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7 Things a CPA Needs to Consider when Deciding on a Cost Segregation Partner

Cost Segregation for CPA Firms

Including cost segregation into your CPA practice will benefit you and your clients by expanding your business and offering a service requested by many. It is important to know a few things about your potential cost segregation partner. When looking into firms that specialize in cost segregation, you’ll want to make sure they meet a few requirements before you partner with them. You want them to become an asset to your firm. Below, you’ll find a list of questions that you should ask each cost segregation firm before you commit to anything.

  1. Is the cost segregation firm you are considering an expert in the tangible property regulations? Whether your firm has become highly or only partially educated on the Repair Regulations, your cost segregation partner should be able to calculate complex issues for all of your clients who qualify. When a cost segregation firm is an expert in the repair regulations, they will quickly be able to step in as your calculation experts offering immense savings to your clients and potential consulting fees to your firm.
  2. How long have you been in business and how many cost segregation studies has your firm done? It’s good to know the firm’s history and experience in the industry. You need to know that they will be there for your client if an audit occurs.
  3. Who is performing the study? A cost segregation study is a technical process that requires knowledge in both construction and engineering. It’s important to find a firm that performs every facet of the work in-house that goes into the cost segregation.
  4. What method does the firm use to perform the cost segregation study? There are several methods that a firm can use to perform a study but not all are created equal. You want to make sure the firm you choose uses an engineering approach to reduce the risk in the event of an audit.
  5. Does the firm provide a complete report? The study needs to offer the preferred 13-point conclusion. It is important to establish that a report will be made and given to both the tax professional and the client when the study is complete. See U.S. Tax Code Guidelines.
  6. In the event of an audit, who will defend the work? This is important for your client’s peace of mind because they’ll know they won’t have to face an audit by themselves and that the firm will defend its study.
  7. Ask for references. As with any important relationship, references will give you the peace of mind knowing that your cost segregation partner provides on time, accurate, and bullet-proof results.

Expanding your services is an important matter. As a professional, you want to maintain the same level of quality your firm has provided for years when adding another service that includes bringing in outside help. These questions will help ensure you find a cost segregation firm that meets your standards and provides a quality service to the customers that trust you.