There's definitely no shortage of Virginia accountants. With our nation's capital situated nearby plus several major cities spread across the state, there is plenty of work for Virginia accounting firms.

If you're relocating to the state, you may be wondering how to evaluate Virginia CPA firms for your business. After all, choosing a qualified accountant is essential to keep your business financial picture in shape.

When looking at Virginia accounting firms, consider your business needs.

1. Decide whether you need payroll services or help with your quarterly tax filings.
2. Determine whether you're looking for a Virginia accountant who can simply prepare your taxes or you need more complex tax or legal advice.
3. Make a call as to whether you require a higher level of service from the Virginia CPA firm, including business counseling and risk management.

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

Find accountants in Virginia that are more than number-crunchers

With so many accounting firms in Virginia, you can afford to be choosy. Look for a Virginia-based accounting firm that is concerned with more than numbers. They should care about you as a person and want to help you succeed in business.

I recommend: Bond Beebe Accountants in Alexandria is one of the business accountants in Virginia that you can count on for a full gamut of services including tax services, audit and accounting, management advisory, financial planning, information technology and support during litigation.

Find full-service accountants in Virginia

If you're locating your business in the Shenadoah Valley or the thriving Richmond area, you'll want a top-notch accountant to help you navigate your tax and other accounting issues.

I recommend: Virginia accountants Keiter, Stephens, Hurst, Gary and Shreaves CPA Consultants, with offices in Richmond and Charlottesville, can offer a higher level of service than the average accounting firm. You can count on Keiter Stephens to help you handle more complex work such as business valuation and litigation.

Find Virginia CPA firms that have a long history of success

If you're looking at business accountants in Virginia, you might do well to find one with a proven track record of experience.

I recommend: Take a look at Cherry, Bekaert & Holland with headquarters in Richmond and offices in Hampton Roads, Lynchburg and the Greater Washington area, as well as several other states. With 60 years of service, this Virginia accounting firm is also a member of Baker Tilly International, a prestigious group of accounting firms worldwide.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When looking for a CPA in Virginia, make friends with the office staff. They can help you with your day-to-day problems and may actually prepare some of the important forms that you'll file with the government.