How to Choose an Accounting Service: The Complete Guide to Businesses

Do you need an accounting service for your business?

Finding the right accounting service for your business is an important decision for a business owner. Choosing the wrong service creates unnecessary stress and can put your company at risk.

Accounting services differ in quality, skill-set, and how well they’ll fit within your business model. One thing is for sure: your business needs accounting services to thrive.

Luckily, there are tips for choosing an accounting service that can help you avoid making a bad hire.

Read on to learn how to choose an accounting service right for your business.

Defining Your Needs

It is important to define your business needs. Ask yourself what type of accounting assistance you need and what kind of business you have.

A small business may only need occasional accounting assistance, while a larger business may need more frequent or even full-time help.

Other factors to consider are your business’s size, industry, and location. Once you have a good understanding of your needs, you can start to research different accounting services. 

Researching Your Options

There are a few different ways to research accounting services.

You can start by asking for recommendations from other businesses or talking to your accountant or financial advisor. You can also research accounting services online. Just make sure that, if you are looking for a specific service (whether that’s tax preparation, advice on vat toms, or something else entirely) that you include this in your search so that only people who deal with this sort of accounting come up and you’re not wasting your time combing through results that aren’t really all too relevant to you.

When researching accounting services, start reading online reviews and comparing prices. Once you’ve found a few accounting services that meet your needs, you can contact them to get more information or schedule a free consultation.

Evaluating Credentials

Make sure the accounting service you are considering is certified by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB).

The PCAOB is a government-authorized organization that oversees the audits of public companies. Ask the accounting service for references from companies they have previously worked with.

Find out how long they have been in business and what their experience is working with businesses like yours. For example there are services that have experience even with specific industries like law firms or gyms.

Be sure to compare the proposals from several accounting services before deciding to hire a pro.

Looking for Value

Look for value rather than choosing the lowest price. Compare the services offered by different providers and make sure you’re getting what you need.

Pay attention to customer service and reviews when making your decision. Choose a certified accounting service that is reputable and has a good track record.

Location and Availability

The accounting service should be close to the business’s office or have a physical location where the company can access the service.

The accounting service should also be available during regular business hours or at least have someone available to answer questions during normal business hours. 

Choose an Accounting Service That Fits Your Business Like a Glove

If you’re looking for an accounting service, be sure to do your research.

Read reviews and compare pricing. Make sure the company is reputable and has experience with businesses like yours.

After deciding to choose an accounting service, contact them and ask for a proposal. Read the fine print and ask questions before signing a contract.

Need more advice on running your business? We have the resources. Check out some of our other blog posts.