How to Choose Your Chartered Accountant
8 essential criteria for choosing the ideal accounting partner for your business in Morocco. Complete guide with practical tips.
8 Essential Criteria
1. Verify Qualifications and Professional Registration
A real chartered accountant must be registered with the Order of Chartered Accountants of Morocco (OEC). This registration guarantees their training, ethics and continuous professional development.
- Ask for the OEC registration number
- Verify on the Order's official website
- Distinguish between chartered accountant, certified accountant and simple bookkeeper
An accountant not registered with the Order cannot certify your accounts or represent you fiscally.
2. Evaluate Industry Specialization
Each industry has its specificities: real estate, import/export, e-commerce, medical... An accountant specialized in your field will bring more value.
- Ask for references in your industry
- Check knowledge of specific regulations
- Evaluate understanding of your business challenges
3. Test Responsiveness and Availability
In case of emergency (tax audit, important decision), you must be able to reach your accountant quickly. Responsiveness is crucial.
- Test response time before signing
- Ask who will be your main contact
- Clarify communication channels (email, phone, WhatsApp)
A firm that takes a week to respond to an email won't be there when you need them.
4. Understand the Fee Structure
Fees vary enormously: monthly flat fee, hourly billing, per document... Understand exactly what's included and what will be billed extra.
- Request a detailed written quote
- Clarify what's included in the package
- Identify additional services billed separately
- Compare at least 3 offers
Beware of very low rates: they often hide surprises or minimal service.
5. Consider Geographic Proximity
Even though much is done remotely today, proximity remains an asset for important meetings and responsiveness.
- Prefer a firm close to your business
- Check video meeting possibilities
- Evaluate ease of access to the office
6. Check Tools and Digitalization
A modern firm uses digital tools: cloud accounting software, electronic signature, client portal... This facilitates exchanges and transparency.
- Ask what software is used
- Check access to a client portal
- Evaluate ability to work remotely
A firm still working on Excel and paper will struggle to support you effectively.
7. Evaluate Reputation and References
Reputation is a key indicator. Look for reviews, ask for references and check track record.
- Check Google reviews
- Ask for client references
- Ask about years of experience
8. Meet the Team
Beyond the partner, you'll mainly interact with their team. Make sure the chemistry works.
- Request a meeting with your future contact
- Evaluate the team's competence
- Check team stability
High turnover can mean less follow-up on your file.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing solely based on price
A cheap accountant often means hidden services, poor responsiveness, or errors that cost much more.
Solution: Compare value for money, not just price.
Not checking professional registration
You risk working with an unqualified person who cannot certify your accounts.
Solution: Always verify registration with the Order of Chartered Accountants.
Ignoring industry specialization
A generalist accountant may miss sector-specific optimizations.
Solution: Prefer an accountant experienced in your industry.
Not clarifying the scope of services
Unpleasant surprises with additional bills.
Solution: Request a detailed contract with clear scope.
Need a Chartered Accountant?
LegalPro.ma is a firm registered with the Order, specialized in supporting Moroccan and foreign entrepreneurs.
Contact Us