Hudson area businesses and private citizens can benefit significantly from working with an experienced accounting professional to handle a vast range of different issues, from budgeting and tending to the books, to handling invoicing, performing financial audits and assisting with tax-related financial matters (amongst many other tasks!)
Many who are seeking to hire an accountant have never hired this type of professional before, so there are many points you should keep in mind as you seek out the ideal accounting expert, whether you’re seeking an independent CPA to come work exclusively for your business or need help from an entire accounting firm.
What is a CPA and Why is it Important to Hire a CPA to Handle Your Accounting?
Hudson natives must keep several points in mind when seeking an accountant. First and foremost, it’s usually best to hire a certified public accountant, also known as a CPA, to handle your financials. A CPA brings added credibility, reputability and trustworthiness to the equation because these professionals must complete testing and fulfill a number of other requirements to get and maintain their certification.
CPAs must pass a challenging, four-part timed exam in order to be certified. Accountants are also required to attend college courses (the minimum number of credit hours varies from state to state) or obtain a degree in an accounting field. The aspiring CPA must also spend time working with a seasoned CPA, working in a role similar to an apprentice.
CPAs also carry a much greater level of trustworthiness and clients can enjoy greater peace of mind because in order to gain this certification, an individual must exhibit and maintain strong moral character. Many clients may also choose to run an independent background check prior to hiring a CPA or other accounting professional.
It’s also wise to ask for references so you can speak with others who’ve worked with the accountant or accounting firm that you’re considering.
Are there Different Types of Accounting?
Hudson companies will need to find an accountant who is experienced and specializes in the particular type of accounting services that they require. Just as there are different types of lawyers or doctors, there are also different types of accountants, each with a particular area of specialty, such as:
- General financial accounting;
- Management accounting;
- Financial auditing;
- Tax accounting;
- Forensic accounting;
- Social accounting (a.k.a. “sustainability accounting”)
- Project accounting; and
- Governmental accounting.
You’ll want to be sure to ensure that the accountant you’re considering can meet your needs, so remember to discuss the accountant’s area of specialty relative to your requirements.
The right accountant can save time and money, while also helping you to avoid financial issues in many situations.
*Disclaimer: The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Suncoast CPA Group*