4 Questions to Ask a New Accountant
Running a business takes a lot of work. You, as a small business owner knows this all too well. Finding ways to delegate and trim your to-do list is an essential task, one that enables you to continue growing your dream and building your future. When it comes time to partner with an accounting professional, how do you know what services you need, and who would be the best match?
Below are 4 questions that can help you find the accountant for you!
1 – What services do they provide?
Do you need a bookkeeper, a payroll specialist, a controller, or a Chief Financial Officer? Do you know the differences between these jobs? What does a virtual accountant do for a small business? When speaking with a potential accountant, find out if the services provided line up with the needs of your business. It is essential to have an accountant that is competent in all areas that you need their services. Ask them about their certifications, experiences, and how they handle each business individually. This is your business, and you’re putting a significant piece of it in their hands.
2 – Are they virtual and cloud-based?
Many small businesses don’t need an in-house accountant, which is where virtual bookkeeping comes in. QuickBooks and other online accounting software make it easy for a small business to work with a virtual accountant online Virtual bookkeeping has become increasingly popular over the last several years with the help of these incredible software systems and the use of cloud-based services. Connecting with your virtual accountant without having to drive to their business or set up a meeting will save you valuable time and money. You have a partner right on the other end of the computer. Be sure to ask them if they are entirely online and if they are paperless. You don’t need the hassle of piles of paperwork and receipts cluttering your workspace.
3 – Will they help support your growth?
When you started your business, you probably started with basic accounting software to track your revenue and spending. Ask your accountant what the best accounting software would be for your business. Some self-employed business owners use QuickBooks for Self Employed, but this software may not be best for you. Your accountant should also be able to identify crucial parts of your business that could be pain points in spending or ways to save and cut costs based on your current spending habits. Ask them how they can help you grow your business and reach its maximum potential.
4 – Will they help keep your business protected?
Last but certainly not least is the question of security. Virtual bookkeeping and accounting mean having all of your business transactions available with the click of a button. Scammers are becoming more creative every day, and becoming a victim of fraud is not on your to-do list. Ask your future accountant how they can help you from these destructive acts. How will they monitor and identify suspicious activity to prevent fraud? Will they keep a document trail of the transactions and vendors you work with? If there is a potential for fraud, how will they handle it, and what steps will be taken to keep you protected?
Work with the Best
At the end of the day, it is all about who can meet your business’s needs. Ensuring that you find an accountant that can help guide you through crucial pieces of your business life is an important decision. See if their company has won accounting awards or if they have certifications in areas that you need. Research and review every accounting professional you meet with and see if they are trustworthy enough to hold your business in their hands.
If you’d like to discuss your accounting needs, schedule a consultation with the Redmond Accounting experts. We are here to help you and your business succeed!
