How switching accountants works.

The transition, step by step.

1. 01

   Start with a conversation

   Tell us what your current accountant handles today and what you need. Brent will outline what the transition involves for you. There is no obligation.

2. 02

   Agree the scope in writing

   An engagement letter sets out the work, the start date and the fee before anything begins.

3. 03

   Gather your records

   Prior-year tax returns, recent financial statements, access to your accounting software, and bank and card statements. Your previous accountant can provide copies of your records at your request, and Brent can coordinate that request with your permission.

4. 04

   Confirm the IRS record

   With your written authorization, Brent can obtain your IRS account transcripts to confirm past filings, payments and any open notices.

5. 05

   Bring the books current

   If the books are behind, the catch-up work is scoped and priced before it begins, so you know the full cost up front.

6. 06

   Settle into the monthly routine

   Each month, transactions are categorized, accounts are reconciled and financial statements are prepared, with questions answered as they come up.

When to switch.

• Any time of year

  The books can be picked up from the start of any month. Many businesses switch after year-end or after filing, and a mid-year switch works too.

• Close to a filing deadline

  If a deadline is near, an extension can allow time to file properly. It extends the time to file, not the time to pay.

• Your previous accountant

  A short, courteous notice is usually all that is needed, and your records can be requested at the same time.

Common questions.