Looking for fast and easy tips for hiring a good accountant for your business or individual finances? There are many experts that you need in your life to ensure that things run smoothly. From your doctor to your dentist, each professional you hire is there to provide their expertise and solve your problems. In each case, it's important that the staff you select are a good match for your personality and your requirements.
A good accountant is no different. They are worth their weight in gold, ultimately assisting you in maximizing your income and minimizing those taxes. So what are you waiting for? Here are my top tips to ensuring you hire the best accountant for your needs.
Fast and easy tips for hiring a good accountant
Knowing what you want is by far and away the best tip there is. What exactly are you hoping to get from your accountant? Do you need them to prepare your taxes or sort out your financials? Understanding your needs is the first step in sourcing a good accountant.
Ask the right questions
Not every accountant will be the ideal candidate for you. Therefore, prepare a list of questions to get to the bottom of exactly what they are offering to avoid any surprises. Do they provide monthly bookkeeping as well as business taxes? What exactly can you expect to pay for their services?
Get a referral from a personal contact
Like a good hairdresser, finding a professional that 'gets' you can be a challenge. Ask around and see if there is an accountant that somebody near and dear to you recommends. Find out what they like about them. Ask them what services they are given and at what price.
Double check their qualifications and experience
Don't be swayed by the promise of a large check following your tax return submission. Always confirm their qualifications and experience thoroughly. If in doubt, ask them for a reference so you can verify they are as good as they say they are.
Understand what they need from you
Make sure you know what is expected of you up front. Can you do everything that is required from your perspective? Do you need to visit their office and supply them with physical paperwork, or will electronic copies sent through email be suitable? Does the way they operate meet your expectations?
Gauge their availability
Accountants may not be known for their customer service skills, but it is still an important and real aspect of their job. If you don't hear from them for days, perhaps they are not the one for you. You need to know that you can get a hold of them when you need them the most.
Consider whether you need a specialized service
Not everyone has the same accounting requirements, and there are many situations which require a specialist's touch. Ask them specifically whether they have the experience to help you. Do their regular services cover your requirements? Or do you need to pay over and above to get the assistance you need?
Undertaking the legwork before you hire is vital to a successful match. There is no shortcut when it comes to hiring a good accountant, so make sure you do your homework before you sign on the dotted line.