Tips to Find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor that Best Fits Your Small Business

QuickBooks is powerful accounting software designed for small businesses. If you ever need assistance with the software, consider reaching out to a QuickBooks ProAdvisor. These certified professionals are skilled at helping small businesses manage their accounting needs.

Through the ProAdvisor Experts Shop, ProAdvisor experts offer a wide range of services, including consulting on the best software for your business needs and setting up and customizing QuickBooks to streamline your accounting processes. 

This blog will walk you through what a QuickBooks ProAdvisor does, why and when your business needs a ProAdvisor, and how to find the right ProAdvisor for your growing business.

What is a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

A QuickBooks ProAdvisor is an independent accounting professional certified by Intuit. They have the knowledge and skills to manage financial tasks using QuickBooks efficiently and offer valuable advice on optimizing its use within your business operations.

QuickBooks stands out as one of the best accounting software solutions for small businesses, streamlining essential tasks such as income and expense tracking, invoicing, transaction recording, financial reporting, and tax preparation. However, despite its comprehensive capabilities, some business owners may need more time or find it challenging to manage all these aspects independently. In such cases, looking out for a QuickBooks ProAdvisor can help you overcome the burden of accounting responsibilities.

Why do you need a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

A QuickBooks ProAdvisor is crucial for businesses and individuals seeking assistance with their QuickBooks tasks to ensure efficient financial management, reporting, and personalized guidance. They are proficient in simplifying bookkeeping processes, configuring QuickBooks to suit the needs of small businesses, and delivering customized training sessions. 

A QuickBooks ProAdvisor provides ongoing assistance, ensuring prompt resolution of any financial inquiries or issues. They also help refine financial processes, identify opportunities for cost reduction, and offer advice on optimal practices for maintaining financial records. Their comprehensive support extends beyond technical aid, offering valuable financial strategy and compliance insights.

When do you need a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

The ideal moment to look out for a QuickBooks ProAdvisor is when you’ve started to search for business accounting software. Since ProAdvisors have a comprehensive understanding of various QuickBooks solutions, they are essential in guiding you to the most suitable product for your business needs.

ProAdvisors possess skills in using QuickBooks programs to maximize the software's benefits. An advisor can assess your financial reporting and business model to build a workflow tailored to your requirements. Additionally, they assist in customizing your QuickBooks setup according to your business, reducing the time spent on bookkeeping tasks. 

Furthermore, they help you address any inquiries, ranging from payroll taxes to contractor tax filings. Professionals with advanced certification delve deeper into analytics/reporting, inventory management, business taxes, and multicurrency.

What to Look for in a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

When looking for a QuickBooks ProAdvisor, it's advisable to consider their certification, experience, specialization, and services offered to ensure they meet the individual's or business's specific needs.

Let’s look in detail at what we must look for in a QuickBooks ProAdvisor:

Industry-Specific Expertise

Choosing a QuickBooks ProAdvisor with industry-specific expertise ensures tailored guidance that aligns with the sector's unique financial requirements and practices.

Industry-specific knowledge enables ProAdvisors to understand the nuances and challenges businesses face in that sector. With tailored guidance, companies can optimize their accounting processes, address compliance requirements, and make informed financial decisions.

Availability and Communication

Assessing the availability and communication style of a QuickBooks ProAdvisor is crucial for effective collaboration and support.

A reliable ProAdvisor should offer timely assistance with QuickBooks-related queries and issues. Proactive communication fosters a smoother working relationship, enhancing service delivery and client satisfaction.

Pricing and Services

Understanding the pricing structure and range of services offered by QuickBooks ProAdvisor is essential for aligning budgets and meeting specific requirements.

Evaluating the cost against the value provided ensures the best fit for the business. Flexibility in pricing models and customization options allows for tailored budget alignment.

How to Find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

Discovering the right QuickBooks ProAdvisor for your small business involves several key steps:

Step 1: Find Out What Type Of Accountant You Need

Before starting your search, you must outline your expectations from an accountant. Define your needs and requirements and consider the level of experience and specific certifications needed. Determine whether you need comprehensive setup and training or periodic assistance and updates. Establish clear roles and responsibilities to guide your prospective advisor selection.

