Don't wait until tax season

Don't wait until tax season to choose an accountant or CPA.

Sure, if you are a single person with very simple situations and can file an EZ form, then you might not need to consider this, but entrepreneurs and small business owners will want to get the best advice from the beginning of the year, and throughout.

Remember that your CPA isn't just thinking of minimizing your taxes. That's part of his or her job, but if you fully leverage their expertise, you may find inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement, thereby reducing your operating costs and increasing your profits.

Your CPA may be able to help analyze the financial health of a company where you are considering making an investment, and show you how decisions you've already made have impacted your earnings, positively or negatively.

Another good reason to develop a good working relationship with your CPA early is so that when the tax rush begins, he or she already has your info, they are already familiar with your situations, and you will likely have already discussed all the correct documents and you'll have either already provided them, or at least you already know how your CPA needs the files to be delivered.

Choose a skilled CPA now. Don't wait for tax season.