Finding the Right Accountant for Your Handmade Business

What to Look for in an Accountant Who Actually Helps Your Business Grow

Q: I’m completely frustrated with my accounting situation. I had a regular accountant who couldn’t keep up, then switched to a handmade-focused accountant who just charged me $8K in fees. How do I find the right accountant without overpaying?

A: I hear you—finding the right accountant is tough, especially when running a handmade business. Many accountants don’t fully understand the complexities of inventory, fluctuating sales, and wholesale vs. retail pricing. The last thing you need is someone who either can't keep up or overcharges without delivering real value.

Instead of focusing just on price, think about what you actually need from an accountant. Are they:

• Keeping your books organized and tax-ready so you’re not scrambling at the end of the year?

• Helping you optimize deductions and maximize profit?

• Advising you on cash flow management so you’re not constantly chasing expenses?

• Understanding the cost of handmade production, including materials, labor, and fluctuating demand?

If the answer is no, they’re not the right fit—no matter how specialized they claim to be.

Q: How much should I be paying for an accountant?

A: Accounting fees should be relative to your business size and the value they bring. If you're a smaller operation, paying thousands in fees without seeing tangible benefits is a red flag. On the other hand, the right accountant can save you more than they cost.

For reference, I pay $900 per month and it's worth every penny because it saves me time and mental energy. My accountant handles:

• Monthly bookkeeping and reconciliations

• Quarterly tax planning to avoid surprises

• Sales tax compliance across multiple platforms

• Inventory cost tracking so I know my true profit margins

If your accountant is charging you premium rates but only doing the basics, it’s time to look elsewhere.

Q: What should I look for in a new accountant?

A: The right accountant should:

1. Understand e-commerce and handmade businesses.Not all accountants are equipped to handle inventory-heavy businesses with fluctuating revenue. Look for someone with experience in product-based businesses—not just service industries.

2. Offer proactive tax planning.You don’t want to find out in April that you owe thousands more than expected. A good accountant helps you plan ahead, so you can adjust your spending and savings accordingly.

3. Save you time, not create more work.If you’re still doing half the work yourself, that’s a problem. A great accountant should take bookkeeping, tax filing, and financial forecasting off your plate.

4. Be transparent about fees.Surprise charges and vague pricing structures are a no-go. Whether you’re paying a monthly retainer or per-service fee, know exactly what you’re getting.

5. Help with business growth, not just compliance.A great accountant doesn’t just file your taxes—they help you grow profitably. They should advise on pricing, budgeting, and financial strategies to scale sustainably.

Q: Where can I find a good accountant for a handmade business?

A: Start with recommendations from other product-based businesses. Ask in maker groups, wholesale communities, or local business networks. Some other tips:

• Look for accountants who specialize in e-commerce, inventory, or manufacturing.

• Ask about experience with platforms like Shopify, Etsy, Faire, and Amazon.

• Schedule a free consultation to gauge if they understand your business needs.

The right accountant isn’t just an expense—they’re an investment in your business’s stability and growth. If you’re frustrated with high fees and low value, trust that there’s a better fit out there.

Have you found an accountant you love? Or are you still searching for the right one? Share your experience in the comments!