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How to Find the Best Outsourced CPA for Your Startup

  • Writer: DM Monticello
    DM Monticello
  • 2 days ago
  • 7 min read


Managing finances is one of the biggest challenges for new startups. Between tracking expenses, managing taxes, and forecasting cash flow, founders quickly realize they need expert help—but hiring a full-time accountant is rarely budget-friendly in the early stages.

That’s where outsourcing a CPA comes in. With the right partner, you can get high-level financial support without paying for a full-time employee. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits of outsourcing, what services CPAs provide, and how to choose the best fit for your startup.


Why Startups Should Consider Outsourcing a CPA


Cost-Effective Financial Support

Startups run lean, and every dollar counts. Hiring a full-time CPA can cost upwards of $80,000–$100,000 annually—not including benefits, bonuses, or office space. Outsourced CPAs, on the other hand, offer monthly or project-based pricing at a fraction of the cost.

If your startup needs professional financial guidance but isn’t ready for in-house staff, outsourcing gives you the best of both worlds: expert insights without breaking your budget. Learn more about outsourcing business functions to reduce costs and scale smarter.


Flexibility Without Full-Time Overhead

Your accounting needs will change as you grow. Outsourced CPAs offer the flexibility to:

  • Start small with bookkeeping or tax filing

  • Add services like forecasting or fundraising prepScale back during slow periods

This is especially useful for startups navigating irregular cash flow or early fundraising rounds. Discover how OpsArmy supports startup operations with on-demand talent.


Access to Experienced Accounting Pros Early On

Most startups can’t afford to hire a CPA with 10+ years of experience full-time—but outsourcing gives you access to that level of expertise. Many outsourced CPAs specialize in startup accounting and understand:

  • Revenue modeling

  • Burn rate tracking

  • Investor reportingTax credits for R&D or new businesses

They become financial partners—offering strategic advice, not just spreadsheets.


What Does an Outsourced CPA Do for a Startup?


Bookkeeping and Financial Reporting

Clean books are the foundation of startup success. Outsourced CPAs help you:

  • Track income and expenses

  • Reconcile bank accounts

  • Prepare monthly financial statements (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow)

  • Maintain audit-ready records

If you're using platforms like QuickBooks, Xero, or Wave, they can manage or oversee your bookkeeping remotely. This frees you up to focus on product, growth, and customers.

For more on remote admin support, see how OpsArmy builds virtual back-office teams.


Tax Filing and Compliance

Tax time is stressful—especially for new founders. Outsourced CPAs handle:

  • Federal and state tax filings

  • Quarterly estimated payments

  • Sales tax compliance (if applicable)

  • 1099 and contractor filings

They also help you stay on top of deadlines and avoid costly penalties. Explore how to delegate tax support to remote staff using OpsArmy’s accounting VA services.


Budget Forecasting and Cash Flow Management

Your CPA should be more than a tax filer—they should be a financial strategist. Many outsourced firms or individuals provide:

  • 12-month cash flow projections

  • Budget planning for hiring or marketing

  • Scenario modeling (“What if we raise $500k?”)

  • Burn rate analysis and runway tracking

For early-stage startups, these insights can make or break your next fundraising round. Consider integrating OpsArmy’s fractional finance talent for scalable support.


Strategic Advice During Growth and Fundraising

Startups often face big financial decisions with limited experience. A skilled CPA can guide you through:

  • Equity allocation

  • Investor reportingFinancial modeling for pitch decksDebt vs. equity financing questions

Think of them as part of your extended founding team. For more on startup scaling, see OpsArmy’s post on VA hiring for rapid growth.


Benefits of Outsourcing vs. Hiring In-House


Lower Costs and Better Scalability

As mentioned earlier, the cost difference is dramatic. A full-time CPA might cost $100k/year, while outsourced options start as low as $500–$2,000/month depending on services. For startups, this flexibility is crucial.

Many OpsArmy clients use fractional support until they're ready to build an internal finance team. Learn more about affordable remote support models.


No Need for Payroll, Benefits, or Office Space

Outsourced CPAs are independent contractors, so you avoid:

  • Health insurance costs

  • Paid time off

  • Employer taxes

  • Equipment or office setup

You also save time—OpsArmy can handle onboarding for remote finance roles so you don’t have to build systems from scratch.


Easy to Switch Providers as Your Needs Evolve

If your outsourced CPA isn’t a fit, you’re not locked in. You can:

  • Scale services up or down

  • Shift to a provider with more startup experience

  • Transition to in-house once you’re ready

A good remote provider will even help you make the handoff smooth. OpsArmy supports this kind of flexibility in all its virtual assistant partnerships.


Key Qualities to Look for in an Outsourced CPA

Not all CPAs are created equal—especially when it comes to startup needs. Here are the most important traits to look for:


Startup Experience

A CPA who’s worked with early-stage companies understands:

  • Fast-paced growth cycles

  • Burn rate and cash flow sensitivity

  • Equity structuring and cap tables

  • Common startup tax credits and write-offs

Look for someone who has experience in your industry or has worked with other founders. Ask for references or case studies.

