If you really want to build a great business, you should find a CPA in Indiana who is familiar with the state's laws and regulations. You can find CPAs in Indiana by researching Indiana accounting firms, Indiana CPA firms, or national firms with business accountants in Indiana.

Find a Indiana CPA firm that has experience working with small businesses and that can provide suggestions for growing your business. Your Indiana CPA should:

1. Help you save money by identifying “best” practices and implementing a tax plan that maximizes your profits.

2. Assist you in implementing financial controls to protect your business from fraud and embezzlement.

3. Be honest and direct when working with you, and provide a truly objective perspective regarding your business' performance.

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

Search for Indiana accountants

The Internet has made it easy to find accounting services in Indiana. You can quickly locate Indiana accounting firms, individual Indiana CPAs, and both national and regional accounting firms with offices in Indiana. Your search criteria should be based upon your particular business needs and your geographical preferences.

I recommend: Areaguides and Local.com are great resources for finding local Indiana CPAs and Indiana accountants, while the CPA Exchange specializes in matching your business needs with Indiana CPA firms.

Ask for referrals

If you have any business associates, friends, or family members who have used CPAs in Indiana or an Indiana accounting firm, you should ask them for referrals.

I recommend: Try word-of-mouth first, then move on to your LinkedIn network. If you still need local recommendations, try the Dex B2B directory, which serves Chicago and Northwest Indiana.

Interview your Indiana accountant

As a small business owner who will likely be working directly with your CPA, personality fit matters and you should be comfortable with your accountant. You should interview several candidates before selecting one whose business experience and personal qualifications match up with you and your needs.

I recommend: Monster provides a plethora of general interviewing tips and techniques, while CPA Search provides tips specifically tailored to interviewing CPAs.

Account for accounting references

Whenever you are hiring anyone, you should always check their references. Personal and professional background checks are always a good idea. Former colleagues and employers may provide you with very important information regarding your Indiana CPAs relevant background and work experience. Public records and general background checks generally contain essential information like address history, employment verification history, criminal records, and other court filings.

I recommend: Visit the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) site to view public records on all members in good standing. You can conduct a good general background check through Intelius.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't hire anyone on a long-term contractual basis. Arrange for an hourly fee or 1 to 3 month service contract to make sure your new Indiana accountant meets your business' needs.
• •  It is a good idea to find a business accountant in Indiana who has previously worked in your particular industry.