Computer software packages have made it easier for small business owners to monitor cash flow, prepare tax returns and handle other financial reporting tasks.

Still, keeping up with these chores as your business grows also consumes an increasingly large chunk of precious time and risks potentially costly mistakes. That's why many entrepreneurs look to outside financial specialists for help.

Choosing the right type of tax, accounting, bookkeeping or other financial help is an important decision. An outside accountant can be one of your most trusted business advisors and a key to your success. Although some business owners work with large national firms, most prefer to work with small independent firms or solo accounting professionals.

Before selecting a certified public accountant (CPA) or other financial pro, list the services you think you need, such as tax preparation, financial reports, balance sheets, invoicing, payroll services, general bookkeeping or someone to set up your books. Accounting services are different from bookkeeping services; an accounting firm prepares financial statements and tax returns based on the numbers that you give them via your own in-house books. Bookkeeping services set up and prepare your books. Some firms may handle it all, or you may need to split the tasks.

Accountants' fees vary depending on location and the types of services you require. Some firms will offer to handle a specific range of services for a flat rate, and charge less for bookkeeping and other tasks that don't require CPA-level training. If you feel your business requires the assistance of a larger accounting firm, find out which staff members you will be working with to make sure their experience and personalities match your needs.

If you plan to hire your own bookkeeper, make sure the person you choose is qualified. One way is to use the "Bookkeepers Hiring Test" available free from the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers at their Web site, www.aipb.org. To find an accountant in your area, visit the CPA Directory, a huge online listing of CPAs nationwide. The Web site also offers helpful advice on hiring and working effectively with a CPA. Visit www.cpadirectory.com.

And don't forget about Enrolled Agents (EAs), who are licensed by the Federal government to prepare tax returns. They have either worked for the IRS or have passed a rigorous IRS exam. EAs are savvy tax experts, but generally don't have the degrees of CPAs and tend to charge less. Visit the National Association of Enrolled Agents Web site at www.naea.org.

You can also help yourself to prepare for the services you may need by accessing online "self-help" websites for training and education. Short courses on a variety of financial topics are available at www.sba.gov and www.score.org. In addition, the SBA has set up a economic "hot line" to respond to specific questions which you can access by calling 441.1095.

Another source of advice on financial issues for your small business is SCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business." You can contact the Helena Chapter of SCORE by calling 441-1094 or e-mail helenascore@yahoo.com and one of our volunteer counselors will assist you. SCORE counseling is free of charge, due in part to support from the Lewis and Clark Community Foundation, and all discussions are confidential.

SCORE is a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA's funding is not an endorsement of any cosponsor's products, opinions, or services. All SBA programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.