Long Beach Accountant Hiring Tips

As a local small business owner, you know as well as anyone how critical it is to keep costs down—especially in this economy. You also know that hiring an experienced Long Beach accountant could be the smartest move you make to both cut costs in your business and ensure that your accounting is in perfect order at all times. In addition, due to their experience and insight into your business, your Long Beach accountant can actually help you increase revenues.

But before you hire a Long Beach accountant, ask some questions first. After all, you will trust your business’ financial information to this firm. Schedule a meeting with a reputable Long Beach accountant and ask the following questions:

• What is the breadth of your services?

During your first meeting, make sure you ask about all of the services the Long Beach accountant provides and which services you may need now or in the future. Do you need general accounting and bookkeeping, corporate tax returns, personal tax returns, multiple states’ tax returns, tax advice, QuickBooks help, payroll assistance, or all of the above? If they don’t perform all of the accounting services you need, can the Long Beach accountant refer you to another trustworthy firm?

• What is your experience?

It’s no surprise that experience is important to your decision. How long has the Long Beach accountant been in business? Ask for references, as well as what the accounting firm recommends you do to streamline your business financially.

• Do you focus on small businesses?

You want to hire a Long Beach accountant that has experience working with the complex issues faced by small businesses and entrepreneurs. The best Long Beach accountants offer the quality of a large accounting firm without the big price tag.

• Do you know my industry?

A Long Beach accountant with knowledge of your industry may be able to add value and save your business money. They will also be current on any regulations that may be specific to your industry.

• Will you provide advice?

This is important for your day-to-day operations. You want a Long Beach accountant that offers even more than advice on reducing your tax liability. You want an accounting firm that is available and proactive year-round to answer questions and help reduce business costs on a regular basis.

• What software do you use?

Is the accounting firm familiar with the software you use? Better yet, do they also provide training on the software? QuickBooks is typically the answer here, but make sure you and your Long Beach accountant are speaking the same computer language.

• Do you provide audit protection?

In the event of an audit, every reputable accounting firm will stand by their work and stand beside you if you face an IRS audit. You can judge the experience and confidence of a Long Beach accountant by simply asking what they will do in the event of an audit by the IRS.

• How do you bill?

This is a simple question, but it can make a big difference depending on your business. Ask if the Long Beach accountant bills a flat fee or by the hour.

• Are you properly licensed?

Since some industries require that accounting firms have specific qualifications to file certain reports, it’s also important to ask whether the Long Beach accountant is appropriately licensed in your industry.

Finding the right accounting firm for your business requires some time and a few questions. Once you find the Long Beach accountant that best suits your needs, you’ll have a long-term strategic partner in protecting, strengthening, and growing your business. Learn more by visiting www.personal-accountant.com or calling 562.432.6100.