What to Look for in a CPA

Is tax season getting close? Have you been thinking about what to look for in an accountant? Maybe you’re thinking about hiring a certified public accountant for your individual or business needs. There are many options for tax filing, from using software like TurboTax, filing your own taxes, or using a general accountant. But using a CPA means our advisers have gone through rigorous standards including a full year of professional experience, passing scores on the Uniform CPA Examination, as well as an Ethics Course in Texas. While using a CPA may cost more money up front, here at Chandler and Knowles we can save you more on your taxes through techniques and strategies honed over years of experience.

Now you’ve made the decision to hire a Certified Public Accountant for your accounting needs. How do you choose which professional should look over your financials and represent you in front of the IRS if necessary? Here are some important characteristics we value at Chandler and Knowles.

Communication Skills

Good CPAs know a lot of information about tax codes, but the best CPAs can also explain it in a way that makes sense to anyway. You not only want someone who knows their stuff, but someone who you can understand and work with. When you’re thinking, “How do I choose a CPA?” you need to be thinking about using that person as a resource for building your own tax knowledge for yourself or your business. Translating tax code into common vernacular is a necessary part of that.

Experience

At Chandler and Knowles, we have experience in both individual and business tax situations, including financial planning and risk assessment. However, when thinking about how to pick a CPA, it is necessary to determine if they have the right experience for you. A firm that focuses on small business would not be right for a major corporation, and a one-man operation would not be right for a small business grossing over $10 million annually. It’s important to tailor the CPA to the individual’s needs.

If you’re unsure about any CPA you’re hiring, ask for referrals from previous or current clients. Make sure to interview multiple firms to get the best fit.

Transparency

The best CPAs are not only well-versed in tax law and tax codes, but should also be prepared to discuss your individual situation. Whether you have a complex individual tax situation or small-business related questions, a CPA should be able to discuss and have a willingness to learn about your tax issues. When thinking about how to choose an accountant, you want someone who will go above and beyond for you, answering your questions truthfully and seek out the right answers.

Set Clear Expectations

It’s important that before handing over your books to a CPA that you understand that they don’t control your individual financial health or health of your business. Don’t look for a CPA who thinks can he can perform magic. Chandler and Knowles, or any other financial firm, can provide the level of service you expect, but they can’t make money or financial success happen. Make sure to discuss what your expectations are prior to hiring a CPA and that you trust that they can deliver on them.

Furthermore, be clear about rates for services. When choosing a CPA, you want to understand their fee structure and get estimates for any services you may need. For Chandler and Knowles, contact us to get more information and work out a contract for any services you require.

Ultimately, picking a certified public account is an excellent decision for an individual or business, but make you sure you follow these tips to hire the best CPA.