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Accountants specialize in different services. Does this person only prepare tax returns? Will they keep your books in order throughout the year? Can they manage your payroll? Make sure your small business accountant offers what you need. If they can't handle everything you want them to take care of, can they refer you to someone who can manage the rest?
THow does your accountant bill? Is it a flat rate for services like filing your return, or do you need to pay by the hour or month? Is there any way to get a discount, such as signing up for a full year in advance?
The CPA (certified public accountant) designation is the most familiar and respected certification. CPAs have gone through extensive training and passed a difficult exam covering key accounting issues. As the CPA Accounting Institute for Success notes, however, there are several other accounting certifications that may be applicable depending on your business needs, such as CMA (certified management accountant — a specialist in company accounting management) and EA (enrolled agent — a tax code expert).
More experience is always a good thing, especially if an accountant has worked with comparably sized businesses in your industry. Be sure to ask for references from similar clients.
Who at the firm will take care of your tax work? Is it the main accountant, or will they be passing you off to a junior colleague? You should know who's looking after your books.
