For many Shopify store owners, hiring a Shopify accountant can be a difficult decision. With so many accountants to choose from, it can be hard to know which one will work best for your company. However, there are some things you can do to help narrow down the field and find the perfect accountant in order to keep proper books and records and ensure you are meeting your tax obligations.

What is Shopify?

Shopify is an online platform that allows small businesses to sell their products on Amazon or other e-commerce platforms like eBay. It’s easy to set up and offers great features such as inventory management, customer support, payment processing, shipping options, product reviews, etc.

The main difference between Shopify and traditional e-commerce sites is that they don't require any technical knowledge of coding in order to create a website. Instead, all functionality is provided by the software itself. This makes creating a new site fast and simple.

However, similar to other e-commerce platforms, Shopify requires an accountant that specializes or has an understanding of Shopify and its accounting nuances.

Why Do I Need a Shopify Accountant?

A Shopify accountancy service will help you manage your business finances so you can focus more time on growing it. They'll also provide tax advice for when you're ready to file taxes with your government agency.

You may be able to save money if you use an accountant who specializes in Shopify instead of one who works solely with other types of businesses.

What Should I Look for in a Shopify Accountant?

Criteria #1: Experience

As important as education is, there’s no substitute for a good experience, especially when it comes to Shopify. It takes something a little different to manage the books for a Shopify business.

Find an accountant that has experience working with Shopify. Your best option is to find a Shopify Accountant. Hiring an accountant without any Shopify or eCommerce experience is just asking for trouble.

Criteria #2: Education

You should find someone that has at least done some formal coursework with an accredited institution and usually a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Find an accountant that has experience working with Shopify. Your best option is to find a Shopify Accountant. Hiring an accountant without any Shopify or eCommerce experience is just asking for trouble.

Criteria #3: References

You should find someone that has references from previous clients and also has a track record of tax compliance. For US Shopify Store Owners this may require ensuring they have a working knowledge of

US state sales tax and federal tax obligations before hiring them as your accountant.

Criteria #4: Attention-to-Detail

Before you hire a Shopify accountant, it is important that you interview a potential accountant and assess based on their personality. How someone responds when given instructions, criticisms, and challenges is a key factor in the workplace.

If someone you are considering seems disorganized, then this is a big red flag. If they are very organized and show up to an interview with plenty of information and resources, they are likely a good pick.

Criteria #5: Technological Skill

You definitely need someone who understands technology and e-commerce, including Shopify businesses.

The good news is that many accountants these days have a good grasp of tech.

Find someone who has experience not just with Shopify, but also with the accounting software that you use (QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, etc.).

Criteria #6: Cost

Cost is an essential factor when it comes to choosing a Shopify accountant.

Keep in mind, Shopify accountants will likely require you to purchase or subscribe to accounting software that makes it easier to calculate financial numbers, such as cost of goods sold, cash flow, profit and loss, chart of accounts, sales volume, etc.

taxomate integration with QuickBooks, Xero, or Wave is a great choice for many accountants. Ask your accountant if they have worked with us before or have them reach out to us if they have any questions.

How Do I Find the Best Shopify Accountant for My Business?

Finding a qualified and affordable accountant can be a tough process. A good tactic is doing your research ahead of time to determine what services are available, and if those services stand to benefit your business—like Shopify accountants when you're running your business online. The sites below are great starting points to finding a qualified and affordable accountant for your Shopify business.

1. Upwork

Upwork is a great place to find quality Shopify accountants. We have found a number of highly skilled CPA accountants that specialize in e-commerce and Shopify businesses.

Although it is the easiest option, you will likely have to sift through a bunch of applicants. Remember to be careful and really try to weed out during the selection process.

2. Freelancer

Freelancer is another great site to hire Shopify accountants from. It is very similar to Upwork.

3. Peopleperhour

Peopleperhour has become very popular in the United Kingdom but is used around the world. It is very similar to the other freelancing platforms, including Freelancer and Upwork.

4. LinkedIn

LinkedIn isn't just great for networking but can be a very useful tool to find employees. Simply search "Shopify Accountant" and lots of results will appear. You can then message the accountant you are looking to work with.

5. Fiverr

If you are in need of someone more affordable, a great place would be to check out Fiverr. Shopify accountants here usually list fixed prices so you can know exactly what you are paying for upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Shopify accountant and a bookkeeper?

A Shopify accountant is a professional who is qualified to offer advice on tax, accounting, and other business matters. A Shopify bookkeeper is someone who records the financial transactions of the shop.

How much will it cost to use a Shopify accountant?

A Shopify accountant's fees can vary depending on the services they provide and their qualifications.

Should I use a Shopify accounting firm?

Some Shopify sellers choose to use an accounting firm rather than an individual Shopify accountant. This largely comes down to preference. There are some great Shopify accounting firms out there. Some may charge more than individual Shopify accountants, but you get the added value of having multiple resources at your disposal. They may also be able to turn things around quickly.

Should I hire a regular accountant or one who specializes in Shopify?

It is generally best to hire an accountant who either specializes in Shopify or e-commerce businesses. This will allow you to feel comfortable knowing your accountant has the knowledge surrounding the many nuances of e-commerce accounting.

How much easier will finding the right Shopify accountant make running my business?

Finding the proper accountant along with the best Shopify accounting software will help you determine your profit and losses and tax obligation. This is essential to running any Shopify business and will allow you to run your business more efficiently.

Should I use QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Xero, Netsuite, Wave or another Shopify accounting software?

This depends entirely on your business needs and how much you are looking to pay. QuickBooks is expensive but used by most Shopify sellers. Wave is free and is best for when you are just getting started.

Conclusion

You should hire a regular accountant or one who specializes in Shopify. This will allow you to feel comfortable knowing your accountant has the knowledge surrounding the many nuances of e-commerce accounting.

There are many accountants who can work with your business, but you will want to make sure they have the right skills and expertise to do the job.

Disclaimer: The above information is made available on a good faith basis and is intended only for general education. The article is not to advise on tax or legal issues. We recommend getting in touch with a duly certified tax professional or CPA to assist with any topics raised by this article.