Sometime the numbers and cents just don’t make any…well, sense. Luckily, there are actually people who enjoy doing math- and better yet- will do it for you. Chartered Accountants are more than just mathematicians though, they’re people who can help you make decisions with their extensive financial knowledge.
Sure, a lot of people hire the assistance of tax accountants during March and April every year but a Chartered Accountant will work one-on-one year round to help you plan to reach your financial goals. They will review your financial situation and discuss different options on how to get the most out of your money, whether is be through tips on taxation, buying an RRSP, or developing a savings plan. CA’s can even advise you on what to invest in, when to buy, and when to sell because of their vast knowledge in the stock market. They can help you manage property and mortgage payments, insurance, plan for higher education, and retirement. Many specialize in helping business owners as well.
No one would take serious financial advice from a complete stranger, but clients take comfort in knowing all CA’s are well educated, and their profession is regulated.
In order to become a CA, they are required to have a university degree, 24-30 months (depending on the province) of employment experience at a approved training office, completion of a professional program, and also pass a the national Uniform Evaluation. Throughout their career they are also subject to continuing professional development requirements, the enforcement of Rules of Professional Conduct (and discipline mechanisms if they are not adhered to), and those in public accounting must attend mandatory practice inspections and completion of liability insurance programs.
According to the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, there are approximately 150 national firm offices and over 3,000 sole practitioners in Ontario alone. It doesn’t take a math genius to put two and two together, find a Chartered Accountant.
By: Jill Earl
Tax Preparation
