Choosing the right CPA to prepare a relatively easy tax return is a lot different from choosing one to help you plan your financial future, or selecting a cpa firm knoxville to help you transform your business into an e-commerce powerhouse. And choosing an individual CPA, or small CPA firm, is miles away from selecting a bunch CPA firm of hundreds of partners and scores of specialties. But certain common aspects apply about the particular CPA with whom you will have contact.
Your CPA just told you that there are moving two thousand miles away to be CFO of an internet start-up. Also, you survived until now without a paid CPA, but now with all those stock options and complex partnership arrangements in your small business which is finally getting large, you know you need someone with good analytical skills and tax acumen to help you navigate through. Or you just moved here from the other coast and you know you need help, and soon.
So why do you need help in choosing the right CPA. After all, you’ve been a pretty good judge of people up until now using your instincts and interview skills. Also, if he turned down the air-conditioning, he would probably sneeze much less while drilling, and your gums would be quite thankful. And what about that real estate agent who helped you buy your first house.
The right CPA could get you out of a mess, or keep you from one, make your life simpler, be a great sounding board for key financial decisions like buying a house, starting a business or retiring, etc. The wrong one could get you in trouble with the IRS or SEC or worse, or steer your financial ship way off course, which could take years and many thousands of dollars to make right.