Choosing a Richmond accountant
The following article will describe for you some of the considerations when evaluating accountants online in Richmond.
Although they are often used interchangeably, the first question to consider is whether you need an accountant or a Richmond bookkeeper.
What does an accountant do?
Typical accounting services include tax preparation (commonly done by a tax accountant), audit, and financial planning. Your Richmond accounting firm is generally forward-thinking and looks for ways to structure your business to ensure its long term success. Your accountant should be genuinely interested your business. An accountant in Richmond can also be invaluable to you through networking in the larger Richmond business community. Generally speaking, the same accounting rules apply whether your business employs two people or two thousand people, so a Richmond accountant makes sure that you are compliant with local and federal accounting regulations.
Accounting software
Your accountant will have his/her favorite accounting software. Make sure that the accounting software is up to date and regularly backed up.
Types of accountants
Accountants come in different shapes and sizes. Typical designations include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and Certified Management Accountant (CMA).
Further information on the accounting professsion can be found at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) - http://www.aicpa.org
What does a bookkeeper do?
As the name implies, a Richmond bookkeeper is responsible for managing your business' records, such as its accounts receivable and accounts payable. Usually, your Richmond accountant will set up the accounting structure, while the bookkeeper will work within this structure. Accurate business records are critical to the success of your business.
Bookkeeping software
Record-keeping software varies by industry and company size. Popular Richmond bookkeeping applications include Simply Accounting and QuickBooks. Whatever bookkeeping software you choose, make sure that you regularly back up your data and keep hard copies of important documents.
Further information on the bookkeeping profession can be found at the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) - http://www.aipb.org
Fun fact: Kenny G, the jazz artist, began his career as an accountant
You may also be interested in Small Business Accounting.