A CPA, or certified public accountant, is a special type of financial advisor. Those who obtain their accountant licenses must pass the challenging four-part CPA exam, adhere to the correlating code of ethics, and meet all state education requirements. CPAs enjoy versatile careers due to the wide range of services they provide. Learn about what a CPA does to determine if you need one for personal or business reasons.

5 Services a Certified Public Accountant Offers

1. Tax Services

CPAs offer a variety of tax services. For example, they prepare local, state, and federal tax forms, including sales tax returns, and provide representation in the event of an audit or similar procedure. CPAs also offer recommendations for getting the most out of different tax laws and new legislation.

2. Bookkeeping

Keeping records can become tedious and even confusing for business owners with numerous other obligations. Certified public accountants provide detail-oriented bookkeeping services that summarize daily financial activities so that their clients have records for reference whenever they need them. Efficient bookkeeping is essential not only to tax preparation but also in providing investigators with proof of financial occurrences in case of audits.

3. Payroll

As employee numbers increase, so does the need for payroll services. Certified public accountants ensure employees always receive the correct salary on time. This prevents employee pay questions or grievances and helps with timely tax form preparation.

4. Budgeting Analyses

CPAs offer meticulous budget analyses to businesses in financial trouble or those who are considering expanding, such as opening a second store location or hiring more employees. A detailed budgeting analysis makes the business’s current financial standing clear so that they can make fiscally responsible decisions.

5. Buying & Selling a Business

Determining whether to buy or sell a business is a major decision a CPA can assist with. The licensed professional reviews finances, offers tax considerations or minimizes implications, provides cash flow and business risk analyses, and assists with deal negotiations to streamline the buying or selling process.

These are just some of the services certified public accountants offer. If working with a CPA is right for your individual or business needs, contact the experienced team at Gillette & Associates, LLC. This local firm has served clients throughout La Crosse, WI, for over 20 years and offers a comprehensive range of services. Call (608) 784-8355 today to schedule an appointment, or visit the firm online for more about service options.