1. Introduction

At Zak Partnership (“we,” “us,” or “our”), protecting your privacy and the confidentiality of your financial information is a top priority. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect your personal and financial data in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and financial regulatory requirements.

2. Information We Collect

We collect and process personal and financial data necessary to provide our accounting, tax, and advisory services, including but not limited to:

• Personal identification details (name, contact details, date of birth)
• Business and financial information (bank details, tax records, payroll information, accounts data)
• Sensitive data related to tax status, earnings, pensions, and financial transactions
• Data from communication channels (emails, phone calls) and website interactions (cookies, analytics)
• Any other information you voluntarily provide for our services

3. How We Use Your Data

Your data is used strictly to:

• Deliver tailored accounting, tax, payroll, and advisory services
• Prepare and submit statutory accounts, tax returns, and compliance documentation to HMRC and other regulatory bodies
• Maintain your client records securely and accurately
• Communicate important updates, deadlines, and regulatory changes relevant to your accounts
• Meet our legal and regulatory obligations, including anti-money laundering (AML) checks
• Improve our services and client experience
• Send marketing communications only with your explicit consent

4. Legal Basis for Processing

We process your personal data based on:

• Contractual necessity (to fulfil our agreements with you)
• Compliance with legal obligations (e.g., tax and financial regulations)
• Legitimate interests (running our business, fraud prevention, client support)
• Your consent (for marketing communications)

5. Data Sharing and Transfers

We do not sell your data. We share your information only with:

• HMRC, Companies House, pension providers, and other statutory bodies as required by law
• Third-party service providers assisting with IT, payroll processing, or compliance, all under strict confidentiality agreements and data protection controls
• Professional advisors or auditors where necessary and with your consent
• Authorities as required by law (e.g., for anti-money laundering investigations)

6. Data Security and Confidentiality

We implement robust security measures, including encrypted digital storage, secure client portals, and restricted access protocols, to protect your sensitive financial data. Our team members are bound by professional confidentiality agreements, consistent with accounting standards and ethical guidelines.

7. Client Confidentiality and Professional Standards

As chartered certified accountants, we adhere to professional codes of conduct which require us to maintain strict confidentiality of all client information. Your trust is paramount, and we will never disclose your information without your consent unless legally obliged.

8. Data Retention

We retain your personal and financial data only for as long as necessary to provide services, comply with legal obligations (such as tax and audit requirements), or defend legal claims. Retention periods typically range from 6 to 7 years following the end of the relevant accounting period, in line with HMRC guidelines.

9. Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access your data and obtain copies
• Request corrections or deletions of inaccurate or unnecessary information
• Object to certain data processing activities
• Request data portability where applicable
• Withdraw consent for marketing communications at any time
• Lodge a complaint with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO)

Please contact us to exercise these rights:
✉️ info@zakpartnership.co.uk
☎️ 0116 220 7646

10. Cookies

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11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy as laws or business practices change. We will notify you of any significant updates via our website or direct communication.