OpsArmy helps match companies with virtual finance professionals who understand the unique demands of startup life.


Familiarity With SaaS, Tech, or E-Commerce

Every industry has its quirks. If you run a SaaS, DTC, or marketplace startup, your CPA should be familiar with:

  • Recurring revenue tracking (MRR/ARR)

  • Deferred revenue accounting

  • Inventory or sales tax implications

  • Platform integrations (Shopify, Stripe, etc.)

For example, e-commerce brands using virtual support through OpsArmy can offload invoicing, reconciliation, and supplier payments while focusing on growth.


Communication and Availability

A good outsourced CPA should:

  • Respond to questions promptly

  • Offer regular financial updates

  • Be proactive—not just reactive

  • Schedule strategy sessions quarterly (or more)

Clear communication ensures you stay compliant and can make informed decisions.

If you're not sure how to evaluate soft skills, see OpsArmy’s guide on screening and onboarding remote hires.


Tools and Software Compatibility

Your CPA should be fluent in:

  • QuickBooks Online

  • Xero

  • Google Workspace

  • Expense tools like Expensify, Gusto, or Bill.com

Bonus if they can recommend and help implement systems. OpsArmy clients benefit from pre-integrated systems across tools used in virtual accounting, CRM, and operations.


Where to Find the Best Outsourced CPAs for Startups


Online Directories and Freelance Platforms

Sites like Upwork, Toptal, and Paro offer vetted financial freelancers. You can post a job description and review profiles. Just be prepared to sort through many candidates.

Look for verified CPAs or those with strong startup reviews. Also check their client ratings and sample reports.

For a curated, faster solution, consider OpsArmy’s on-demand finance support where you’re matched with remote talent who meets your criteria.


CPA Networks and Startup Communities

Explore:

  • Local CPA firms with startup divisions

  • Your city’s startup incubators or acceleratorsLinkedIn groups or Slack channels like #Founders or #Finance

Many accountants specialize in early-stage startups and promote their services in these communities. Peer referrals are a great way to find trusted partners.

If you're expanding globally, see how OpsArmy helps businesses hire finance VAs from Latin America or the Philippines.


Remote Support Providers Like OpsArmy

OpsArmy simplifies the entire process of finding, vetting, and managing remote financial support. Whether you need part-time bookkeeping or strategic CPA-level advice, we:

  • Match you with talent experienced in startup finances

  • Handle onboarding and documentation

  • Provide flexibility to scale up or down

  • Offer integrated support for CRM, payroll, and more

See how one client streamlined operations and scaled 50% faster with virtual talent support.


Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Outsourced CPA

To avoid mismatches, ask these questions during your vetting process:


1. What Is Your Experience With Startups Like Mine?

Ask for:

  • Specific industries

  • Fundraising or M&A experience

  • Case studies or references

  • Familiarity with startup financial tools


2. How Do You Communicate and Share Reports?

Confirm:

  • Weekly/monthly update cadence

  • Tools used (Slack, Loom, Email, Google Drive)

  • Emergency contact options

  • Who handles day-to-day support (a team or the CPA personally)


3. Do You Offer Scalable Pricing or Packages?

You want a structure that grows with your business. Look for:

  • Tiered pricing based on revenue or workload

  • Add-ons for tax prep, strategic forecasting, etc.Clear service-level agreements (SLAs)

Not sure how to structure outsourced roles? Explore OpsArmy’s pricing and VA management systems.


When Is the Right Time to Hire an Outsourced CPA for Your Startup?

Timing matters. Too early, and you might overpay for services you don’t need. Too late, and you risk messy books or financial blind spots. Here are signs it’s time to bring in a professional:


You’re Raising Investment

If you're preparing for a seed or Series A round, investors will expect:

  • Accurate financial statements

  • Pro forma forecasts

  • A clear picture of your runway and burn rate

A CPA can help prepare pitch deck financials and ensure your metrics stand up to due diligence. For more, see OpsArmy’s advice on business operations during fundraising.


Your Business Is Making Over $10,000/Month

Once you're bringing in consistent revenue, even modest amounts, it's time to get help. At this point, you'll need:

  • Clean monthly books

  • Budgeting tools

  • Tax planning and reporting

Delaying could lead to tax penalties, disorganized finances, or poor spending decisions.


You’re Juggling Too Much as a Founder

If you're still managing your books on nights and weekends, it's time to delegate. Founders should focus on product, growth, and team—not spreadsheets.

Outsourcing to OpsArmy means access to a remote pro without the stress of recruiting or micromanaging. Learn how to delegate key tasks to virtual assistants and free up your time.


How OpsArmy Simplifies CPA Support for Startups

At OpsArmy, we help startups hire vetted, remote professionals—including financial experts who act like in-house team members.

We offer:Flexible CPA & bookkeeping support Integrated onboarding for virtual teamsFractional and full-time optionsTools for tracking work and productivityGuided support for hiring and scaling

From back-office bookkeeping to strategic forecasting, OpsArmy connects you with the talent you need—without the overhead.

Ready to find the best outsourced CPA for your startup? 👉 Schedule a call or apply here


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