Are you growing your business but struggling to manage taxes, expenses or financial reports? You aren't alone. With inflation pressures mounting and interest rates going, US startups and small companies are finding it tougher than ever to handle their finances effectively. If you are wondering when to find a business accountant, this blog will give you the answer.
Selecting a good accountant can save or break your business. From saving you money and time to keeping you compliant and assisting you to make sensible choices, the right financial expert can be your long-term partner. But how can you find a business accountant who knows your objectives, business stage and niche? Let us find out.
How to Find the Right Business Accountant For Your Business
Here is how you can find the right business accountant for your business:
Step 1: Understand Your Business Needs
Prior to searching for an accountant, ask yourself: What do I need help with?
The following are common accounting needs for startups and growing businesses:
- Basic Bookkeeping: In case you are just starting out, you may need assistance capturing costs, categorizing transactions, and monitoring profits. A part time accountant or outsourced accounting service may work here.
- Tax Filing and Compliance: From state taxes to quarterly estimated taxes and 1099s for contractors, tax regulations are complicated. A great business accountant will help you file on time.
- Financial Reporting: As your business expands, particularly in case you are reporting to investors or board meetings, you need clear, current reports such As earnings & loss (P&L) statements, cash flow reports, and balance sheets.
- Payroll & Benefits: In case you have employees or maybe intend to hire before long, your accountant should handle your payroll, benefits and payroll taxes.
- Strategic Planning and Forecasting: An experienced accountant can be a financial advisor. They can assist you to plan budgets, forecast cash flow and advise you on pricing or financial backing.
The more specific you're in delineating your requirements, the easier it will be to find a business accountant that fits your requirements.
Step 2: Look for the Right Skills & Experience
Once you know what you want, look for somebody that knows how to provide it, for your type of business.
The top qualities to look for:
- Startup or Industry Experience: If you operate a SaaS business, you want somebody who has experience in software companies. In case you run a retail store, your accountant should know inventory and POS systems. Startup experience is particularly handy as early stage companies have different requirements than established ones.
- Tech-Savvy and Cloud-Based tools: The best accountants these days utilize QuickBooks accounting, Xero, Gusto or more advanced tools like NetSuite. They provide you with access to real time data, make tax time less complicated and help stay away from errors. Ask them exactly what tools they normally use - and feel comfortable using them as well.
- Strong Communication Skills: You do not need to be a professional in finance to find out what your accountant tells you. An excellent accountant explains what's supposed to be said, answers your questions and also makes you feel comfortable, not confused.
- Availability and Response: Some accountants respond only during tax season. That may not do the job if you require monthly support. Clarify how frequently you will communicate and if they're available if you need them most.
Step 3: Know Where to Find a Business Accountant
This is how to begin searching for a business accountant :
- Ask Fellow Founders: Ask other startup founders or business proprietors you know. Who supports them? Are they satisfied with the support and communication?
- Check with Your investors or Mentors: In case you are supported by investors or are part of an accelerator program, they might already have relationships with accountants who understand startup needs.
- Use Online Platforms: Websites like The Fino Partners, Xero Advisor Directory, or QuickBooks ProAdvisor will enable you to find vetted accountants with reviews. You can filter by industry, expertise and services.
- Social Media & LinkedIn: Search for "startup accountant" or "accountant for small business" and see what content or suggestions others in your community share along with you.
- Local Small Business Centres: SCORE, SBA or regional chambers of commerce might have lists of suggested accounting professionals or perhaps provide free consultation sessions.
Step 4: Interview & Vet Your Candidates
Once you locate a few potential accountants, look beyond the resume. Talk with them and see the way they work and whether they're a long-term match.
Questions to Ask:
- Have you worked with other startups or companies within my industry?
- How do you do monthly reporting or year end tax filing?
- Which software do you make use of and will I get access to it?
- How would you charge - hourly, monthly retainer or flat fee?
- How do you help businesses budget or plan finances?
- Can you share references from other clients?
Pro Tip:
Begin with a small task or a brief trial period to validate the relationship before signing a long term contract.
Step 5: Understand the Cost (And Why It is Worth It)
It costs to hire a business accountant according to the services you require. Here is an approximate structure of costs involved:
- Bookkeeping basics: USD 200-USD 500/month.
- Only tax filing: USD 300-USD 1,000 a year, business complexity based.
- Full service monthly accounting: USD 600-USD 2,500/month.
- Virtual CFO services: USD 3,000-USD 10,000 +/month.
This can be costly, but a great accountant saves you more than they ask you for. They'll catch errors, maximize deductions, help you stay away from fines and offer financial intelligence to help your business grow.
Related Resource
- Why You Should Consider an Online Accountant for Tax Return Filing in 2025
- Accounting Tips for Real Estate Investors: What Your Accountant Wishes You Knew
- Your Guide to Hiring the Right Nonprofit Tax Accountant
Whether you are still bootstrapping or planning for a new funding round, professional accounting support is always invaluable. An excellent accountant for business is much more than simply a tax filer; they're your trusted adviser, coach and safety net.
Once you are prepared to find a business accountant, take some time out. Define your needs, investigate your options, and find somebody who'll walk with you as you grow. You are building something valuable, so make sure money backs your vision. Trust The Fino Partners for all your accounting needs. Speak to our experts now.
