What to Look for When Hiring an Accountant for Your Small Business

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As a former small business owner, I get how big of a deal—and how scary—it can be to hire an accountant. This person will have access to your business’s most sensitive information, so it’s crucial to find someone you fully trust. Here’s what to look for during the hiring process:

1. Credentials 

First things first, make sure the accountant you hire has the right credentials. For small businesses, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is your best bet. Unlike bookkeepers and non-CPAs, CPAs are the only ones who can represent you in front of the IRS. While small businesses don’t get audited often, having a CPA will give you peace of mind if it ever happens.

2. The Heart of a Teacher 

Besides doing your bookkeeping and annual tax filings, your accountant will also prepare detailed financial statements. These give you a clear picture of your business’s financial health and are super helpful for making future decisions. So, it’s important that your CPA can interpret this info and has a passion for helping you understand it too. Look for someone who loves teaching and will help you get a handle on your finances.

3. Open Communication  

You also want an accountant who’s easy to reach. You’ll be consulting with them a lot. In fact, according to OnPay, over 30% of small business owners say their accountant is their most trusted advisor—even more than their lawyer, financial planner, and banker. So, you need to feel confident that your CPA will get back to you quickly, ideally within 1-2 business days, or sooner if it’s urgent.

Hiring an accountant for your business is a big step. It takes some effort upfront, but having a trusted accounting pro by your side will help your business thrive.