How to Pick a CPA for Small Business (2025 Guide)

A good CPA for a small business offers more than just tax prep. Look for experience in your industry, proactive planning support, and clear pricing.

Choosing a CPA for your small business might not sound like the most exciting task, but it’s one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make.

A good CPA will do more than just file taxes, they can help you plan for growth, manage cash flow, and avoid expensive mistakes. A bad one? They might disappear during tax season, leave you cleaning up errors, or worse, put your business at risk.

This guide walks through how to pick a CPA for your small business in 2025, including key questions to ask, red flags to watch for, and why your best bet is someone who understands your specific industry.

What Does a CPA Actually Do for a Small Business?

Many business owners assume a CPA is just there to file taxes, but a good one can support you year-round. Common services include:

• Tax preparation and filing

• Strategic tax planning

• Bookkeeping and financial reporting

• Payroll support

• Entity structure guidance(IRS business structure guide)

• Audit support or reviews

• Business advisory services

Some CPAs are generalists; others focus on niches likeecommerce,real estate, orcrypto. The key is finding one who understands your industry, revenue size, and growth goals.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a CPA

Here are some questions to ask during an intro call:

1. What kinds of clients do you typically work with?

2. Are you familiar with my industry (e.g., ecommerce, solopreneur, crypto, real estate)?

3. Do you offer year-round services or just tax prep?

4. How do you communicate (email, portal, calls)?

5. What tools do you use (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero, Gusto)?

6. Can you help with IRS notices or audits if they come up?

7. Do you charge hourly, monthly, or per project?

8. Are you a fiduciary or do you receive commissions on referrals?

Red Flags to Watch For

• They only show up during tax season and disappear the rest of the year.

• They don’t ask questions about your business or goals.

• They push permanent life insurance or annuities in a way that seems more salesy than strategic.

• They can’t explain things clearly or get frustrated when you ask questions.

• They don’t specialize in small businesses and seem more geared toward large corporations.

When to Hire a CPA vs. Bookkeeper

You don’t need a full CPA from Day 1. Most small businesses follow this path:

• <$100K revenue:Use bookkeeping software or a part-time bookkeeper.

• $100K–$500K:Hire a bookkeeper and consult with a CPA for tax season.

• $500K+:Work with a CPA year-round for tax strategy, forecasting, and advisory.

Need bookkeeping support too? Manyaccountants for small businesseson Sam’s List offer monthly bookkeeping.

FAQ

How do I choose the best CPA for my small business?

Look for someone who specializes in small business clients in your industry, asks smart questions, and offers clear pricing. Ask about their experience, tools, and year-round availability.

What does a CPA do for a small business?

CPAs handle taxes, planning, financial reporting, and advisory. They can help with audits, IRS issues, and business structure.

Do I need a CPA or bookkeeper for my small business?

Start with a bookkeeper if your finances are simple. As you grow, bring in a CPA for tax strategy and business planning.

How much does a CPA cost for a small business?

Costs range from $150/hour to $500/month+ depending on the complexity of your business. Many offer packages based on services.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Fit, Not Just the Right Price

The cheapest option isn’t always the best when it comes to your business finances. A great CPA pays for themselves by helping you avoid penalties, reduce your tax bill, and plan smarter.

Don’t wait until tax season to start looking. If you want to work with someone who actually gets your business, check outSam’s List. You can browse CPAs by industry, specialties, and services—and even read real reviews from other business owners.

Author:Kimi, Co-founder of Sam’s List
Kimi writes about what she's learning while building Sam’s List and shares honest takeaways from her conversations with accountants and financial advisors across the country. None of this is financial advice—just the stuff most people wish someone told them sooner.