» When should I hire a CPA firm?
Since your entire venture revolves around money (making it, saving it, protecting it, using it, investing it), accountants play a critical role in helping you run a successful business so your CPA should be one of your most trusted professional advisors. You should hire an accountant from the first day you start your business; better yet, BEFORE you start your business! Remember you are going to lay the accounting foundation of your business.
» What should I look for in a CPA firm?
Just as with all the professional advisors on your team, your ultimate goal should be to hire a firm that adds value to your company's bottom line. Therefore, finding a good CPA firm generally has very little to do with price. Here are some factors to consider:
- People
- Make sure they have the right kind of experience as well as industry contacts you can leverage.
- Expertise
- Make sure the firm has sufficient depth of expertise in your particular industry.
- Education
- Make sure the firm's staff is current on their continuing professional education requirements.
The final determination, however, will be finding a personal "fit". Remember, at the end of the day you'll have to trust your individual and business financial well-being to this outside advisor!