Whether you’re a new entrepreneur considering your bottom line or a veteran business owner looking to expand, finances can get overwhelming. There may come a time when additional assistance is needed, and this is when an accounting services firm can offer relief. Selecting the right one requires doing a bit of research, and here are several factors to consider to ensure the potential partnership is an ideal fit. 

5 Considerations When Hiring an Accounting Firm 

1. Experience

Seek out a firm that will provide the expertise tailored to your unique accounting needs. At the minimum, specialists should have experience with bookkeeping and tax preparation. You should also expect the company to have an intimate and working knowledge of accounting software programs, such as QuickBooks ®. 

2. Certifications

When it comes to certain accounting services, state and industry certification are required to do business with clients. These include conducting audits and preparing financial reports for companies. Ask about whether certified public accountants are on staff to assist with more complex financial matters. Firms that have IRS enrolled agents can also represent their clients in audits and other tax-related situations. 

3. Fees

The fee structure offered by accounting firms varies based on the type and amount of services provided. Some clients have the option of an a la carte arrangement where you can choose which assistance you need, while others may have access to a package of accounting services. Inquire about how fees are paid and if there is any room for negotiation.  

4. References

The best accounting firms will gladly provide you with referrals from existing or former clients. Be sure to ask about their experiences, including accessibility, follow-up, and overall satisfaction. If you’re a business owner, ask the firm for the contact information of business clients. Be sure to check online reviews as well, as firms will not provide references from a client that had negative experiences.  

5. Accessibility

You should also expect to maintain accessible communication with your selected accounting service firm. Inquire about the best way to keep in touch, whether this is by phone, email, in-person, or a combination of these. Ask whether you can drop in or would need to schedule an appointment and what the response time is after leaving messages. If you are a growing business, you need to choose a firm that has time to meet with you and provide advice regularly.

Grayson Accounting in St. Charles, MO continues to be the agency of choice for business owners who seek professional expertise and personalized attention. Serving St. Charles and St. Louis counties for more than 25 years, the firm offers a wide range of accounting services, including bookkeeping and tax return preparation. To learn more about how they can help your company, call (636) 233-7875 for a friendly consultation. You can also go online for extensive details about the firm’s lineup of services.