Whether you need a personal tax return done, books for a new company or help with a CRA letter, the right accountant saves you money and stress. Here are eight questions to ask before you hire an accountant in Calgary.
1. Are you a CPA, and is your firm licensed?
In Alberta, the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation is regulated by CPA Alberta. You can check a member or a licensed firm with CPA Alberta’s online lookup. Bookkeepers and tax preparers can be very good for simple work, but for corporate returns, financial statements or complex tax issues, a CPA brings training, ethics rules and oversight.
2. Do you work with people like me?
Ask whether they regularly handle your situation: employees and families, newcomers to Canada, Uber and delivery drivers, landlords, trades and contractors, doctors, dentists and engineers, or small businesses. Experience with your type of return means fewer missed deductions.
3. How do you price your work?
You should know the fee before work starts. Some firms charge per return, others a monthly fee for bookkeeping and payroll. Ask what is included and what would cost extra. Here is how our fees work.
4. Are you available outside tax season?
CRA letters, GST returns, payroll and instalments happen all year. An accountant who answers in July is worth more than one who disappears after April 30.
5. Can you represent me with the CRA?
With your authorization, an accountant can see your CRA account, respond to reviews and handle CRA letters for you.
6. Which software do you use?
If you run a business, ask whether they support QuickBooks Online or Desktop, Xero or the software you already use, and whether they can clean up or catch up overdue books.
7. How do I send documents, and how is my information protected?
Ask about secure upload, in-person drop-off and how long they keep records.
8. What do other clients say?
Read recent Google reviews. Look for comments about clear explanations, response time and accuracy, not just a star rating.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if an accountant in Calgary is a CPA?
Use the CPA Alberta online lookup to verify a member or a licensed public accounting firm. Only members of CPA Alberta can use the CPA designation in the province.
Should my accountant quote the fee up front?
Yes. A good accountant looks at your situation and tells you the fee, or a clear range, before starting, and tells you before doing extra work.
Can my accountant deal with the CRA for me?
Yes, if you authorize them as your representative through CRA My Account or Represent a Client. They can then see your CRA information and respond to letters and reviews on your behalf.
Need help? Garg Accounting is a CPA-led accounting and tax firm in Northeast Calgary (4310 104 Avenue NE, Unit 3230). Call 368-995-6000 or book an appointment.
