Professional Support Team (Part 6)

This part of the guide has 6 pages so far. Each page answers one question, shows what to do, and ends with an audit check you can use on your own business.

6.3 Professional Support Team

• 6.3.1 Business Attorney: Learn when a small business needs an attorney, what to ask before you hire one, and how to find a business lawyer who fits your budget and industry.
• 6.3.2 CPA or Tax Professional: Learn the difference between a CPA, an enrolled agent, and other tax preparers, what each can do for a small business, and how to check one before you hire.
• 6.3.3 Bookkeeper: Learn what a bookkeeper does, when to hire one instead of doing your own books, and what records the IRS expects a small business to keep and for how long.
• 6.3.4 Insurance Professional: Learn what a licensed insurance agent or broker does for a small business, how to check their license, and what to ask so your coverage fits your real risks.
• 6.3.5 Payroll Professional: Learn what a payroll service, reporting agent, or PEO does, why the IRS still holds you responsible for payroll taxes, and how to check your provider’s work.
• 6.3.6 Industry Adviser: Learn when a regulated or technical business needs an industry adviser, where to find one, including free SBA mentors, and what to ask before you start.