Vermont 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 accountant in Vermont can be a challenge because services can vary from firm to firm.

Figuring out ahead of time what you want to accomplish with your VT accountant will be a great first step to finding a professional that meets all of your needs.

Follow these steps to help you locate Vermont accountants that will fit your business well :

1. Search the Internet for a Vermont CPA.

2. Validate their credentials.

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

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

Perform a general search for a CPA in Vermont

Accountants in Vermont 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 Vermont Society of Certified Public Accountants offers a free search tool to help you find an accountant in your area that meets your needs. The CPA Firms website names Vermont accountants as well as their websites and email addresses. Finally, the Accountants World website lets you search for accountants by state.

Check the credentials of the VT accountants that interest you

It is important to make sure that the Vermont CPA that you are considering is honest, reliable and professional. One way to determine this is by their affiliation with recognized accounting associations and clubs on the state and national level. Finding out that a Vermont 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: The Vermont Board of Public Accountancy website has a search function where you can verify the licensing information of accountants in Vermont. CPADirectory is another option for checking the credentials of specific Vermont accountants. Search the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants website for the group's accredited members and licensing information.

Choose a CPA in Vermont that meets all of your specific accounting needs

Not all accounting firms are one-size-fits-all. It is important to find accountants in Vermont that will satisfy all of your current and future accounting needs.

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 offers bookkeeping services. Davis & Hodgdon Associates, CPA, PLC is one such firm and is located in Williston. For more complicated issues such as tax planning, a more advanced service provider is required. Gallagher, Flynn & Company, located in Burlington, offers tax and financial planning services. Cota, CPA, PC offers tax services, including IRS representation, and is located in Williston. For an accounting firm that specializes in small companies and startups, you may consider Fisk Reed & Love, CPA, PC, who is located in Bennington.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Get references from colleagues and friends to help find some VT accounting firms with a proven track record of personalized service and expertise. A Vermont CPA may 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 firm or professional.