When it comes to dental accounting, there are some people who simply “get it,” and then there are those who struggle to keep things from spinning out of control on a daily basis. The fact is, however, being a great dental accountant isn’t something that people are born with—it comes from years of energy and attention focused toward improving one’s craft. Accountants with decades of experience behind them often pick up various “secrets” over the years that completely change the way they approach the job, and the sooner you can learn these yourself, the better an accountant you can become.
Ready to take things to the next level? Here are a few effective “secrets” that every dental accountant needs to know about.

Organizational Skills are Everything

One of the best kept secrets of the accounting game is that organization is perhaps the most important factor to focus on at any time. It should stand to reason that rummaging through unorganized paperwork can eat quite a bit of time, not to mention the energy associated with doing so. For accountants who provide their services to numerous clients, disorganization typically comes along with higher fees. In-house dental accountants, on the other hand, strive to stay organized simply to make life easier for themselves. When it comes time to prepare the business’s tax returns, organization can pay off in droves.

GAAP Standards Matter

If you’re not familiar with the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP Standards), you’re not alone—many small business accountants have yet to get compliant. GAAP Standards typically influence how expenses and income are logged, requiring the accrual method of accounting as opposed to the cash-based method. The more your practice continues to grow, the more important it will become to be GAAP-compliant. Start now—it’s much easier than having to backtrack down the road.

Accuracy Reduces Bottom-line

There are plenty of reasons to focus on accuracy when handling the books, which is why most accountants prefer to work with the best bookkeepers available. For those who are handling both accounting and the books, accurate tracking of income and expenses becomes an essential part of the puzzle. Why? Accurate financial statements allow for in-depth analyzation that can help reduce costs and cut down on bottom-line. By avoiding having to go back and fix mistakes, you can also save yourself countless lost hours in the future.
Becoming a better accountant doesn’t have to be as hard as many people think. Learn the “secrets” of the trade, and the rest will fall into place on its own.