How to Choose a Small Business Accountant in Minnesota: A Complete Guide

As a small business owner, you know details matter. From where you invest every dollar to what your return on investment is, you are playing a never-ending game of 3D chess in order to grow. But as your company evolves, it gets more difficult to stay on top of finances. You need forecasting, analysis, and someone who can help manage the day-to-day finances so you can stay focused on other critical business matters.

If you are struggling with how your financial data is recorded, organized and interpreted, you’ve likely reached the point where you should invest in small business accounting help that can elevate your business to the next level. Follow this guide to learn how to choose a small business accountant who will meet your company’s needs.

Finding Qualified Accounting Help

Services a small business accountant can provide include:

• Tax preparation and filing
• Payroll, including direct deposit
• Accounting and financial statement preparation
• Financial forecasting and analysis
• Bookkeeping

Do you want a holistic approach, combining several or all of the services listed above, or someone who provides a targeted service, like payroll or financial forecasting and analysis? List your priorities before reaching out to any accounting services, mapping out what’s time-sensitive and where you struggle the most.

Once you’ve figured out and listed your basic needs and preferences, it’s time to do some research. Look into accounting services with strong credentials and experience, and check out client reviews on Google, website testimonials, and information you find on reputable third-party websites.

Your needs will also vary based on the industry you work in. For example, a local restaurant chain faces a very different financial situation than a custom home builder or yoga studio. 

It can take a while to assess your specific needs, find accountant candidates that look good on paper and book consultations to learn more. Yet it’s critical to avoid shortcuts. Like having a good marriage, working with the right accountant can make a world of difference.

Questions to Ask a Small Business Tax Accountant

Once you’ve narrowed your candidates, it’s time to book consultations with the accountants who stand out. While meeting with an accountant, you should discuss your business needs openly and prepare to ask questions to ensure you find the right fit before making a final determination.

Helpful topics to ask about during a consultation include:

• Availability, office hours, responsiveness and cadence of work
• Relevant experience, including whether they have worked with a competitor or business similar to yours
• Their licensing in the state of Minnesota
• What kind of support is available should you be audited by the IRS or state government
• Cost for service, including any startup fees
• How the billing process and payment works
• Who you will work with, and whether they will be available to you consistently
• What technology and reporting system for business records is used, including cloud-based software
• How the firm stays current with changing tax laws and regulations in Minnesota and with the IRS

Also be prepared to ask the small business tax accountant your questions related to specific services you want help with.

Gain a Competitive Advantage

Get ahead with local accounting talent that will help grow your company. Backed by our 4.9-star rating on Google and 25 years of service to businesses in the Twin Cities area, our Minnesota-based experts understand the challenges small businesses face because we’re also a small business. 

Contact Corneliuson & Associates for a free consultation to see how our expertise will help your business thrive. In our 60-minute meeting together, we will review your business strategy, tax situation, and even your profitability plan to get you on the path to growth.