adventure tax

Hire An Accountant

Are you looking to hire an accountant? Want to find an accountant that “gets” you? We can help.

How to Find the Right Accountant

Finding the right accountant isn’t just about numbers – it’s about finding someone who understands your business (and who aligns with your goals).

1. Assess Your Needs: Identify what help you need: bookkeeping, payroll, tax compliance, reporting, or strategic advice?
2. Look for Experience: Choose an accountant with experience in your industry or niche.
3. Check Qualifications: Ensure they are qualified to do your job, and if they know what they’re talking about.
4. Software: Make sure they use the same accounting software as you (Xero, MYOB, or Quickbooks).
5. Communication: Make sure they’re a good communicator and will reply to your emails and calls. Better yet, are they on WhatsApp? Do they use Zoom?
6. Flexibility: Get a virtual accountant if you prefer working online or if you operate across time zones.

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Why Work With Us?

• Online Meetings: Whether you run your business from Egypt, Rome, or Mexico; we meet you online. We also offer e-signing of documents and Zoom calls to make your life easier.
• Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or surprises – only pay for what you need (a low fixed price per month for better cash flow).
• We’re Experts: We’re qualified accountants with deep industry knowledge and a passion for numbers! We specialise in online businesses, ecommerce, and digital nomads.
• Peace of Mind: Focus on your business growth and let us handle the finances.
• Great People: We’re a friendly and enthusiastic bunch! We’re happy, positive, and love what we do ☀️

We can help you manage your day-to-day accounting and bookkeeping and also provide strategic financial advice.

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Our Accounting Services

We make it easy to hire an accountant tailored to your business needs. Here’s what we offer:

1. Bookkeeping & Payroll

• Accurate tracking of expenses, receipts, and invoices.
• Payroll management, including superannuation and tax reporting.

2. Financial Reporting & Forecasting

• Monthly reports on profit, loss, and cash flow.
• Custom forecasts to plan ahead and manage growth effectively.

3. Xero Setup & Support

• Integration with leading accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks.
• Ongoing technical support and staff training.

4. Business Advisor

• We help you grow your business via cash flow, profitability, systems, and marketing strategies.
• Custom, strategic guidance to expand your business or navigate new markets.
• Strategies to grow, scale, and succeed.

5. Tax Compliance & Lodgement (Outsourced)

• Preparation and lodgement of GST, BAS, and income tax returns.
• Review of potential tax savings and deductions.
• We don’t provide tax services in-house, but we have a great network or tax agents we can refer you to.

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Ready to Hire an Accountant?

Before you hire an accountant, make sure they feel like a good fit. Trust your instinct. A good accountant will offer more than tax returns and BAS lodgements. They’ll help to transform your business. Book a free consultation with us today to find out more.

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Benefits of Hiring a Virtual Accountant

If you’re running a business remotely or need flexible financial support, hiring a virtual accountant is the perfect solution.

• Work Anywhere: You can access your accounts from any location.
• Cost-Effective: Pay for services only when you need them – no full-time salaries.
• Real-Time Updates: Get instant access to your latest financial data through cloud platforms.
• Ongoing Support: Stay connected with your accountant via email, chat, or video calls.

We make the process to find an accountant quick and simple, so you can focus on growing your business or travelling the world (or both!).

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How It Works

It’s easy to hire an accountant. When you work with us, it’s simple and hassle-free!

1. Book a Free Consultation: This is where you tell us about your business, why you started, your goals, and what keeps you up at night (we might also ask you about your favourite travel destinations).
2. Ask Your Questions: You can ask us anything – how we run our business, what our pricing model is, or what we love about online business (hint: it’s probably the freedom to work from anywhere with our laptop and an internet connection!)
3. Onboard Seamlessly: We set you up in our system, book in regular catch-ups, and do a full review of your Xero or MYOB file to make sure it’s all running smoothly.
4. Ongoing Support: We’ll provide you with ongoing insights and updates, like ways to boost revenues or cut costs (so you have more cash in your pocket).

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Where to Find an Accountant

There are several ways to find a reliable accountant, from personal recommendations to Google Maps.

