By Chinedu Onyejelem

A Dublin-based accountant is leading the change in bookkeeping with a new smartphone app.

Emeka Ikwukeme of ieaccounts says the Tax Go app for iOS – also available on Android as ieaccounts Tax Calculator – was developed “to ease the pain of taxpayers”.

Users of the app can receive instant estimates on their tax returns, while the company’s staff will then “go through your circumstances with you to make sure that your claim is perfect and all tax allowable is factored in, making [your return] efficient.”

Ikwukeme adds that having the app available 24 hours a day, seven days a week means that his business could eventually grow into an international brand, focussing on self-employed people like plumbers, electricians and mechanics. 

“With our app they will be able to manage their taxes, accounts and payroll from anywhere once there is internet connection,” he says.

The app is currently available in Ireland and the UK, where users have been facilitated to claim their tax refunds “efficiently”.
 
And Ikwukeme says his business is currently working on launching the tax calculator in France, as well as discussing with Dublin City Council’s Local Enterprise Office with a view to expanding into more countries.

It’s an impressive development for a side business that Ikwukeme started seven years ago as a sole trader.

The certified public accountant ramped up into full operations in 2015, providing accounting and taxation services with efficiency as his key selling point.

Ikwukeme’s services include calculation of tax refunds and returns, tax planning, company formation and structure, as well as payroll management.

While he says the business is doing well, Ikwukeme notes his biggest challenge so far has been making his customers aware about “the tax advantages available when you are working with the right accounting firm.

“As you know, most people hate change and [our app] is basically having your financial affairs at your fingertips, on the go.”

When asked for advice for fellow immigrant entrepreneurs in Ireland, Ikwukeme reminds that starting your own business “is a skill and it goes with a lot of ups and downs” depending on the business sector.

“In my opinion, most immigrant entrepreneurs lack the basic requirements when setting up a business, which are first-year projection, initial capital and target market.” 

Immigrants in Ireland also lack role models in the Irish entrepreneurial scene, he adds.

But most of all, says Ikwukeme, it’s important to get noticed.

“If possible, create a brand to stand out from the crowd.”