4 Steps to Finding the Right Accountant for Your Business

When starting a small business, many owners find they need the assistance of an accountant right from the beginning. Whether it’s filing taxes, financial advice, or compiling financial statements, finding the right accountant can greatly benefit your business.

But how do you find the right accountant for your business? With different specialities, interests, and qualifications, it can be tricky.

To find the right accountant, you need to ask the right questions. I spoke with George Williams, the president and CEO of Boca Bookkeeping, an accounting services firm that provides support to businesses of all sizes. Together, we assembled a list of questions to help match an accountant to your business needs.

1. What does your company need?

Start by determining what your company needs. Do you need help with taxes, daily accounting practices, or financial tracking? Knowing your primary reason for hiring an accountant will help you find someone with the right skills.

2. Who are the main players?

Conduct a search for accountants, considering both local options and online services. Identify a small group of candidates that fit your needs.

3. What is the accountant’s reputation and experience?

Before meeting with an accountant, do some research. Read reviews online or talk to local business owners for background information. This step will help you narrow down your options.

READ MORE  4 Ways to Create a More Employee-Centric Company Culture in 2024

Once you have narrowed your list to the final two, schedule appointments and come prepared with questions. Some important questions to ask include:

Ensure the accountant has extensive experience, especially with businesses similar to yours.

  • What experience do you have with my industry?

Choose an accountant familiar with your industry’s unique needs and issues.

  • Who will I be working with?

Preferably, you want one point of contact for consistency and convenience.

Make sure the accountant can provide all the services you require.

4. How will you be billed?

Before finalizing your choice, understand the accountant’s billing structure. Some accountants charge by the hour, others have flat rates, and some use a combination of both. Additionally, inquire about any potential undisclosed charges.

Don’t wait to ask about potential charges that haven’t been discussed yet. It’s better to be aware before making any commitments than to be surprised by a large bill.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *