To select a CPA, go for the best fit. Here’s how.
Fit. It’s the most important consideration when selecting a certified public accountant. To get off to a good start, interview two or three practices. I also recommend to both new and experienced business owners to look for a comfort level with their skill set and their culture. You want to be confident and comfortable with your selection. Starting over again in two or three years is not desirable.
For me good fit has three important criteria:
Size: Generally like-sized businesses seek a like-sized accountant. A business with a couple dozen employees will look for a CPA with a dozen or more employees. Generally, a larger CPA firms understands both the needs and nuances of small business. This strategy also preps for your growth as the larger firm can usually provide for future accounting and tax service needs.
Fees/Services: Sure, fees and services play a role in any decision. But in many instances the range in fees charged by different practices is relatively small and may not be that material. In addition, it is worth exploring how service issues are handled during each tax season given the compressed filing period and complexity of the tax code.
Intangibles: A little tougher to assess but just as important as the first two points.
• Will the CPA coordinate tax strategies between your separate business and individual tax returns?
• Will the CPA routinely consider appropriate legal and tax structures for your business venture(s)?
• Is the CPA able to answer a myriad of operational questions or suggest other knowledgeable experts?
• Is the CPA staying current with Federal, State, and local laws which may affect your business?
