Looking for an Accountant?

Question

What qualities should I look for when seeking the services of an accountant

Answer 1

You need to find one that deals extensively in the area you require the skills. For instance, going to a "Big 4" accounting firm probably isn't such a great idea if you're a small business owner. On the other side of the coin, if you have a large, multi-national business, a local cpa firm may not be able to handle the complexities involved.

Another issue to ask about is billing procedures. How does the accountant bill-by the hour, quarter hour, 1/8 hour, etc., and how much would the typical yearly fee be for a business like yours?

Also, you have to consider how much "hand holding" you're going to need. Many firms simply don't have the time or the resources to give you the "full service" you might think you need-doing sales tax for you, dropping off or picking up work from your site, etc. If these are services you're going to need, be clear up front what level of service you require from the accountant.

The other issue, which is more personal than professional, is how well you can communicate with your accountant. Remember, this is someone that you're trusting your business with, in a manner of speaking. I've been an accountant for over 20 years (boy, that hurts to say that!) and I probably knew more about my clients' businesses than their spouses did. Your accountant needs to be someone with whom you can build a long term relationship with-kind of like choosing a doctor or dentist.

Good luck!

Answer 2

We are a family of business people and the only professionals we use are from recommendation, believe me when I tell you, they are all out for themselves.
What I am saying is ask someone you know who has used an accountant before and been happy with the service.