The first call with a prospective CPA sets the tone for the entire relationship. Most business owners spend that call listening to a sales pitch instead of asking the questions that actually matter.
That sounds obvious, but most people do the opposite, nodding along to a polished intro rather than pushing for specifics on fees, availability, and experience.
A short list of pointed questions changes the entire dynamic and puts the burden of proof back where it belongs, on the firm trying to earn the business.
Questions About Licensing and Credentials
Start by confirming an active state license and asking how long they have held it. Follow up by asking whether they carry professional liability insurance, since that protects you if an error occurs on their end.
How Long Have You Held Your License
A longer track record is not automatically better, but it does provide context for how much they have navigated changing tax law over multiple filing seasons.
Do You Carry Professional Liability Insurance
This protects the client if a preparer error leads to penalties. Reputable firms carry this coverage as a standard practice.
Questions About Fees and Services Included
Ask for a written breakdown of what is included in the quoted price, and specifically whether bookkeeping, quarterly calls, and audit support are bundled in or billed separately. Here’s the thing most people miss: verbal estimates rarely match the final invoice unless everything is documented up front.
Is Bookkeeping Included or Separate
This single question can shift a quote by hundreds or thousands of dollars depending on transaction volume, so clarify it before comparing prices across firms.
What Happens if My Business Grows Mid Year
Ask how pricing adjusts if revenue or transaction volume increases significantly, so there are no surprises when the engagement is renewed.
Questions About Communication and Availability
Ask directly how quickly they respond to emails and whether quarterly check ins are part of the standard package. A firm that only reaches out during filing season is signaling a reactive rather than proactive approach.
Questions About Industry Fit
Ask for examples of clients in a similar industry or revenue range. A firm offering strong cpa near me support should be able to speak specifically to service based businesses or ecommerce sellers rather than offering a generic answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I ask a CPA for references before hiring?
Yes, most reputable firms can provide client testimonials or reviews, and hesitation to share them is worth noting.
What is a reasonable response time to expect from a CPA?
A 24 to 48 hour response window for routine questions is a common and reasonable standard to set during the first conversation.
Why does professional liability insurance matter?
It protects the client financially if a preparer makes an error that leads to penalties or missed deadlines.
How do I know if a CPA understands my industry?
Ask for specific examples of similar clients they have worked with in the past year, not just a general statement of experience.
Is it normal to interview more than one CPA?
Yes, comparing two or three firms on fees, communication style, and experience is a common and reasonable step before committing.
