Value of a good accountant
Kimberly Green | 2025-07-17
Summary
A great accountant does more than file your taxes. They proactively advise on growth, tax strategy, structure planning, and risk management—potentially paying for themselves through savings and smarter decisions.
What Is a "Good" Accountant?
If you’ve ever asked, “Am I paying too much for my accountant?” you’re not alone. In a Reddit thread for high-earning individuals, one couple paying $3,500/year wondered what a top-tier accountant should deliver. The responses shed light on the true value of high-quality financial advice.
(Inspired by this Reddit discussion)
What a Great Financial Pro Actually Does
A quality accountant will:
- Strategize with you about long-term goals
- Identify smart tax and wealth-building moves
- Optimize your business or personal financial structure
- Help you track progress using tools, dashboards, or alerts
- Meet regularly to adjust strategy as life or laws change
Is $3,500 Too Much for Tax Help?
It depends. If they’re just filing paperwork? Probably. But if they’re helping you plan, grow, and stay ahead of tax issues?
They might save or earn you that much or more. As one user put it:
“At the absolute minimum, they should be saving you the equivalent of what they cost.”
Signs You’re Getting Value
| What They Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Ask about your 2, 5, and 10-year goals | Plans feel actionable, not just reactive |
| Suggest business or trust structures | Potential tax savings + legal protection |
| Offer pre-year-end planning | Allows smart timing of expenses, super, bonuses |
| Provide dashboards or summaries | You stay aware of cash flow, tax owed, and business health |
| Review goals quarterly | Keeps you accountable and proactive |
FAQs
Q: How often should I meet with my accountant?
A: Quarterly if possible. More often if your business is growing quickly or facing changes.
Q: What if mine only contacts me at tax time?
A: Ask for strategic support. If they can’t provide it, consider exploring options through vetted directories like Sam's List.
Q: What’s a red flag with accountants?
A: If your accountant never asks about your goals or upcoming plans—they’re probably reactive, not proactive.
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Author: Kimi, Co-founder of Sam’s List
Kimi writes about what she's learning while building Sam’s List and shares honest takeaways from her conversations with accountants and financial advisors across the country. None of this is financial advice—just the stuff most people wish someone told them sooner.