Do you keep track of your company’s finances in spreadsheets, checkbook registers, or accounting software? If you use spreadsheets or manual bookkeeping, you may need an accountant to keep things organized.

Even if you use accounting software, there are times when it doesn’t have the feature you need or something goes wrong with your file that makes it unreadable. Purchasing an annual subscription for a business management software program is not enough; your business may require the services of an accountant to get the financial records in order and file taxes on time.

In an effort to help your small business succeed and stay compliant with tax and accounting requirements, here is a list of helpful tips on how to find the best accounting service for your business.

Know Your Company’s Financial Reporting Requirements

The first thing to do when looking for an accounting service is to determine the level of financial reporting requirements you need. Businesses are unique in their own right. Thus, their requirements are different too. The most basic accounting services are bookkeeping and payroll.

A bookkeeper will keep track of all the expenses and income, such as cash and check deposits, purchases, and payments, that goes through your business.

Ask Friends and Colleagues for Recommendations

If you don’t know anyone who has used an accountant before, it is best to find someone through recommendations. Ask a few of your trusted colleagues, employees, or business associates for recommendations on accountants.

If you don’t know anyone who has used an accountant before, it is best to find someone through recommendations. Ask your trusted colleagues, employees, or business associates for recommendations on accountants.

Ask about Experience with Different Software Platforms

No matter what accounting software you use, there may be times when you need outside help with your company’s financial records.

You want a service provider who can work with your accounting software and other financial reporting software.

It is important to find an accountant who can easily work with your company’s financial software.

Having to convert spreadsheets or manually entering data into your financial software will only add to the accounting costs. You want an accountant who can work with your current software and may be able to recommend other software that might be helpful for your company.