How to Find a Reliable CPA in Princeton NJ

CPA - Certified Public Accountant

Is your business growing fast, and you’re struggling to keep up with the increasing demands? We know it’s your dream to establish a successful business, and seeing all your hard work starting to pay off can be an exciting and overwhelming moment at the same time.

Small business owners tend to wear too many hats and do everything on their own. However, this has to change if you want to continue to grow.

Accounting is one of the most crucial non-core tasks that always gets moved to the back burner. However, if you want to keep your doors open and continue operating smoothly, you must keep track of your numbers and manage your finances properly.

If you want to hit your target numbers while focusing on the core aspects of your business, it’s time to hire a CPA in Princeton NJ. In this article, we will discuss why you need to tap into the expertise of a CPA and how you can find a reliable one.

Why Hire a CPA

An accountant is responsible for managing the finances of individuals or businesses. They work on your books, prepare financial statements and reports, prepare your tax returns and file them, assist with cash flow management, budgeting, and forecasting, among many other finance functions.

Meanwhile, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is an accountant who was able to pass the Uniform CPA Exam or meets the educational and experience requirements of the state where they’re practicing. In other words, all CPAs are accountants, but not all accountants are necessarily CPAs.

One of the best perks of hiring a CPA to handle the finance needs of your small business is that you’re gaining access to a professional who can do more than just bookkeeping and filing taxes. An exceptional CPA such as Lear & Pannepacker can also support you in tax planning, audit, assurance, forensic accounting, management consulting, and provide strategic direction so your business stays ahead of the competition.

Finding the Best CPA Accounting Firm

The most suitable CPA accounting firm for you is one that can address all your business pain points and bring significant value to the table. Here are some tips in finding the best CPA accounting firm in Princeton NJ:

1. Clearly identify your needs and goals.

Before looking for a CPA to hire, the first step is determining why you need a CPA. What are you struggling with in terms of the finance side of your business? What are your desired end results?

Do you need help with optimizing your tax position? Are you struggling with your cash flow? Or perhaps you need assistance with an ongoing audit investigation?

Whatever it is, if you know your requirements and goals for hiring a CPA, the better the chances of finding one who specializes in your specific need.

2. Get recommendations from family and friends.

Asking around and getting referrals from trusted people in your social circle is one of the easiest ways of finding a good CPA. What better way to learn about the quality of service that a particular CPA accounting firm can deliver than to hear from those with first-hand experience in working with them?

However, getting recommendations doesn’t mean you should automatically go for them. You can add them to your shortlisted candidates but it’s still good to consider multiple CPA firms and choose based on your specific needs.

3. Conduct your own research.

If you didn’t get any recommendations from your family and friends or you simply want to consider other options, you may also do your own research.

A simple online search for keywords such as “CPA accountants near me” or “CPA accountant in Princeton NJ” will surely yield thousands of results. There are also online directories where you can draw contact information and addresses of CPAs within your area.

While you’re doing your research, make sure to also check client reviews and verify your shortlisted candidates’ credentials before finalizing a partnership with them.

4. Contact your shortlisted CPAs.

Once you have a list of CPAs you’re considering, give them a call to know more about their qualifications, services, pricing structure, and other vital information. Now is also the best time to ask for references that you can get in touch with to learn about past clients’ experience in working with them.

5. Book a meeting with your chosen CPA.

Before you sign anything, make sure to take the time to meet with your chosen CPA first. During this in-person meeting, you should take the opportunity to clarify any questions or concerns you may have and get to know the person you’re planning to entrust your money with.

Final Thoughts

Looking for a reliable CPA in Princeton NJ can be challenging. However, with the tips shared in this article, we hope you land the best one for you.

Do you want to save time with research, look no further– contact Lear & Pannepacker today! As a full-service CPA accounting firm, they can help you with all your business finance needs– from bookkeeping, tax, and accounting to audit & assurance, business advisory, and virtual CFO services we got you! Contact us today so we can discuss how we can ease your burden and help you run your business better!