10 Criteria for Choosing the Right CPA to Grow Your Small Business

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WelcomeSpaces
Jan 30, 2023

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Having a good accountant on your side is essential for any small business, no matter how small the company may be. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) has the training and qualifications to help your business succeed. To be sure you are getting the best CPA for your small business, here are the top 10 qualities you should look for. 

1. Knowledge and Experience

A CPA should have extensive knowledge and experience in accounting and financial management. This is especially true when dealing with taxes and financial audits. Not only should they be able to work with you to help you understand your finances and tax obligations, but a CPA should also be able to make accurate recommendations to you on how to best manage your finances.

2. Reputation

It is important to assess the reputation of your potential CPA. Research existing and former clients to get their opinion on the CPA and their services. Ask questions about the CPA’s experience, quality of work and reliability. Also, look for reviews online that address their services and customer satisfaction.

3. Communication

Your CPA should be able to communicate in a way that is easy for you to understand. This includes having the ability to explain taxes and finances in plain English, taking the time to answer your questions and responding to emails and phone calls in a timely manner.

4. Integrity

Your CPA is one of the few people that you should be able to trust with your finances. A quality CPA should demonstrate ethical behaviour and represent your business in a professional manner. They should provide honest advice and be open and transparent about how they charge for their services. 

5. Flexibility

A good CPA should have the ability to adjust their services to suit your needs. They should have the flexibility to answer any questions you have and be willing to provide assistance as your business grows.

6. Reliability

You should be able to rely on your CPA to deliver accurate results on time. Clients should be able to trust their CPA to stay on top of their tasks, meet deadlines and provide sound advice. A CPA that cannot be relied upon can end up costing you a lot of money.

7. Confidentiality

All the information you provide your CPA should be highly confidential. They should be able to guarantee the safety of your data and not release any confidential details to a third party.

8. Professionalism

It is important that your CPA be a professional in every aspect. They should be able to work with you in a timely manner and demonstrate courteous behaviour. 

9. Proactivity

 Your CPA should be able to offer proactive suggestions and advice to help you grow your business. They should make recommendations regarding financial planning, budgeting and other financial topics that would be relevant to your situation. 

10. Technology

A good CPA should be able to utilize the latest technology. This ensures that your financial information is always being accurately managed and that the CPA can provide efficient services. 

It is essential that you take the time to perform the necessary research in order to find the best CPA for your business. You can also take a look at this list of 10 crucial questions to ask when hiring your first CPA. Throughout your hiring process, make sure to consider the 10 criteria listed above to ensure you get the knowledgeable, dependable, and experienced CPA that your company requires to reach its full potential!

Start your search for a CPA here!

Find the perfect chartered professional accountant for your needs in our directory
Browse our CPAs
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