Now that you clearly understand your requirements, how do you discover the QuickBooks ProAdvisor that will meet all your QuickBooks needs and expectations? - Follow the further steps.

Step 2: Explore the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Website

After compiling your list of ProAdvisor qualifications, it's time to begin your search. The optimal starting point is quickbooks.intuit.com/find-an-accountant/. This platform allows you to browse profiles of QuickBooks expert ProAdvisors in your locality.

Specify the specialty you require, enter your zip code, and QuickBooks will provide you with a list of ProAdvisors who meet your specifications. You can further refine your search by choosing your industry and any specific products you’re looking for.

Step 3: Expand Your Search

You can explore reliable accounting blogs, join LinkedIn groups related to accounting or small business, and participate in relevant Facebook groups. Another effective strategy is searching for specific accounting issues your business faces. Frequently, QuickBooks ProAdvisors author articles addressing these issues and may be able to assist.

Additionally, seeking referrals is a valuable approach. You can ask for help from trusted sources such as business advisors, lawyers, or bankers. Use your industry network to seek referrals for competent accountants. 

Step 4: Research

Once you've identified your ProAdvisor who looks like a potential match, conducting some background research is essential. Examine the profiles of each QuickBooks ProAdvisor, reviewing their self-descriptions and client feedback. Additionally, it's beneficial to explore their online presence, including social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, to gain further insights into their expertise and engagement within the QuickBooks community.

Look at their website to ascertain if they specialize in particular areas or offer additional resources such as blogs. You can also perform a Google search to see if they've authored any relevant articles or content.

Step 5: Ask Pertinent Questions

During your interactions, inquire about their communication preferences, billing methods, and success stories. Understanding their communication style and alignment with your company's needs is essential for a fruitful collaboration. Once you've established rapport and mutual understanding, engage the services of your chosen QuickBooks ProAdvisor.

Make sure to inquire about these six questions precisely:

• How many small businesses have you helped in the past?

• What is your level of experience within my industry?

• What services do you offer?

• How can you support the growth of my business?

• Who will I collaborate with, and what will our communication process be like?

• What is your billing procedure for the services you provide?

Benefits of Working with a QuickBooks ProAdvisor

A QuickBooks ProAdvisor is a certified professional skilled in using QuickBooks for accounting and financial management. They deliver specialized assistance to both businesses and individuals. 

Let’s find out the benefits of working with a QuickBooks ProAdvisor: 

Deepened QuickBooks Knowledge: ProAdvisor training enhances your understanding of QuickBooks, enabling you to use its features effectively and efficiently.

Correct Setup: ProAdvisors ensure your QuickBooks is set up accurately, preventing errors and saving time in the long run.

Stay Up to Date: Certified ProAdvisors keep you informed about software updates and changes, ensuring you can promptly adapt and use new features.

Access to Expert Network: Working with a ProAdvisor gives you access to a network of QuickBooks experts, including specialists in niche industries who can address your specific needs.

Customization: ProAdvisors are always updated with the current trend. So, they ensure they choose the right automation application to meet the unique requirements of your business, optimizing functionality to streamline your business operations and enhance customer satisfaction. 

For example; ProAdvisors help you in choosing the right automation application for your business like SaasAnt Transactions. The application helps you simplify your financial processes, and boost your business growth.

Other Places To Find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor

Here are a few other places to find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor: 

QuickBooks Live

QuickBooks Live is an online bookkeeping service that links small businesses with QuickBooks ProAdvisors. Instead of engaging with an independent ProAdvisor, you'll collaborate with these professionals directly through QuickBooks.

The QuickBooks Live Bookkeepers team boasts expertise across various industries. Their service comprises three phases: cleanup/setup, ongoing bookkeeping, and month-end close. You're not confined to a fixed amount of time per month, and you can schedule video calls once or twice each month to address queries and review month-end results. Pricing ranges from $200 to $600 monthly, depending on your business needs. 

