One of the clearest differences between an accounting firm and a solo accountant is the range of services offered. A solo accountant typically focuses on a defined set of tasks such as bookkeeping, tax filings, or basic advisory. This can work well for straightforward needs, especially in early-stage businesses.
An accounting firm, on the other hand, usually provides a broader service scope. This often includes bookkeeping, payroll, GST/HST and PST compliance, tax planning, CRA audit support, and advisory services under one roof. The wider scope reduces the need to coordinate multiple providers as your business grows and becomes more complex.
We deliver a broad range of Tax Accounting Services in BC and other locations across British Columbia.
Accounting Firm vs Solo Accountant
| Comparison Area | Accounting Firm | Solo Accountant |
| Service Coverage | Full-service (bookkeeping, payroll, tax, advisory) | Usually limited to specific tasks |
| Availability | Team-based support with built-in backup | Dependent on one individual |
| Expertise Depth | Access to multiple specialists | Generalist knowledge |
| Scalability | Easily scales as business grows | Limited by time and capacity |
| CRA Compliance Risk | Lower due to reviews and oversight | Higher if errors go unnoticed |
| Continuity | No disruption from vacations or illness | Service interruptions possible |
| Cost Structure | Higher upfront, stronger long-term value | Lower upfront, potential hidden costs |
| Best Fit For | Growing or complex businesses | Simple, early-stage businesses |
Our other tax services:
- Personal Tax Filing
- Business Tax Preparation
- Payroll Processing Services Vancouver
- WCB Employer Registration Coquitlam
- ROE Service BC
Availability, Expertise, and Backup Support
Availability is a critical but often overlooked factor when choosing between a small accounting firm vs individual accountant. With a solo accountant, availability depends entirely on one person’s schedule, health, and workload. If they are unavailable during a deadline or CRA inquiry, delays can quickly become costly.
Accounting firms offer built-in backup and shared expertise. If one team member is unavailable, another can step in. Firms also tend to have specialists in different areas, meaning payroll, tax, and compliance questions are handled by people with focused experience rather than one generalist managing everything.
Cost vs Value Comparison
At first glance, hiring a solo accountant often appears cheaper. Fees are usually lower, and services can be tailored narrowly to reduce upfront costs. However, lower cost does not always mean better value.
Accounting firms may charge higher fees, but those fees often include layered review, reduced error risk, and access to broader expertise. Over time, this can translate into fewer CRA issues, better tax planning, and less time spent correcting mistakes. The real comparison is not cost alone, but cost relative to risk, accuracy, and long-term efficiency.
Which Option Scales Better with Your Business
Scalability is where accounting firms usually outperform solo accountants. As your business grows—adding employees, new revenue streams, or expanded tax obligations—your accounting needs increase quickly.
A solo accountant may struggle to scale without raising fees, limiting availability, or outsourcing parts of the work. An accounting firm is typically structured to grow alongside your business, absorbing increased workload without disrupting service quality. For businesses planning to expand, scalability becomes a deciding factor rather than a nice-to-have.
Our financial services:
- Financial Service BC
- Business Valuation Services BC
- Business Plan Writing Services BC
- Financial Planning Services
- Financial Due Diligence Services
How to Decide Based on Business Complexity
The right choice depends on how complex your business is today and how complex it will become. Simple operations with limited transactions may function well with a solo accountant. As complexity increases—incorporation, payroll, sales taxes, or CRA scrutiny—the benefits of a firm become more significant.
At maxpro financials, we often see businesses delay switching to a firm until after a problem arises. Making the decision proactively usually costs less and prevents compliance issues before they surface.
Choosing between an accounting firm vs solo accountant is a strategic decision that affects accuracy, growth, and compliance—not just monthly fees. At maxpro financials, we provide scalable accounting, tax planning, and CRA support designed to match your business complexity at every stage. If you’re deciding whether to hire an accounting firm or an individual accountant, contact maxpro financials for guidance that protects your business today and supports smarter growth tomorrow.
FAQ
- Is an accounting firm always better than a solo accountant?
No. For simple, low-risk situations, a solo accountant can be sufficient and cost-effective. - Are accounting firms only for large businesses?
No. Many small and mid-sized businesses use accounting firms for reliability and compliance support. - Which option reduces CRA risk more effectively?
Accounting firms generally reduce risk through review systems and broader expertise, especially for growing businesses. - Can a solo accountant handle payroll and sales taxes?
Yes, but capacity and depth of expertise may be limited compared to a firm. - Is it more expensive to switch from a solo accountant to a firm later?
Often yes, especially if records need cleanup or prior errors must be corrected. - How do I know if my business has outgrown a solo accountant?
Frequent delays, unanswered questions, recurring errors, or stress around deadlines are common signs. - Can I work with an accounting firm on a flexible or partial basis?
Yes. Many firms offer scalable services rather than all-or-nothing packages.