Attention all entrepreneurs! Are the bills past due? Do you know exactly how much you have in petty cash? Are there receipts falling from your desk and onto the floor? If this sounds like you, then you need to get a good Cincinnati CPA . But, how do you go about finding a reputable CPA? Even in a place like Cincinnati, for example, just consult the yellow pages and under the heading of Cincinnati accountants you'll likely find hundreds of accountants with no way of knowing who's worth calling, and who's not. So, here's a step-by-step guide to locating and choosing a good accountant.
Here's How:
1. Make a list of referrals: Find at least five accountants by contacting your financial planner, banker, insurance agent, and industry association. Ask other business owners about their accountants. Find out who they use and if they are happy with the services their accountant provides. If you don't get any useful referrals using this method, use the phone book and choose several accounting firms. When you call, ask for an accountant who specializes in small businesses. An accountant that usually handles big businesses will not give you the kind of attention and help you will need. Use this information to create a shortlist of prospective accountants.
2. Prepare a short list of questions: Call the accountants you've selected and ask to discuss their services. Find out the firm's size, their experience in your industry and qualifications. Ask them to send information on their billing policies and fees. Make sure your accountant has the appropriate qualifications"for example as a certified or chartered accountant. Its important that 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. After making your initial calls choose two or three accountants to interview in person.
3. Interview candidates: When you first meet a prospective accountant, you will know soon enough if you are compatible business partners. It is important to develop a good relationship and know that your accounts are being handled by someone you can rely on. There's nothing like personal interaction for gauging how well you might work with another person. Besides assessing the accountant's knowledge, see how comfortable you are with them and how well the two of you communicate with each other. Find out if they will work directly on your account or if it is handled by an employee. Discuss any other additional services the accountant provides. Ask to speak to existing clients before signing up. Any decent accounting firm should be happy to arrange this. You should contact at least three accountants in person and settle on which one best meets your requirements.
4. Make your choice: Base your selection on the top answers to your questions and the fact that they offer additional services to provide as your business grows or meet upcoming challenges. Determine if they are approachable yet professional. For small businesses, the best accounting firms are also likely to be smaller in size. They will understand what it's like running a small operation and will have the resources and time necessary to run your finances effectively. Make sure your accountant will keep in touch with your business"not just at year end.
Of all the advisers you are likely to encounter when operating your business, a first-rate accountant is perhaps the most valuable one to have. After all, an accountant isn't just a tax preparer"they can help you make vital plans for the future of your business. Having your finances in order and being timely with payments will enable you to focus on building the business.
About the Author:
Chuck R. Stewart and his wife sought the advice of Cincinnati accountants with their taxes this year. The Cincinnati CPA was a great help.
Get all the information and photos:: http://coringa.info/business/basic-steps-for-find-yourself-an-accountant
0 comments:
Post a Comment