Five questions you should ask an accountant before hiring them

When you file your personal taxes each year, you might be able to get away with a one-size-fits-all accountant who sets up a pop-up shop in an otherwise empty storefront. When it comes time to start planning your own business, you’re going to want someone who is specialized and a better fit.

You’ll need to put in some work to find the right accountant. Start with recommendations from other people in similar situations. Know someone who has recently gone into business for themselves or already runs a small studio? It doesn’t hurt to ask for a referral.

When you do narrow down your list, there are five questions you should ask an accountant before sealing the deal. This is taken directly from The GameDev Business Handbook, which includes guidance on finding the right partners to build and sustain a healthy game studio.

Has the accountant worked in games before?

You don’t want to spend your meetings with an accountant explaining the nuances of the video game industry (especially if you’re being charged by the hour). Find someone who knows video games (or, if that’s not possible, someone who has worked in entertainment or technology startups). Don’t be the guinea pig for an accountant who wants to get their feet wet in gaming, if you can help it.

How versed is the firm in local tax credits for video games specifically and entertainment as a whole?

Accountants can help us steer clear of tax trouble, sure. But they also help us identify places we can be smarter about our money and how much of it goes to the government.

Many regions offer tax incentives for video game development projects. Others offer arts or entertainment grants that might be applicable to your work.

What size is the firm’s biggest client?

If you are a larger client, an accounting firm might see you as a way to raise their profile. Sometimes this works out well for everyone, because you’ll get extra attention.

However, if the firm is understaffed, it might simply be impossible for the well-meaning accountants to serve your needs. Make sure the firm you choose can handle your volume.

What size is the firm’s smallest client?

You don’t want to be ignored because you’re the smallest fish. The truth is that if you are working with a firm used to large clients, you might slip through the cracks. It’s easy to get lost in the shuffle when accountants are used to servicing enormous companies.

Whether intentional or subconscious, if the amount the firm is billing you for is dwarfed by all the other clients, you won’t be as important to them.

What are the annual costs to retain the firm? What does that get you (filing preparation, access for routine inquiries, etc.)?

This is where we tell you to read the fine print. Know exactly what you are getting, especially if you pay a monthly fee (called a “retainer”). That gets you access when you have a quick question.

Many accountants will charge you preparation fees (often at an hourly rate) for any documentation you might need. Remember, planning for expenses properly means you won’t get surprised by a huge bill when you can least afford it.