What Kind of Questions Do You Ask an Accountant?

Professional accountants provide financial services for individuals and businesses. Accountants provide some very essential information relating to finances. Before hiring an accountant, people seeking such services should ask a few questions to determine his ability.

Do You Have Your CPA?

A license as a certified public accountant, or CPA, is the best-known certification for accountants. Accountants holding this license have specific knowledge of rules, regulations, application of accounting standards and other pertinent issues.

Creative Business Advice

Ask what kind of creative business advice the accountant would offer. Creative business advice is not necessarily illegal or unethical. Accountants can provide information on making decisions and on finding new opportunities for businesses to grow or to improve their operations.

Technology

Ask the accountant whether she considers herself to be tech-savvy. Accountants need to understand the different types of business technology available to companies. Additionally, companies might need to switch to a computer application to work with an accountant who desires to improve the company's operations through the use of technology.

Taxes

Ask "Are you a tax planner or a tax preparer?" Taxation is a common reason companies hire accountants. Knowledgeable accountants do more than just prepare and file taxes; they help create actionable plans for companies to pay as little taxes as legally possible.

References

• Resources for Entrepreneur: How to Choose an Accountant
• SCORE: How To Find a Good Accountant