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So you’ve started a small business, and things seem to be going well! Numbers for the first year look good, and now it’s time to file those dreaded taxes…

…but there’s no need to reach for the antacids just yet. Finding the perfect accounting company for your small business doesn’t have to be an insurmountable task. With just a quick list, you can find the accountant that’s the perfect fit for you.

Compatibility

It seems like a no-brainer, but a lot of businesses don’t actually take this into consideration, and they should. You want an accounting firm that is likable, personable and seems to understand and like you and your business. Of course accounting is a somewhat emotionless job, but that doesn’t mean that you have to settle for an accountant who seemingly doesn’t care one way or the other about your business. Someone who is surly and dispassionate probably isn’t going to go the extra mile to try and save you money.

Picking an accounting company with a team of dedicated, friendly and helpful employees is a must. 

Reputation

You want to pick a firm that has a good reputation among their clients – everyone from small businesses like yourself, to larger ones and even individuals. Do they have a lot of clients? Have they gotten them great returns? Do they have a good rating? You should find the answers to these questions before making any concrete decisions. 

Experience

When it comes to your business, you can’t be too careful. You want an accounting team who has many years’ experience dealing with businesses just like yours, who know the ropes, the ins and outs of budgets, payroll, taxes and everything in between. These seasoned accountants won’t miss a single opportunity for a deduction or write-off. They know the special laws and guidelines, incentives and work-arounds. The professionals who have been at it for a while are the ones you want. 

Fees and Costs

You should be prepared to pay your accountant a fair rate for working on your taxes, especially if you have a lot of paperwork and documents to go over. Doing taxes isn’t a walk in the park, and the costs reflect that. 

That being said, some accounting firms take advantage of their clients by charging exorbitant rates, coasting on the hope that their clients don’t know any better, or that they’re so desperate to hire an accountant that they’ll accept higher rates. Don’t fall for it. Take the time to compare various accountants in your area and find the ones that offer fair rates that aren’t overly inflated or full of extra fees and service charges. 

Choosing the best accounting company for your small business need not be a hassle or a lesson in anxiety. With so many reputable companies and individuals doing taxes in your area, you’ll have a wealth (pun intended) of candidates to choose from, all offering excellent service and dedicated to getting you every penny they can on that tax return.