Choosing and Using an Accountant

5. What Do You Need to Know?

Asking the right questions will help you decide whether the firm is a good match for your needs.

5.1 How many partners are there in the firm?

• What does each one specialise in?

5.2 How many personal and business clients does the firm have?

• How many businesses of your size?
• How many businesses in your industry?

5.3 Who at the firm will handle your work?

• What experience and training has this person had?
• Will a partner be giving your business personal attention?

5.4 Will you be able to get advice promptly when you need it?

5.5 What are the estimated fees, per hour and per year?

• When are they payable?
• Can you pay by instalments?

5.6 What, in the accountants' view, are your accountancy needs?