If you're making it big as a actor or a musician in Hollywood, you can't just walk into H&R Block to have your taxes done. You really need to look at special accounting firms for entertainment companies or media CPAs.
They know all the special challenges of an industry in which privacy is hard-fought and hard-won. Media industry CPAs also understand the unique accounting needs of self-employed individuals or corporations. When looking into entertainment industry accounting, you may want to ask some questions of your prospects.
1. Many a star has made a fortune and lost one too. Ask any CPA for media companies what kind of services they offer. Can they manage your taxes, but also help you get a better handle on your overall finances and help you save for your future?
2. Ask for references from entertainment industry certified public accountants.
3. Find out how media industry CPAs will protect your privacy.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find entertainment industry CPAs who can handle star power
Whether you're a media boss or on the other side of the camera, it's in your best interest to find a CPA that fully understands the entertainment industry. You can locate accounting firms for entertainment companies with the experience you're looking for, and a star-studded client list for extra assurance.
I recommend: Hacker, Douglas & Company CPAs, is located in Los Angeles and specializes in the entertainment industry. With clients such as Kevin Costner, Harrison Ford, Barbara Streisand and Elizabeth Taylor, the firm can handle audits for production, distribution, music and merchandising, as well as litigation support.
Find media CPAs who can tailor services to meet your needs
If you work as an on-air news anchor or a radio personality, you may not be aware that there are media industry certified public accountants who can handle all your tax, accounting and investment concerns.
I recommend: R.A. Bianchi and Associates, located in Los Angeles, is a firm of media CPAs. Clients include journalists, photographers, news agencies and syndicates, as well as movie and TV executives and production personnel.
Find CPAs in New York who specialize in entertainment accounting
Hollywood isn't the only place where a person might require accounting services for entertainment companies or individual entertainers. New York is another hot area for the stars, and there are several CPAs who concentrate on entertainment accounting.
I recommend: Anita Katzen, CPA, of ERE Accountants and Advisors in New York, specializes in entertainment industry accounting and business management.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Don't go it alone. Get recommendations on accounting services for entertainment companies from others in the business.
The official source of CPAs and Firms Specializing in Media and Entertainment is
the CPAs and Firms Specializing in Media and Entertainment page at Business.com
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