Start with what your business needs
Write down what the business does, who its customers are, how payments are received and whether there are employees, inventory or activities outside Israel. Add what has changed recently and what you expect next. A business providing one service to a few customers may need a different working arrangement from a shop with many transactions and several payment systems.
Also choose two issues you most want to organize, such as collecting documents, understanding reports or having a conversation before a business decision. Defining a practical need makes it easier to assess whether a proposal really addresses it.
Check who will handle your file and their relevant experience
Ask who the accountant responsible for the file is, what their qualifications are and who will be your day-to-day contact. Find out about the firm's experience with the characteristics of your activity and what information it needs to assess the workload. You can ask for an explanation of the process without requesting other clients' confidential details.
Pay attention to the questions you are asked as well. A proposal that considers document volumes, systems and the state of your records allows a more precise discussion than one based only on the label “small business”.
Compare the scope of service as well as the price
Request a written proposal describing recurring work and separate assignments. Ask explicitly about bookkeeping, filings, the annual return, payroll where relevant and advice beyond routine questions. Do not assume an item is included simply because it appears in the website's service list.
To compare proposals, note whether each item is included, how it is priced and what might change the price. Also ask about completing earlier periods, changing firms and software costs. A monthly amount alone does not tell you the total cost of the engagement.
Find out how the digital workflow will operate
Ask for a simple explanation: where documents are sent, how receipt is confirmed, who follows up on missing material and how to ask a question. Also check what happens if you have difficulty using the system. A digital tool helps when it fits your routine and there is a clear way to get support.
Set expectations for contact channels and response arrangements. If a periodic discussion of the figures matters to you, ask whether it is included and to what extent. Before deciding, try summarizing in your own words who does what; anything that is difficult to explain now is worth clarifying in advance.
Checklist before agreeing
- The firm has received a description of the activity and needs.
- The person responsible for the file and the contact person are clear.
- The scope of service and exclusions are recorded in the proposal.
- Your responsibilities and document submission timing are clear.
- The digital workflow and contact arrangements suit you.
Questions and answers
Should you choose based on a friend's recommendation?
A recommendation can be a useful starting point. Ask what your friend actually receives, then check whether your business characteristics and expectations are similar. Suitability for one business does not guarantee suitability for another.
Must you choose a firm close to home?
Check which tasks can be handled remotely and whether physical meetings are expected. When digital working suits both sides, you can also consider a firm that is not nearby.
What can you send with your first inquiry?
A short description of the business and the service you need is enough to start the discussion. Financial documents and personal information can be provided later through a channel agreed with the firm.
This article is general information, not advice tailored to your business and records.
