Finding and using QuickBooks professionals, such as certified QuickBooks ProAdvisors or accountants with QuickBooks expertise, can be beneficial for businesses of all sizes. These professionals can help you set up QuickBooks, provide training, offer ongoing support, and ensure that your accounting processes are efficient and accurate. Here’s how to find and work with QuickBooks professionals:
1. QuickBooks ProAdvisor Directory:
- The official QuickBooks ProAdvisor Directory, hosted on the QuickBooks website, is a valuable resource. You can search for ProAdvisors in your area who have expertise in QuickBooks Desktop or QuickBooks Online.
- Visit the QuickBooks Find-a-ProAdvisor website (https://quickbooks.intuit.com/find-an-accountant/).
- Enter your location or ZIP code to find ProAdvisors near you.
- Review profiles to see their qualifications and areas of expertise.
2. Recommendations and Referrals:
- Ask for recommendations from business colleagues, friends, or other professionals in your industry. They may have worked with QuickBooks experts and can provide referrals.
3. Local Accountant or CPA Firms:
- Many local accounting firms or Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) offer QuickBooks services. Look for firms that specialize in small business accounting or offer QuickBooks support.
4. Online Marketplaces:
- Online platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr often have QuickBooks experts who offer services remotely. You can browse profiles and hire professionals for specific QuickBooks tasks or projects.
5. Professional Associations:
- Check with professional associations such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) or the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB). They may have directories or resources to find qualified professionals.
6. Evaluate Qualifications:
- When considering QuickBooks professionals, evaluate their qualifications, including their certification level (e.g., QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor), years of experience, and client reviews.
7. Initial Consultation:
- Schedule an initial consultation with the professional to discuss your needs, goals, and the scope of work. This will help you determine if they are a good fit for your business.
8. Define the Scope of Work:
- Clearly define the scope of work or the services you need. This could include QuickBooks setup, data migration, training, ongoing support, or financial analysis.
9. Discuss Fees and Contracts:
- Understand the fee structure and contract terms. Some professionals charge hourly rates, while others may offer fixed-fee packages. Be clear about costs and payment terms upfront.
10. Work Collaboratively:
- Collaborate closely with your chosen QuickBooks professional. Provide them with access to your QuickBooks data and be responsive to their requests for information or clarification.
11. Training and Support:
- If you’re using QuickBooks yourself, request training to ensure you can use the software effectively. Regularly communicate with your professional for ongoing support and guidance.
12. Monitor Progress:
- Keep track of the work being done and ensure it aligns with your business objectives. Regularly review financial reports and other outputs to ensure accuracy.
13. Maintain Open Communication:
- Maintain open lines of communication with your QuickBooks professional. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or additional support.
The synergy between QuickBooks and a bookkeeper for small business is instrumental in averting expensive errors and financial discrepancies.
Working with a qualified QuickBooks professional can save you time, reduce errors in your accounting, and ensure that you make the most of QuickBooks’ features and capabilities. Whether you’re new to QuickBooks or an experienced user, their expertise can be an invaluable resource for your business.
