1. Check Their Credentials
In Ontario, the most important designations to look for are:
CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant)
The gold standard. Licensed by CPA Ontario, required for audits, reviews, and most corporate tax work. Verify any CPA at cpaontario.ca.
CPB (Certified Professional Bookkeeper)
Issued by the Canadian Institute of Bookkeeping. Indicates tested proficiency in bookkeeping, payroll, and tax preparation.
Other Relevant Designations
CGA, CA, CMA (now unified under CPA), QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Xero Certified. These indicate specific technical skills.
2. Match Their Specialization to Your Needs
An accountant who specializes in your industry or situation will deliver better results. Common specializations include:
3. Questions to Ask Before Hiring
A good accountant will answer these clearly and without pressure:
- How do you charge? — Hourly, fixed fee, or monthly retainer? Get the pricing structure in writing.
- What’s included in your fee? — Clarify whether email support, CRA correspondence, and year-end adjustments are included or billed extra.
- Do you have experience in my industry? — An accountant familiar with construction, healthcare, or e-commerce knows the specific deductions and compliance issues.
- What software do you use? — QuickBooks, Xero, and Sage are common. Make sure they’re compatible with your current setup.
- How will we communicate? — Monthly check-ins? Portal access? Email-only? Set expectations early.
- Can you provide references? — A confident professional will happily connect you with existing clients.
- What’s your turnaround time for tax season? — If they’re consistently filing extensions, that’s a concern.
4. Red Flags to Watch For
- ✗Guarantees specific refund amounts before reviewing your situation — this is a major warning sign.
- ✗Charges a percentage of your refund — ethical accountants charge for their time, not a cut of your money.
- ✗Won’t provide a written engagement letter — this document outlines scope, fees, and responsibilities. It’s standard practice.
- ✗Difficult to reach or slow to respond — especially during tax season. If they’re unresponsive now, it’ll be worse under deadline pressure.
- ✗Suggests aggressive or questionable deductions — a good accountant minimizes your tax legally, not recklessly.
5. Where to Find Accountants in Ontario
Start your search locally. Accountants who understand your city’s business landscape and local regulations can provide more relevant advice.
Your Hiring Checklist
- ☐Verified CPA or CPB designation
- ☐Experience in your industry or tax situation
- ☐Clear, written pricing (fixed fee or hourly rate)
- ☐Written engagement letter outlining scope
- ☐Compatible accounting software
- ☐Good Google reviews and/or client references
- ☐Responsive communication during initial contact
- ☐No pressure tactics or refund guarantees
Ready to Start Your Search?
Compare rated accountants and bookkeepers across Ontario. Check Google ratings, specializations, and contact professionals directly.