Is your accountant keeping up with the new tax changes, small business laws and AI powered financial tools in 2025? If you're unsure, it may be time to reconsider. With increasing digital notices from the IRS and states altering business tax regulations throughout the U.S., business owners and people are searching for a new accountant who can keep up. Whether your current accountant is retiring, you have outgrown him or maybe you simply need better financial advice, the hunt for the right fit might be trickier than it might appear.
Finding a new accountant can save you thousands of dollars, help you make better choices and expand your business. But the wrong one? They could cost you money due to late filings, wrong advice and missed deductions. If you are trying to find a new accountant, below are 5 mistakes you should avoid.
Mistakes to Avoid When Trying to Find a New Accountant
Here are the top mistakes to avoid when trying to find a new accountant for your business:
Mistake 1: Assuming All Accountants Are Same
You wouldn't let anybody handle your medical care, so why deal with your finances any differently?
The largest mistake individuals make when trying to find a new accountant is thinking that all accountants provide exactly the same level of service. In fact, accountants differ in experience, specialization and how proactive they are in guiding you.
For instance, a small business owner or startup founder needs somebody who knows your business tax laws, whether you work in eCommerce, real estate, manufacturing or consulting. A general accountant may not understand R&D tax credits, quarterly filings, or multi-state sales tax laws.
So what to do instead:
Search for someone with a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) designation that works often with businesses like yours. Ask if they've handled clients with similar needs or industry backgrounds. The simple fact that they can speak your business language is a green flag.
Mistake 2: Focusing on Price & Not Value
It is tempting to choose the lowest bidder if cash is scarce. But accounting is more than numbers crunching; it is about providing you expert insights, saving you money and helping you develop.
In case you hire an accountant based on a low fee, you might get somebody who files your taxes and who provides no advice beyond that. Or worse, they may not keep up with the changing laws, risking audits or penalties.
Just think about it in this way: An excellent accountant will charge a bit more, but they could save you thousands by catching mistakes earlier or by assisting you to reorganize your finances better.
What to do instead:
Ask what is covered in their fee. Will they provide strategic planning sessions? Can they assist you to get grants or loans? Will they advise you on tax deductions year round, not just at tax time? That is the kind of services that new accountants provide for businesses and are worth investing in.
Mistake 3: Not Checking References or Reviews
Would you hire somebody without checking references? Then why hire an accountant without having checked theirs.
One mistake many make is skipping due diligence. A pretty Web site or a polished LinkedIn profile doesn't mean they provide quality service. And at times referrals from friends aren't enough as your needs might be completely different.
What to do instead:
- Ask the accountant for at least two client references.
- Look for web reviews at Yelp, Google, or accounting directories.
- Ask questions like: How responsive will they be? Do they explain things clearly? Do they go that extra mile?
This can help you hire a new accountant knowing they are communicative and reliable, not just someone you will be chasing down during the tax season.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Technological Knowledge and Software Skills
The accounting sector is no longer trapped in spreadsheets. Cloud-based systems like QuickBooks accounting, Xero, FreshBooks & AI tools are affecting the way companies manage their books.
Yet, a lot still have an accountant who does things the old way, with manual entries, documents and outdated software. This might slow you down in case you require real time visibility into your finances or remote access to reports.
What you need: An accountant that knows technology can perform your bookkeeping services for you, minimize mistakes, and also offer dashboards for monitoring your profits, expenses and tax debts in real time.
What to do instead? Ask the interviewer:
- What accounting software do they use?
- Are they comfortable adding tools such as payroll, POS software or e-commerce platforms?
- Will they help you learn to use these tools in case necessary?
Selecting an accountant who understands the new tech makes your financial life less complicated and your business future-ready.
Mistake 5: Not Discussing Communication Style & Expectations
You can hire the best accountant in town, but if they never return your emails or make up terms that are very confusing, the relationship will not succeed.
Some accountants check in once a year. Others offer their bookkeeping services all year round. The mistake? Not specifying which one you need.
Communication problems can create severe gaps. For example, you may think your accountant does quarterly taxes, but they may be waiting on you. Or you may need urgent financial advice and can not call them for days.
So what to do instead? Ask candidates when you interview them:
- How frequently will we speak?
- Do you provide ongoing support or is it just during tax season?
- What do you prefer - email, calls, video?
Related Resources
- Startup or Growing Business? Here’s How to Find the Right Business Accountant
- Corporate Accountant Near Me: What Services Should I Expect?
- Top 7 Signs It's Time to Hire a Business Accountant
Be sure your accountant knows your expectations. If you would like to be hands-off, you may like somebody who sends reminders and prompts. If you like details, you need somebody who describes things and will keep you involved in every decision.
Finding the right accountant can transform your business or personal life financially. But the wrong choice? That can mean missed chances, tax problems and unnecessary stress.
When you want to find a new accountant, avoid these five typical mistakes: assuming all accountants are the same, being cost-minded, not doing background-check, being tech-ignorant, and not setting out expectations for communication. These are easy mistakes to make but very easy to avoid with a little preparation.
So take your time. Be thoughtful. And remember, whenever you employ a new accountant, you are not only purchasing a service; you are creating a long-term financial partnership. Choose wisely with The Fino partners by your side.
