How do you find a tax guide? The Yellow Pages are replete with tax and accounting services, but how do you judge which one is the best for you and your dollar?

In a survey conducted by L&A, we found that the number one way individuals look for a guide is by word of mouth, which is incidentally also the first step in the best way to find a guide. But don’t ask just anyone. Start with people that are knowledgeable about your area and your type of business. Realtors and mortgage lenders often have a large client base and a broad knowledge of the businesses in your city.

Next, talk to the wealthy. The wealthy tend to have the best accountants and tax specialists on their side. If you yourself are wealthy but in need of a second or new opinion, then start with your friends of the same tax bracket.

Balance word-of-mouth reviews with direct research of the firms recommended to you. The Internet is the best place to start, since you will want a firm that is technologically up to date. If a firm is on the ball, they will provide helpful information about themselves and the services they offer online.

You may also want to visit the firm first. What is the atmosphere like? Do you think you will be able to establish effective communication with your prospective CPA?

Finally, how open is the firm about what it charges? Do they offer an agreed-upon amount upfront, or do they sticker-shock you at the end with a bill-by-the-hour model? The best accounting firms contractually agree upon the value of their work with the client before beginning the project.