Understanding the Costs of Hiring a CPA, CFO, or Accountant for Your Small Business

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

What Does a CPA Do? CPAs are highly qualified financial professionals who can handle a range of tasks, including tax preparation, financial planning, auditing and consulting. They are especially valuable for ensuring compliance with tax laws and providing strategic financial advice.

Cost of Hiring a CPA: The cost of hiring a CPA can vary widely based on their experience, the complexity of your needs and your location. Here are some typical costs:

• Hourly Rates: CPAs generally charge between $150 to $400 per hour. More experienced CPAs or those with specialized expertise may charge higher rates.

• Project-Based Fees: For specific tasks such as tax preparation or financial audits, CPAs may charge a flat fee. For example, preparing a simple business tax return might cost between $500 and $2,000, while more complex returns can cost upwards of $2,000.

• Retainer Fees: Some businesses retain CPAs on an ongoing basis, paying a monthly retainer that can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the services provided.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

What Does a CFO Do? A CFO is responsible for managing the financial actions of a company. This includes financial planning, risk management, record-keeping, and financial reporting. A CFO can also provide strategic advice to help drive business growth.

Cost of Hiring a CFO: The cost of hiring a CFO depends on whether you need a full-time, part-time, or fractional CFO:

• Full-Time CFO: Hiring a full-time CFO can be expensive, with annual salaries typically ranging from $120,000 to $400,000 or more, plus benefits. This option is usually suitable for larger small businesses or those with complex financial needs.

• Part-Time CFO: For smaller businesses, a part-time CFO can be a more affordable option, with hourly rates ranging from $200 to $500. Monthly costs can range from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the number of hours worked.

• Fractional CFO: A fractional CFO works for multiple companies, providing strategic financial guidance on a part-time basis. Costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000 per month, offering a cost-effective solution for businesses that need high-level financial expertise but cannot afford a full-time CFO.

Accountant

What Does an Accountant Do? Accountants handle a variety of financial tasks, including bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, budgeting and payroll. They ensure that financial records are accurate and that taxes are paid correctly and on time.

Cost of Hiring an Accountant: The cost of hiring an accountant can vary based on the complexity of the services required and the accountant’s experience:

• Hourly Rates: Accountants typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour. Rates may be higher for more experienced accountants or those with specialized skills.

• Monthly Fees: For ongoing bookkeeping and accounting services, small businesses might pay between $300 and $1,500 per month.

• Annual Fees: For more comprehensive services, including annual financial statements and tax preparation, costs can range from $2,000 to $5,000 per year or more.

Factors Influencing Costs

Several factors can influence the costs of hiring these financial professionals:

• Location: Rates can vary significantly by region, with higher costs in urban areas.

• Experience and Expertise: More experienced professionals or those with specialized expertise command higher fees.

• Scope of Services: The complexity and scope of the services required will impact the overall cost.

• Business Size and Complexity: Larger businesses or those with more complex financial needs may incur higher costs.

Conclusion

Investing in financial expertise is crucial for the success and growth of your small business. Whether you need the specialized skills of a CPA, the strategic vision of a CFO or the day-to-day support of an accountant, understanding the costs involved can help you make informed decisions. By evaluating your specific needs and budget, you can find the right financial professional to help your business thrive. Contact our experts at Fiskal to discuss the different services we can offer for different prices to suite your specific needs. Don't over pay for add on services you do not need.