Do I Personally Need an Accountant?
Many new small business owners take on the role of accountant during their start-up efforts. As there are already numerous demands on the owner's time, this may or may not be a smart move.
An accountant can be an important member of your business team. Not all accountants are created equally, however.
A capable accountant focuses on the relationship. Find an accountant who is interested in your success and in building long-term clients, and he or she will be even more advantageous to your team. Your accountant should be interested in both your personal and professional financial success.
What role do you need your accountant to play in determining the success of your business? Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you need assistance determining your business structure -- sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation?
- Do you need guidance in establishing your accounting systems for quarterly and year-end reports?
- Would you like to use a software program for accounting and year-end reports?
- Are you clear about which taxes you need to pay and when you need to pay them?
- Do you need assistance with payroll?
- Will your business require paperwork completed for your Business Activity Statements or Fringe Benefit Return?
- Do you understand tax laws well enough to represent yourself if you are audited?
- Do you know how to depreciate your start-up costs?
- Do you know how to roll personal property into business property for taxation purposes?
- Will you use your personal home or automobile for business purposes?
- Do you know what expenses are tax deductible?
- Do you know how to keep personal and business expenses separate for tax purposes?
- Will you require assistance in determining how best to equip your new business, whether it be purchasing or leasing?
- Do you truly understand financial statements?
- How will you handle retirement for both you and your employees?
- What health insurance is best for you and your employees?
To plan a course of action which will ultimately lead to a better life style in my retirement
To work on my business strategy, manage my business for greater profitability and help with my ongoing taxation compliance obligations
When I need help to negotiate the maze of options available to me and to make sure I am fully informed before making any decisions.
 | Financial Planner Dip FP, CFP Licensed Dealer in Securities & Registered Life Insurance Broker. Winner of the prestigious National "Securitor Adviser of the Year" Award for 2008. |
 | Financial Planner Dip FP, CFP, Grad Dip Mgt Licensed Dealer in Securities & Registered Life Insurance Broker. |
 | Accountant BA(ACC) CA FTIA AICD Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants and Justice of the Peace for SA |
 | Financial Planner Dip FP Licensed Dealer in Securities & Registered Life Insurance Broker. Winner of the prestigious 2009 Securitor "Rising Star of the Year Award" |
 | Mortgage Specialist Cert IV Mortgage & Finance Services, AMC. Winner of the prestigious SA/NT Rookie of the Year Award 2008/09 |