Business Details
25 Years
experience
Trusted Accountants in Inverness
Established in 2001, The Long Partnership has built enduring relationships with clients and staff, rooted in trust and expertise. Our firm originated from a previous practice, evolving into a multidisciplinary team while retaining the founding principles of Alan and Helen Long. With decades of combined experience, we specialise in accounting, tax advisory, and strategic business planning for startups, growing businesses, and those navigating transitions. Our approach prioritises understanding clients' unique needs through free, no-obligation consultations, enabling tailored solutions. Serving communities across the Highlands since 1962 through predecessor firms, we combine local knowledge with professional excellence.Our team of chartered accountants and tax advisers delivers compliance services, payroll management, and online accounting solutions, supported by cloud-based technology. Client retention spanning generations reflects our commitment to transparency, reliability, and long-term value. We actively engage with businesses at all stages, from inception to cessation, ensuring continuity and adaptability in dynamic financial landscapes. Our leadership maintains hands-on involvement while fostering a collaborative culture that values both staff and client perspectives. This enduring partnership model ensures sustained expertise and service quality for individuals and enterprises alike.
Services
Accounting Services
Tax Advisory
Business Planning
Payroll Services
VAT Returns
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We offer over 20 years of partnership-led accounting expertise
- Our team includes chartered accountants and tax specialists
- We provide free initial consultations with no obligation
- We maintain client relationships spanning generations
- Our cloud-based systems ensure seamless, secure service delivery
Associations and certifications
- Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants (FCA)
- Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA)
What people say
Long-term relationships
Expert advice
Reliable service
No hidden fees
Local knowledge
Services
Accounting Services
We provide comprehensive accounting solutions including bookkeeping, financial statements, and cloud-based record management. Our services ensure accurate, timely financial reporting tailored to business needs. Clients benefit from experienced chartered accountants maintaining compliance and transparency.
Tax Advisory
Our chartered tax advisers offer strategic tax planning and compliance services. We specialise in navigating complex tax regulations to optimise client financial positions. Services include income tax, corporation tax, and tax-efficient business structuring.
Payroll Services
We manage payroll processing, pension contributions, and statutory reporting requirements. Our systems ensure accurate, timely payments while maintaining compliance with HMRC regulations. Cloud integration allows real-time client access to payroll data.
Business Planning
We offer strategic business planning for startups, growth phases, and succession transitions. Services include cashflow forecasting, investment planning, and exit strategy development. Our approach combines industry expertise with personalised client insights.
VAT Returns
We handle VAT registration, return preparation, and HMRC submissions. Our specialists ensure compliance with changing VAT legislation while identifying potential savings. Cloud-based systems streamline VAT record management for businesses.
People
Alan Long
Director
Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants with over 20 years' experience. Specialises in practice development and compliance. Co-founder of The Long Partnership, maintaining hands-on client involvement.
Helen Long
Director
Chartered accountant specialising in client tax and accounting. Oversees practice operations and payroll. Co-founder with extensive experience in agricultural and small business finance.
Heather
Manager
Experienced chartered accountant managing client portfolios in Inverness. Specialises in business tax compliance and strategic financial planning for local enterprises.
Cathel
Manager
Chartered accountant and tax adviser leading the Elgin office. Provides expert guidance on corporate tax matters and business succession planning for regional clients.
Kirsty
Reception Manager
Client services coordinator handling initial consultations and document management. Ensures seamless communication between clients and accounting teams across multiple offices.
Questions
What accounting services do you offer for startups?
We provide business registration, cashflow forecasting, and tax compliance services tailored to new ventures. Our free initial consultation helps structure your financial foundations.
How do you handle payroll for growing businesses?
Our payroll services include HMRC submissions, pension auto-enrolment, and real-time cloud-based reporting. We scale solutions as your business expands across the Highlands.
Can you assist with business succession planning?
Yes, our specialists develop exit strategies, asset transfers, and tax-efficient succession models. We've guided clients through business sales and retirements since 2001.
What tax advisory services do you provide?
We offer corporation tax planning, VAT optimisation, and personal tax compliance. Our chartered tax advisers ensure regulatory compliance while minimising liabilities.
How accessible are your accounting team?
We have offices in Inverness, Elgin, Kirkwall, and Thurso. Video consultations and cloud accounting systems enable remote support across the Highlands region.
