Best Professionals in Surrey

Look for a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) with experience in your industry. Check their credentials through CPA BC, ask about their experience with businesses similar to yours, and confirm they offer the services you need — tax planning, bookkeeping, payroll, or CRA audit support. A good accountant communicates clearly and is available year-round, not just at tax time.

A bookkeeper records daily transactions — sales, expenses, payroll — and keeps your financial records organized. A CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant) prepares tax returns, develops tax strategies, handles CRA communications, and provides higher-level financial advice. Many Surrey businesses use both: a bookkeeper for monthly records and a CPA for filings and strategy.

In 2026, a standard personal tax return in BC typically runs $300–$600, with a simple single-T4 return lower and returns involving rental or investment income higher. A corporate T2 return generally starts around $1,500 and rises toward $3,500 once you add payroll and multiple accounts. Tax planning and CRA audit support are usually billed hourly at $150–$400. Many Surrey firms offer a free initial consultation and a fixed quote before you commit.

No — the accountant is your service provider. You need your own business license if you operate in Surrey (which you likely already have), but your accountant does not require any additional licensing to serve you. Most reputable Surrey accounting firms work with clients virtually or in-person.

Ask about their experience with businesses in your industry, how they stay current with tax law changes, what software they use, how often you'll communicate, and whether they handle CRA audits. Also ask for a clear breakdown of fees and what services are included. A confident CPA will answer all of these transparently.