What Key Tasks Do Accountants Perform?

Accountancy service firms offer a complete range of services from preparing payroll to processing payments to managing accounting procedures and documentation. Many business owners are drawn by the projected potential savings in employee expenses and potential additional savings from their time, which can better be spent on the core business function of the enterprise. In fact, the most successful businesses often have an accounting service provider on hand to handle payroll administration, accounting service income statement preparation and analysis, and tax preparation and filing. The accounting service provider can also aid in overall company management, reviewing and approving policies, promotional material, and marketing strategies. Thus, with such a reputable and experienced partner to work alongside, businesses can anticipate increased profitability, improved customer relations, and enhanced bottom line results.

Most accounting services offer small business owners several options for handling payroll administration. Options may include direct deposit of employee checks or money orders, electronic deposits and paper checks, paper records of all transactions, maintaining electronic customer and vendor accounts, and providing outstanding invoices and balance due information to customers. Depending on the type of accounting service provided, these options provide the means for keeping track of employees' hours worked, vacation time, sick leave, bonuses, earned holiday pay, and much more. This information is then stored in a secure, efficient, and manageable database that is accessible by everyone in the company, employees, and other business partners. All accounting services employ the latest computerized time and attendance systems and provide the means to track time off and holidays.

Another common service provided is bookkeeping. Bookkeeping involves the recording of daily financial transactions, such as sales of products or services, employee payments, and purchases. Such transactions are recorded in a daily transaction log and become the basis for all company reports, both monthly and yearly. A well-designed bookkeeping system helps the small business maintain accurate records of employees, inventory, and supplies.

Many small businesses and individuals conduct payroll transactions through third party payroll processors and services. This method can be time consuming, but there are several advantages to using this method. The main advantage is the expedient ability to obtain and manage payroll from a central location. When an accounting services provider provides payroll services, they take care of all aspects of processing payroll, including entering of tax information and garnishments, deposits, and remittance.

Another advantage is the customization of payroll management. Small business owners can select the specific forms that they prefer, such as print or electronic. They can also elect to have their accounting services provider handle paperless processing. The accounting services will design the appropriate forms, mail the applicable forms, and integrate them with company check processing systems.

Small businesses may want to consider internal auditing. Internal auditing involves the examination of accounting documents and reports in order to determine the accuracy and completeness of the financial statements being prepared. While it can be time-consuming, internal auditors can find numerous errors and determine which areas require the most attention. This service is often used by businesses to reduce the amount of business credit card debt. In many cases, internal auditors will inspect financial statements on an on-site basis. However, businesses should still have their own written accounting policies in place.

It's important for businesses to adhere to accounting standards. An accountant is required to meet certain educational requirements as well as meet specific certification criteria. When businesses begin operating under an internal audit policy, they will be required to submit annual progress reports to the accountants. Accountants will determine the need for corrective actions, initiate corrective actions, and monitor account balances to ensure that they are in good standing.

Whether a small business is considering hiring an accountant or is already working with an accountant, the key tasks include preparing and reviewing annual and monthly reports. Business owners should work with an accountant that they trust will provide them with the services they need. Many accountants offer a wide range of key tasks to help businesses achieve their desired results. Finding an accountant that specializes in tax accounting is one of the best ways to keep your business compliant with the various tax laws. If you're ready to hire an accountant, contact a local tax accountant today.