Perform a general search of accounting firms and accountants in Arizona

Arizona accountants specialize in different aspects of accounting and not all of them are full-service. Some specialize only in bookkeeping and others tackle the full range of small business accounting requirements.

I recommend: The Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants offers a free search tool to help you find the right Arizona CPA in your city. The CPA Finder website is another good search option to locate an Arizona CPA.

Research the credentials of the Arizona accounting firms that you are interested in

It is important to make sure that the accountants in Arizona that you are considering have a good reputation and solid credentials. One way to find this out is by their license and affiliation with recognized accounting associations and clubs. Even one complaint or review is a red flag that you should proceed with caution, if you decide to work with this accountant or firm.

I recommend: The Arizona State Board of Accountancy has a search feature where you can verify the license of accounting professionals in the area. Etaking does the work for you by verifying the credentials of participating accounting firms ahead of time and listing them on their website. CPAdirectory is another option to check licensing on specific accounting firms in Arizona.

Choose an AZ CPA that meets the needs of your business now and in the future

Your business has certain accounting needs and not all accounting firms offer every possible service. It is important to find one that will fit the best with all of your search criteria such as reputation, experience and level of service.

I recommend: For jobs like setting up an accounting system to help with payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable, consider using an accounting firm that specializes in bookkeeping. Bean Counter Bookkeeping is one example, serving the areas of Buckeye, Avondale and Litchfield Park. Another option is SMJ Accounting Services, LLC, whose service areas include Gilbert, Queen Creek and Mesa. For more intricate services like tax planning or international tax treaties, more advanced public accounting firms in Arizona are required. Alilonu CPA LLC, which serves the Glendale, Phoenix and Peoria areas, offers tax and financial planning services. Accounting Computer & Tax Systems, Inc. is an accounting firm in Phoenix that offers tax services, including IRS representation, and serves the areas of Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria and Sun City. For a firm that specializes in small companies, you may consider A & B Accounting Services located in Mesa, who also services the areas of Phoenix and Scottsdale. Finally, if you want a highly recognized firm with a global presence, that serves companies large and small and in all industries, Deloitte LLP is a solid choice and they have offices worldwide including in Scottsdale and Phoenix.