Tax Scandal Accountant Barred from Finance Body

Zoe Goodchild, also known as Zoe Rosborough, has been expelled from the Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers (IAB) due to allegations of dishonesty and misconduct. This action follows a hearing where she was fined more than £12,000. Goodchild denies the findings and intends to challenge the decision.

In 2023, it was revealed that hundreds of Goodchild's clients incurred substantial bills after wrongly claiming tax rebates via her previous firm, Apostle Accounting. A three-year police fraud investigation remains active. Apostle Accounting itself was previously fined £40,000 by another body for anti-money laundering breaches, leading to Goodchild's exclusion from that institute as well.

Liquidators noted that an insurance policy intended to cover client fees for Apostle Accounting was voided. The company's assets were delayed in sale due to a flea infestation and police seizure of electronic devices and records. Goodchild later established Innovate Accountancy, the subject of the IAB's latest action for failing to declare prior disciplinary actions during membership renewal.

Goodchild, who now styles herself as the "Cashflow Queen" on LinkedIn, was reported to the IAB by Suffolk tax consultant Paul Rosser. Rosser stated her anti-money laundering supervision by the IAB has been revoked, meaning she should not offer financial advice. The IAB confirmed Goodchild is ineligible for future membership, emphasizing their commitment to high professional standards and their role as an anti-money laundering supervisory body.

In response, Goodchild stated she does not accept the dishonesty finding and is challenging that aspect of the decision. She characterized the issue as a disclosure problem stemming from differing interpretations of a membership form, not fraud or client dishonesty. Goodchild maintains she has always acted professionally and cooperated with relevant bodies. Due to the ongoing legal nature, she declined further comment.