Reporting · Updated 22 September 2026
Year-end accounts: what to prepare
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A practical starting checklist for organising your records, identifying gaps and agreeing the year-end reporting scope.
A useful year-end file connects the balances in your accounting system to the documents behind them. Start with the checklist below, then agree the precise request list with the professional preparing your accounts.
Agree the work before collecting the records
Confirm the reporting period, entities, applicable framework, delivery date and intended users. Preparing financial statements is different from providing an independent assurance opinion. Tell BMD if a lender or another recipient has specific requirements.
Prepare the core records
- Trial balance and general ledger exported from your accounting system.
- Bank and card statements, together with reconciliations.
- Receivables and payables listings, including items requiring review.
- Fixed-asset records, supporting purchase invoices and disposal details.
- Loan agreements and balances with shareholders or related companies.
- Payroll records, filed returns and relevant supporting calculations.
- Contracts and documented decisions with a financial effect.
Identify matters that need advance planning
If the business holds inventory, agree the counting and reconciliation process before the reporting date. Flag missing records, uncertain balances and related-party differences early. Any independent attendance or assurance work must be arranged separately with an appropriately qualified professional.
Use a clear handover
Group files by period and purpose, use descriptive file names and include a list of outstanding questions. BMD clients can exchange documents and follow requests through the secure client portal. Keep passwords and private financial records out of public enquiry forms and reviews.
Confirm deadlines for your own business
Your legal form, tax regime, financial year and any official extensions can affect the dates that apply. Agree responsibility for reporting and filing separately.
This checklist is a starting point for a conversation about your records. It does not replace an engagement-specific request list.