What should you look for in an Accountant?
When choosing a local accountant, consider asking the following questions to ensure you find the right fit for your business:
Qualifications and Credentials:
What are their professional qualifications?
How many years of experience do they have in accounting and tax services?
Are they a member of any professional accounting organizations
Specialization and Industry Knowledge:
Do they have experience working with businesses in my industry?
Can they provide references from clients in similar fields?
How do they stay updated on industry-specific regulations and changes?
Services Offered:
What specific services do they provide (bookkeeping, tax preparation, financial planning, etc.)?
Are there additional services they offer beyond standard accounting?
Fees and Billing:
How do they charge for your services (hourly rates, fixed fees, or retainer)?
Are there any hidden costs or additional charges?
Can they provide an estimate for the services I need?
Communication and Accessibility:
How do they prefer to communicate (email, phone, in-person)?
What is their typical response time for client inquiries?
Are they available during tax season and year-round?
Location and Accessibility:
Consider proximity. A local accountant may offer personalized service and familiarity with local regulations.
Technology and Software:
What accounting software do they use, and are you familiar with the tools they use?
Can they assist with transitioning to digital accounting systems?
Client Reviews and Testimonials:
Can they share any client testimonials or reviews?
Do they have references you can contact?
Confidentiality and Ethics:
How do they handle client confidentiality and data security?
Are they committed to ethical practices and compliance with accounting standards?
Availability for Consultations:
Can they schedule an initial consultation to discuss your business needs?
What information should you bring to the first meeting?
Gut Feeling and Compatibility:
Trust your instincts. Do you feel comfortable and confident working with this accountant?
Is their communication style aligned with your preferences?
Remember that finding an accountant who not only meets your technical requirements but also understands your business goals is essential for your business’s financial health!Â
Contact Ashored for help and support with your bookkeeping and accounting requirements.
