Accounting firms in Alaska are the perfect answer for any small business owner ready to outsource the accounting department. At some point, a business owner's time is better spent building his or her business, rather than juggling all the finances. In this case, an accountant with experience and knowledge could be very beneficial to the growth of the company.

In essence, your Alaska accountant or CPA acts as your business adviser. She or he should be proactive enough to suggest ways that you can build your assets and strengthen your bottom line. The right accountant fits your current needs and grows alongside your company.

Remember the following points when interviewing business accountants in Alaska:

1. Your Alaska accountants or CPA should play an integral part in your company, and be just as enthusiastic about its success as you are.

2. When you interview accountants in Alaska, ask what they could do to enhance your business.

3. Your Alaska-based accounting firm should be very familiar with working with your type of business.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose from Alaska accountants that meet your company's unique goals

The knowledge and qualifications of an accountant versus a CPA vary tremendously. An accountant has basic knowledge of the financial industry, whereas CPAs in Alaska are more knowledgeable, have a college degree and are expected to follow a certain code of ethics.

I recommend: SearchForAccountants assists in the searching process of business accountants in Alaska that are right for you. GoodAccountants.com offers individual assistance in selecting the perfect accountant for free.

Ask business associates which Alaska accounting firms they use

The best referral usually comes from an associate. Find out which accounting services other businesses use when it comes to Alaska CPA firms. Compare the services they provide, and ask if any of them offer year-round service. Also, find out which candidates offered sound advice that benefited their client in some way.

I recommend: Cook & Haugeberg, LLC and Tammy Ackerman are both Alaska CPA firms. The former offers state, federal and international online tax resources.

Choose an Alaska accounting firm willing and able to grow with your company

It is essential that you pick an accounting firm you can grow with in the longterm. It has to be one you can trust to handle all your finances. Therefore, make sure your prospects have a solid background in developing a business like yours.

I recommend: H & R Block offers their Tax Pro Finder, a tool that helps match a “tax pro” to your personal needs. To find more Alaska accounting firms, contact the Alaska Society of Certified Public Accountants to take advantage of their referral service.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you like a business accountant in Alaska after meeting with him or her, confirm this will be the person working with you. In some cases, an entry-level associate in sent in to do the day-to-day accounting.