Help Centre Frequently asked questions
Clear answers about our services, how we work and what to expect. Can’t find your question? Call or message us.
General
What services does Coreinfo offer?
Coreinfo offers internal audit, virtual CFO services, GST and income-tax consultation, accounting and ERP advisory, HR and payroll consultancy, accounting and reporting, corporate finance advisory, SOP design and implementation, and startup consultancy.
Do you offer startup consultancy, accounting and GST services in Chennai?
Yes. We offer startup consultancy, accounting and bookkeeping services, and GST and income tax consultation in Chennai. All three are handled by the same team, so your plans, books and tax filings stay in sync.
Do you work with startups as well as established companies?
Yes. We support startups, SMEs and corporate organisations. Founders get help with planning and building strong foundations, while established businesses get support to optimise processes, financial systems and growth plans.
Where is Coreinfo located?
Our office is in Ramapuram, Chennai, and we also serve clients in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Qatar.
How do we get started?
Book a call or send us a message. We will understand your business, its stage and its challenges, then recommend a consulting approach tailored to your goals.
Internal Audit
View serviceHow often should an internal audit be done?
Most businesses do it quarterly or half-yearly. High-risk areas such as cash, purchasing and inventory may need monthly checks. We help you choose the right frequency based on your size and risks.
How long does an internal audit take?
It depends on the size of your business and the areas covered. A focused review of one area can take a few days, while a full audit of a mid-sized company may take a few weeks. We agree the timeline with you before we start.
Will an internal audit disturb my team’s daily work?
Very little. We plan our requests in advance, work around busy periods and keep meetings short. Most of the review is done with documents and system data.
Can our statutory auditor do the internal audit too?
No. Section 144 of the Companies Act, 2013 does not allow the statutory auditor to provide internal audit services to the same company. You need a separate internal auditor.
Is internal audit only for large companies?
No. Startups and SMEs often benefit the most, because they usually have fewer checks in place. A simple internal audit can stop small problems from becoming expensive ones.
What will I receive at the end of the audit?
A clear report that lists each finding, its risk level (high, medium or low), the root cause, our recommendation, and the person and date agreed for fixing it. We also walk you through it in a meeting.
Is our business information kept confidential?
Yes. Everything we see during the audit is treated as strictly confidential and used only for the audit.
Do you provide internal audit services outside Chennai?
Yes. Along with Chennai, we work with clients in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Qatar, and we can carry out parts of the audit remotely.
Virtual CFO Services
View serviceWhat is the difference between an accountant and a virtual CFO?
An accountant records transactions and prepares statements about what has already happened. A virtual CFO uses those numbers to plan ahead: budgets, cash flow, pricing, funding and growth decisions.
Is a virtual CFO only for big companies?
No. Virtual CFO services are designed for startups, SMEs and growing businesses that need senior finance advice but are not ready for a full-time CFO.
How much time will the virtual CFO spend with us?
It depends on your needs. Most businesses start with a fixed number of days or hours each month, plus a monthly review meeting. You can increase or reduce this as you grow.
Do we need to change our accounting software?
Usually not. We work with common systems such as Tally, Zoho Books and QuickBooks. If your current setup is holding you back, we will explain why and suggest options.
Can a virtual CFO help us raise funds?
Yes. We prepare financial models, projections and reports that investors and banks expect, and help you get ready for their questions and due diligence.
Will you work with our existing accountant and auditor?
Yes. We coordinate with your accountants, auditors and tax advisers so everyone works from the same numbers.
Is our financial information kept confidential?
Yes. All your financial information is kept strictly confidential and used only to support your business.
GST & Income Tax Consultation
View serviceHow do I find a good GST consultant in Chennai?
Look for a team that handles both GST and income tax, explains things clearly, files on time and can meet you in person when needed. Coreinfo’s office is in Ramapuram, Chennai, and we support businesses across the city.
Does my business need GST registration?
It depends on your turnover, what you sell and where you sell. Some businesses must register once their turnover crosses the limit, and others, such as those selling across states or online, may need to register earlier. We will check your case and tell you clearly.
What happens if I file my GST return late?
Late filing usually means late fees and interest on any tax due. It can also delay your customers’ input tax credit, which hurts business relationships. We help you file on time and catch up on any missed returns.
What is input tax credit?
It is the GST you paid on your business purchases, which you can reduce from the GST you collect on sales. To claim it, your supplier must also file their returns correctly, which is why monthly reconciliation matters.
I received a tax notice. What should I do?
Do not ignore it, and do not panic. Read the deadline, collect the related documents and get expert help. We review the notice, prepare a clear reply and support you until it is closed.
Do you file income tax returns for salaried individuals?
Yes. We file returns for salaried individuals, professionals, business owners and companies.
Can you help us save tax legally?
Yes. We review your income and expenses and help you use the deductions and exemptions the law allows. We do not recommend shortcuts that create risk later.
How much does GST and income tax consultation in Chennai cost?
It depends on what you need: a single return, monthly GST filing, or ongoing GST, TDS and income tax support. We agree the scope and fee with you upfront, so there are no surprises.
Which documents do you need to start?
Usually your PAN, GST login details if registered, bank statements, sales and purchase records, and earlier returns. We send you a simple checklist so nothing is missed.
Accounting & ERP Advisory
View serviceHow do I know if my business needs an ERP?
If your teams work in separate tools and spreadsheets, your stock and accounts often do not match, or reports take days to prepare, it may be time. Take our health check above or speak to us for an honest opinion.
Do you sell software?
Our role is to advise you on the right fit for your needs, not to push a particular product. We help you compare options and make a clear decision.
Will we lose data when we move to a new system?
