There are times in everyone’s lives when they wish they made a different decision. If you’re paying out far too much in taxes or your investments are falling far short of expectations, then perhaps you made the wrong choice for your accountant! This is an important decision, no matter if it’s for your personal finances or your business. Here are three sure-fire signs that you need a new accountant.
#1 They Can’t “Account” for all Your Money
While you certainly hope that your accountant is honest, not all of them are. Virtually every occupation has a few bad apples in it and the financial sector is certainly not new to dishonest individuals. If the firm you have hired cannot provide you with paperwork showing where every penny of your money has gone, then it’s time to get a new one! This includes your investments, taxes, payroll, and any other tasks they should complete.
#2 They Are Always Busy When You Phone
While an occasional delay in getting back in touch is acceptable, reaching voice mail every time you phone is not. You should be able to get in touch with your account manager within a day’s time - at the very least. You should also have prior notice when they will not be available due to business trips or holidays. This is only proper business practice and common courtesy. Far too many people today seem to avoid their clients’ calls or other communication. It’s not a practice that is very popular today - that’s for sure! Remember that you have hired them - not the other way around!
#3 Their Name Changes Frequently
If you employ a firm to handle your financial business, you may become tired of having a new account manager every few months. The firm should be able to guarantee that you will have the same manager, barring any complications, and be able to develop a personal, yet working relationship with that individual. This helps to avoid problems that are often a result of misunderstandings. Each business is different, so it’s imperative that the person working for your understands your company’s needs, as well as what your company does on a daily basis.
Where to Find a New One
You may have found the individuals you have now due to a recommendation from a friend or family member. Perhaps the phone book was the source you used. You should consider enquiring from professional organizations, such as the Institute for Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. In the UK, anyone can call themselves an accountant, but only those who meet strict guidelines may call themselves “chartered”. The ICAEW offers a database on their website of those that are part of their organization. This is almost as good as a “seal of approval!”
In Closing
You can find a professional accountant, but you may have to do a little bit of research first. Choose one from a firm that is the same size as your company. They will have a better understanding of what your needs are. Look for one in the same locale as you. It makes communicating much simpler. Finally, don’t hesitate to hire a new one if you are aware of any problems that may arise. It’s your money, after all. Make sure you keep the most of it!

