Starting your online business is a huge milestone. But if you want to continue earning money and expanding your online presence, managing your finances should be a high priority.
Nowadays, many businesses are rushing to cement themselves in the digital world. If you’re already on the search for an accountant, you’re on the right track! However, finding the right tax accountant can be a difficult task. There are many different types of accountants to choose from, and each one has its strengths and weaknesses.
This post will help you find the best tax accountant near you so that you don’t have to spend hours scouring Google for reviews!
What Type of Business Are You Running?
Do you have a small business, or are you an online entrepreneur who does not need to pay taxes in person at the end of the year? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then you might be wondering if you even need to hire a tax accountant. The answer is: It depends.
Even though you may not have to go into an office and meet with someone in person, there are still many critical financial tasks that a professional tax accountant should handle.
The first step to finding the best tax accountant for your online business is determining what kind of service you need. There are generally two kinds of accountants: those specializing in taxes and those with a broader range of expertise that can help with additional financial tasks.
Tax Accountant vs. Bookkeeper
If you’re starting, hiring someone with expertise in various accounting tasks may be a better choice. Here are a few examples of what they might offer:
- Preparing your taxes
- Helping you set up bookkeeping systems
- Organizing and reviewing your financial records
- Analyzing your business performance
On the other hand, finding a tax accountant would be a better option if you’re looking for someone to help with a specific task, such as preparing your tax return. They can also help you find deductions and tax breaks that you may not have known about.
Location, Location, Location!
Now that you know what type of accountant you need, it’s time to start looking for one near you. To find an accountant, you can use online directories, personal referrals, or simply Google “accountants in [city name]” or “local tax accountant.” You can also ask your friends, family members, or online followers if they know anyone that can help.
If you’re struggling to find a good tax accountant near you because the search results are overwhelming, try narrowing down your location by using keywords like “CPA” (Certified Public Accountant), “tax preparation,” or “small business accountant.”
Check Online Reviews
Once you’ve found a few accountants that seem like a good fit for your business, it’s time to do some research. The best way to determine if an accountant is a suitable choice for you is by reading reviews from past and current clients.
You can find these reviews on sites like Yelp, Google+, Angie’s List, and Facebook.
Reading these reviews will give you a good idea of what to expect when working with this particular accountant. If the majority of reviews are positive, then it’s likely that you found yourself an excellent tax preparer!
Is It Worth the Cost?
Even though many people dread doing their taxes each year, hiring an accountant to take care of the task for you is usually worth the cost. If your tax return is prepared correctly, it can save you money on what you owe in federal and state income taxes.
Not only that but if there are mistakes or omissions on your return, it may be rejected, which will subject you to penalties and interest. These fees can add up quickly, but hiring a professional tax accountant prevents this from happening!
What Else Should You Look for in a Tax Accountant?
Find a tax accountant who is willing to work with you and answer any questions that come up throughout the year, not only at tax time.
Ensure your tax accountant can work with online businesses since not all accountants are familiar with the taxation of companies that operate primarily in cyberspace.
You should also check if they charge by the hour or have a flat fee pricing structure to avoid any surprises at tax time when it comes time to pay for their services.
Remember, it’s best to get several estimates before deciding on an accountant.
Bottom Line
Tax accountants can help you with various financial tasks, including preparing your taxes, bookkeeping, and analyzing your business performance. You can find a tax accountant near you using online directories, personal referrals, or simply Googling.