1. Professional Recommendations and Referrals
   • One of the best ways to find an accountant is by asking for referrals from other business owners or trusted professionals.
   • Professional networking events, business groups, or even your lawyer can also be excellent sources of referrals.
2. Industry Associations and Professional Organisations
   • In Australia, the main professional bodies for accountants include CPA Australia or Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ). Accountants who are members of these organisations have met strict educational standards.
   • Additionally, the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) has a searchable register of tax agents, BAS agents, and accountants.
3. Online Directories and Marketplaces
   • Online directories like LinkedIn and Google Maps list accountants with reviews and client feedback.
   • Platforms specifically geared towards accounting services, such as Xero Advisor Directory allow you to find accountants who are certified in specific software. If you use cloud accounting software, this can be a great way to find an accountant who is skilled in the tools you’re already using.
4. Freelance and Outsourcing Platforms
   • If you’re a smaller business or startup, freelance platforms like Upwork can help you find accountants for one-off projects or part-time assistance.
   • However, freelancers may not always be equipped to handle all your business’s needs, especially if you require complex tax or audit assistance. Look for someone with solid credentials and positive reviews from previous clients.

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1. Lack of Clear Communication

• Poor Response Times: If an accountant is slow to reply to emails, calls, or questions during your initial meetings, this could be a sign of unreliable communication in the future (they might be spread too thin with other clients). You need timely responses, especially when deadlines are near.
• Overly Complex Explanations: If your accountant constantly uses tax jargon or can’t explain things in simple terms, it may indicate a an inability to communicate effectively. A good accountant should be able to make complex topics understandable and answer your questions.

2. Vague or Unpredictable Pricing

• Unclear Fees: If an accountant is vague about their fees or avoids giving clear estimates, it can lead to unexpected costs down the line. A trustworthy accountant should offer a clear breakdown of costs, including hourly rates or retainer fees.
• Constant Upselling: While additional services can be valuable, beware of an accountant who consistently tries to upsell you without understanding your needs. It can indicate a focus on profit rather than genuine client support.

3. Outdated Knowledge or Reluctance to Embrace Technology

• Avoiding Modern Tools: An accountant who relies solely on manual processes, data entry, or outdated software can hold you back. This can lead to slower job completion, errors, and limited access to real-time financial data.
• Unfamiliarity with Industry Software: If your accountant isn’t familiar with cloud accounting software like Xero or MYOB it shows they’re not up-to-date on the latest tools that could improve your business.

4. No Industry-Specific Experience

• Generalist Accountant: An accountant who lacks experience in your industry may miss specific tax deductions, compliance issues, or operational insights that could benefit your business. Find an accountant who works with your industry, whether it’s hospitality, engineering, or film.
• Lack of Business Interest: If your accountant shows little interest in understanding your specific goals and operations, it’s a red flag. A good accountant takes the time to learn about your business and industry to provide relevant, effective advice.

5. Unprofessional Behaviour or Poor Reputation

• Negative Reviews or References: Check online reviews or speak with past clients. If you notice consistent complaints about unprofessionalism, missed deadlines, or errors, it’s best to steer clear. (Also, don’t believe everything you read online. Some people have great reviews but aren’t great at their jobs).
• Too Casual with Confidential Information: Accountants handle your sensitive financial data, and any sign of carelessness with your documents or data should be a major concern.

6. Reluctance to Provide References or Credentials

• Hesitance to Share Qualifications: A reputable accountant should have no problem sharing their qualifications, certifications, and experience. You can check if they’re registered with the TPB, CPA, or CA before working with them. The accounting industry is heavily regulated so it’s usually fine, but something to watch out for.
• No Reviews: If an accountant doesn’t have any reviews or a website, it’s worth asking why. Established professionals typically have a business and online profile set up for new clients to reach out to them.

7. Promises That Seem Too Good to Be True

• Guaranteed Results or Unrealistic Savings: Be cautious if an accountant promises you the world (aka massive tax refunds or significant deductions) without a thorough review of your finances. If they brag or talk a big talk, watch out. Good accountants understand that tax savings are based on specific circumstances and don’t offer guarantees.
• Pushing Aggressive Tax Strategies: If an accountant encourages you to engage in aggressive tax strategies or questionable deductions, it could put your business at risk for ATO audits and penalties. Ethical accountants focus on compliance and legal strategies rather than quick, risky gains.

Most accountants are good at what they do. But it’s always good to do a background check or social media stalk to verify their background.

Ask lots of questions. See if they’re a good fit.

If you need help finding a top-tier, high-quality accountant for your business, book a call with us here. We can connect you with the best accounting and tax advisors in Australia and the US.

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