Your business needs an accountant and, after some looking, you have some hopeful candidates. Before you make the decision to hire, though, there are some key questions you should ask. Your accountant will be helping you to grow your Portland-based business, after all, and you want to make sure you’re making the right choice.
When considering hiring on an accountant, ask the following:
What are your fees?
You’ll want to know about billing options and what services are covered by the accountant’s fees. For example, many firms will charge an hourly rate, but some will have a monthly rate, which may be more of a deal. Ask what is included in the monthly rate, as this will likely differ from one accountant to the next. While some might include posting cash receipts and disbursements in accounting software, another might also include preparing monthly journal entries, balancing the bank statement, and printing a profit and loss report for you. It’s about more than getting the lowest price. Make sure you’re getting enough bang for your buck with your accountant.
What services do you provide?
Although there are some basic services that accountants generally offer, they may not all offer or specialize in the same types of services. Generally speaking, your accountant can likely assist with monthly bookkeeping, payroll processing/payroll taxes, and taxes and audit representation. However, if the firm you’re hiring from has several accountants on staff, they likely will have different areas of specialization. Those specializations may lend themselves better to your particular business. If you prefer the all-in-one option, though, consider hiring a Certified Public Accountant, as they are qualified to do more, including representing you at a tax audit.
Can you represent me if I get audited by the IRS?
While you may never be audited, it’s still wise to have someone on your side who knows what to expect with the IRS. All CPAs are certified to represent clients before the IRS, but not all accountants are.
Do you have experience with my type of business?
Different business will naturally have different nuances when it comes to dealing with taxes and accounting. Hiring an accountant that understands the particular ins and outs of your business is extremely useful. For example, healthcare professionals such as chiropractors, acupuncturists, physical therapists, psychologists, and so on would benefit from an accountant who is knowledgeable about valuing equipment and accounting for patient receivables.
Business & Accounting Solutions offers quality accounting services to Portland.
Consider hiring the services of Business & Accounting Solutions for the accounting needs of your Portland business. BAS offers a wide range of outsourced CFO services to our Gresham clients. We bring our extensive knowledge and experience in bookkeeping and other accounting services to your business. We are certified in cash flow, finance consulting, and more. Contact us or call at (503) 710-6213. Know someone in need of CFO services? Consider our referral program.