Since you want to ensure the long-term health and prosperity of your company, one of the last things you should do is upset the IRS.
The long arms of the law can make things mighty difficult if you mess up on your taxes. While running afoul of tax rules, laws, and regulations can sometimes come as a result of innocent mistakes, ignorance is no defense.
That’s where tax accountants come into the picture. Even if you’re a hands-on business owner who likes to file tax returns, it pays to hire the pros. You’ll see that retaining the services of the experts can save you money in the long run.
But how should you go about finding suitable accountants? Here are some tips to help you find the right fit for your company.
Ask People You Know for Tax Accountants Referrals
Did you know that the most effective kind of marketing is word-of-mouth marketing? In other words, people tend to trust recommendations and suggestions that come from people they know and whose opinions they trust.
So if you’re looking for a reputable tax accountant, you should ask fellow business owners, business associates, your business’ legal representation, and other people in your sphere of influence.
This will help you to find a certified public accountant who you can trust.
Conduct Online Research
Another way to find the right accountant for your company is to conduct research online. You can start by going to your favorite search enjoy and typing in “tax accountants near me”. This will help you find someone nearby.
Your online research should also include reading reviews. You’ll be able to read up on the experiences that other business owners have had with different accountants around and about town.
Another option is to look for a tax accountant guide that explains the process. This will give you more insight into the type of professional you need.
Professional Organization Membership Matters
When you’re looking for a professional who will provide the best tax accountant services, you’ll want to ensure that they’re members of relevant organizations.
Such organizations can include but are not limited to, the American Academy of Attorney CPAs and the National Association of Tax Professionals.
Membership in such organizations means adherence to certain ethical standards as well as specific conduct requirements.
Vetting candidates in this way will help you find reputable tax strategists. They’ll know all the tax accountants’ tips to help you legally save on taxes.
Consider Fees
While you shouldn’t simply choose a tax accountant based on price, you’ll nonetheless want to take the expense into account. Some professionals charge a flat rate and some charge by the hour. Which makes the most sense to you?
E-Filing is a Must
You’ll also want to find a tax accountant who is comfortable with technology. He or she should, for example, offer e-filing services. The faster the IRS gets your filing, the faster it can issue your company any applicable refunds.
If an accountant you’re considering doesn’t offer e-filing, then you should see that as a red flag. Anyone who prepares taxes must, if they do north of 10 returns for others, do so via the e-filing system.
So any tax accountant who doesn’t offer e-filing isn’t doing a whole lot of taxes — and what you want is a tax accountant with ample expertise.
Hiring a Tax Accountant Makes Sense
Are you currently doing your tax filing in-house? While this might appear to be the least expensive option, it can get pricey if you’re not aware of applicable deductions or if you make any errors that result in penalties.
It makes sense to consider hiring tax accountants who are well-versed in tax law. You’ll be best served if you take this route. So consider the aforementioned tips to find the right tax accountant for your company.
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