A good firm doesn't take clients for granted. They guard over their clients' businesses and look for ways to help.
Did you know that you can save a lot more on your taxes, if your accountant helps you before the end of the year... instead of after?
If that's not happening, you need to change your CPA!
In October and November, many people start thinking about gathering materials and preparing to submit financials for creating a tax return.
If you are like many business owners and wealthy individuals, you start recalling your frustrations... such as trying to reach your accountant and not getting a call back. Remembering how most years, he (or she) is filing an extension. Feeling as if your CPA has other more important interests.
You have that vague feeling that no one is really looking at your return to see where more savings could be made.
If these problems strike a chord, you should be concerned! You would be better served by finding a new accountant.
What You Should Look For
You want a firm that believes that it is essential for a CPA to communicate with clients promptly, to stay "in the know" about your business situation (so that we can advise you about tax-saving implications), and one who stays ever vigilant about the constantly changing laws.
A good firm doesn't take clients for granted. They guard over their clients' businesses and look for ways to help. Unfortunately, the industry is plagued with sad stories from business owners and wealthy individuals who are frustrated and unhappy.
Here are the complaints we hear the most:
Phone calls and emails are not returned in a timely manner...or not at all.
Proactive tax planning and strategic advice from the accountant simply doesn't happen.
Tax returns are often put on extension instead of being filed on time.
Inadequate answers are given to questions about tax law.
The invoice amount is a "surprise"... after the services have been provided.
Frequent correspondence is received from the government due to simple filing errors.
Accountant is distracted from serving clients due to having other business interests.
These are just a few of the common reasons why people search for a new accountant.
What You Should Do
Many business owners often "stick it out," not realizing how much it is really costing them. Remember, it's not just the fees you're paying.
That's "small potatoes" compared to the missed opportunities for paying less tax! Sending in more than you need can cost you tens of thousands of dollars!
What should you do? Examine your relationship. If it is satisfying and financially rewarding, stick with it. If not, meet with other accountants to discuss your options. (You should expect to do this at no charge.) Get references. When you find one you can trust to have your interests at heart, don't wait, change. You'll be glad you did.
About The Author:BOTTOM LINE? The higher the expectation you have of your CPA, the more favorable your return will look. Don't settle. Chris Welker, of Welker & Company CPAs is an accounting firm that helps small businesses succeed through proactive tax planning. Known for building solid client relationships through individual attentiveness, they help to build profitable companies and individuals.For a free one hour consultation on your business or tax situation, call 585-292-1041 or email
cwelker@clw-cpa.com. Visit
http://www.WelkerAndCompanyCPAs.com
