Choosing an accountant in Chandler, AZ may be a daunting task, particularly if you’re just getting started. Still, if you approach it methodically and ask the correct questions, the process becomes a lot smoother. For this reason, we’ve put together 5 questions to ask prospective accountants before making a decision.
Determine what you need from an accountant before hiring one.
Having a clear idea of what you need from an accountant is essential before meeting any potential candidates.
Do you, for example, need a specialized accountant? Does your business operate internationally? Is there a legal requirement that you transmit financial records to a non-affiliated party? Is it enough for an accountant to generate your yearly financial statements, or do you also need monthly management accounts
It is possible to set up a meeting with potential accounting companies to address these questions after doing your research.
- How long has your company been in operation?
One of the most critical roles of an accountant is to ensure that your business thrives rather than merely survives. An accountant who has a history of working with companies and knows the particular problems they confront is essential to your success.
- Is there anybody who can vouch for your abilities?
If you can’t provide references, you’re out of luck. It’s that easy. An accounting firm’s marketing claims must be backed up by references from other businesses, preferably from businesses that are comparable to yours.
It’s best to avoid engaging with an accounting company if they won’t or can’t provide references.
- Do you have a preferred method of communication with clients?
Make it clear up front what kind of contact you intend to have with the accountant. How often will there be meetings, and how much information will be exchanged by email and other technological means?
- Will a single individual be in charge of my account?
Nothing builds confidence between your company and the accounting firm like knowing that a single individual will handle your account.
When it comes to accounting, it’s best to avoid the accounting carousel at all costs.
- How do you feel about a given deduction?
Make an effort to find a pertinent question about a deduction pertaining to your company or sector. If they fumble, the interviewing accountant might not be the best fit for you.
These questions may be used to evaluate a prospective accountant’s suitability. It is crucial to keep asking the same kinds of questions repeatedly to make an informed decision.