What is a CPA?

CPA stands for Certified Public Accountant. These individuals have passed the Uniform CPA Exam and are licensed by the Board of Accountancy to perform accounting and auditing services. 

Education

An accountant has achieved at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or business-related programs. These include ethics, higher-level accounting courses, and other accounting-related coursework.

Uniform CPA Exam

To obtain licensure, one must pass the Uniform CPA exam. 

The exam is offered in all fifty states and is a proctored test dealing in auditing, regulation, business, and accounting.

After passing the test, CPAs are then able to focus on various concentrations in accounting like taxation, estate planning, and retirement plans.

How to Find the Best CPA for You

Hiring a CPA for your small business is the best financial decision you can make. Finding a CPA that meets the needs of your business, however, may not be as easy as you think. It is a decision that every entrepreneur should make with extreme prudence.

A qualified CPA will help you grow your business by: 

• setting up an accounting system that is tailored to your business needs
• monthly reports to help you make informed decisions
• filing of tax returns so that you can focus on the things that matter to you.  

There are many factors to consider when hiring a CPA. Two of these are:  

Budget

If you are looking for a CPA on a budget, hiring newer CPAs may be a better option for you.

However, if you are willing to dole out a more significant amount, highly consider seeking the advice of a more experienced CPA. Those with almost 20 years of experience will be a worthwhile investment in financial planning. 

Qualifications

When hiring a CPA, consider looking into their background:

• education
• credentials
• licenses
• feedback from former clients
• number of clients served

Looking into their backgrounds can reveal helpful information, like expiration dates, their rates, and more. 

Most importantly, hire a CPA who specializes in what you are specifically looking for to ease the process and make your life easier.