Do you know why it is critical to use a CPA if you own a business?  There are several reasons. 

1. The tax laws are complicated and they constantly change.  CPA's are required to take continuing education and keep up to date on the laws.  
2. They have access to information and software that makes it more efficient for them to prepare tax returns for you.  
3. If you need a loan or line of credit for your business, the bank will most likely require financial statements prepared by a CPA.  If you haven't been using a CPA and contact one to prepare these for you, they will have a hard time if they haven't been doing your tax returns and have never seen your business information.  
4. CPA's can help you save money on taxes by reviewing your business records to see if you are missing out on any opportunities, they can also do future tax planning for you.
5. It's important that you have a legitimate business, not just a hobby. Here is some more information on that: Your Own Business.  Your CPA can answer your questions about what you can deduct and how to properly record and report it.
6. It is also important to know which financial professionals to trust and what their obligations are to your money: Can You Trust Your Financial Adviser.
7. Check with your local State CPA Society to make sure the professional you are working with is certified and in compliance with continuing education, ethics and other state rules: State CPA Society List.
8. Most people who own a business or have complicated personal taxes think they can't afford a CPA, my advice is that you can't afford NOT to have a CPA, especially in this economy.
9. If you don't already have a CPA or know one, ask friends for recommendations, search the state society list or ask another trusted professional you work with for a referral.  If you don't feel comfortable when you meet with the CPA, look for another one right away.
10. Most important of all, if you do not understand accounting or how to keep your records, ask your CPA for advice, or call or e-mail me and I can help you.  Teresa Howell,  623-764-5334,   teresa@winning-edge.net.

 Happy Tax Season!