Is there an accountant that's a better match for your business than your current one? Probably.
If you're considering switching, then you already have enough of a reason to take the next step - as scary as that seems.
CSI Accounting & Payroll has talked to thousands of small business clients over the past several decades. When new clients express their concerns with their prior accounting firms, they usually mention communication issues (and the surprises, confusion, and frustration that they cause).
Small business owners who want to know more about how to change accounting firms asked us:
- How do I feel confident in my decision to change accountants?
- What steps do I take to change accounting firms?
Feel Confident While Changing Accountants
Business owners change accountants for various reasons - poor communication, lack of performance, and failure to provide business advice. If you’re wondering about making the switch but you're still a bit hesitant, read about overcoming the common fears we hear about switching.
Changing accounting firms doesn't have to be difficult, time-consuming, or awkward. It's easy with the right approach, so don’t put it off! Many of our clients feel relief after the change and express that they should have switched sooner.
Remember, there isn’t a perfect time to switch accounting firms, but if you’re already thinking about making a change, you should trust your instincts.
3 Steps to Change Accounting Firms
The process for changing accounting firms is simple. Before you set out on a search for a new accounting firm, list the reasons why you’re disappointed with your current accounting firm. Use this list to remind yourself why you need to switch.
1. Find a New Accounting Firm
Nobody will burn a bridge if they don't know where they're going next. To help you separate the quality accounting firms from the ones that under-deliver, here’s a list of characteristics to look for:
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Strong communication skills. You should be able to contact your accountant as much as you need for no additional fee. Many firms charge by the minute for asking questions, but quality ones know that allowing questions now means fewer things to fix later.
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Experience working with your industry. Top-notch accounting services provide proactive, industry-related business advice, which requires a deep understanding of what makes your business tick.
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Relevant credentials. Look for accountants who are Enrolled Agents (specialized in tax issues) or Certified Public Accountants (well-rounded accounting knowledge). Some accounting firms don't invest in continued education, while others will regularly attend conferences and stay on top of tax laws and strategies.
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Consistent reviews from other small business owners. With so many fraudulent reviews out there these days, be sure to look for authentic ones: ones that are linked to real profiles, mention specific details or their business's name, and are posted consistently over time or after events like tax season, as opposed to reviews that seem to come in bulk out of nowhere.
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Ample service coverage. Does your accounting firm do everything that you need it to do? Most accountants just file annual taxes, and many others will only offer monthly accounting. If you're outsourcing several services, why not simplify the number of companies you have to be in contact with on a regular basis? Take payroll, for example - there are many benefits to bundling accounting and payroll under one roof.
2. Inform Your Current Accounting Firm
Next, you need to tell your accountant that you're moving on. This can feel awkward, and you might worry that they'll try to negotiate when you know it's already over.
You can do this yourself, or your new accounting firm may be willing to assist you in this process to:
- Establish the date you will end service with your current accounting firm.
- Settle any unpaid bills.
- Facilitate record exchange by providing full contact information for the new accountant.
In many cases, this step becomes a roadblock for business owners thinking about making a change. Don’t let potential awkwardness stunt the growth of your business.
3. Set Goals With Your New Accounting Firm
The beginning of working with a new firm is the best time to set goals. Tell them why you switched to their service and set expectations for the partnership. That way, you’ll both be able to focus on financial stability and growth opportunities for your small business.
In established accounting firms, there will be meetings in place to set you up for success. An accountant should understand your business inside and out, help you establish best practices, and outline a plan to work toward your goals.
Explore CSI Accounting & Payroll as an Option
While realizing that you need to switch may not be the hardest thing in the world, actually making the switch can be intimidating enough to keep you complacent in your current solution.
Having to choose an accounting firm that's a better fit for you, facilitating that breakup conversation, and setting the stage for the future with your new accounting firm aren't as hard as they may seem. Professionalism and a sense of purpose can make the accounting switch stress-free. And having the right accountant by your side doesn't hurt!
If you're interested in having a discussion to see if we can be a good fit for you, click the button below for a free consultation.
Not ready to have a conversation yet? Be sure you know if the cost of monthly accounting lines up with your business! Click the button below to learn more about the variables that make up your monthly fee.
