Choose the Right CPA (Accountant or Tax Advisor) for Your Business

by Maria Marsala

Summary: What do you look for in a CPA? Start right here...

Certified Professional Accountants (CPAs) are more than just individuals who do your yearly taxes. They can advise you on a long list of other services, which may include advice on your accounting system, financial, retirement, estate and tax planning. CPAs are part of a business owner's professional team along with a banker and lawyer. Here are some suggestions on choosing the right one for you and your business.

• Ask for recommendations
  Your local Chamber of Commerce will tell you the names of CPAs who are members. Also, when you attend any type of meeting, or meet other business owners, ask for CPA recommendations from them.
• Use the 60% rule
  Pick a CPA who has 60% of his or her business coming from business owners such as yourself. A CPA is more apt to keep up with the laws specific to clients they deal with most often. If your business is incorporated, make sure that the person specializes in corporate accounting, including financial statements and audits.
• Interview CPAs
  Ask what type of services they do for their clients, how long they've been in business full time, and for references. Don't forget to ask to see their license. Ask them about the benefits of choosing them over another CPA.
• Rates
  Ask about their rates and what those rates include. If they have a rate chart, all the better. Also, ask what their hourly rate is and what the cost would be to answer questions during the year.
• Ask about record keeping
  Ask what computer program they prefer you use for your record keeping and why they prefer that program. Many times, if you use the program they suggest, it can save you some money because they can use your data files. Some even have programs they'll set up especially for you.
• Bring your records to the interview
  Bring a copy of last year's tax return when you interview a CPA. This way your prospective CPA can give you educated estimates as to what their services will cost you.
• How to file
  If you want to save some money, ask how they want your paper files. If you bring your files to them in shoeboxes - hey, many folks do - you will pay to have all that material organized and deciphered! You can save money if you separate the information the way the CPA suggests.
• Corporation vs. individual
  Are you interested in hiring a corporation of CPAs or a CPA that has his or her own business? If you opt for the corporation, find out if you'll be dealing with one particular person, or will it be whoever answers the phone when you call. It's best to build a relationship with one person.
• When do they work?
  What are their hours of operation? Make sure that you can call them at hours that are convenient for you.
• Making a decision
  Interview at least three CPAs. Don't rush this decision. Make sure you have the best CPA and bookkeeper for you and your business!

©2007 Maria Marsala, former Wall Street Fortune 200 executive, business strategist, author and speaker. As founder of Elevating Your Business, Maria helps business owners and independent service professionals work smarter and earn more. Learn more and receive free business tools at ElevatingYourBusiness.com

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