How to find a good accountant: a comprehensive guide for businesses

Choosing an accountant is a key decision for any company. Accurate reporting, avoiding fines, financial stability, and the business owner’s peace of mind depend on the quality of their work. A poor choice can lead to serious problems: incorrect tax calculations, overpayments, account freezes, and losses. Below is a practical guide to help you find a truly qualified accountant.

1. Determine the type of work you need

First, it’s important to understand whether you need an in-house accountant or whether outsourcing is appropriate.
• In-house accountants are suitable for medium and large companies with a large number of transactions.
• Outsourcing is ideal for small businesses, online stores, service companies, and startups.

Outsourcing is often more cost-effective: you get a team of specialists for the price of a single employee and without the risks associated with vacations, sick leave, and staff turnover.

2. Check their experience and specialization

A good accountant is more than just someone who can submit reports. Different areas require different competencies:
• Retail — knowledge of inventory control;
• Manufacturing — ability to calculate costs;
• IT — working with VAT and export services;
• Marketplaces — accounting for commissions and logistics;
• Services — simplified tax systems.

Be sure to check whether the accountant has worked with companies in your industry.

3. Find out how the accountant works in practice

Qualifications are easily determined by their approach to work. A good accountant:
• Maintains records using licensed software (1C: Accounting, ERP, specialized services);
• Ensures financial transparency;
• Provides recommendations for tax optimization;
• Promptly warns about risks and changes in legislation;
• Provides access to reports and databases on demand.

If a specialist conceals information or avoids questions, this is a warning sign.

4. Check their reputation and references

A reliable accountant should have a proven track record. Look at:
• client reviews;
• recommendations from fellow entrepreneurs;
• case studies and examples of completed work;
• how long the specialist has been in business.

A positive track record is the best indicator of professionalism.

5. Find out the cost of services and what they include

A good accountant will always clearly communicate what you’re paying for. Check:
• is bookkeeping included in the price or paid separately;
• is reporting included;
• is personnel records maintained;
• is there support in case of audits.

If the price is significantly below market value, this is cause for concern: high-quality bookkeeping can’t be too cheap.

6. Personal Communication and Engagement

Even an ideal accountant should be easy to work with. Pay attention to:
• do they answer questions clearly and understandably;
• do they delve into the specifics of the company;
• Are they prepared to explain complex issues in simple terms?

If the interaction causes discomfort, it’s best to look for another candidate.

Result

A good accountant is a specialist who ensures business security, helps save on taxes, and prevents risks rather than eliminating them after the fact. To find a truly high-quality professional, it’s important to consider experience, reviews, competencies, and work style.

Choosing the right accountant is an investment in the company’s stability and the business owner’s peace of mind.

 

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