Regardless of your location, including the Gold Coast, you’ll discover a considerable number of accountants in the area, all vying for your business. A simple Google search for ‘Gold Coast Accountant’ yields hundreds of companies competing for attention. However, the real question remains: Are these accountants actually competent?

Determining what makes the right Gold Coast accountant is not dependent on Google rankings, the size of their Google Ads budget, or the number of accountants in their firm. These factors do not reflect the quality of their services.

So, how can you distinguish the good accountants from the mediocre ones? Find tips and questions to ask in this blog. 

Factors Should You Consider While Choosing the Right Accountant on the Gold Coast

Check out the factors you should keep in mind: 

Know Your Agent 

Your tax agent plays a crucial role in supporting you during stressful times when you’re striving to meet tax return deadlines. It’s essential to ascertain their reliability and their ability to offer the tax solutions you require. 

Furthermore, ensure that they are easily approachable and can be contacted within reasonable time frames when you need their assistance. Effective communication is key in this professional relationship.

Check Their Qualification 

Ensure that your prospective accountant is properly qualified and licensed to cater to your requirements. Verify if they are registered with the Australian Tax Practitioners Board and that their business card and website details align with their registration information. 

Choose an Expert

Inquire about their specialised areas and assess if they align with your requirements. For small business owners, it’s crucial to find an accountant with ample experience in handling taxes within this domain. By doing so, you can ensure that they are well-versed in the deductions you are eligible for and are knowledgeable about relevant deadlines pertaining to your business.

Top 10 Questions to Ask the Accountant 

Apart from following the above-mentioned tips, you need to go the extra mile and ask the accountant a few questions. 

1. Which licences do you hold?

Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) undergo rigorous degree-level education and comprehensive testing in financial planning and bookkeeping. Unlike other designations, CPAs meet higher standards. While it’s beneficial to find a CPA with additional certifications or credentials, it’s essential not to compromise on the CPA qualification in favour of anything else.

2. Can you describe your working approach?

Since accountants handle sensitive financial data, establishing trust and respect is crucial. This question helps determine if your work styles align and if you can build rapport.

3. How easily can you be reached?

Ensure that your accountant is accessible when you need them, without charging exorbitant rates for brief conversations or out-of-hours advice. Find out if they require appointments well in advance or if they respond promptly to quick emails or urgent texts.

4. Who comprises your clientele?

Is the accountant well-versed in your industry? Are they capable of offering informed answers to your inquiries, especially if you have specific tax reporting needs for your particular business? Ensure that their experience aligns with your requirements.

5. How do you bill?

What is the basis for their fees? Do they charge hourly or based on the value of their services? Make sure you and the accountant have a clear understanding to avoid any surprises.

6. How do you plan to improve my business?

This inquiry explores the accountant’s perspective on their role within your business. What specific services do they propose for you, and how do they intend to help you save money? A proactive accountant will offer valuable insights to foster and protect your business, backed by concrete examples of their assistance.

7. What are the accountant’s areas of expertise?

Whether you’re launching a business, seeking advice on property investment, or considering buying a franchise, it’s vital to ensure that your accountant possesses the necessary expertise and knowledge to provide you with the best value as a client.

8. Is the accountant acquainted with the latest technology and cloud accounting software?

Using up-to-date software allows accountants Australia to automate clients’ businesses effectively. Moreover, do they utilise tools like Skype and TeamViewer for web meetings and concept sharing?

9. How frequently does the accountant communicate with you each year? 

Regular communication is crucial, as it ensures you are informed about tax changes and receive tips on tax-saving strategies through emails or blogs. Staying informed and inspired is essential for a healthy working relationship.

10. How long has the practice been operating?

Generally, the more experienced they are, the greater their efficiency and effectiveness in providing valuable services to you.

These are some of the tips on how to choose the right Gold Coast accountant. Following these tips will help you get the best value out of your money when taking accounting services.