7 Questions to Ask When Finding the Right Accountant

Accountants play a crucial role in helping individuals and businesses manage their finances. They are responsible for analyzing financial records, preparing tax returns, and giving financial advice. Therefore, choosing the right accountant is a critical decision that should be taken seriously.

This blog will explore critical questions you must ask when finding the right accountant.

1. What Are Your Qualifications and Experience? 

You must ensure the accountant has the proper credentials to handle your financial affairs. Look for an accountant who is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or a Chartered Accountant (CA). These certifications demonstrate that the accountant has met particular education and experience requirements.

You also want to ask about their experience working with similar clients. If you’re a small business owner, look for an accountant with experience working with small businesses. 

2. What Services Do You Offer? 

Accountants offer various services, including tax preparation, bookkeeping, financial planning, and auditing. Before hiring an accountant, you need to know what services they provide and whether they can meet your needs.

3. How Do You Bill for Your Services? 

Accountants can bill for their services in various ways, including hourly rates, flat fees, or a percentage of the project’s total cost. You need to know how the accountant bills for their services so that you can budget accordingly. 

If the accountant bills by the hour, ask for an estimate of how many hours they expect to spend on your project.

4. What is Your Availability? 

You need to know how available the accountant will be to answer your questions and handle your financial affairs. You must reach your accountant on time if you have a question or concern. 

Ask about their availability and communication methods. Can you contact them via email, phone, or in person?

5. What is Your Approach to Tax Planning? 

Tax planning is a critical aspect of financial management. You want an accountant who can help you minimize your tax liability legally. Ask the accountant about their approach to tax planning.

Do they stay up-to-date on changing tax laws? Do they have experience working with clients in your industry? Can they guide how to structure your business to minimize your taxes?

6. What Kind of Technology Do You Use? 

Technology has transformed the accounting industry, and you want an up-to-date accountant with the latest tools and software. Ask about the technology the accountant uses to manage financial records, prepare tax returns, and communicate with clients.

Are they using cloud-based software allowing you to access your financial information anywhere? Do they have a secure client portal where you can share sensitive data?

7. Can You Provide References? 

One of the best ways to gauge an accountant’s reputation is by speaking to their past clients. Ask the accountant if they can provide references from clients they have worked with. 

You can contact these clients and ask about their experience working with the accountant. Did they provide quality service and advice? Were they responsive to questions and concerns?

Conclusion

Finding the right accountant is critical for ensuring your financial success. With the abovementioned questions, you can make an informed decision and find an accountant to help you achieve your financial goals.

Don’t let financial management stress you out. Contact Ash CPA for reliable accounting and tax services in Framingham. Our experienced CPAs specialize in individual and business tax returns, audit review and compilation, bookkeeping, non-profit CPA, and tax issue resolution. We’re one of the most trusted accounting firms in Massachusetts, so let us take charge of your finances today!