Sign up to receive accounting tips, videos, news and webinar info before anyone else
Mailing Address
21750 Hardy Oak Blvd
Ste 104 PMB 63328
San Antonio, TX 78258-4946
(760) 697-1033
As businesses grow and change, it is necessary to re-evaluate your relationship with your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) from time-to-time and assess whether that CPA is the right match for your business.
If your business has grown significantly since you hired your CPA, now might be a good time to look at that relationship. Here are questions to ask yourself and your CPA to better judge whether you are well-served and tips on how to choose a CPA if you discover that it is time for a change.
- Research. Find out how many businesses your CPA firm works within your industry. Expertise in your industry indicates the depth of experience with the intricacies of your tax situation.
- Review Correspondence. Has your CPA firm reached out regularly to ensure accurate financials are being recorded throughout the year? Do they communicate in a way that works for your financial team?
- Do Some Digging. Check with the CA State Board of Accountancy to ensure your CPA doesn’t have outstanding complaints against them (do this when looking for a new CPA firm, as well).
- Assess Your Situation. Think about whether you need an Enrolled Agent (EA), a CPA or a tax lawyer. Determine what combination of support best serves you if your tax situation is complex.
Once you and your team have assessed your needs and current situation and if you decide it’s time to move on, here are some questions to ask potential CPA firms:
- How long have you been in business?
- What are your specialties?
- Will you do the work, or do you outsource tax preparation?
- What other services do you provide? Tax lawyers in-house, bookkeeping, financial guidance?
- How much do you charge and is it negotiable?
- How have you handled audits in the past?
Qualifications to Look for in a CPA
Understanding how to choose a CPA starts with understanding their credentialing. The primary qualification of a CPA would be a license from the state board of accountancy for the state in which you need services. This license serves as evidence that the CPA has completed the necessary educational requirements and passed the Uniform CPA Exam.
When choosing a CPA for professional services, it is important to be sure that the individual chosen is qualified and experienced. Other qualifications to look for include extensive experience in the areas of taxation, auditing and financial planning, as well as a commitment to professional ethics. It is also important to ensure that the CPA is up-to-date on any changes or updates in state or federal laws related to their area of expertise.
What Makes a CPA “Good”?
As you endeavor to ascertain how to find a good CPA, you’ll soon discover that not all CPAs are created equal. A good CPA does more than file your taxes—they become a trusted advisor, helping you make smarter financial decisions as your business grows. So what exactly should you look for?
Industry Knowledge
A good CPA understands the specific challenges of your industry. From compliance issues to tax-saving opportunities, they should be able to offer insight tailored to your business model—not just general accounting advice.
Strategic Thinking
Beyond balancing books, a big aspect of figuring out how to choose a CPA is whether they can help you plan for the future. They should bring ideas for improving cash flow, identifying growth opportunities, and minimizing risk. You want someone who can be proactive, not just reactive.
Clear and Consistent Communication
Timely communication is critical. A good CPA will explain complex financial matters in a way that’s easy to understand, keep you updated on deadlines, and respond quickly when questions arise.
Attention to Detail
Accuracy is essential in accounting. Mistakes can lead to penalties, missed deductions, or compliance issues. A good CPA is thorough, careful, and consistently delivers clean, accurate work.
Trust and Professionalism
You’re trusting someone with your financials—so integrity matters. A good CPA will maintain confidentiality, follow ethical practices, and give honest advice, even if it’s not what you want to hear.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF A CPA IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Choosing the right CPA is crucial for your business’s success. Let’s take a look at some important factors that can help you determine how to pick a CPA:
Industry Expertise:
Make sure the CPA has experience in your specific line of business so they can give you good advice.
Proactive Communication:
Look for a CPA who keeps in touch, gives you information, and is there for you even after tax season is over.
Responsiveness:
An efficient CPA will get back to you quickly in response to your questions.
Up-to-Date Knowledge:
Make sure that the CPA keeps learning so that they are up to date on changes to tax laws and accounting standards.
