What does a virtual CFO actually do?
Closes the month, keeps the forecast honest, sets out the options behind a decision, hire, price change, raise, spend, with numbers attached, and presents that to your board or investors. It is judgement and reporting rhythm, not bookkeeping.
How is a virtual CFO different from an accountant?
Your accountant looks backwards: accounts, tax, filings. A virtual CFO looks forwards: runway, margin, pricing, funding. We do both, so the same underlying data serves the board pack and the statutory accounts.
How much does a virtual CFO cost in the UK?
Far less than the £110,000-plus salary a full-time finance director commands in London, because you buy days rather than a headcount. We quote a fixed monthly fee against a written scope after seeing your ledger and reporting needs.
When is it too early for a virtual CFO?
If you are pre-revenue with a simple cost base and eighteen months of cash, a bookkeeper and a good accountant are enough. It starts paying once you have a payroll, a real forecast to defend, or a raise ahead of you.
What records are needed for virtual cfo services?
Keep bank statements, sales and platform reports, purchase invoices, payroll records, VAT workings, finance agreements and Companies House correspondence. We confirm the exact list at onboarding and identify gaps before a filing deadline becomes urgent.
How much does help with virtual cfo services cost?
The fee depends on transaction volume, record quality, VAT and payroll requirements, historic catch-up and the level of reporting needed. We agree a fixed scope and price before technical work starts, with published packages available on our fees page.
Can you take over virtual cfo services from another accountant?
Yes. We request professional clearance, collect the prior records and authorities, check the next Companies House and HMRC deadlines, and give you one clear handover list. The process is normally completed remotely.
Can virtual cfo services be handled online?
Yes. We work through secure cloud records, scheduled reviews and digital approvals, while keeping a named team available by phone, video call and email. Clients can also visit our Morden office by appointment.
Which accounting software works best for virtual cfo services?
We regularly work with Xero, QuickBooks, FreeAgent, Sage and connected sales or expense apps. The right setup depends on transaction volume, integrations and the reports you need, not simply the software brand.
What tax deadlines matter for virtual cfo services?
The relevant calendar may include annual accounts, Corporation Tax payment and return dates, confirmation statements, VAT returns, payroll submissions and Self Assessment. We map the dates from your company year end and registrations.
