Three Signs You Need an Accountant

As a small-business owner, up until this point, you may have managed your money successfully. Software programs like QuickBooks make it possible, even if you don’t have much financial knowledge or experience.

However, as your business — and revenue — grow, managing your financials may become a task you don’t have the time or knowledge to manage. Specifically, when it comes avoiding legal and compliance issues, accountants can be worth their weight in gold.

If you’re not sure if you need to hire an accountant, look for these three signs:

1. You Aren’t Familiar With Accounting
If financial statements confuse you, you have a hard time creating reports, or you are lost when it comes to accounting terms, you likely need to hire an accountant — at least initially — to coach you in all things financial. An accountant can talk to you in straight terms, weed through terminology, and teach you how to manage your own finances. In addition, you don’t want to miss key information or make mistakes early that could cost you down the road. An accountant can start you and your business off on the right track.

2. You Don’t Know Anything About Taxes
The U.S. Tax Code is complicated. Regardless, if you fail to pay the right taxes for your business type and industry, you will likely be hit with penalties and fines. An accountant can advise you early on so that you can comply with all tax regulations. More importantly, an accountant can inform you of tax credits and deductions you can take, and predict the taxes you’ll owe so that you don’t come up short when Uncle Sam comes knocking. Finally, an accountant will make tax season less daunting because he or she can file your taxes for you.

3. Bookkeeping Takes You Away From More Important Tasks
Perhaps you have some working knowledge of accounting, but managing your books is preventing you from accomplishing tasks that could directly grow your business (for example, acquiring new clients or moving into new markets) or managing your business effectively (such as dealing with performance issues or troubleshooting service problems). Hire an accountant so you can focus on winning more business, innovating, building your team, and other development activities.

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