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Letters to the Editor
Do we REALLY need an accountant?
A
reader asks -- "Dear Anita -- My husband wants
to start a car shop to modify and enhance the performance
of vehicles. He is very talented and loves improving cars'
capabilities, but he doesn't have a business degree and
isn't an expert on maintaining financial records. He
wants to use an outside company to handle finances, but
I believe we can handle them on our own. What do you suggest?”
Our
answer -- I strongly advise a combination approach.
First, there is no substitute for the business owner digging
in and understanding the finances intimately. Even if your
husband has no experience with finances and accounting,
I encourage him -- and you -- to get close to the finances
and be hands on. That's a fundamental part of running a
business.
Second,
it makes sense to have an accountant assist you. Talk with
an accountant in your local community, or check the Resources
section at the QuickBooks Community http://quickbooksgroup.com
site to find one.
An
accountant can provide invaluable services -- help you set
up QuickBooks for your business, answer your questions,
help with closing the books on a regular basis and assist
with tax planning. Good luck!
--
Anita Campbell, Editor
(This Letter to
the Editor was adapted from a question raised during
my recent volunteer stint as the Expert on Ask
the Expert at the QuickBooks Community site.)
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