Why Does This Checklist Matter?
The UK GDPR badge still sits with you, the accounting practice, even when day-to-day work happens abroad.
A good outsourcing partner already bakes compliance into its service; this checklist simply shows you how the basics slot into place.
The 5-Step GDPR Checklist:
Step 1 - Map your data
List the personal data overseas staff will touch—NI numbers, payroll, VAT IDs, bank feeds.
Step 2 - Sign the right contract
Add a plain-English data-processing addendum covering confidentiality, breach-report timing, and audit rights.
Step 3 - Secure cloud-only access
Give staff log-ins to your cloud apps; block local downloads; turn on MFA.
Step 4 - Brief the people
Run a 30-minute annual update on GDPR basics & phishing red flags; keep the attendance log.
Step 5 - Review once a quarter
Tidy user lists, rotate passwords, confirm no breaches – store evidence.
Quick Best-Practice Cheat Sheet
Policy – Keep a single-page data-handling policy everyone signs.
Process – Use task templates (never email spreadsheets).
Tech – Encrypt in transit (TLS) and at rest (default in Xero/QBO).
People – Screen hires, sign NDAs, test phishing quarterly.
Proof – Screenshot security dashboards; regulators love evidence.
FAQs for Accounting Firms:
Below are frequently asked questions about GDPR for accounting firms, along with quick answers to help you stay informed.
Yes, a two-page data-processing addendum clarifies responsibilities
Cloud encryption covers the tech. The other 20% is simple process-mapping, contracts, access reviews
Find out more about offshoring vs outsourcing
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