Most people shop for an accountant when the IRS sends a letter. By then, you're already behind. A few honest questions upfront will save you from bad advice and surprise bills.
Licensing & Insurance Questions
Make sure they're actually licensed. Check the state board's website for the license number. Don't take their word for it. Also ask for proof of professional liability insurance. If they make a costly error, you want a way to recover. For tax work, an enrolled agent might be a better fit than a CPA. Their credentials are also verifiable. Ask what they're insured for. Some small firms have coverage, but sole practitioners might not.
Experience & References Questions
Ask who their current clients are. You want someone who deals with people in your situation—business owners, freelancers, or simple W-2 earners. Get two or three names and actually call them. Don't rely on written testimonials. When you talk to references, ask how quickly the accountant returns calls. Ask if they've caught real errors. Ask if they're reachable after tax season. Most people get ghosted in July. That's a red flag.
Pricing & Timeline Questions
Get a concrete pricing structure. Hourly rates are common, but flat fees exist for specific work like a return or a monthly bookkeeping package. Ask what's included. You don't want a surprise invoice for every phone call. Timelines matter. Ask when their busy season peaks and whether they can handle your deadlines. If you need a return by a certain date, get that in writing. Also ask how long they've been taking on new clients. A firm that's too busy might rush your work.
Contract Questions
Read the engagement letter closely. It should define the scope of work, the fee structure, and who does what. Watch for vague language. If it says 'services as needed,' that's a blank check. Make sure you can terminate the agreement with reasonable notice. You should also keep ownership of your own records. Some contracts try to tie your files to unpaid bills. That's legal in some states, but you need to know before signing.
Now that you know what to ask, go compare local CPAs and accountants on RatingsNearMe and find someone who passes the test.