Help Your Accountant Help YOU
Helping Your Accountant Help YOU
How your support sets your finances (and your business) up for success
As a business owner, you’ve got a million things on your plate — from running daily operations to serving your customers. It’s easy to hand your books off to an accountant and think, “Whew, glad that’s not my problem anymore!” But here’s the thing: your accountant wants to help you succeed — and the more you work with them, the better your financial picture becomes.
So, how do you help your accountant help you? Let’s break it down.
1. Be Timely With Your Documents
Think of your accountant like a detective — they need all the clues to solve the case. If receipts, invoices, and bank statements are MIA, it slows everything down and leaves room for errors. Upload documents on time. If you’re not sure what’s needed, ask! Most accountants are more than happy to provide a checklist.
2. Grant the Right Access
Instead of downloading statements every month or forwarding a hundred emails, grant your accountant secure access to your bank portal, payroll system, and accounting software. Not only is it faster, but it also keeps your records more accurate and consistent.
3. Keep Business and Personal Separate
Mixing personal expenses with business accounts is like baking a cake and trying to pull the eggs back out later. Clean separation between personal and business finances makes your accountant’s job smoother — and protects you in the event of an audit.
4. Ask Questions (and Answer Them Too)
Got a question? Ask it. Confused about a report? Speak up. Your accountant isn't just a number cruncher — they’re your financial ally. Likewise, when your accountant sends questions your way, try not to let them sit in your inbox too long. Timely responses lead to faster, more accurate results.
5. Be Transparent About Business Changes
Hiring someone new? Changing banks? Starting a new service? These details matter. The more your accountant knows about what’s happening in your business, the better they can forecast, budget, and keep you compliant.
6. Use Systems That Talk to Each Other
Using tech that integrates (like QuickBooks + your bank feed + a payment processor) means less manual work and fewer mistakes. If you’re unsure what tools work well together, ask your accountant for recommendations. They usually know which systems play nice — and which ones don’t.
7. Check In Regularly
Even a quick monthly or quarterly chat can make a big difference. It gives you a chance to ask questions, understand your numbers, and catch any red flags early. Your accountant can provide valuable insights — but only if you’re both on the same page.
Final Thoughts: A Team Effort
Your accountant isn’t just someone who files your taxes. They’re a key player in your business's financial health. The more proactive and organized you are, the more they can help you save money, grow smarter, and avoid financial headaches.
In short: help them help you — and watch your business thrive.
