FAQ

When do I know that I need an accountant?
Should you find yourself having difficulty managing your personal or business finances by yourself, consider hiring the services of an accountant. Even if your records and transaction don’t seem especially complex, it may be too much work just to keep them in track. If you feel that is the case, or you just want to make sure whether hiring an accountant is the right idea, you could try setting an appointment with one and go over your current financial situation with him or her.

How do I go about finding an accountant?
It is straightforward enough to locate accountants. Many offer their services and advertise on the Internet and in the Yellow Pages, plus they can easily be found by simply checking around your local business district. The institutes can be approached for a directory of accountants that practice in your city, and they commonly post this information on their websites as well. It can also be a good idea to check out accountants that are personally recommended to you.

Will the accountant visit me or do I go to them?
It is a good practice for both parties to visit each other’s workplace. That way the accountant can get a better feel for the things that happen at your business and you can also have a chance to get an idea of how operations are conducted at their firm.

What should I bring to our first meeting?
You need to bring with you as much information as you can gather about your business. Financial documents, records, plans, and tax returns for example can help paint an accurate picture for the accountant of your financial situation.

How much will hiring an accountant cost?
First visits are usually complimentary. Just the same, check with them before meeting to avoid receiving an unexpected bill.

How much am I going to be charged?
This will be discussed during the appointment. It tends to vary. Some have an hourly rate while others charge annually. If you decide to hire a full-time accountant, you can of course offer them a salary.

How many accountants should I interview?
Just to make sure you’ve checked around enough to know what’s out there before hiring, interviewing around five accountants would suffice.

How do I know if an accountant is properly qualified?
They will have the one of the following acronyms on their business card or C.V.: FCA, ACA , CA , FCCA, ACCA, FCMA, or ACMA. These refer to the institutes which certify accountants to make sure they meet the right standards.

What if I am unhappy with my accountant?
You should terminate your contract with them, but making sure first to settle all your bills. After everything is settled, you can hire a new accountant immediately. As long as both parties practice fairness and courtesy towards each other, all should be well.