In this article, we will guide you through what to look for when choosing an accountant for your business, so you can find the right professional to help you manage your accounting, bookkeeping, auditing, and tax needs. 

From assessing their expertise to evaluating customer service, professional qualifications, fees, and software compatibility, we’ve got you covered. 

Here are eight things to look for to choose the right accountant and take the first step in reducing your financial stress.

1) The scope of services offered 

When looking for an accountant, consider their expertise and experience. This includes all aspects of accounting, bookkeeping and auditing along with tax advice. 

If you have specific needs be sure your finance professional has experience in that area. Small accountancy firms may not cover everything, but they often have professional relationships with other accountants they can recommend to help you meet specific requirements. 

Look for an accountant that has experience in dealing with similar-sized businesses in your industry so that they understand the challenges and opportunities facing your business. 

2) Customer service and ease of access 

It’s a well-known fact that customer service makes for a great business but for accountants, customer service is equally important. 

When you sign up with an accountant, ensure you’re happy and satisfied with the level of customer service they offer. 

Check what kind of customer service you can expect from your firm, so you know what to expect during your relationship with them. 

Make sure to read through all the information before signing up, so you know exactly what they offer, who they are and how they operate. 

3) Professional qualifications and associations

Ask what professional qualifications they hold and if they’re a member of a recognised accountancy association.

But it’s also important to take into considerations how many years of experience they have and check customers testimonials from clients similar to you.

This will show you they know their stuff and they’re not just paid to have the logo of a recognised professional body on their business card.

4) Fees and packages

It may not be obvious at first, but there are several different options when it comes to accountant packages and fees.

You will find that the most experienced accountants charge higher fees per hour but can also save you more money in the long run since they can process paperwork faster, offering annualised billing.

5) Adequate insurance and covers

It is vital that you choose an accountant who offers adequate insurance and covers for your business.

An unprotected accountant will not only expose themself to legal proceedings, but also the personal assets of their clients.

When choosing an accountant for your business, it’s important to check what additional services the firm offers.

6) Technology and the software

As a business owner, you may find your office functions better when you work with an accountant who is compatible with the software you use in your business.

Regarding cloud accounting software, such as Xero and Sage, all accountants should be either using or moving towards these systems.

If your accountant does not offer this service and does not have any plans to change this, then it’s best to look for a replacement.

7) Additional services and added value

When choosing an accountant for your business, it’s important to check what additional services the firm offers.

As your company grows, you may want to expand the range of services you receive from your accountants (e.g. funding for growth, R&D tax claims).

Find out in advance whether your chosen firm offers the necessary expertise, so you don’t have to move firms when you scale up. It’s also good to find out how your accountants will add value on a day-to-day basis.

8) Reviews, testimonials and reputation

When searching for an accountant, make sure you check the reviews and testimonials of the firm.

Good accountants should also be happy to share some client testimonials with you to see how others have had a positive experience working with them.

In summary, when choosing an accountant for your business, consider their scope of services, customer service and ease of access, professional qualifications and associations, fees and packages, insurance and covers, technology and software, additional services and added value, and reviews, testimonials, and reputation.

Make sure to do your research and find the right professional to help you manage your finances and reduce your financial stress.