u/Much_Mess_1351

I've been thinking about this after seeing some recent numbers around accounting firms using offshore teams.

A large percentage of firms are outsourcing or offshoring at least some part of their accounting and tax work. But I don't think the interesting question is simply:

“Are firms outsourcing?”

It seems like the bigger question is why they're doing it.

For some firms, it may be about reducing costs.

For others, it's about getting through busy season without overloading their existing team.

Some may outsource bookkeeping, payroll, AP/AR or tax preparation, while keeping client relationships, review and advisory work in-house.

And then there are firms that go a step further and build a dedicated offshore team that becomes an extension of their internal team.

So I’m curious how other accounting and CPA firm owners look at this.

What does outsourcing mean for your firm?

Do you see it as:

- A temporary solution during busy season?

- A way to access specialized talent?

- A cost-management strategy?

- A way to increase capacity?

- A long-term part of your firm's operating model?

- Or something you simply don't believe works well for accounting?

And if you have outsourced before, what has been the biggest challenge — quality, communication, security, training, managing the team, or finding the right provider?

I'd genuinely like to hear experiences from both sides.

What are your thoughts on Outsourcing to India, Phhilipines or other countries?

Hi everyone,

I’m an Enrolled Agent with 5+ years of experience across US accounting and tax. Over the years, I’ve worked with books of accounts across multiple industries, managed teams as a Team Leader, and prepared both individual and business tax returns, particularly during busy season.

I’m looking to connect with fellow CPAs, Enrolled Agents, and accounting firm owners/practitioners here.

My goal isn’t to sell anything—I’d genuinely like to learn from others in the profession and understand how different firms operate.

I’m particularly interested in hearing about:

- How you manage workload during busy season

- How you handle staffing and capacity challenges

- What changes during the off-season

- How you manage client deadlines and workflow

- What challenges you face as a practitioner or firm owner

- What systems or processes have helped your practice grow

If you’re a CPA, EA, or accounting firm owner, I’d love to hear about your experience.

What’s one challenge in your practice that you’ve found difficult to solve, especially during busy season?