Look for reviews or testimonials from previous clients, and ask for references. It’s also important to verify that they are in good standing with relevant professional organizations, such as the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). Meeting with them in person or virtually can also help you assess their professionalism and communication style.
- This helps to quickly compile and categorize all your financial information.
- CPAs are licensed professionals who have passed a rigorous exam and met experience requirements.
- Although every organization has different needs, many recruiters and hiring managers look for accounting professionals with the following skills and qualifications.
- But for those needing accounting services and without a preference for an individual, an accounting firm is worth considering.
- Novo Platform Inc. strives to provide accurate information but cannot guarantee that this content is correct, complete, or up-to-date.
Finding an accountant you can count on.
Even if your accountant’s actions benefit you financially, make sure they acted honestly and appropriately. To avoid being duped, it’s important to understand the proper protocol for an accountant. Set a time to speak with the accountant candidate over the phone or in person.
Ask potential accountants about year-round services.
The steps below explain how to hire an accountant in a way that should fit into any business strategy. Accountants also take a macro perspective when analyzing financial statements. They assess enterprise-wide cash flows and expenses, highlighting ways to save money or grow revenues. Given the risks, it’s not hard to see why elite business accountants are always in demand.
Assess the right accounting skills
Once you understand your needs, you can craft the perfect job description and explore various channels for finding candidates. As you identify potential hires, remember https://www.bookstime.com/ to carefully review applicants’ credentials, experience and skills. Next, prepare thoughtful interview questions to assess their fit for your organization.
In addition, accountants can help you make informed business decisions, like choosing whether your business should merge, sell, close or buy another business. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) also maintains a directory of qualified and accredited professionals who have preparer tax identification numbers, also known as PTINs. A PTIN is an identification number from the IRS that accountants and tax preparers must use to obtain clearance to file federal tax returns or claims. Before hiring an accountant, you should conduct a thorough search, ask thoughtful questions of potential candidates, and screen the ones you think could be the right choice.
Pinpointing your top concerns and pain points right away how to hire an accountant will help you assess candidate qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- The accountant will most likely know best practices, but if there’s a certain report you’re after, this is the perfect time to put it on their radar.
- They are ideal for both individuals and businesses needing tax assistance.
- In addition, accountants can help you make informed business decisions, like choosing whether your business should merge, sell, close or buy another business.
- Your two main choices will likely be an accounting firm or an independent accountant who you contract with.
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