If you own a business in North Carolina, don't be tempted to take on your taxes and accounting by yourself. You owe it to yourself to consult with North Carolina certified public accountants. There's a good selection of business accountants in N.C. But how do you choose the one that's right for your company?

First, compare your current accountant to the new ones on your list. Do they offer similar services? Decide what's important to you. Do you require a smaller firm who can develop a personal relationship with you, or do you want a company that can offer the whole gamut of service? When evaluating the services of North Carolina accounting firms, consider the following points:

1. Find accounting firms in North Carolina that are in your region of the state.

2. Decide what you kind of services you require from your accountant. N.C. accountants offer a variety of services that can benefit your company and even your employees.

3. North Carolina CPA firms should earn your business by catering to your specific needs.

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

Find a multifaceted North Carolina CPA firm

Wouldn't you want to find business accountants in North Carolina who can handle anything you throw at them? An accounting firm in North Carolina can take care of accounting and tax preparation, but also can offer advice on management questions and help with legal matters.

I recommend: Rink & Robinson, a North Carolina accountant in Hickory, offers a full menu of services including several levels of accounting, consultation on management issues as well as specific help with litigation and medical practice management.

Some North Carolina CPA firms focus on specialty businesses

You can find accountants in North Carolina that can handle any type of business, but it may pay to find a NC accountant who intimately knows your type of business.

I recommend: Williams Overman Pierce, LLC, an accounting firm in Raleigh, specializes in construction, non-profits and closely held businesses. Services include the usual accounting services plus consultation on employee benefits and estate planning, among many others.

When looking for a accountant, NC businesses may benefit from an accountant that's close to home

If you're trying to find business accountants in North Carolina and you live in the Outer Banks, it may make sense to stick close to home. Because of the remoteness of the barrier islands, it may make good financial sense to make a connection with a 'Banker' accountant. You may be pleasantly surprised at the service a smaller hometown firm can offer, and you'll be supporting local business.

I recommend: Johnson, Burgess, Mizelle & Straub, LLC, in Kitty Hawk is the oldest operating firm in the Outer Banks. You can expect accounting services plus help with your daily bookkeeping and business operations from this CPA in North Carolina.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Remember to find out how long to retain all your business records. When meeting with an accountant, NC business owners should make a point of finding out which records they will store on your behalf.