Range of Services:
Check to see if the CPA offers a lot of different services, like financial planning and strategic advice.
References and Reviews:
Verify the CPA’s reviews and references to be sure they are reputable and offer top-notch services.
Professional Ethics:
It is important to ensure that the CPA maintains a strong commitment to ethical standards and has a clean disciplinary record.
Personal Compatibility:
Check to see if working with the CPA makes you feel at ease and if the way they talk to you fits your needs.
Where to Look for a Reliable CPA
Once you know what makes a great CPA, it’s now time to solidify how to find a good CPA that meets your needs. Here are some of the most effective ways to begin your search:
Referrals from Trusted Professionals
Start by asking your financial advisor, attorney, or fellow business owners if they have a CPA they recommend. Personal referrals can give you a lot of insight into how the CPA works and whether they’re a good fit.
Industry Associations
Organizations like the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) or your state’s Society of CPAs often have searchable directories of licensed professionals. These tools can help you filter by location, specialty, and services offered.
Online Platforms and Reviews
Sites like LinkedIn, Yelp, and Google Reviews can offer insight into client experiences. Be sure to look for consistent patterns in the feedback—especially around responsiveness, professionalism, and expertise.
State Board of Accountancy
Check with your state’s board to ensure the CPA is licensed, active, and has no disciplinary history. Most state boards have online databases that make it easy to verify credentials.
Local Chambers and Business Groups
Your local chamber of commerce or small business networking groups often have partnerships with vetted accounting professionals. These CPAs may already have experience working with businesses in your area or industry.
Work With a Firm That Collaborates With CPAs
The best solution for how to find a new CPA is to talk to a financial expert like TGG. These are professional consultants in the industry who work hand-in-hand with CPA partners and can refer you to professionals who are already familiar with your type of business. If you’re already receiving outsourced accounting or financial reporting services, ask if they can connect you with a trusted CPA who aligns with your goals.
Who Needs a CPA?
Businesses of all sizes need CPAs to manage their financial operations, from the large corporate entity to the small start-up. CPAs are also needed for special business deals such as mergers and acquisitions, international transactions, and tax planning. Given their vast knowledge in the areas of taxation, auditing and financial planning, finding a CPA that is a good fit for your organization will ultimately provide invaluable guidance for business leaders looking to set a sound financial strategy for the company.
THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR CPA EVALUATION
It’s important to keep an eye on your relationship with your CPA as your business changes and grows. This process makes sure that your CPA stays the best fit for your changing needs and that you get the best financial help.
Why Regular Evaluation is Necessary
Regularly evaluating your CPA is critical for several reasons.
Adapting to Business Growth:
Your company’s finances become more complex as it expands. Regular evaluations of your CPA are necessary to ensure that they have the knowledge and assets necessary to fulfill your expanding requirements.
Ensuring Compliance:
Accounting rules and tax legislation are under ongoing change. Frequent contact with your CPA guarantees they remain current and your company stays compliant, preventing expensive fines and legal problems.
Maximizing Financial Efficiency:
Optimize your finances by constantly evaluating your CPA. You can expect your CPA to be proactive in finding methods to streamline your financial operations, cut expenses, and boost profits.
Building a Strong Partnership:
Regular reviews help people talk to each other freely, set clear goals, and strengthen working relationships by making sure that everyone is on the same page with their plans and goals.
Can I Do My Own Accounting for My Business?
One of the most important decisions business owners have to make is whether or not to handle their own accounting and financial activities. While there are certain tasks that should always be handled in-house, such as reconciling accounts payable and receivable, preparing monthly financial statements and compiling tax returns, other activities can often be outsourced.
Bookkeeping, payroll processing, and even tax planning can all be outsourced to a professional accounting firm, freeing up time and resources for the business. It is important to understand the benefits of using outsourced accountants before making a hiring decision, as cost savings should not be the only factor considered when choosing whether or not to outsource certain activities. Ultimately, when considering how to find the right CPA for your company, focus on finding an experienced professional who can ensure accurate and timely accounting records while freeing up time for the business to focus on other areas.
