There are a lot of considerations when running a business. Generally, you are focused on success on the day-to-day basis. Often, especially with new entrepreneurs, taxes and book-keeping can take a backseat until it is a mad scramble to complete your filing for the end of the tax year. Having a reputable CPA can relieve you of a huge amount of financial headaches. But how do you find a reputable CPA Firm? Keep reading below to find out our tips on finding the right option for you.
Be Cautious…
Whenever dealing with finances, an appropriate level of caution should be present. After all, every year there are multiple stories of people getting in trouble about their taxes. What’s worse, many of these stories involve a shady tax preparer encouraging the wrong behavior. You don’t want to end up involved in another tax scam! Keep in mind; there are no set requirements to becoming a tax preparer. In some states there are no competency requirements at all. You’ll need to do your due diligence as you begin to research local options.
Make a List
With that word of caution, let’s begin! The first thing you’ll want to do is make a list of options. This can be achieved in a variety of ways. A simple Google search can be a good place to start, but there is wisdom in asking those around you. Do your friends use a CPA Firm for their business? Any family members know or utilize a trusted accountant? Getting a referral from someone you know can garner solid results.
If you don’t know anyone who utilizes a CPA Firm, the IRS maintains a directory. However, as with the Google search, this method may not answer the questions you have in the same way a referral will. Still, it can be a decent option to at least begin your list.
Search for Transparency
Once your list is put together, you need to verify the credentials of the options you’ve accrued. Now, this should be relatively easy if you’ve gotten your options from the IRS Website, or another state database. Most of those sites will only list those with verified credentials. However, if you have compiled a list from Google, or perhaps even from referrals, you may need to ask about credentials directly. A good CPA Firm will list their credentials openly, either in their office or on their website. If a small, one-person office, you may need them to provide their qualifications. If the CPA in question hesitates, best to remove them as a possibility.
Meet in Person
Once you’ve narrowed down the list, it’s time to meet in person(assuming you haven’t yet). Assuming you still have multiple choices, pick someone who you get along with. This person and CPA Firm will likely be a part of your professional life for some time. Getting along with someone can make dealing with even something as unpleasant as taxes more palatable. Find a business with similar ideals to yours!
For any tax and accounting needs, reach out to Sheffield, Trackwell, and Rapp. Our dedicated team is standing by to assist you. With years of experience, we can assist with whatever problem you may have.
