What does an accountant do?

When you hear the word “accountant,” do you picture calculators, visors, or gray suits? Maybe you think of someone methodically tapping away on a keyboard, or an expert who somehow finds tax deductions in places you never knew existed.  

Whatever comes to mind, the reality is that “accountant” is a broad title. Just like doctors specialize (pediatricians, cardiologists, etc.), accountants come in different flavors, too. If you need help sorting out your business’s finances, it’s not just about finding “an accountant”—it’s about finding the right accountant for the job. 

The Many Types of Accountants 

You might be surprised to learn how many types of accountants there are, each bringing a different toolkit to the table: 

Keep in mind, these roles often overlap. A single accountant might hold multiple credentials—like being a CPA who’s also an EA—or have the knowledge to do tasks they don’t normally offer. As businesses grow and change, so do their accounting needs. That’s why it pays to be aware of the different specialties available. 

How do I know which type of accountant I need? 

The quick answer: it depends on your business’s size, goals, and who’s already on your team. 

🏢Your Business’s Size and Needs 

• If you’re a small business with just a handful of transactions each month, a skilled bookkeeper might be all you need for your day-to-day financials. Then, when tax time rolls around, or a taxable event happens, you might hire or consult a tax accountant. (Or better yet, stay on top of your taxes all year long—no shame in being proactive!) 

• If you have a larger operation with multiple product lines, employees, and complex revenue streams, you may need more specialized accounting support, like a CPA or a managerial accountant. 

🎯Your Business’s Goals 

• Are you aiming to expand your product line next quarter? Planning to open a new store next year? A financial accountant could help you analyze past performance and plan future budgets. 

• If you’re diving into uncharted territory—maybe opening an overseas branch—it might be time to call in a CGMA who understands global accounting standards. 

🏅Your Existing Team 

• Before hiring a new accountant, look at who’s already handling your financial matters. Maybe your office manager is moonlighting as a bookkeeper. Or perhaps you already have a CPA handling taxes, so you only need an accountant for day-to-day cash flow management. 

• Accounting is rarely a one-person show. It’s about building a well-rounded team. Sometimes that’s a few part-time specialists; other times it’s one full-timer plus external support. The key is filling the gaps with the right talent. 

The bottom line 

• Recognize the Differences: Accountants aren’t one-size-fits-all. Knowing the basic roles—bookkeepers, CPAs, tax specialists, financial accountants, and more—helps you figure out which type of professional is the best fit for your business. 

• Choose Wisely: Pick the accountant (or team of accountants) whose skills and experiences match your current needs and long-term goals. You’ll thank yourself at tax time—and anytime you need clarity on your finances. 

• Stay Ahead: With the right accounting support, you’ll not only keep your books in order but also be able to forecast, plan, and strategize more effectively for future growth. Knowledge truly is power when it comes to business finances. 

Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re looking for a straightforward bookkeeper or a strategic financial partner, aligning yourself with the right type of accountant can unlock your business’s full potential. Remember, with the right accounting team, you’re setting your business up for smoother sailing today and tomorrow.