Choosing an Accountant Guide
A good accountant does more than file returns—they help you save money, stay compliant, and grow.
How to Choose an Accountant
Choosing the right accountant is one of the most important decisions for your business. A good accountant does more than file returns—they help you save money, stay compliant, and grow.
This guide helps you evaluate accountants and make an informed choice.
While compliance (tax returns, annual financials) is essential, great accountants also provide strategic advice, tax planning, and business insights that can transform your business.
What to Look For
Qualifications
Professional registrations.
Experience
Industry and business size.
Reputation
Reviews and references.
Value
Fair pricing for services.
Professional Qualifications
South African Designations
CA(SA)Required
Chartered Accountant - highest qualification.
Professional Accountant (SA)Recommended
SAIPA registered professional.
Tax PractitionerConditional
SARS recognized, focuses on tax.
BookkeeperConditional
For basic bookkeeping needs.
Verification
SAICA MembershipRequired
Verify CA(SA) on SAICA website.
SAIPA MembershipRequired
Verify Professional Accountant.
Good StandingRecommended
No disciplinary actions.
Continuing EducationConditional
Up to date with changes.
Match qualification to need. A CA(SA) is essential for audits and complex tax matters. For basic bookkeeping and tax returns, a Professional Accountant may be more cost-effective.
Relevant Experience
Industry Experience
Your IndustryRecommended
Knows sector-specific requirements.
Business SizeRecommended
Experience with similar-sized businesses.
Business StageConditional
Startup, growth, established.
Special SituationsConditional
Exports, funding, acquisitions.
Service Experience
Tax ComplianceRequired
SARS filing experience.
Financial StatementsRecommended
Annual financial statements.
PayrollConditional
If you have employees.
AdvisoryConditional
Business and tax advice.
An accountant who knows your industry understands specific deductions, common issues, and sector regulations. This can save money and prevent compliance problems.
Evaluation Process
Finding Candidates
Get Referrals
Ask other business owners.
Search ProGuild
Find verified professionals.
Check Professional Bodies
SAICA and SAIPA directories.
Shortlist 3-5
Based on initial criteria.
Initial Meeting
Discuss Your NeedsRequired
What services you require.
Ask About ExperienceRequired
Similar clients and industries.
Understand ApproachRequired
How they work with clients.
Get Fee StructureRequired
How and what they charge.
Communication StyleRecommended
Are they easy to talk to?
Questions to Ask
About Qualifications
What are your qualifications?Required
Verify designations.
Are you in good standing?Required
No disciplinary issues.
What CPD do you do?Recommended
Keeping current.
About Service
What services are included?Required
Clear scope.
Who will do my work?Required
Partner or junior staff?
How do you communicate?Required
Email, phone, portal?
What's your response time?Recommended
For queries and urgent matters.
About Fees
How do you charge?Required
Fixed, hourly, or hybrid.
What does that include?Required
Scope of fixed fees.
What's extra?Required
Additional charges.
Can I get a quote?Recommended
Written estimate.
Red Flags
Warning Signs
Not RegisteredRequired
Can't verify professional status.
Vague on FeesRequired
Won't provide clear pricing.
Too CheapRequired
Significantly below market.
Poor CommunicationRecommended
Slow or unclear responses.
No ReferencesConditional
Can't provide client references.
If it's too cheap, it's too risky. Unqualified practitioners charging low fees often make costly errors. SARS penalties, missed deductions, and compliance failures cost far more than a qualified accountant.
Making the Decision
Decision Factors
QualificationsRequired
Meet your needs.
ExperienceRequired
Relevant to your situation.
ValueRequired
Fair price for services.
RapportRecommended
Easy to work with.
AvailabilityRecommended
Accessible when needed.
Getting Started
Sign Engagement Letter
Clear agreement on services and fees.
Provide Documents
Previous records and info needed.
Set Up Systems
Access to accounting software.
Establish Communication
Regular check-ins and updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a CA(SA) or will a bookkeeper do?
It depends on complexity. For basic bookkeeping and straightforward tax returns, a bookkeeper may suffice. For financial statements, complex tax matters, or audits, you need a CA(SA) or Professional Accountant.
How much should accounting services cost?
Fees vary widely based on business complexity and services needed. Small businesses might pay R500-R3,000/month for basic services. Get quotes from multiple providers and compare value, not just price.
Can I change accountants?
Yes, you can change anytime. Your records belong to you. Give proper notice, settle outstanding fees, and ensure handover of all documents to your new accountant.
Should I use someone local or is remote okay?
Remote accounting works well for most businesses. What matters is communication and responsiveness. Some prefer local for face-to-face meetings, but this isn't essential.
Next Steps
Ready to find an accountant?