About the accountancy firms with online booking
An accountancy firm (a gestoría, as it is known in Spain) takes care of the paperwork most people would rather not do alone, such as the annual income tax return, registering as self-employed and filing quarterly taxes, payroll and contracts for a small company, residency and immigration formalities, inheritances, or transferring a vehicle into your name. Many firms also give tax and employment advice, and each one lists on its page which matters it handles and when it is open.
The most common booking is a first consultation, which is usually free and without obligation. You explain your situation, they tell you what needs doing and what it costs, and you decide. After that come the specific appointments, such as the tax return during the filing season (April to June), self-employed registration, a follow-up on a matter already under way, or signing documents once everything is ready.
A first consultation or a query about one piece of paperwork takes about 30 minutes. The tax return appointment, around 45 if you bring everything. Self-employed registration, close to an hour, as the activity code, VAT regime and obligations all need going through. Signing documents, 15 minutes.
Before you go, gather what you are asked for when you confirm, such as your DNI or NIE, your digital certificate or Cl@ve if you have one, the draft tax return, receipts for expenses or title deeds, depending on the matter. Arriving with complete paperwork means the appointment counts and you will not need to repeat it. If you cannot make it, cancel from the link in your email so someone else can take the slot.
Frequently asked questions
Is the first consultation at an accountancy firm free?
At many firms it is, and they say so on the service when you book. It is a short appointment to explain your situation and find out which formalities are needed and what they cost. It does not commit you to anything.
What do I need to bring to my tax return appointment?
Your DNI or NIE, the draft return or your tax data from the Agencia Tributaria if you already have them, and the receipts that affect your return, such as rent, mortgage, donations, nursery fees, births or job changes. A digital certificate or Cl@ve login saves the firm a lot of time.
How long does registering as self-employed take?
The appointment usually lasts close to an hour, because the activity, its code, the VAT regime and the monthly contributions are all gone through. Registration with the tax office and Social Security is filed on the spot or over the following days. The firm will tell you when it takes effect.
Can I book for a matter that is not on the list?
Yes. Book a paperwork consultation and say what it is about in the notes (an NIE, a padrón registration, a vehicle transfer, an inheritance). If the firm does not handle it, they will tell you before the appointment.
Will I always see the same adviser at the accountancy firm?
If the firm shows its team, you can choose who to book with and book the same person next time. For follow-up appointments it makes sense to ask for whoever already knows your matter.
Can I just walk into an accountancy firm?
It depends on the firm. During the tax return season hardly any see people without an appointment. With one, you know they are expecting you and that the time is held for you.