The 5 things you need to know about accountants, financial advisors, and your money
Renee Matheson 
It’s a common debate: should you use an accountant or a financial advisor? While both professionals can help you manage your money, there are some key differences between the two. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of each, so you can decide which is right for you.
Accountant vs financial advisor
The difference between an accountant and a financial advisor is that an accountant mainly focuses on preparing and filing taxes, while a financial advisor provides advice on financial planning and investing. Both professions require knowledge of accounting and finance, but financial advisors generally have more training in investment planning.
The services an accountant can provide
An accountant is a trained professional who can provide a variety of services, including bookkeeping, tax preparation, and auditing. An accountant may also offer financial planning services, but this is not their primary focus.
A financial advisor is a professional who provides advice on how to best save, invest, and grow your money. A financial advisor can help you set financial goals and make a plan to achieve them.
The services a financial advisor can provide
Financial advisors offer a variety of services, from investment advice and portfolio management to retirement planning and estate planning. Some financial advisors also offer insurance products, such as life insurance and long-term care insurance.
The type of advice you need will depend on your financial goals. For example, if you’re saving for retirement, you may want an advisor who can help you choose investments that will grow over time. Or, if you’re already retired, you may want an advisor who can help you manage your portfolio so that it lasts throughout your retirement.
No matter what type of advice you’re looking for, it’s important to find an advisor who is a good fit for you. When choosing a financial advisor, be sure to ask about their experience, credentials, and fees.
The benefits of using an accountant
There are many benefits of using an accountant, especially if you are self-employed or run a small business. An accountant can help you keep track of your finances, prepare your taxes, and offer advice on financial matters.
An accountant is trained in accounting and finance, so they will be able to spot any errors or potential problems in your financial records. They can also offer advice on how to save money and reduce your tax liability. If you are self-employed, an accountant can help you set up a good accounting system to track your income and expenses.If you run a small business, an accountant can save you time and money by preparing your tax return and keeping track of your financial records. They can also offer advice on how to reduce your tax liability and make sure that you are complying with all the relevant regulations.
If you need help with tax preparation, an accountant may be the right choice. If you’re looking for long-term financial advice, a financial advisor may be a better option. If you need assistance with bookkeeping, many accountants offer this service. And finally, if cost is a consideration, keep in mind that financial advisors typically charge higher fees than accountants.
