With so many things to know and so much to do as a small business owner, it may be tempting to minimize the challenges of accounting and say, “oh, I can do it myself.” However, hiring the right small business accountant can save you a lot of time and headaches. 

After all, financial management and financial reporting are at the heart of every business. So, it is critical to handle the financial aspects wisely in order to achieve growth and success.

 

When Do You Need an Accountant?

Consider hiring a small business accountant when:

  • You are in a start-up phase and need the assistance of a financial expert to help you with things such as: devising a financial strategy, establishing financial reporting, identifying critical accounting steps and processes,determining the right legal business structure and developing your business plan.
  • You are growing rapidly, and you don’t want to make any missteps in managing the influx of new customers, cash and expenses in order to deliver the best possible profit position.
  • You need help with taxes (especially if the IRS is making inquiries.)
  • You need a business loan to continue your growth.  

Do You Need to Hire A CPA?

With a CPA firm serving as your small business accountant, you can have significantly increased confidence in the management of your finances and taxes. CPA’s are highly trained, certified, experienced, deeply skilled and up to date.

 

Steps to Find the Right Accountant for Your Small Business

In order to find the right small business accountant, start by identifying the services that your business will need, including daily accounting functions, financial advice, loan assistance, tax planning and reporting. Additionally, decide what you as the business owner will need, including face-to-face meetings, the level and frequency of contact, the size of the accounting firm and their physical proximity.

Begin your search by asking for referrals from trusted associates, other business leaders, your bankers and legal advisors. Find out how satisfied they are with their firms. Learn about each firm’s capabilities and industries served. Check each accounting firm’s website to get a deeper picture of the firm. Use the information gathered to develop a short list of possibilities.

Once you’ve done all of that, meet with your potential candidates and ask these questions:  

  • How much experience do you have with small companies in my industry? Are you certified?
  • What are the services you can offer me?
  • How can you help my business grow?
  • Who will I work with and how will we work together?
  • What are your costs and how do you bill?  

Don’t forget to verify credentials and confirm the costs of everything so there are no surprises. 

 

Seek Expert Accounting and Tax Assistance

Contact Estess CPAs, based out of New Orleans, LA and serving the greater New Orleans area, for all your tax and accounting needs. Estess CPAs specializes in serving the needs of small businesses with professional accounting, bookkeeping, tax planning and payroll needs.