Hawaii 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 Hawaii 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 a Hawaiian accountant that will fit well your business:

1. Search for accountants in Hawaii.

2. Validate the credentials of CPA firms in Hawaii.

3. Select the Hawaii accountant who is the best fit.

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

Perform a general search of accountants and CPA firms in Hawaii

CPA firms in Hawaii 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: The Hawaii Society of Certified Public Accountants offers a free search tool to help you find a Hawaii CPA in your area that meets your needs. The Accountants World website lets you search for accountants by state. The CPA Firms website lists Hawaii accountants as well as their websites and email addresses.

Check the credentials of Hawaii accounting firms that you are interested in working with

It is important to make sure that the Hawaii 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 a Hawaii 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 Hawaiian accountants. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants lists their accredited members as well as their licensing information on their website.

Choose a Hawaii accountant that meets all of your specific accounting needs

Your business may have accounting needs that are different from other businesses in your area. Not all accounting firms are one-size-fits-all. It is important to find a professional or firm that will satisfy all of your criteria such as level of service, personal attention and availability.

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. One option is Horwath Kam & Company, A.A.C, and they are located on the island of Oahu. For more complicated issues like tax planning or international tax treaties, you will need a more advanced service provider. Tamura & Company, CPA offers tax services, including IRS representation and is located in Honolulu. For an accounting that specializes in small companies and startups, you may consider James M. Sterrett, CPA. Finally, if you need a firm with a national presence that serves firms of all sizes, Ernst & Young is always a wise choice.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Get references from colleagues and friends to help find CPA firms in Hawaii with proven track records of personalized service and expertise. Hawaii CPAs have many clients in a wide range of industries. Locate one in your industry and discuss the pros and cons of working with a particular Hawaii accounting firm or professional.