Questions to Ask When Finding an Accountant

Trusting someone to handle your money is scary. You are turning to a professional to rely on them to have the expertise you lack. However, you need to trust that they know their industry and will provide sound advice. There are many questions to ask when finding an accountant that can help you feel assured in the professional you choose to work with.

Ask Yourself What You Need

Many people think that the only reason to hire an accountant is for tax preparation. This couldn’t be farther than the truth. A Certified Public Accountant can examine the broad scope of your financial health, not just your taxes. Make a list of the services you currently need from an accountant so you have a clear picture of what type of professional you should hire.

What Is Your Area of Expertise?

Everyone wants to find the perfect accountant, but the truth is that doesn’t exist. Each individual has a different financial picture. Some accountants may specialize in working with small business owners and others may know how to better help military service members. Try to find an accountant that is familiar with your specific situation to help address those needs.

Have You Ever Worked With Someone in a Similar Situation?

Even if your situation falls outside of their area of expertise, you’ll want to know that they at least have some experience working with this before. It can be unnerving to hire an accountant who has never worked on your type of situation before.

What Documentation Do You Need From Me?

To avoid any confusion, you should directly ask what documentation your accountant is expecting from you. This will allow you to gather everything they need and eliminate looking for documents at the last minute.

Will You Go Through My Financials?

Some tax accountants will only prepare your taxes based off of the information you provide to them. Some will be willing to go through receipts and bank statements to total up your expenses, income, etc. Ask your accountant what services they are willing to provide and what costs you can expect. It may be worth it to you to pay someone to go through your bank statement and to save the time of doing it yourself.

Ask About the Specific Details

There are many pieces of small information that you’ll want to be clear about with your tax professional. Don’t hesitate to go over this list of questions so that you’ll be on the same page.

1. What are the fees for your services?

2. What timeline can I expect to have everything completed by?

3. How do you charge for additional services?

Finding the right accountant is different for each individual. Take your time to assess what services you need. Don’t be afraid to ask about professional experience or what type of continuing education your accountant receives. Email Carolina Money Minders today to see how we can meet your accounting needs.