Started a side hustle, investing, or levelling up financially? Finding the right accountant can make a huge difference to your confidence, clarity, and long-term wealth. The right one won’t just lodge your tax return, they’ll help you make smarter decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and plan ahead. 

Here’s how to choose someone who actually supports your goals, plus the key questions to ask before you commit.

1. How will we communicate?
Clarify whether they prefer email, calls, meetings, or online portals and how often you’ll hear from them.

2. What services do you offer?
Some accountants focus only on tax, while others provide bookkeeping, strategic advice, or business planning.

3. When should I contact you?
The best advice happens before big decisions, like investing, selling assets, or starting a business.

4. Do you help with tax planning year-round?
Great accountants don’t just file returns; they help you prepare ahead of time.

5. Who do you usually work with?
Look for someone experienced with clients like you, whether that’s employees, investors, freelancers, or business owners.

6. What do your most successful clients do differently?
This can reveal insights, habits, and strategies you can apply to your own finances.

7. How do you charge?
Fees vary widely - hourly, fixed, or package pricing - so get clarity upfront.

For Business Owners

8. How can you help improve my business finances?
They should be able to identify cost savings, pricing opportunities, and profitability improvements.

9. How can you support my growth?
From forecasting to budgeting and funding preparation, a strong accountant acts like a strategic partner.

10. How do you help clients evaluate financial decisions?
You want someone who can assess risks, scenarios, and trade-offs before you commit.

11. Can you help value my business?
Useful for planning exits, raising capital, or understanding your financial position.

12. Are there industry-specific considerations I should know?
Different industries have unique tax rules and reporting requirements.

How to find the right one
Start with referrals from people you trust, check qualifications and professional memberships, and speak with a few candidates before deciding so you can compare fit, expertise, and communication style.

Millie Reminder: The right accountant isn’t just a service provider, they’re part of your financial support team. Choose someone who makes you feel confident, informed, and in control.