Hiring an accountant is an important decision. The right fit can provide clarity, confidence, and long-term support as your business grows. The wrong fit can leave you confused, reactive, and constantly playing catch-up.
Asking the right questions up front helps ensure you choose an accountant who aligns with your business and your goals.
Here are key questions every business owner should ask before hiring an accountant.
1. What Services Are Included?
Not all accounting services are the same.
Some accountants focus strictly on tax filing, while others offer bookkeeping, advisory support, and ongoing guidance.
Ask:
- What is included month to month?
- Are bookkeeping, tax planning, and reporting separate services?
- How is ongoing support handled?
Clarity up front prevents misunderstandings later.
2. How Often Will Financials Be Updated and Reviewed?
Timely financial data is critical.
Ask:
- How frequently are books updated?
- Will financial reports be reviewed with me?
- When should I expect reports each month?
Regular reviews help you make proactive decisions instead of reacting after the fact.
3. Who Will I Be Working With?
Some firms delegate most work to junior staff.
Ask:
- Who prepares my books?
- Who reviews them?
- Who should I contact with questions?
Knowing who is responsible builds accountability and trust.
4. How Do You Communicate With Clients?
Clear communication matters.
Ask:
- How quickly do you respond to emails or questions?
- Do you offer scheduled check-ins?
- Is advisory time included or billed separately?
Communication style should match your expectations.
5. How Do You Handle Taxes and Tax Planning?
Tax filing alone is not enough.
Ask:
- Do you provide proactive tax planning?
- How do you help clients avoid surprises?
- How do you coordinate bookkeeping and tax strategy?
Effective tax planning happens throughout the year.
6. What Experience Do You Have With Businesses Like Mine?
Industry experience can be valuable.
Ask:
- Have you worked with businesses of similar size?
- Do you understand my industry’s common challenges?
- How do you support growing businesses?
Relevant experience improves efficiency and insight.
7. How Is Pricing Structured?
Understanding cost and value is important.
Ask:
- Is pricing flat-rate or hourly?
- What services are included at each level?
- How do fees change as my business grows?
Transparent pricing creates a better long-term relationship.
Why Asking These Questions Matters
The right accountant is not just a vendor. They are a financial partner.
When expectations are clear:
- Financials are more reliable
- Decisions are easier
- Stress is reduced
- Growth becomes more intentional
Taking time to ask these questions up front saves time and money later.
A Quick Note
If you are interviewing accountants or thinking about making a change, having a clear understanding of what you need makes the process much easier.
You can schedule a free consultation through my site if you would like to discuss what level of accounting support makes the most sense for your business.