When Should I Hire a CPA?
Knowing how to find a good CPA is one thing, but timing can make a big difference, too. The right time to hire a CPA can save your business time, money, and future headaches. While some business owners wait until tax season, the best time to bring on a CPA is before things get complicated. Here are a few signs it’s time to make that move:
Your Business Is Growing Fast
Rapid growth often means more financial complexity. If you’re adding employees, opening new locations, or expanding product lines, a CPA can help you scale responsibly.
You’re Facing Complex Tax Issues
Multiple revenue streams, out-of-state sales, or international transactions are strong indicators that you need a CPA with tax expertise to avoid costly mistakes.
You’re Seeking Funding or Loans
Investors and banks often require clean financials, forecasts, and documentation. A CPA ensures your financials are credible and presentation-ready.
You Want to Improve Profitability
A CPA isn’t just for taxes—they can also identify inefficiencies, help you manage costs, and improve your margins with strategic planning.
You’re Planning a Major Business Change
Whether you’re buying, selling, merging, or restructuring, a CPA can provide crucial insights and ensure that all financial decisions are legally and financially sound.
You’re Tired of Doing It Yourself
Even if things aren’t overly complex yet, outsourcing to a CPA can free up your time, reduce stress, and give you peace of mind that your books are accurate and compliant.
How a CPA Can Help Your Small Business
A CPA can be a valuable asset to any small business. They provide guidance and advice on managing finances, creating financial strategies, and setting up accounting systems to ensure accuracy. CPAs also make sure taxes are filed correctly, help businesses develop budgets and track net cash flow, prepare payrolls and assist with personnel management, and offer advice on structuring loans and other debt. When thinking about how to choose a CPA for small business needs, recognize that CPAs are in a unique position to also give guidance about cash flow planning, pricing strategies, and all types of tactical decisions with financial implications.
How to Get the Most Value from a CPA’s Services
Start by understanding your unique financial situation and goals and then look for ways that a CPA can help you achieve those objectives. Learning how to find a good CPA will ensure that who you employ will be able to provide comprehensive financial advice. Take full advantage of their skills. For those that don’t want to manage the entire accounting process in-house, outsourcing services to a CPA can be a great way to maximize efficiency while minimizing costs.
SIGNS IT’S TIME TO REEVALUATE YOUR CPA RELATIONSHIP
Even though regular reviews are important, there are some signs that it might be time for a more in-depth review of your relationship with your CPA:
Lack of Proactive Communication:
If your CPA only gets in touch with you when there’s an issue or during tax season, it might be time to find someone who offers continuous guidance and assistance all year long.
Missed Deadlines and Errors:
Significant red flags include inconsistencies in your financial accounts, missed deadlines, and frequent mistakes. These problems could undermine the credibility and financial stability of your company.
Inadequate Industry Expertise:
If your CPA doesn’t have much experience or knowledge in your industry, they might not fully understand the problems and chances your business faces. This gap can make it harder for them to give good help that is relevant.
Stagnant Growth in Services:
As the needs of your business change, your CPA should be able to offer you new services and information to meet those needs. If your CPA’s services haven’t changed as your business has grown, it might be time to look into other choices.
Poor Responsiveness:
A CPA needs to be easily accessible to answer your queries and concerns. They might not consider your company to be a top priority if they are constantly difficult to get in touch with or slow to reply.
What to Expect During a CPA Transition
Aside from putting the question, “How do I find a good CPA,” to rest – switching CPAs presents a whole new set of considerations, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and communication, the process can be smooth and even beneficial for your business. Whether you’re moving on due to poor service or simply outgrowing your current provider, here’s what to expect during the transition:
Notify Your Current CPA
It’s best to give your current CPA a written notice that you’ll be transitioning to a new provider. Remain professional and request any necessary documents your new CPA may need, such as prior-year tax returns, financial statements, and account history.
Organize Your Records
Make sure your financial documents—bank statements, tax filings, payroll data, and accounting software access—are accurate and up to date. Clean records make it easier for your new CPA to hit the ground running.
