You’re in need of a business plan, so you’re probably here because you’re wondering if an accountant can write one for you.
The quick answer is no. An accountant doesn’t typically write business plans, but they do provide and produce information and advice that is vital to the business plan and its success.
Business plans are usually developed and written by business leaders, so if you own your own organization – that would be you! However, your accountant is there to collaborate with you every step of the way.
Without proper support, business plans can be daunting, so it’s important to surround yourself with the right expertise, such as a qualified accountant. That way, you can be sure you’re making sound decisions each step of the way.
So what role does an accountant actually play when it comes to business plans? Let’s find out!
A business plan is a document that outlines a company’s goals, strategies, financial information, and other relevant details that are necessary for the success of an organization.
You use a business plan to secure investments, attract potential partners and clients, and provide a roadmap for the company’s growth.
Essentially, it’s the tool that makes people take you seriously and proves that you’ve put some serious thought and analysis into the initial idea. For example, if you try to secure investments without a business plan, you’re likely to be laughed out of the door. Investors want to see how you plan to use their money and what exactly their return will be in the future.
A business plan generally includes:
A business plan serves several purposes for a company, such as helping to define its goals, strategies, and long-term objectives including:
A successful business plan will look like this:
An accountant can help with your business plan in a number of ways by doing the following:
Business plans are typically written by entrepreneurs, business owners, and senior company executives. The plan should be written in collaboration with the company’s internal team, as well as outside advisors, such as financial advisors and legal experts.
Accountants will provide the following benefits for your business plan:
First, your accountant will determine the type of business structure. This determines how the company is taxed, how profits and losses are distributed, and how the business is managed.
Then, your accountant will file the appropriate paperwork and register the business. Then they will obtain any required business licenses and permits.
Finally, the accountant will need to help open a business bank account to separate business and personal finances.
An accountant files the necessary paperwork by ensuring that all the relevant information is accurately recorded and reported. This includes ensuring that the financial projections are accurate and justified, validating the assumptions, and providing a thorough financial analysis and review of the business plan overall.
Additionally, the accountant makes sure that all relevant tax documents, such as corporate tax returns, payroll taxes, and any other applicable taxes, are accurately completed and filed.
Now let’s take a look at what the financial plan looks like:
Your accountant will know the tax system inside out and will therefore be able to advise you on:
An accountant can provide support during audits or other legal proceedings for a business plan by providing financial analysis to help ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial records and documents.
They can also help assess the financial impact of potential risks and opportunities and make recommendations for minimizing those risks. They may also provide advice on how to optimize the company’s financial performance and strategy.
Finally, the accountant can review and certify the business plan to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
An accountant can act as a sounding board for new business ideas by providing advice and guidance on the financial feasibility of the ideas, as well as offering suggestions for how to increase the chances of success.
They can also help to identify potential areas of risk and how to mitigate them. Additionally, an accountant can help to assess the potential costs associated with any proposed business plan and provide guidance on how to manage those costs.
Your accountant is able to help you negotiate loans etc., by providing the necessary financial statements, forecasts, and projections. They can also help ensure that all documents are prepared properly and accurately.
They will also be able to find you the best terms available from different banks and provide helpful advice on the risks and benefits associated with loan options.
Additionally, an accountant can help you better understand the financial implications of taking on debt and can help you establish a repayment plan that meets the needs of both you and the bank.
The cost of working with a business accountant will vary depending on the complexity of your business and the services you require. Many accountants charge an hourly rate for their services, typically ranging from $50 to $200 per hour.
Hiring a virtual accountant from a trusted firm such as Finvisor is a cost-effective solution for getting top-notch advice and expertise. You pay for the level of service you require, which is much cheaper than hiring someone full-time, but you still get a fully qualified accountant.
Your first meeting with an accountant should be focused on getting to know each other and discussing your needs and goals. You should come to the meeting prepared with a list of questions, as well as any documents related to your finances.
You should also discuss your current financial situation, your short and long-term goals, any tax issues, asset management, and the type of services you may need.
Your accountant will also provide you with an overview of their services and how they will be able to help you.
The frequency of meetings with an accountant to go over a business plan will depend on the specific needs of the business. Generally, an accountant should be consulted at least once a year to review the business plan and make necessary adjustments.
In certain cases, meeting more often may be beneficial, such as when the business is undergoing significant changes or when the business is in its startup phase.
If you want to know more about how an accountant can be a valuable asset when developing and executing a business plan, get in touch with Finvisor for more information.
To learn more about what we do, or to request a quote, contact us at hello@finvisor.com or 415-416-6682. We’re here to help you navigate deferred revenue journal entries so you can make the most of your assets!
*This blog does not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. This blog should not be used as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an attorney licensed or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction.*
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