Tax · 7 min read
How to Choose a Small Business CPA
The right CPA pays for themselves in deductions, planning, and time you get back. The wrong one costs you twice — once in fees, once in missed strategy. Pick deliberately.
Verify the credentials
- Active CPA license in their state (search the state board of accountancy)
- Active PTIN with the IRS
- No open disciplinary actions
- EA, CPA, or attorney if they'll represent you before the IRS
Match fit to your situation
- Experience with your entity type (S-Corp, LLC, partnership)
- Experience with your industry (real estate, e-commerce, professional services)
- Comfortable with your software stack (QuickBooks, Xero, payroll provider)
- Available for planning calls year-round, not just at filing
Understand the fee structure
- Flat fee vs. hourly — flat fees are easier to budget
- What's included: return prep, bookkeeping review, planning, IRS notices
- Out-of-scope work pricing and approval process
- Whether prior-year returns are included in the engagement
