09/03/2026
A Good Accountant Sees Problems Before the IRS Does
The work of an accountant is more than keeping the books in order.
Yes, accurate bookkeeping is an important part of the job. But the real value comes from reviewing and analyzing the details behind the numbers and the financial statements.
A good accountant can often see a problem from miles away.
Unusual expenses. Missing income. Inconsistent transactions. Payroll issues. Personal expenses running through the business. Financial statements that simply don't make sense.
These are the things an accountant should question before the IRS does.
Unfortunately, this part of accounting is not always popular with clients. Some clients, in their desire to pay the minimum amount of taxes possible, would rather not ask too many questions. Some may even believe that if the IRS audits them, they can simply blame the accountant.
That's not how it works.
Your accountant is there to advise you, identify problems, explain the consequences, and help you comply with the tax laws. But the ultimate responsibility for reporting accurate information and paying the correct amount of taxes belongs to the taxpayer.
A good accountant isn't the person who simply tells you what you want to hear.
A good accountant is the person who is willing to say:
“Something doesn't look right. Let's take a closer look before the IRS does.”
That may not always be the most popular conversation—but it may be the most valuable one your accountant has with you.
Miriam Brown - Brown Tax and Accounting Services Inc
