Disadvantages of Having an AccountantThe following disadvantages to be discussed in this section are (1) cost and (2) liability. Cost. When you start a small business and are in the process of starting a company, money is tight. The company has yet to take shape, but the need to generate growth is a big concern. Cost is an incremental factor that discourages business owners from hiring an accountant. Part of the costs of hiring an accountant include salary, benefits and office space. Figure 2 shows that an accountant's education level and experience have a significant impact on their salary. With increased experience and specialization comes an increase in price. The benefits are also expensive and the need to provide Although small businesses are not required to have an accountant, the benefits they offer in terms of compliance, savings, loyalty and business contributions are essential. Companies are always looking to grow and acquire greater market shares and customers and with the right tools they are able to carry out this task. Accountants carry a high price with them, and the lack of control and ability to trust them will impact any business, whether large or small. With the alternatives available, business owners must weigh the pros and cons of having their own accountant conveniently on hand in their organization. Recommendations I recommend that small businesses and start-ups take advantage of the services, skills and benefits that accountants can provide. I can save any organization, large or small, money and provide knowledge to help any business grow. The cost of having an accountant is much less than the expenses, fines and lost profits due to inaccurate reporting and unethical behavior both internally and externally. If the goal is to grow an organization and take advantage of other financial opportunities, consider having an accountant within the organization along with accounting