Many business owners often ask me how do they find a good accountant. So here's a step-by-step guide to selecting and finding a good accountant.
Here's How:
- Build a Referral List: Find at least five accountants by contacting your financial planner, banker, insurance agent, & industry association. Talk with business owners in your industry that you do not compete with directly.
- List Contact: Call the five accountants on your list and ask to discuss their services. Find out the firm's size, their experience in your industry and educational background. Ask them to send information on their billing policies and fees.
- Select Three Best Candidates for Personal Meeting: Choose the accountants that responded promptly to your request and that had an understanding of your business and have fees within your budget.
- Final Interview: Find out if they will work directly on your account or if it is handled by an employee. Will they advise you on an audit, your ownership structure, and provide assistance with analysis of your financial statements?
- Final Selection: Base your selection on the best answers to your questions and the fact that they have other services to grow with your business or meet upcoming challenges. Are they approachable and professional enough for you?
Tips:
- An accountant should be more than a simple tax preparer. You need their advice and guidance in steering your business now and in the upcoming year.
On Unsolicited Advice
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