UK tax return?**
A: The deadline for filing an online Self Assessment tax return is 31 January following the end of the tax year (5 April). Paper returns must be filed by 31 October. Late filing incurs an automatic £100 penalty from HMRC.

**Q: Who needs to file a Self Assessment tax return?**
A: You need to file a Self Assessment if you are self-employed, a company director, earn over £150,000, have rental income, receive foreign income, or have capital gains to report. CS & Co can confirm whether you need to register.

**Q: How much does it cost to have an accountant do my tax return?**
A: Fees vary depending on the complexity of your affairs. CS & Co offers competitive, transparent pricing for personal tax returns in London. Contact us on 0207 388 4887 for a free initial consultation and quote.

## Frequently Asked Questions — HMRC Investigations

**Q: What should I do if I receive a letter from HMRC?**
A: Do not panic and do not respond without professional advice. Contact CS & Co immediately — we will review the correspondence, advise you on next steps, and handle all communication with HMRC on your behalf.

**Q: What is the difference between a compliance check and a full investigation?**
A: A compliance check is a routine review of your tax return to verify accuracy. A full investigation (Code of Practice 9) is more serious and may involve suspected fraud. CS & Co has extensive experience representing clients in both scenarios.

**Q: How long do HMRC investigations take?**
A: Timescales vary depending on complexity. A simple compliance check may be resolved in a few weeks, while more complex investigations can take 12–18 months. CS & Co works to resolve matters as quickly and favourably as possible.

**Q: Can CS & Co represent me at HMRC meetings?**
A: Yes. Our experienced team provides full professional representation at all HMRC meetings, ensuring your interests are protected throughout the process.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Financial Planning

**Q: When should I start financial planning?**
A: The earlier the better. Whether you're in your 20s or approaching retirement, CS & Co can help you build a plan tailored to your goals, risk appetite, and timeline. Early planning maximises the benefit of compound growth.

**Q: What is the difference between financial planning and wealth management?**
A: Financial planning is the broader process of setting goals and creating a roadmap to achieve them. Wealth management focuses specifically on growing and preserving your assets through investment strategies. CS & Co offers both as part of a holistic service.

**Q: Do you offer pension advice?**
A: Yes. We provide independent advice on all types of pensions including workplace schemes, SIPPs, and personal pensions, helping you maximise retirement income.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Inheritance Tax

**Q: What is the inheritance tax threshold?**
A: The current IHT nil-rate band is £325,000 per person, with an additional residence nil-rate band of £175,000 if you leave your home to direct descendants. Married couples and civil partners can combine their allowances.

**Q: How can I reduce my inheritance tax liability?**
A: Common strategies include making lifetime gifts, using trusts, claiming Business Property Relief or Agricultural Property Relief, making charitable donations, and ensuring your will is tax-efficient. We tailor strategies to your specific family circumstances.

**Q: Do I need to worry about IHT if I'm married?**
A: Transfers between spouses and civil partners are generally exempt from IHT. However, planning is still important to ensure both nil-rate bands are used effectively and to protect assets for future generations.

**Q: What happens if someone dies without IHT planning?**
A: Without planning, the estate may face a 40% IHT charge on the value above the nil-rate band, potentially forcing the sale of family assets. Early planning can significantly reduce or eliminate this liability.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Property Tax

**Q: Do I need to pay tax on rental income?**
A: Yes, rental income is taxable and must be reported to HMRC. However, you can deduct allowable expenses such as mortgage interest (at basic rate), repairs, insurance and letting agent fees to reduce your tax liability.

**Q: What is the Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings (ATED)?**
A: ATED is an annual tax payable by companies, partnerships with company members, and collective investment schemes that own UK residential property valued above £500,000. We can advise on reliefs and exemptions that may apply.

**Q: How is capital gains tax calculated on property sales?**
A: CGT on property is calculated on the gain (sale price minus purchase price and allowable costs). UK residents must report and pay CGT on residential property within 60 days of completion. We help you calculate the gain and claim all available reliefs.

**Q: Should I hold property personally or through a company?**
A: This depends on your circumstances, including your income tax rate, plans for the property, and whether you intend to pass it on. We model both scenarios to recommend the most tax-efficient structure.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Making Tax Digital

**Q: What is Making Tax Digital (MTD)?**
A: Making Tax Digital is HMRC's initiative to modernise the UK tax system by requiring businesses and individuals to keep digital records and submit tax information to HMRC using compatible software, rather than traditional paper-based methods.

**Q: Who needs to comply with MTD for Income Tax?**
A: From April 2026, self-employed individuals and landlords with qualifying income over £50,000 must comply. The threshold drops to £30,000 from April 2027 and £20,000 from April 2028.

**Q: What software do I need for MTD?**
A: You need HMRC-recognised MTD-compatible software to maintain digital records and submit quarterly updates. We can help you choose the right software for your business and provide training and setup support.

**Q: How often do I need to submit under MTD?**
A: Under MTD for Income Tax, you must submit quarterly updates to HMRC plus an annual final declaration — that's five submissions per year instead of the current single annual return.

## Frequently Asked Questions — Business Development

**Q: What are management accounts?**
A: Management accounts are detailed financial reports produced monthly or quarterly that help business owners track performance, make informed decisions and plan for the future — beyond what annual accounts provide.

**Q: How can financial forecasting help my business?**
A: Financial forecasting allows you to model different scenarios, anticipate cash flow needs, secure funding from banks and investors, and make confident decisions about growth and investment.

**Q: Do I need a business plan?**
A: A business plan is essential if you're seeking finance, planning expansion or entering new markets. It provides a structured roadmap that demonstrates viability to lenders and stakeholders.

## Frequently Asked Questions — European VAT Recovery

**Q: What is European VAT recovery?**
A: European VAT recovery allows UK businesses to reclaim VAT paid on business expenses incurred in EU countries, such as travel, accommodation, conferences and exhibitions.

**Q: Can UK businesses still reclaim EU VAT after Brexit?**
A: Yes, but the process has changed. UK businesses must now apply directly to each EU country's tax authority under the 13th Directive refund scheme, which has different rules and deadlines by country.

**Q: What expenses qualify for EU VAT recovery?**
A: Common qualifying expenses include hotel accommodation, conference and exhibition fees, fuel, car hire, business entertainment and professional services — though eligible categories vary by country.

## Frequently Asked Questions — R&D Tax Credits

**Q: What qualifies as R&D for tax relief purposes?**
A: R&D tax relief applies to projects that seek to achieve an advance in science or technology by overcoming scientific or technological uncertainty. This includes developing new products, processes or services, or improving existing ones.

**Q: How much can I claim through R&D tax relief?**
A: The amount depends on your company size and the merged scheme rules. Under the current merged R&D scheme, companies can claim an enhanced deduction of 86% on qualifying expenditure, or a 14.5% tax credit if loss-making.

## Location

Central London — Bloomsbury, near King's Cross, St Pancras, and Euston stations. Coordinates: 51.52758, -0.124998

## Key Facts
- Over 30 industries served
- MTD (Making Tax Digital) compliant — works with Xero, QuickBooks, Sage
- HMRC investigation and tax enquiry specialists
- R&D tax credit advisors
- Languages spoken: English, Greek, Iranian/Farsi, Spanish, Portuguese
- Google Maps rating: 5.0 stars (12 reviews)
- Founded: 1990
- ACCA Registered Practice and Registered Auditors