As your business grows, so do your financial needs, and not every accountant is built to keep up. What worked when you were just getting started may now be slowing you down.

So how do you know when it’s time to switch accountants?

Here are 10 signs it’s time to upgrade your accountant and find a partner who’s aligned with your long-term business goals. 

1.       You only hear from them at Tax Time

If your accountant only reaches out during tax season, you’re missing out on strategic, year-round financial support. A good accountant should help you with ongoing tax planning, financial forecasting, and business strategy.

2.       You’re Still Doing Most of the Bookkeeping Yourself

Are you constantly managing spreadsheets, categorizing transactions, or tracking down receipts?

If your accountant isn’t helping automate or handle your day-to-day bookkeeping, you’ve likely outgrown their services. A full-service accountant should save you time, not create more work.

3.       You’re Not Getting Advice

Is your accountant advising you on:

·       Profit Margins?

·       Tax Planning?

·       Tax Flow?

If not, they’re just a vendor, not a strategic ally. 

4.       Communication is Slow or Unclear

Do your questions go unanswered for days?

Fast, clear, and proactive communication is critical as your business grows. If you are constantly chasing down answers, it might be time to reconsider your current accountant.

5.       They Don’t Understand Your Industry

Whether it’s eCommerce, Construction, or restaurant and hospitality, industry knowledge matters. If you are constantly explaining how your business works, they are probably not the right fit for your niche.

6.       You’re Not Sure Where Your Money’s Going

Can you clearly see:

·       Where your money is going?

·       What’s driving profits?

·       How your cash flow looks month-to-month?

If your financial reports are confusing or unhelpful, you’re operating in the dark. You need an accountant who helps turn numbers into actionable insights.

7.       Tax Season Feels Like a Fire Drill Every Year

If every tax season feels rushed, confusing, or expensive, your accountant may not be managing things proactively throughout the year.

8.       You’re Ready to Grow, but They Can’t Keep Up

Your revenue, team, or complexity has increased, but their service hasn’t evolved. If it feels like you’ve outpaced them, you probably have.

9.       There’s No Talk of the Future

If your accountant never brings up growth strategies, cash flow planning, or long-term tax savings, they’re not thinking like a partner.

10.  You Get Numbers, but No Strategy

Receiving reports is helpful, but if you don’t understand them, they just become jargon. Just getting numbers will not help your business grow.

Ready to Upgrade your Accountant?

Recognizing these signs is the first step. The next? Finding a new accounting firm that benefits your business.

The right accountant won’t just manage your finances; they’ll help drive your business forward.

Looking for a new accountant? We’d love it if you’d reach out to us to schedule a free consultation.

www.accountingfreedom.com

WI Office: 262-375-2440

IL Office: 847-949-8373