Arkansas accountants provide invaluable advice and services to businesses of all sizes throughout the state. Whether you need to implement an accounting system or need tax advice, a professional accountant offers critical assistance. Finding the right Arkansas CPA can be a challenge, as not all accountants provide the same services, and fees can be substantial.

Knowing what you want out of your relationship with your accountant is the first step in finding a professional or firm that will meet all of your current and future accounting needs. Follow these steps to help you locate an Arkansas accountant that will fit your business well:

1. Search for accountants in Arkansas

2. Validate their credentials

3. Select the CPA in Arkansas who is the best fit

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

Search for accountants and CPA firms in Arkansas

Accounting firms in Arkansas specialize in different services and not all of them are full-service. Some focus on only bookkeeping or tax accounting and others specialize in all of the accounting needs of small businesses today.

I recommend: Check out the AccountantsWorld website to search for accountants by state. Additionally, the CPA Firms website lists Arkansas accountants as well as their websites and email addresses.

Check the credentials of Arkansas accounting firms or accountants that you are considering

It is important to make sure that the Arkansas CPA that you are considering is honest, reliable and professional. One way to gauge these traits is by their affiliation with recognized accounting associations and clubs on the state and national level. Finding out that an Arkansas certified public accountant has allowed their licenses to expire for example, should be a red flag that they aren't as professional as they may claim to be.

I recommend: CPAdirectory is one option for checking the licensing information on specific Arkansas accountants. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants lists their accredited members as well as their licensing information on their website.

Choose CPA firms in Arkansas that meet all of your company's accounting needs

Your business may have accounting needs that are different from other businesses in your area. Not all Arkansas accounting firms are one-size-fits-all. It is important to find a professional or firm that will provided the services and professionalism that you want for your organization.

I recommend: For simpler matters, such as setting up an accounting system to help with payroll and accounts payable, consider using an accounting firm that specializes in bookkeeping. Engstrom, Grayson, Green & Patterson, PLLC is one such firm and they serve the area of North Little Rock. Another option is Bell & Company who is located in North Little Rock. For an accounting firm that specializes in small companies and startups, you may consider Alissa K. Hollinger, CPA, P.A. who is located in Little Rock and serves Sheridan as well.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Get references from colleagues and friends to help find some accountants in Arkansas with a proven track record of personalized service and expertise. Arkansas CPAs have many clients in a wide range of industries. Locate one in your industry and discuss their experiences. Interview a number of potential Arkansas accounting professionals before making the final decision.