Running an e-commerce business in the US has its share of financial complications. In fact, a research by QuickBooks discovered more than 60% of small business owners in the U.S. do not have the financial knowledge to handle their business finances properly. This is particularly important for online businesses which must comply with different sales tax laws, various transaction systems and inventory control.
The Role of an E-commerce Accountant
As opposed to a regular accounting professional, an e-commerce accountant focuses on the financial features of online businesses. They understand internet transactions, sales tax and multi-channel selling platforms.
What they typically handle:
- Bookkeeping: Track your transactions, income and expenditures.
- Tax compliance: Ensure your business pays the proper income and sales taxes based on where you sell and exactly where your consumers are.
- Financial reporting: Preparation of financial reports including balance sheets, profit and loss statements and cash flow reports.
- Inventory management: Assisting you to track stock & inventory to avoid over-ordering/running out.
- Growth strategy: Insights on profitability, cost saving opportunities and potential investment areas.
An e-commerce accountant does much more than just handle figures. They're your financial advisor to make great business decisions.
Choosing Between In-House vs Outsourced Accounting
A significant decision you'll make is whether to employ an in house accountant or outsource accounting. Each has cons and pros, and with regards to your business size, finances and requirements, you must choose the most effective option for your business.
In-House Accountant
In case your business is expanding fast or has complicated financial requirements, employing somebody on staff full time might make sense. This gives you immediate access to the accountant and real time collaboration.
Outsourced Accountant
For small to mid sized e-commerce companies, outsourcing might be a little more affordable and flexible. Many firms that provide accounting outsourcing services specialize in helping online companies. They offer advice, deal with all your accounting remotely and are less expensive than hiring someone full time.
Look for Industry Specific Experience
An accountant ought to have practical experience with e-commerce companies. The financial demands of an online store are quite different from a traditional store, therefore you need somebody who understands the difficulties of an e-commerce operation.
Ask potential accountants if they worked with online businesses before. Do they know how to handle sales tax from one state to another or worldwide? Are they acquainted with e-commerce systems like Shopify, Amazon or WooCommerce? The more experience they have in this particular space, the better they will do to assist you with e-commerce particular financial challenges.
Make Sure They Are Technologically Advanced
E-commerce business owners depend on technology, so should your accountant. A great e-commerce accountant must be at ease with cloud based accounting software like Xero or QuickBooks. Such platforms allow you and your accountant to interact in real time and lets you both have immediate access to financial data and reports.
Ask if they know your accounting software or could recommend software that works with your online store. They ought to also be able to automate tracking product sales, managing inventory and filing taxes to save you time and staying away from errors.
Assess Their Knowledge of Tax Laws
Sales tax is among the most challenging taxes to handle when operating an e-commerce company. State tax rules vary, and in case you sell internationally, there are more rules to deal with. An accountant can help you comply with these tax laws so you stay away from large fines or penalties.
Ask How They Can Plan Your Money
An excellent accountant can help you not only deal with the daily handling of your finances, but also for the future. Ask candidates how they handle financial planning when interviewing them. Will they help you establish financial goals, produce a budget and evaluate your progress? Can they offer you stats on your business's weaknesses and strengths?
Look for someone that can do more than compliance services. Good accountants can analyze your business financial information to help you make more effective choices on pricing, stock, advertising and more. They ought to also help you determine where growth and investment are possible.
Look at Their Communication Style
If you hire an accountant, you need somebody who speaks clearly and efficiently. You'll be counting on them for vital financial advice, so they need to have the ability to describe concepts in terms you already know. Watch the way they answer your questions throughout your interview. Are they patient? Do they explain things in depth?
You should be able to ask them questions and know how soon or promptly they can send you the required information or data regarding important financial issues.
Check Credentials & References
And finally, check your accountant's credentials. In the United States, most accountants possess a CPA license based upon strict educational and professional qualifications. You can also attempt finding an accountant that specializes in e-commerce or who has accreditation for accounting software like Xero or QuickBooks.
Ask for references from previous clients, particularly e-commerce clients. Hearing about their experience can help you determine the way the accountant operates and if they're a great fit for your company.
Final Thoughts
Employing an accountant for your U.S. e-commerce business might be among the smartest moves you make to guarantee financial success. Whether you take somebody in-house or use accounting outsourcing services, a qualified accountant will save you time, keep taxes in compliance and provide you financial insight. Consider your business requirements and stick to these steps to develop a financial foundation for profit and growth.
For expert e-commerce accounting assistance, contact The Fino Partners today and see how our expert VCFOs and accountants can help your e-commerce business.
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