7 Questions to Ask When Choosing an Accountant for Your Small Business

Is your accountant helping your business grow, or are they just doing your books?

The right accountant isn’t just a number cruncher. They should be someone who understands your business, helps you stay compliant, and supports your growth. Too often, small businesses settle for the first accountant they come across or stick with someone out of habit, only to realise later that the support they’re getting is surface-level at best.

So, how do you choose someone who actually adds value? It starts with asking the right questions.

1. What experience do you have with businesses like mine?

An accountant might be highly qualified, but that doesn’t always mean they’re the right fit. A café has different financial challenges from a freelance designer or a small manufacturing firm. You need someone who gets your world.

Ask what types of clients they typically work with. Do they understand your industry? Have they worked with businesses of your size or growth stage? It’s not just about niche expertise; it’s about knowing the common pitfalls and opportunities that relate to what you do.

2. How proactive will you be in supporting my business?

Plenty of accountants will submit your returns on time and keep your records tidy. But that’s the bare minimum.

The real value comes from accountants who spot ways to save tax, warn you about cash flow dips, or flag when you’re close to hitting a VAT threshold. You want someone who’ll check in regularly, not someone you only hear from at year-end.

Don’t be afraid to ask how they work day-to-day. Will they send reminders? Do they review your finances throughout the year or just when it’s time to file? Are they available for advice when something unexpected comes up?

3. How do you price your services?

Accounting fees can vary widely. Some charge by the hour, some have fixed monthly packages. Others might give you a quote and then hit you with extra charges every time you ask a question.

Clarity is key. Get a breakdown of what’s included and what might cost extra. That way, you avoid nasty surprises and can budget with confidence. Also, ask whether their fees scale up if your business grows, especially if you’re planning to expand or hire.

The goal isn’t to find the cheapest option. It’s to understand the value you’re getting and ensure there’s transparency from the start.

4. Who will I actually be dealing with?

This one often catches people off guard.

You might speak to a senior partner at the start, but later realise your main contact is a junior member of the team. That’s not necessarily a bad thing—everyone starts somewhere—but you should know who’s handling your accounts.

Ask whether you’ll have a dedicated point of contact. Will you deal with the same person each time? Can you call or email them directly? Good communication makes a huge difference, especially when you’re dealing with deadlines or urgent decisions.

If possible, ask to meet or speak with the person who’ll be your main contact before you commit.

5. How will you help me stay compliant and avoid penalties?

Mistakes with tax or reporting can lead to hefty fines. A good accountant should have robust processes to make sure you’re always on the right side of the rules.

Ask how they keep track of deadlines, what checks they have in place before submitting returns, and how they handle any errors. You can also ask how they stay up to date with changing regulations and what they do to pass that knowledge on to you.

It’s not about expecting perfection—it’s about knowing they have systems and accountability in place.

6. Can you support me beyond just accounting?

Some accountants offer a broader service. They might help with payroll, bookkeeping, budgeting, or even strategic planning. Others stick strictly to compliance.

Depending on your business needs, you might want someone who can act almost like a finance partner. If you’re growing, hiring, or exploring funding, these services can be a big help. But they’re not always standard.

Find out what else is on offer. Just be clear on whether these services are included or cost extra, and whether they’re optional or bundled into your fee.

7. How do you work with clients?

This is where you find out what day-to-day life will be like with them.

Do they use cloud accounting or prefer paper records? How often will they check in with you? Do they wait for you to get in touch, or will they prompt you when things are due?

You’re looking for alignment. If you like quick emails and digital systems, but they prefer face-to-face meetings and hard copies, that could cause friction. On the flip side, if you want someone more traditional and hands-on, don’t pick a firm that only works online.

Compatibility matters more than you think. It shapes how smooth the relationship will be, how supported you’ll feel, and how well they understand your goals.

It’s More Than Just Numbers

Choosing an accountant isn’t something you want to rush. It’s a relationship that can either quietly support your business or actively push it forward.

The right person will understand your challenges, keep you compliant, and give you clarity around your finances. But more than that, they’ll feel like a trusted part of your team, not just someone you pay to keep the taxman happy.

Ask the questions that matter. Be clear on your expectations. And remember, you’re not just hiring a service; you’re choosing a partner who’ll be part of your business journey. Make sure they’re up to the task.