Not if the move is planned well. We back up your data, migrate opening balances and the history you need, and reconcile everything before you go live.
How long does an ERP implementation take?
A simple accounting system can be ready in days. A full ERP usually takes several weeks to a few months, depending on how many modules, users and locations are involved.
Can you train our accounts team?
Yes. We train your team on the system and on good accounting practices, so they can use it confidently on their own.
Do you handle accounting for foreign subsidiaries?
Yes. We support accounting for foreign entities under IFRS, alongside Indian reporting requirements.
HR & Payroll Consultancy
View serviceIs outsourcing payroll safe?
Yes, when done with a trusted partner. Salary information is kept strictly confidential, and access is limited to the people who need it to process payroll.
Which statutory deductions do you handle?
We handle the common payroll deductions and filings, such as PF, ESI, professional tax and TDS on salaries, based on what applies to your business and employees.
We have only 10 employees. Do we need HR policies?
Yes. Even a small team benefits from clear rules on leave, conduct, working hours and benefits. Written policies prevent confusion and protect both you and your employees.
Can your HR system connect with our ERP?
Yes. We can set up an HR and payroll system that works on its own or connects with your existing ERP modules.
What kind of roles do you help hire?
We support executive and technical hiring, with a special focus on accounting and finance roles.
Do you offer training for our existing staff?
Yes. We offer functional skills, soft skills, managerial skills and accounting system or ERP training.
Accounting Services
View serviceHow much do accounting services in Chennai cost?
It depends on how many transactions you have each month, the reports you need and whether you want full outsourcing or support for your own team. We agree a clear monthly scope and fee with you upfront.
What is the difference between bookkeeping and accounting?
Bookkeeping is recording daily transactions. Accounting includes bookkeeping and goes further, preparing financial statements, analysing results and making sure everything is correct.
What is an MIS report?
An MIS (Management Information System) report is a short report for owners and managers. It shows key numbers like sales, profit, costs and cash, so they can make quick, informed decisions.
Which accounting software do you work on?
We work on common platforms such as Zoho Books, Tally and Xero, and adapt to the setup you already use.
Can you update books that are months behind?
Yes. We can complete pending entries, reconcile the accounts and then move you to a regular monthly routine.
How do we share documents with you?
We agree a simple, secure method that suits you, such as shared folders or direct access to your accounting software, along with a monthly checklist.
Do you provide accounting services for small businesses in Chennai?
Yes. Many of our clients are startups and small businesses in Chennai that do not need a full-time accountant but want accurate books and monthly reports.
Will you replace our in-house accountant?
Not unless you want us to. Many clients use us to support their accountant with reviews, closing and reporting.
Corporate Finance Advisory
View serviceShould I raise money through a loan or from investors?
It depends on your stage, cash flow and growth plans. Loans let you keep full ownership but need regular repayments. Investors do not need fixed repayments but take a share of your business. We help you compare both for your situation.
Do you help startups raise funds?
Yes. We help startups with funding strategy, investor readiness, financial models and planning that can scale as they grow.
What is debt refinancing?
It means replacing an existing loan with a new one on better terms, such as a lower interest rate or a longer repayment period, to reduce pressure on cash flow.
What is financial due diligence?
It is a detailed check of a business’s financial records before a deal. It confirms the numbers are real and highlights risks, so buyers and investors can make an informed decision.
How long does it take to raise funds?
It varies with the type and size of funding. Being well prepared, with clean financials and a strong plan, is the best way to speed it up.
Is our deal information kept confidential?
Yes. All deal discussions and documents are handled with strict confidentiality.
SOP Design & Implementation
View serviceWhat should an SOP include?
A good SOP includes its purpose, the steps in order, who is responsible for each step, approvals and checks, documents or templates needed, and what to do when something goes wrong.
How long does it take to write SOPs?
A single process can be documented in a short time. A full department or company-wide manual takes longer, depending on how many processes are covered. We agree the timeline at the start.
Will SOPs make my business rigid?
No. Good SOPs remove confusion on routine work, which frees your team to focus on problem-solving and customers. We keep them simple and update them as you change.
Do you help the team actually follow the SOPs?
Yes. We test the SOPs with your team, train them and support the roll-out, so the procedures are used and not just filed away.
Can SOPs help with internal audits?
Yes. Clear SOPs with defined controls make internal and statutory audits smoother and reduce audit findings.
Which departments do you cover?
Finance and accounting, procurement, sales, inventory, HR, payroll and other operational functions.
Startup Consultancy
View serviceWhat does a startup consultant do?
A startup consultant helps founders plan and build their business. This includes market research, business plans, financial planning, setting up systems and processes, and guidance on growth and funding.
How much does startup consultancy in Chennai cost?
It depends on what you need, such as a business plan, a feasibility study, a setup package or ongoing advice. We agree the scope and fee upfront after understanding your startup.
I only have an idea. Is it too early to talk to you?
No. The idea stage is the best time to test the market and plan properly, before you spend a lot of money.
What is a feasibility study?
It is a study that checks whether a business idea can work. It looks at market demand, competition, costs, pricing and expected profits, so you can decide whether and how to go ahead.
Can you help us raise money for our startup?
Yes. We prepare the business plan, financial model and documents investors look for, and help you get ready for their questions. Our corporate finance team can support the fundraising itself.
Do you help with accounting and compliance after launch?
Yes. We can set up your accounting system and support you with bookkeeping, GST, income tax and other compliance as you grow.
Do you work with startups outside Chennai?
Yes. We work with founders in Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Qatar, and much of our work can be done online.
Still have a question?
Talk to a Coreinfo consultant in Chennai. We will give you a clear, straight answer.
