How to Find an Accountant

Tax season is here, and with it, all the stress. If you are ambitious and do your taxes yourself, kudos. For others, finding an accountant you can trust is key. The benefits to finding an accountant, besides them being knowledgeable about their craft, is most accountants stand by their work in the case of an audit. Here are some suggestions on how to find an accountant.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Ask around. The best way to find an accountant is to ask all of your friends and family for recommendations. By using an accountant someone has used before you will have an estimate for how much it will cost, what he or she will cover and whether or not he or she seem competent.
2. Check with your guild or union. If you have a specialized job or have a job with a lot of itemized deductions check with your guild or union for recommendations. If your guild or union won’t give you a recommendation, most unions have bulletin boards or forums where you can ask people in your field for a recommendation.
3. Look online. The Internet is a wealth of information. If you simply type in accountant, your profession, and your city and state dozens of names will pop up. Search for their names to see if anyone was unpleased with their work. It’s amazing what you will find online.
4. Call the accountant and get a feel for what they do. Ask how much services will be. How long it takes them to put your paperwork together? Ask them how long they have been in business? How many times they’ve been audited? Will they protect you in case you are audited? Ask for references.
5. Trust your instincts. If you’ve never heard of an accountant, check with the better business bureau. Ask to see his or her license. Identity theft is rampant, so if something doesn’t sit well with you, move on to the next accountant. Don’t take any chances.