Finding an accountant can feel like one of those jobs you know you need to do, but you're not quite sure where to start.
The good news is that working with an accountant should make running your business easier, not more complicated.
We've put together some of the questions people often have when they're looking for an accountant, especially if they are starting a business, changing accountants, or just wondering whether it's time to get some help.
How do I choose the right accountant for my business?
Qualifications and experience are important, but so is finding someone you actually feel comfortable talking to.
A good accountant should understand your business, explain things in a way that makes sense to you, and be someone you're happy to contact when you have a question.
The right accountant should feel like someone you can trust, ask questions and work with as your business grows.
What happens at the first meeting with a new accountant?
Don't worry – you don't need to arrive with perfectly organised folders, spreadsheets and every financial document you've ever received.
The first conversation is usually about getting to know you and your business.
We'll want to understand what you’re currently doing and what you need help with
It's also your opportunity to ask us questions and decide whether we're the right fit for you.
What questions should I ask before choosing an accountant?
When choosing an accountant, it’s worth asking a few questions to make sure they’re the right fit for you and your business.
Here are a few worth asking:
- Who will actually be looking after my accounts? Will you have one main point of contact, or would you deal with different people each time?
- How do your fees work? Are they fixed, hourly, or based on the work required? And what might result in an additional charge?
- How easy is it to get hold of you when I need help? Do you generally communicate by phone, email, meetings, or a mixture?
- How often will we be in contact? Will you only hear from them at year-end, or will they check in during the year?
- Do you have experience with businesses similar to mine? This can be particularly useful if your industry has specific accounting or tax considerations.
- Will you be proactive with advice? A good accountant should raise things you need to know about, rather than waiting for you to know the right questions to ask.
Most importantly, pay attention to how that first conversation feels. You should be comfortable asking questions, feel like they're interested in understanding your business, and come away feeling clearer rather than more confused.
Do I need an accountant if I already use Xero or myob?
Xero and MYOB are a great accounting tool, but it doesn't replace an accountant.
While accounting software helps you manage the day-to-day numbers, an accountant makes sure things are being treated correctly, takes care of your tax obligations and helps you understand what those numbers actually mean for your business.
The two work best together.
What's the difference between an accountant and a bookkeeper?
A bookkeeper generally looks after the day-to-day financial records of your business, such as transactions, invoicing and reconciliations.
An accountant looks at the bigger picture, including annual accounts, tax returns, tax planning and financial advice.
There can be some crossover, and many businesses use both.
Should I get an accountant before I start my business?
It's often a very good time to talk to one.
An accountant can help you choose the right business structure, understand your tax and GST obligations, and get things set up correctly from the start.
Getting some advice early can be much easier than trying to untangle things later.
You don't need to have everything figured out before talking to an accountant either. Helping you work through those questions is part of the job.
Can an accountant deal with IRD for me?
Yes. You can give your accountant authority to act on your behalf with Inland Revenue.
If you receive something from IRD and aren’t sure what it means or what to do next, the easiest thing to do is send it through to your accountant and ask, "What do I need to do with this?"
We get those emails more often than you might think!
Can my accountant help if I owe IRD money?
Yes. Your accountant can help work out what you owe, communicate with IRD and look at options such as a payment arrangement.
The sooner you deal with tax debt, the better. Don’t feel like you need to sort it out yourself before asking for help.
Can an accountant teach me how to use Xero rather than doing everything for me?
Absolutely. Some business owners want someone else to take care of everything. Others want to understand their own accounts and do as much as they can themselves.
If you'd prefer the second option, we can help you learn how to use Xero properly and confidently.
You can take care of the day-to-day work while still having your accountant there when you need additional help.
Can I use an accountant who isn't in the same town as me?
Yes. With cloud accounting software like Xero, email, phone calls and online meetings, your accountant doesn’t need to be just down the road.
Some people still prefer having a local accountant they can meet face-to-face, while others are happy doing everything remotely. It’s really about what works for you.
How often should I speak to my accountant?
It depends on your business. For some, an annual catch-up is enough, while others benefit from regular contact throughout the year.
The important thing is not to wait until year-end if you’re making a big financial or business decision. A quick conversation beforehand can save problems later.
I haven't filed my tax returns for a few years – can an accountant help?
Yes. And if this is you, putting it off for another year probably isn't going to make it any easier!
People fall behind with their tax obligations for all sorts of reasons. The important thing is working out what's outstanding and making a plan to get things back on track.
An accountant can work out what’s outstanding, prepare the returns and help get things back on track with IRD. You don’t need to get everything sorted before contacting us – we can help you through the process.
My bookkeeping is a mess – can an accountant still help me?
Yes. Please don't feel like you need to tidy everything up before you contact us.
Missing invoices, unreconciled transactions and things sitting in the wrong place happen all the time. We can help sort through it and get things back on track.
Is it difficult to change accountants?
Usually, no.
If you've decided your current accountant isn't the right fit anymore, changing firms is generally much simpler than people expect.
Once you've chosen your new accountant and given the appropriate authority, the firms can arrange the transfer of the information and records needed to continue looking after your affairs.
You shouldn't feel like you're stuck with an accountant forever just because they've always done your accounts.
Will I be charged every time I ask my accountant a question?
This is a really common concern, and understandably so. Nobody wants to make a two-minute phone call and then wonder whether an invoice is going to arrive.
At Ean Brown Partners, we offer our Express Help guarantee, which means you won’t be charged for quick questions that your Client Manager can answer during a brief phone call or short email.
We want you to feel comfortable getting in touch when you are unsure about something, rather than putting off a question because you are worried about the cost.
If your question requires more in-depth work, we will let you know before going ahead so there are no surprises on your invoice.
Still have questions?
The right accountant should be someone you can talk to, trust and feel comfortable asking questions. – including the ones you think might be silly.
Because chances are, we've heard them before.
Whether you’re starting a business, changing accountants or simply need some advice, get in touch with the team at Ean Brown Partners.
We’re happy to have a chat and see how we can help.