LinkedIn

Use LinkedIn's search tool to find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor. You can review their profile and further investigate by visiting their website (if available) and searching for online reviews. Additionally, leverage your LinkedIn network by searching recommendations for QuickBooks ProAdvisors. You have a high chance of receiving a valuable referral from someone in your network.

Indeed

Explore job sites like Indeed as a potential resource for finding a QuickBooks ProAdvisor. Utilize Indeed's free job posting feature to attract candidates. To optimize your posting for better visibility, consider investing $5 per day. This may increase your chances of attracting the right candidate for the ProAdvisor position.

Local Groups

Explore QuickBooks ProAdvisor meetup groups held throughout the United States, available in both remote and in-person formats. Visit the Meetup website and search for the keyword "QuickBooks" to identify groups in your area. Upon discovering a suitable group, contact the organizer and express your interest in connecting with a QuickBooks expert within the community.

Local SBDC Office

Local Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), supported financially by the Small Business Administration (SBA), help small business owners throughout their business journey. SBDC provides personalized advisory sessions with Business Advisors at no cost. While not every SBDC business advisor specializes in QuickBooks, if you specify your need for QuickBooks support, they will ensure you are matched with an advisor with the expertise to help you.

Get QuickBooks ProAdvisor Now

Accounting is pivotal to any business, so never hesitate to take the time to research and choose the right fit for your small business. Hire an accountant with books and taxes who can efficiently handle your finances and accounts. It is always better to choose a QuickBooks ProAdvisor before purchasing a QuickBooks plan.

If you have been using QuickBooks for quite some time, you will know that manually importing transactions into QuickBooks takes hours. In that case, you can use third-party applications like PayTraQer to automatically sync all your online transactions into QuickBooks as they happen. Most QuickBooks ProAdvisors suggest their clients use PayTraQer for its accuracy and speed. With neat and precise numbers, your accountants will have more time and headspace to work on insights for your business growth. So, find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor that is effective today.

FAQs

How to Evaluate a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

To evaluate a QuickBooks ProAdvisor, review their ratings, testimonials, and client feedback to gauge expertise and reliability. This informs decision-making and ensures a suitable fit for financial needs. Reviews highlight strengths and areas for improvement, while testimonials offer specific experiences. Ratings provide a snapshot of satisfaction and competence. 

Where can I find a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

There are several ways to find a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor:

QuickBooks ProAdvisor Directory: This is your primary resource.  The directory allows you to search by location and industry, ensuring you find ProAdvisors familiar with your business needs. 

Word-of-Mouth:  Recommendations from fellow small business owners who've used ProAdvisors successfully can be practical.

QuickBooks Live:  The QuickBooks Live platform provides access to on-demand resources and the opportunity to connect with certified ProAdvisors.

How much does a Quickbooks ProAdvisor charge?

The cost of hiring a QuickBooks ProAdvisor can vary based on factors such as your location and the advisor's experience level. On average, QuickBooks Pro Advisors charge between $50 and $150 per hour.

How do I find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor near me?

To locate a QuickBooks ProAdvisor in your area, you can use QuickBooks's search tool and apply filters to focus on local experts. Platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed can also help you search for professionals with QuickBooks expertise. Engaging with local business groups and networks can be a better way to receive personal recommendations for QuickBooks ProAdvisors within your community.

What does a QuickBooks ProAdvisor do?

QuickBooks Certified ProAdvisor offers deep insights into QuickBooks's functionalities. These professionals have undergone extensive training through lessons and courses to master the software's intricacies and advanced features. They are equipped to assist you with complex tasks like reconciling balance sheets and rectifying errors in bank feeds, among other troubleshooting needs.

Why hire a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?

Hiring a QuickBooks ProAdvisor can be highly beneficial due to their exclusive access to discounts, tools, specialized training, and events through the QuickBooks ProAdvisor program. This access not only aids in enhancing your business operations but also supports your business growth by leveraging the latest insights.