One of the main steps that must be followed by anyone who wants to start a business – be it small, medium, or large – is to ensure and build a relationship with an accounting firm. In addition to being the entrepreneur’s first consultant, the accounting office will be responsible for resolving and monitoring all the company’s bureaucratic issues, from drafting contracts and calculating labor obligations to improving the company’s management systems.
Consequently, the office will significantly impact business growth. Did you realize the importance of hiring a good accounting firm? Check out the information and ensure the success of your company!
- Consider Referrals From Others
As in other business segments, a referral is one of the best ways to hire a good service. In the case of accounting firms, a good option is to research on the internet: after finding the desired office, ask the company for a list of clients so that professional references can be obtained before formalizing the service agreement. The accounting office does not need to be located in the same region as the company but must provide a service with adequate and suitable quality support. It is worth mentioning that the choice must consider the office’s professionalism and not only the friendly relations.
- Confirm The Office’s Registration Status In Specific Bodies
Once the office such as State and Local Tax (SALT) Services is found, it is essential to check the registration of the professionals – and the office itself – in Organs-specific bodies. Consult the Union of Accounting Services Companies to find out if the office is an affiliate and the CRC (Regional Accounting Council) to confirm the registration of the technical managers of the office, as well as the regularity of such registrations.
- Review The Report Templates That Will Be Sent To The Company
The accounting office must send – monthly – reports with information such as tax collection and employee payroll. It is interesting to know the models of these reports and if they will satisfy the company’s organization. If you find discrepancies or lack of information in these reports, discuss with the accountant the possibility of adaptation.
- Understand How Fees And Taxes Will Be Paid
Contrary to many laypeople, the accounting office is not responsible for paying bills and taxes. Although in many cases, they manage to reduce corporate taxes, the company bears the bond payment. The accounting office is only responsible for organizing such salaries and forwarding them to the company on the respective dates. As for the fees, there is no fixed amount to be charged by the offices. The amount depends on the diversity of services that will be offered. For comparison purposes, it is possible to make a budget in several offices, analyzing the cost-benefit of each one. But watch out! Be wary of prices below the market average.
- Analyze The Communication System Offered By The Office
Almost instantaneous responses and quick resolutions are essential in the client-counter relationship. Therefore, maintaining agile and always active contact channels is a differential that must be considered. Ask if the office has active phones, email, website, or other viable communication means and analyze the response time to inquiries. Finally, you must have confidence in the professionals and the accounting firm such as susan s. lewis. Remember that confidential information will be discussed in this relationship and therefore, feeling comfortable is essential!
