You may be tempted to tackle your own accounting and taxes instead of relying on an accountant, particularly if you're cutting costs in your business. But you may miss out on the advantages that accountants in Ohio can offer: tax advice, payroll help, accounting answers or ways to accumulate a nest egg. These benefits can add up to big savings for you when you get a better handle on your business finances.

So how find an Ohio CPA? Luckily, you have a lot of choices, from internationally recognized firms to small CPA firms in Ohio. The larger cities like Cleveland and Columbus have more than their fair share of accounting firms, but you can find capable Ohio CPA firms in small towns too. When choosing a CPA in Ohio for your business, consider the following points.

1. Meet with several different Ohio accountants at a firm to find the best fit for you (but don't expect them to have a lot of time to chat during the busy tax season).

2. Look for accountants in Ohio that specialize in your type of business.

3. Get references from other clients and call them.

4. Decide in advance what you require from your Ohio accountant.

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

Get personal attention with small Ohio accounting firms

When you want to develop a personal relationship with your accountant, a smaller full-service Ohio CPA firm may be your best bet. Smaller firms can service your accounting needs, as well as offer financial planning and consulting for your business.

I recommend: Dayton Tax & Accounting is an Ohio accounting firm serving southwest Ohio. With a long history in the community, the firm was established in 1945.

Look for a CPA in Ohio that specializes in your business

When you visit your accountant, it would be nice if you didn't have to educate him about your type of business. You can find Ohio accountants that cater to certain business niches, including construction companies, religious organizations or suppliers and distributors.

I recommend: Tucker, Kissling and Associates, serving northwest Ohio and southwestern Michigan, is located in Toledo and the city of Oregon, Ohio.

Look for a firm with a history of integrity in the community

Can you find an accounting firm in Ohio that understands your business, yet cares about you as a customer too? You can't put a price on an accounting firm that also understand the ups and downs of business and helps you ride it out.

I recommend: M.J. Miller & Company, located in Hartville near Canton, is a full-service accounting firm offering tax planning, accounting services, business valuation and financial services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When looking at accounting firms in Ohio, make sure to be friendly with the office staff. They can help answer questions and help you with any issues that come up.