Small Business Accountant Near Me: Why Hiring an Accountant Is Cheaper Than Doing It Yourself
Running a small business in Hartford, WI, comes with many responsibilities, and one of the most critical aspects is managing your finances. Many business owners believe they can save money by handling bookkeeping and taxes themselves. However, working with a professional accountant like me at Curler Accounting & Tax Services, LLC often results in more significant financial benefits and fewer headaches.
As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with over 20 years of experience in tax preparation, bookkeeping, and small business consulting, I’ve seen firsthand how hiring an accountant can lead to long-term savings. Let’s explore why outsourcing your financial management is a cost-effective decision for your small business.

1. The Hidden Costs of DIY Accounting
While many business owners believe that doing their own bookkeeping saves money, the reality is often the opposite. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Time Is Money – If you spend 10-15 hours a month on bookkeeping, that’s time you could be using to grow your business, attract new clients, or improve your services.
- Costly Mistakes – Filing taxes incorrectly or missing deductions can lead to fines, audits, and lost savings.
- Missed Tax Deductions – Without a CPA, small businesses often fail to take advantage of valuable deductions and credits.
- Outdated Financial Records – Inconsistent bookkeeping makes it difficult to track expenses, cash flow, and profits accurately.
- Stress and Burnout – Managing finances without professional guidance can be overwhelming, leading to business fatigue and potential errors.
The cost of hiring an accountant is often outweighed by the financial benefits and peace of mind that come with professional expertise.
2. How Much Does a CPA Cost vs. DIY Bookkeeping?
Many business owners hesitate to hire an accountant because they fear it’s too expensive. However, let’s break down the real costs:
Expense Type | DIY Accounting | Hiring a CPA |
Time Spent | 10-15 hours/month ($50/hr opportunity cost) | 2-3 hours of meetings |
Software Costs | $300-$600/year | Included in service |
Tax Errors & Penalties | Varies (Potentially thousands) | Minimized with expert advice |
Missed Deductions | $1,000-$5,000+ annually | Maximized tax savings |
Audit Representation | $$$$ (if errors occur) | Included in CPA services |
Payroll & Compliance | Time-consuming | Accurate and stress-free |
For most businesses, the cost of hiring a CPA pays for itself in tax savings, compliance, and time freed up to focus on revenue-generating activities.
3. Small Business Tax Savings: Maximizing Your Profits
One of the biggest advantages of hiring a small business accountant near me in Hartford, WI, is unlocking significant tax savings. I help my clients reduce their tax burden by:
- Identifying deductions you may overlook – Home office expenses, mileage, equipment purchases, and depreciation.
- Optimizing your business structure – An LLC, S-Corp, or sole proprietorship impacts your taxes differently.
- Year-round tax planning – Instead of scrambling at tax time, I help businesses strategize for the lowest possible tax bill.
- Avoiding IRS penalties – Late filings, incorrect tax estimates, or misclassifying workers can lead to costly penalties.
- Tracking Business Expenses Efficiently – Ensuring all allowable expenses are recorded correctly to reduce taxable income.
By partnering with an experienced CPA, you ensure your small business keeps more of its hard-earned money.
4. Accounting ROI for Small Businesses
Accounting isn’t just about taxes—it’s about making smarter financial decisions that lead to long-term growth. Here’s how a CPA improves your business finances:
- Cash Flow Management – Ensuring you have enough cash on hand to cover expenses and reinvest in growth.
- Profitability Insights – Analyzing revenue streams to identify what’s working and where to cut costs.
- Payroll Accuracy – Ensuring correct payroll tax calculations, direct deposits, and compliance.
- Financial Forecasting – Helping you plan for future investments, hiring decisions, and expansion.
- Business Strategy Development – Providing insights into when to expand, hire, or reinvest for maximum financial impact.
When you invest in an accountant, you’re not just paying for bookkeeping—you’re paying for a strategic partner who helps you grow.
5. DIY Bookkeeping vs. Hiring an Accountant: When to Make the Switch
While DIY bookkeeping can work for startups or sole proprietors with minimal transactions, it becomes overwhelming as your business grows. Consider hiring an accountant if:
- You spend more than 5-10 hours per month on bookkeeping and tax-related tasks.
- Your business generates $100,000+ in annual revenue and has multiple income streams.
- You struggle to track expenses, cash flow, or payroll accurately.
- You’ve missed tax deadlines or received IRS notices.
- You’re planning to hire employees or expand and need financial guidance.
- You’re not sure whether you’re maximizing tax deductions and credits.
If any of these apply to your business, it’s time to bring in a professional.
Why Choose Curler Accounting & Tax Services, LLC?
As a Hartford, WI-based CPA, I take pride in offering personalized, hands-on accounting services tailored to small businesses like yours. Here’s what sets my firm apart:
- Personalized Service – I personally oversee each client’s account, providing one-on-one financial guidance.
- Military Precision & Integrity – My background in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and law enforcement ensures a disciplined and ethical approach to financial management.
- Local Expertise – I understand the unique tax regulations and financial needs of businesses in Hartford, WI, and the surrounding areas.
- Year-Round Support – I don’t just show up during tax season—I work with you throughout the year to ensure financial success.
- Virtual & In-Person Services – Whether you prefer face-to-face meetings or cloud-based accounting, I provide flexible solutions.
- Strategic Financial Planning – Offering guidance on investments, business growth, and operational efficiency.
Take the Next Step: Let’s Maximize Your Business’s Financial Potential
Hiring an accountant isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in your business’s success. Whether you’re looking for tax savings, bookkeeping solutions, or financial strategy, I’m here to help.
📍 Visit Me: 1366 E Sumner St, PMB #27, Hartford, WI 53027
📞 Call Now: 262-649-9882
Let’s make sure your small business finances are in expert hands. Schedule a free consultation today!