Page 2 How To Guide • Thursday , March 13 , 2025 pressnews . com
How to ...
How to choose an
ACCOUNTANT
Think accountants are only necessary for the wealthy ? Think again . A reliable , professional accountant cannot only help you manage your personal and professional assets more effectively , but they also provide an important safeguard — and substantial savings benefits — against financial pitfalls , especially at tax time .
Regardless of your financial situation — whether you ’ re managing your personal finances or those of a company or organization — retaining the services of a professional , licensed accountant can help maximize your investments and returns and , it may go without saying , keep you from running afoul of the government on April 15 each year .
Choosing the right accountant is an investment in itself and requires some research . Professional accountants maintain a commitment to ethical , legal and professional standards much in the same way lawyers , doctors and pharmacists do . When accountants put their knowledge to work , they ’ re also putting their careers on the line — and that gives them a powerful incentive to do their best to help you handle your money wisely .
Most turn to accountants to help them navigate the complicated maze or rules , regulations and forms that make tax season such a stressful affair . A good accountant can help ease that process by ensuring your tax files are in order and backed by their own expertise . They ’ ll prepare and review your tax forms with you and represent you in the case of scrutiny or an audit . Quite simply , an accountant is an insurance policy for your financial world .
But taxes aren ’ t the only reason to retain the services of a professional accountant . Consider all your financial affairs . Whether you are saving for the education of your children , your own retirement , preparing for a potential shift or change in your employment , seeking to start your own business or simply to put away money for the proverbial “ rainy day ,” a seasoned accountant can help steer you toward maximizing your financial goals .
With so much at stake , it ’ s crucial to be smart when choosing an accountant . Fortunately , you don ’ t have to be a financial whiz to pull it off — you just need to know a few basics . Finding one isn ’ t a daunting challenge , especially once you know how to approach the task .
• When searching for the right accountant , look for someone who has a proven track record and satisfied client base .
• Don ’ t be afraid to ask for references from current or former clients — remember , you ’ re trusting this individual with some of your most personal information . Don ’ t be shy or intimidated .
• Check the Internet . While it may seem tedious to weed through the many claims that pop up during searches , a little tenacity and patience can go a long way toward finding the right person . But beware : People who are dissatisfied are much more likely to post their experiences than those who are happy with the service .
• Family and friends can also be a valuable resource . Successful accountants often rely on wordof-mouth references to build their businesses . Ask around . If someone is happy with their accountant , they will be happy to tell you about them .
• Seek the advice of professional organizations such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants . If you choose to use them as a source , contact several accountants and ask for references . Consider requesting a consultation so you can get detailed information about services .
• Once you narrow your list down , look at the Better Business Bureau ’ s website . Many accountants are listed , and you can gauge the satisfaction of their former clients .
Most importantly , ensure your comfort level with each prospective accountant . You will be sharing sensitive financial and personal details with this person , as much as you would your personal medical history with a physician . It is vital that the accountant communicates well , returns phone calls promptly and answers questions patiently .