Expect an Onboarding Period
Your new CPA will likely go through a discovery process where they ask questions about your business model, goals, and past accounting practices. This is a good opportunity to discuss pain points and make sure you’re aligned on expectations.
Allow Some Overlap
If possible, give your new CPA access to your former CPA for any clarifications. Even if they don’t work together directly, this overlap can prevent gaps or misunderstandings during tax season or audits.
Be Prepared for Better Insight
The right CPA won’t just take over where the last one left off—they’ll look for ways to optimize, improve compliance, and help you plan for the future. Expect fresh perspectives on cash flow, strategy, and risk management.
IS A CPA WORTH IT FOR A SMALL BUSINESS?
Yes. The comprehensive financial analysis, ability to assess the business’s risk exposure, and help set pricing strategies, is invaluable strategic advice for growth or restructuring. It is too easy for small businesses to fall prey to the skills their team lacks. A CPA evaluation of a business’s financial operations ensures that the business will have the peace of mind it needs that its finances are taken care of and in compliance with laws. Understanding how to pick a cpa will lead to your business becoming more efficient and profitable.
FAQs About How to Find a Good CPA
What’s the best time of year to start looking for a good CPA?
While many people wait until tax season, the best time to find a CPA is during the off-season—typically summer or early fall—when CPAs have more availability for onboarding and strategic planning.
Do I need a CPA who specializes in my type of business?
It’s not required, but it’s definitely beneficial. A CPA with experience in your industry is more likely to understand the financial challenges you face and identify tax-saving opportunities specific to your business model.
Should I choose a CPA based on price alone?
No—price is just one factor. A lower-cost CPA may not provide the level of service or strategic support your business needs. Focus on experience, responsiveness, and compatibility first.
How often should I meet with my CPA?
At a minimum, you should meet with your CPA once or twice a year. However, many businesses benefit from more frequent check-ins, especially during periods of growth, restructuring, or regulatory change.
Can a CPA help with business forecasting and growth planning?
Yes. Many CPAs offer advisory services that go beyond tax filing. They can assist with budgeting, cash flow planning, and long-term financial strategy to support business growth.
What’s the difference between a CPA and a financial advisor?
A CPA focuses on accounting, tax compliance, and financial reporting. A financial advisor typically focuses on investments, retirement planning, and personal financial goals. Some businesses benefit from having both professionals on their team.
Is it better to work with a local CPA or a remote one?
It depends on your business needs. A local CPA may be helpful for in-person meetings, while a remote CPA might offer more flexible pricing or specialized expertise. Many businesses successfully work with CPAs remotely, especially if communication is strong.
How much do most CPAs charge?
CPA fees vary based on location, services offered, and the complexity of your needs. For basic tax preparation, fees might range from $300 to $1,000. For ongoing business support or advisory services, monthly retainers can range from $500 to several thousand dollars. Always ask for a clear breakdown of services and pricing upfront.
Is it worth it to pay a CPA?
Yes. While the upfront cost may seem high, a good CPA can often save you money through proper tax planning, accurate reporting, and strategic financial advice. They can also help prevent costly mistakes, reduce your audit risk, and free up your time to focus on running your business.
This post was reviewed by our team of accounting and financial experts. TGG’s mission is to make business owners’ lives better through excellent financial management. We strive to provide the most up-to-date and objective information on accounting-related topics so our readers can make informed decisions based on factual content. All posts undergo a review process with at least one member of our Leadership Team to ensure accuracy.
This post contains trusted sources. All references are hyperlinked at the end of the article to take readers directly to the source.
Matt Garrett is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TGG. He is a regular speaker across the country on behalf of Vistage educating business owners on the need for sound financial practices, and is Vice President of the Board of Directors of FINACA. Under Matt’s leadership, TGG has received the following recognition: INC. 5000 top companies in the U.S. five years in a row; one of “San Diego’s Fastest Growing Companies” the past four years; and is among San Diego’s “Best Places to Work.”
