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When it comes to your individual or business accounting and bookkeeping needs, there are so many things to think about, forms to fill out and dozens of dates, rates, laws, rules & regulations, forms and more to remember. Frankly, the process can be complex and challenging without the right help.
But while figuring it all out can be daunting, finding a qualified, capable and honest service to navigate the complex accounting, bookkeeping and tax preparation process should be simple.
Spark makes it easy and handles everything for you, every step of the way. But even if you don’t choose the experts at Spark as your Tucson accounting or bookkeeping service, we recommend taking a systematic and organized approach to selecting a partner.
Here’s what to look for when selecting an accountant or bookkeeper so choosing the right one is much more manageable and your client experience will be far more memorable.
1. Define & Prioritize Your Needs
Whether it’s basic bookkeeping, tax preparation, or financial consulting, knowing your requirements and defining the specific tasks you need help with before starting the search will ensure you find the right professional.
2. Both Credentials & Character Matter
Look for the right combination of patience, personality and professional qualifications and certifications. Trustworthiness matters just as much as their training. And reputation can often mean more than accreditation. When it comes to accounting & bookkeeping services, Spark combines all of it – deftly blending helpfulness and care with experience and high professional standards.
3. Experience in Your Industry & Community
Familiarity with industry-specific regulations, local laws, cultural nuances, and business specifics can be invaluable for accurate financial management. Seek professionals with experience in your specific industry and knowledge of your market. Spark knows local, small business accounting better than most because we are a local, small family business ourselves. And as a Hispanic-owned business on Tucson’s South Side, we also speak Spanish and know the ins and outs of our dynamic culture and vibrant community – and starting a business here – better than anyone.
4. Check References & Reviews
Request and check references from past clients. This provides insights into the accountant’s reliability, communication skills, and overall effectiveness. We have helped hundreds of clients and dozens of small businesses right here in Southern Arizona and are confident that each and every one of our customers would confidently recommend us, including numerous independent contractors, truck drivers, self-employed entrepreneurs, local startups, new business owners, and beyond.
5. Technology & Technical Proficiency
In the digital age, a good accountant should be comfortable with the latest accounting software and other relevant technologies, as well as up-to-date on the newest laws, most recent methodologies, and any other ways to strategize for you, streamline processes and enhance efficiency.
6. Communication Skills
Regardless of your knowledge level, your language, or your experience, effective communication is key. Your accountant should be able to explain complex financial concepts in a way that you can understand, fostering a collaborative and transparent relationship. If you’re more comfortable speaking Spanish, we can communicate with you fluently in Spanish. If you prefer coming into the office versus Zooms or emails, we welcome you to stop in. And if you want to meet regularly versus periodically, we can make that happen.
7. Understand the Fee Structure
Not every accounting service charges the same or has a similar rate structure. Clarify the accountant’s fee structure upfront to ensure it’s acceptable for you. Some charge hourly rates, while others may have fixed fees. Ensure there are no hidden costs and that the pricing aligns with your budget. We pride ourselves on our transparency, so once we know what you need our help with, we’ll explain our pricing model and make sure you see our value in every interaction.
8. Ask About Availability & Deliverables
Understand your accountant’s availability and how often you’ll be able to meet with them or interact with them, especially during critical times like tax season. Ensure they can accommodate your specific needs and important deadlines. Sure, you’re not their only client, but you should always feel like you’re a priority. At Spark, you always will be.
9. Security & Privacy Measures
When it comes to sensitive information and personal data, you should only work with a service that takes it as seriously as you do. Discuss the security measures in place to protect your financial information both online, in-person and with 3rd parties. Ensure that your accountant follows best practices for data security, privacy and confidentiality.
10. Evaluate Problem-Solving Skills
Financial issues can be complex. Accounting, bookkeeping and tax preparation take strategy-driven solutions that must be customized for every client. As such, assess any accountant’s problem-solving skills, perhaps by presenting hypothetical scenarios, getting their thoughts on a real-life issue you’re facing, or asking about past challenges they’ve successfully navigated.
11. Discuss Long-Term Goals
Some accountants prefer being a “gun for hire” or there just to help during tax season. If that’s what you prefer, then sure, we can still help. But if you’re looking for a long-term partnership and a relationship that grows as you and your business do, then have an honest dialogue and discuss your business’s future goals. A good accountant should be able to offer insights and strategies to support your growth, as well as solutions for issues you are facing today.
12. Ongoing Education & Continuous Learning
The financial landscape is ever-evolving. Rules and regulations change in real-time. Technology is moving faster than ever. Inquire about the accountant’s commitment to getting better via ongoing education, expanding their skills or staff, continuous learning, and staying updated on industry trends, technology changes, local issues, tax regulations and more. At Spark, we pride ourselves on keeping our ear to the ground so we’re always ahead of the game.
13. Evaluate Response Time
When it comes to accounting, bookkeeping and tax preparation, dates and details matter more than anything. As such, timely responses to inquiries, questions, and requests are crucial. Not only between the accounting service and you, the client, but with government agencies, local entities, independent contractors and more. Assess the accountant’s responsiveness during the initial stages to gauge how communication will be managed moving forward.
14. Trust Your Instincts!
Trust is essential in any professional relationship. Honesty, integrity, and transparency are the cornerstones of a successful client relationship. So, if something doesn’t feel right or you have reservations, it’s okay to speak up and certainly okay to explore other options. A successful partnership and solid relationship is built on trust and confidence. At Spark, that’s our only goal.
15. Support Local If You Can
Sure, you can go with a global firm or a national agency to help you, but with most of the “big box” accounting services or automated software, you’re just a number. But with Spark, you’re family. We lean in. We listen. And we’re local. Our degrees are from the University of Arizona. We know the ins and outs of Tucson. We speak your language and over-service every account. And our family-owned agency is just down the street so you can walk in whenever you want.
Finding the right accountant or bookkeeping service is a critical decision for the financial health of your business. Selecting the right partner that is the perfect combination of expertise, experience, honesty, and care is crucial.
Whatever path you choose – whether it’s with Spark handling your accounting and bookkeeping needs or another service – take the time to thoroughly vet potential candidates to ensure a positive and productive collaboration.
Looking for the right accountant or bookkeeping service? It starts with Spark.
