Chartered Accountant: What to Look For

Hiring a Toronto chartered accountant can benefit both your business and personal finances. It’s important to know that not all accountants are the same, though. This person is going to have access to your financial data so you want to make sure you’re hiring the right person. When you’re hiring a Toronto chartered accountant, look for the following things.

Referrals

            Word of mouth referrals is how most chartered accountants get the majority of their business. Getting a referral from family, friends, colleagues, and others are the best way to know if an accountant is good.

           

Determine Your Needs

            Before you can hire an accountant you need to determine what you need them for. Chartered accountants can specialize in different areas of finance, from small businesses to personal. You don’t want to hire a corporate accountant for your personal taxes.            

Licensed Professionals

            The first thing you should verify before hiring any chartered accountant is that they are fully licensed to practice. You should also make sure they are licensed for what you need them for since there are variations of accounting certifications and degrees.

Accessibility

            You want to hire an accountant that will have time for you and your needs. If you like in person meetings make sure you can access their office or if you prefer remote communication make sure they’re available to answer your calls and emails. If you don’t have access to them, what is the point of hiring them?            

Price

            Ask the chartered accountant about their pricing structure before hiring. Is there a set fee or is it hourly? You want to know exactly how much they’re going to be charging you and why.            

Technology

            We live in a technological era so it’s a good thing to ask about what technology the chartered accountant used. Ask them about digital filing, cloud accounting, and remote communication. They can also provide recommendations for accounting programs and software.

Likeability and Trust

            You want to be able to trust the person you’re hiring to handle your financial information. If you’re going to be working closely with them it could also be important to make sure you like them as well.