The Small Business Owner’s Guide to Finding a Qualified CPA

As you search for the right CPA firm consider the following questions.  After all as a Small Business Owner, switching CPAs can be a daunting and time consuming task and you want to ensure that the firm you choose has the right balance of services for your needs.

• Ask for Referrals
  • Ask other small business owners, people in your network or your current accounting software company for recommendations.
• Use Public Records
  • There are a handful of site you can use to look up CPAs, such as CPAVerify.org or the IRS Directory.
• Search Your State Board
  • Once you have a CPA Firm in mind, check for complaints or disciplinary action with your state board of accountancy.
• Look at IRS Records
  • Check the IRS for any reported issues
• Check with the Better Business Bureau
  • Find business details and ratings through the BBB
• Interview at least 2 – 3 CPAs before making a decision

• What services to you provide small business owners?
• What are your fees?
• How does your firm bill and what billing options are available?
• Are you familiar with my type of business?

• How do you prefer to communicate?
• How often do we meet?
• Can you refer me to a trusted tax attorney if I need legal tax representation (such as in the event of an audit)?
• Are you licensed in my state or familiar with state-specific tax laws that may affect me?

The information contained on our website and in blogs is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.