Should your organization outsource its accounting needs? An outsourced accountant will help you with everyday accounting-related tasks, such as bookkeeping, budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting. Outsourcing also demonstrates to lenders and investors a commitment to the accuracy and integrity of your financial records.
Here are five potential advantages to consider when evaluating this decision.
1. Professional advice. Outsourcing to an experienced accountant provides access to professional guidance. This makes it easier to remain compliant with rules and regulations and avoid costly mistakes due to a lack of knowledge or errors in interpreting complex regulations.
By engaging a third-party firm, there’s a second set of eyes on your company’s books. This can provide peace of mind that your books accurately reflect the performance of your business. Additionally, a CPA can help streamline your accounting processes and help record complex transactions correctly.
2. Scalability. As your financial situation evolves, you can dial up (or down) the services provided by your CPA. For example, a start-up that outsources its accounting needs wouldn’t need to worry about outgrowing its accountant over time — or training that individual to take on more advanced accounting and tax needs. Likewise, if you embark on a major financial project — your accountant has the expertise on hand to help you achieve the best possible outcome from a financial perspective.
Outsourcing can also be a viable temporary solution if you unexpectedly lose your CFO. This can provide breathing room while you search for a qualified replacement in today’s tight labor market.
3. Cost savings. Outsourcing can save you money on payroll taxes and insurance costs associated with hiring an in-house accountant. Further, CPAs enjoy economies of scale regarding software usage and purchases, so they likely can provide accounting services cheaper than your firm can by working alone or relying on independent service providers for each task.
4. Efficiency. When you transfer accounting functions to your accountant, your management team has more time for core marketing, product development, and other activities. It also frees up resources for higher-value tasks that can increase cash flow and optimize efficiency within the organization, such as negotiating with prospects or building deeper relationships with existing clients.
5. Enhanced confidence with stakeholders. An outsourced accountant’s involvement can instill confidence in lenders and investors if you intend to borrow money or solicit investment capital. It shows that your firm is committed to maintaining accurate business records and has access to the expertise needed to address complex issues.
If you’re considering outsourcing your daily accounting tasks, either permanently or temporarily, contact us. We can tailor a cost-effective service plan that works for your current and future business needs.
