A simple checklist to find the right CPA the first time
Overview
When people search how to choose the best CPA for small business or what to ask a CPA before hiring, they want one thing: confidence. You are not just hiring a tax filer. You are choosing a long term financial partner. The right questions quickly reveal whether a CPA is proactive, strategic, and aligned with your communication style.
The CPA hiring checklist
Planning and cadence
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How often do you meet with clients: quarterly or monthly?
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What does tax planning look like outside of filing season?
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Do you forecast estimated taxes during the year?
Bookkeeping and systems
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Do you review bookkeeping monthly or quarterly?
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Do you support QuickBooks cleanup or monthly close?
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How do you ensure the books align with the tax return?
Payroll and compliance
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Do you advise on contractor vs employee classification?
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Do you coordinate payroll reporting to reduce errors?
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How do you help clients avoid penalties?
Credentials and fit
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Are you licensed as a CPA?
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What industries do you work with most?
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What is your response time expectation?
The IRS also recommends checking credentials and choosing a preparer you can contact if questions come up.
What to listen for in their answers
Green flags:
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clear planning cadence
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documentation standards
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proactive reminders and forecasting
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simple explanations, not jargon
Red flags:
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“we’ll see at tax time”
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unclear billing and surprise fees
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no process for bookkeeping quality control
How Avocet International CPAs approaches new clients
At Avocet International CPAs, we start with clarity:
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what you want to achieve
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what your numbers currently say
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what systems need to be cleaned up
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what cadence will prevent surprises
FAQ
Should I hire a local CPA or can it be remote?
Either can work if communication and systems are strong.
Do CPAs help with business structure?
Yes. Entity strategy and planning are core value areas.
How often should I meet with a CPA?
Many businesses benefit from quarterly reviews. Fast growth or tight cash flow often benefits from monthly.
