James Todd & Co, chartered accountants in West Sussex, has achieved Xero Platinum Partner status with the software provider. Platinum is the top recognition a company can be awarded, maximising the benefits passed onto financial services clients.
Xero is a tech company that offers advanced, AI-enabled and MTD-compatible bookkeeping and accountancy software designed for businesses looking for solutions that make accounting faster and less exposed to error – while integrating with other applications, including business bank accounts and ecommerce platforms.
Around 200,000 UK accountants, alongside 3.7 million worldwide subscribers, use the software, making it one of the most popular applications.
The Xero Partner Program Explained
The software firm introduced its partnership scheme to enhance collaborations with accountancy practices and consultants, awarding points to professional users who invite clients to the software. Points are accumulated based on Xero usage, clients onboarded and the number of subscriptions for which the accountant is an advisor.
Each status level awarded is progressive, including the benefits of the former, lower levels plus additional advantages or services:
1. Partners – begin by accessing Xero certification courses to become verified Xero Advisors.
2. Bronze Partners – receive access to conversion mechanisms to offer streamlined transitions to cloud-based accountancy for their clients.
3. Silver Partners – have upgraded benefits such as a Xero Account Manager with digital work and time management resources.
4. Gold Partners – must have at least one staff member with a Xero Advisor certification.
5. Platinum Partners – the final status is awarded to accountancy firms that maintain 1,000 or more Xero Partner points, with one team member currently a certified Xero Advisor.
As a newly recognised Platinum Partner, clients working with James Todd & Co can access the full suite of resources and functions, including information guides, additional capabilities and conversion tools ideal for clients needing a swift and effortless transfer from legacy accounting systems.
Business Benefits of Working With a Xero Platinum Partner
Part of the criteria within the Xero partnership initiative is that accountancy firms must have a minimum number of colleagues who hold a valid certification in the software. These achievements are not one-off assessments but require accountancy professionals to complete four annual updates and meet other ongoing eligibility requirements.
Xero Advisors receive tuition to remain fully up to speed with the software, including new features and automation elements as they are rolled out. Qualified Advisors progress through a series of learning modules. However, those with a strong understanding of the cloud-based platform can skip to the assessment process first but must still meet renewal requirements every 12 months.
For clients, the primary advantage is the assurance that their accountant has a comprehensive knowledge of the platform and the cloud-based accountancy and bookkeeping functions that will be most beneficial.
Others prefer to use a verified Xero Partner as they need an advanced level of expertise or a comprehensive Xero review from a Xero demo company that understands features such as automated bank reconciliations, importing data from existing systems, and utilising the accounting tools that are compliant with Making Tax Digital legislation.
Businesses working with approved Xero Partners can also access marketing and other resources hosted by the platform, available to practices with Bronze Partner Status or above.
Remaining Up to Date With AI and Cloud-Based Accounting Programmes
Michelle Buzzard, James Todd & Co partner and FCA, says, ‘We're delighted to have achieved Platinum Partner status, which reflects our conviction that advanced accounting systems are the ideal way for our clients to leverage the benefits of technology to streamline their bookkeeping and record keeping.
Achieving the Platinum Partner level requires a sustained 1,000 Xero points or above. With a growing proportion of clients keen to use functions that allow us to remotely log in to their dashboards to assist with records preparation, management accounting, payroll processing and general oversight, we are confident we will remain a Platinum Partner for the foreseeable future.
Adding Xero Advisor to our extensive accreditations and qualifications as highly experienced and established accountants, auditors, and business consultants puts us in a great position to stay at the forefront of developments that further augment the way secure cloud-based accounting slots into fast-growth business environments.
Clients interested in evaluating the costs and benefits of switching to Xero, keen to understand how the migration process works are welcome to get in touch, organise a complimentary Xero Review or request a demonstration.’
Read more about James Todd & Co - How To Get Business Bookkeeping Under Control - The Long Term Approach
About James Todd & Co
James Todd & Co have been providing accounting services for more than 30 years across Chichester, Fareham, and Lavant for Sussex and Hampshire businesses. Their clients trust them to provide bookkeeping, financial auditing and compliance, management accounting and financial advisory services.
Media Contact:
Angie Daniels
James Todd and Co
01243 776938
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Source Company: https://www.jamestoddandco.co.uk/
