An accountant is very important for the growth of your business. However, people fail to realize it until it is too late. Bookkeepers are kind of underrated in businesses. While they do not do what a CPA does, they communicate with your accountant to keep your records in order. They also make sure you do not miss a deadline and are legally compliant.
As the tax season comes nearer, it is easy to panic, especially if you have not maintained your books the entire year. This is a rookie mistake. It is recommended to hire north palm beach bookkeeping services to get hold of the situation. But, you should be prepared when interviewing these people and know what to ask.
Important questions to ask your accountant during your first meeting
- What services do you offer?
Accountants offer a variety of services for every type of business. However, you might not need all of them. Therefore, make sure to ask the accountant about all the services they provide to ensure they match your business needs. If you need any specific service, reaching out to a specialist in your area is highly recommended.
- What license do they have?
Certified public accountants, or CPAs, are properly trained and know all the aspects of bookkeeping and financial planning. However, not every accountant, like the ones with lesser designations, is skilled enough. Before hiring an accountant, ask them about their credentials or certifications.
- What is their experience?
It is important to know your accountant’s expertise and the types of clients they have worked with before. This helps you get an idea of what services they offer and whether they will fit your needs. Their experience with similar clients helps you determine if they can address any unexpected tax planning issues and find legal ways to minimize your taxes.
- What are their fees?
Asking an accountant about their fees might feel a little awkward; however, it is very important. If their fee is out of your budget, the accountant is definitely not fit for you. You do not need to waste your time and look for another with a lower fee. An accountant’s fees may vary depending on the service the client is asking for.
- What information do they need to prepare your annual tax filing?
Asking your accountant this question is important as it helps you determine if they have organized a tax filing process to reduce the chances of errors and void delays. You do not want an accountant who is unorganized or does not ask you for all the necessary information to avoid delays or errors in the tax filing process.
Once you find the right answers to these questions, you know you have found the perfect accountant for your business. Hire a professional bookkeeper today!