A family business is a company owned and managed by members of the same family. These businesses are often passed down through generations and can range from small shops to large firms.
In the UK, family-run businesses play an important role in the economy. However, they also face unique challenges such as tax planning, succession, and managing roles within the family. That’s why it’s important to have accountants who understand both financial needs and family dynamics. Specialist accounting firms help with long-term planning, tax efficiency, and smooth business transitions.
In this blog, we’ve listed some of the best accountants in the UK who offer expert support to family businesses.
8 Top Accountants for Family Businesses in the UK
Running a family business requires more than just financial know-how; it demands long-term vision, trust, and the ability to manage family dynamics within a commercial setting. Below is a list of trusted UK accounting firms that specialise in supporting family-run businesses through tax planning, succession strategies, and financial growth.
1. Hazlewoods
Hazlewoods is one of the most recognised names when it comes to family business accountants in the UK. Their Family Business Services team provides tailored financial advice, succession planning, and business structuring. They work closely with multi-generational businesses to ensure smooth leadership transitions and long-term stability.
Key services for family businesses:
- Succession and inheritance tax planning
- Shareholder agreements and restructuring
- Business valuations
- Family governance frameworks
- Wealth management advice
With over 100 years of experience, Hazlewoods offers deep insight into the emotional and financial needs of family-run enterprises.
2. Buzzacott
Buzzacott is a London-based firm known for supporting high-net-worth families and their businesses. They offer strategic guidance to help manage both business growth and personal wealth, making them ideal for families balancing ownership, leadership, and legacy.
Key services for family businesses:
- Family business governance
- Tax-efficient structures
- Intergenerational wealth transfer
- Business succession and retirement planning
- Investment advisory
They bring together personal finance expertise with corporate planning — a must-have combination for family businesses preparing for the next generation.
3. Albert Goodman
Albert Goodman has extensive experience working with family businesses, offering practical support across sectors such as agriculture, retail, and manufacturing. Their team helps families manage business finances while preparing for the future.
Key services for family businesses:
- Business and family succession
- Tax mitigation strategies
- Cash flow and profit planning
- Corporate finance and funding support
- Pension and retirement planning
They focus on long-term financial health while reducing risk and ensuring the business remains in the family.
4. Price Bailey
Price Bailey offers a “life stage” approach, helping family businesses navigate every stage from startup to sale or succession. They understand the evolving needs of business owners and offer strategic tax, financial, and leadership advice.
Key services for family businesses:
- Leadership succession planning
- Tax and compliance services
- Trusts and estate planning
- Financial forecasting and business strategy
- Conflict resolution in ownership
Their model supports family firms throughout their entire journey, from setup to exit, making them ideal long-term partners.
5. Rawlinson & Hunter
Rawlinson & Hunter is a boutique accounting and advisory firm that works with high-net-worth families and their enterprises. They offer confidential, high-level advice on structuring businesses for generational growth and tax efficiency.
Key services for family businesses:
- Inheritance and capital gains tax planning
- International structuring
- Family trusts and asset protection
- Private client services
- Long-term investment planning
They blend personal finance with business needs, making them a trusted name in private family business accounting.
6. Saffery LLP
Saffery LLP works with families running agricultural estates, landed businesses, and SMEs. Their advisors offer clear strategies that help clients navigate family governance, succession, and tax complexity with confidence.
Key services for family businesses:
- Family governance support
- Succession planning and exit strategies
- Estate and trust administration
- Personal and corporate tax advice
- Philanthropy and legacy planning
Their deep-rooted expertise in working with landed estates and family companies makes them ideal for legacy-focused businesses.
7. Larking Gowen
Larking Gowen is committed to helping family-run businesses thrive across generations. They offer relationship-led service, focusing on both business performance and personal wealth management.
Key services for family businesses:
- Family shareholder agreements
- Tax and VAT advisory
- Business exit and succession planning
- Conflict-free financial guidance
- Trust and estate advice
Their regional focus and personal approach make them a perfect fit for small to medium family-run businesses.
8. Armstrong Watson
Armstrong Watson specialises in supporting family-owned businesses through business transition, financial leadership, and tax planning. Their team offers a holistic approach that includes emotional and financial factors.
Key services for family businesses:
- Succession and leadership development
- Shareholder planning and restructuring
- Financial reporting and forecasting
- Business growth consulting
- Exit readiness preparation
They understand the personal side of business and help families make smart, sustainable decisions for long-term success.
Read More: Best Accountants for QuickBooks Setup in the UK
Why Choose a Family Business Accountant?
Family businesses are built on trust, values, and long-term goals but they also face challenges that go beyond day-to-day accounting. From managing relationships between family members to planning for leadership transitions and protecting wealth across generations, the financial landscape can be complex. A specialist family business accountant understands these dynamics and offers tailored advice that supports both business growth and family harmony.
Here’s why you need a family business accountant:
- They help balance family roles with business responsibilities
- They guide succession planning for smooth generational handovers
- They offer tax strategies that protect long-term family wealth
- They assist in setting up clear governance and decision-making structures
- They help resolve financial disagreements among family members
- They ensure the business stays stable during key transitions
Read : Why Every Business Needs a Dedicated Accountant in the UK
Secure Your Family Business with the Right Accounting Partner
Running a family business isn’t just about profit, it’s about preserving values, legacy, and relationships across generations. Choosing an accountant who truly understands these dynamics can help you manage tax, succession, and long-term planning with confidence. A specialist family business accountant ensures your finances are structured to support both growth and family harmony. At Quilliam Marr, we offer tailored accounting services designed specifically for family-run businesses in the UK. From inheritance planning to resolving ownership disputes, we guide you with clarity and care so your business remains strong today and secure for tomorrow.
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