Rule # 1:  Always seek out a CPA.  Unless you trust that friend
                                                                 who does your taxes every year as a side business, you should
                                                                 have a CPA prepare your tax return.  More Americans realize the
                                                                 value of CPA each year.  See FAQ for more information.

                                                                 Rule # 2:  Do not go for the rock bottom price.  Some ads like
                                                                 "Tax returns for $50" may sound tempting.  However, beware of        
                                                                  the quality of these tax returns.  By paying such a low price you        
                                                                  will most likely sacrifice in quality, and often, will risk getting extra
attention from IRS by having errors and inconsistencies in your returns.  

Rule # 3:  Check the credentials and experience of the candidate.  You may ask for a referral, too.  Generally,
the more experienced candidate will serve your needs better than less experienced one.  The candidate with
financial education will be a better accountant than someone with the Art degree who decided they can
make more money by practicing accounting.

Rule # 4:  Interview the candidate in person.  This way you will have a sense of whether you like the
personality and can work together.  There is nothing worse than having incompatible personalities and not
being able to establish clear communication.

Rule # 5:  Ability to devote sufficient attention to your needs.  Many well-qualified accountants fail this rule
because they have thousands of clients and not enough time.  As a result, they outsource your projects to
bookkeepers or data entry clerks whose qualifications are not very strong.  Go with the accountant whose
workload allows for a personal involvement.  
With so many ads for accounting and tax services, which one do you select?
mike@davidoffcpa.com
Disclaimer
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Contact us:
  • 703-232-1599 (local)
  • 877-4-MY-TAXES
    (toll-free)
  • 877-598-7658 (fax)
  • E-mail Us at
Register Now
Selecting Your Accountant
Copyright © 2008 Davidoff & Associates, CPAs. All rights reserved.