Frequently Asked Questions
People Often Ask
What types of services do you offer?
We specialize in comprehensive accounting services, including financial statement preparation, financial planning and analysis, business consulting, and CFO services, tailored to meet the unique needs of small businesses and individuals.
Can you help with compliance with government contracts?
Yes, we provide comprehensive compliance support, including managing FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation) and CAS (Cost Accounting Standards) requirements, DCAA (Defense Contract Audit Agency) audit preparation, and ensuring your financial practices align with government contracting standards.
Do you offer bookkeeping services?
Yes, we offer professional bookkeeping services tailored to government contractors. This includes managing accounts payable/receivable, general ledger maintenance, and accurate financial reporting, all designed to keep your business in compliance and running efficiently.
How can your services help my business?
Our services provide strategic insight, ensuring your financials are managed accurately and efficiently. With a focus on financial planning, analysis, and tax strategy, we help optimize cash flow, ensure compliance, and support long-term growth.
Do you perform financial audits?
No. We can provide audit advice, mock audits and audit referrals but we do not preform audits.
Do you specialize in any particular industries?
We serve service-based businesses. We have extensive experience working with small businesses, startups, and professionals in various sectors within STEM industries. We understand the unique challenges faced by each and tailor our services accordingly.
How can I get started with CJA?
Getting started is easy. Simply contact us for an initial consultation, and we’ll work with you to understand your needs and create a plan that aligns with your financial goals. From there, we’ll guide you through each step of the process.
Can you help with tax preparation and planning?
We don’t offer stand alone tax preparation services. However, we do offer tax preparation, compliance, and planning services to recurring clients only. Our team will work with you year-round to help you plan for tax season and beyond.
Do you provide virtual or remote services?
Yes, we a fully remote. Our virtual services are fully secure and ensure you get high-quality, personalized support all year round.
How do you ensure my financial data is secure?
We take data security very seriously. Our firm uses state-of-the-art technology to encrypt and protect your sensitive financial information. We also adhere to industry’s best practices to ensure that your data is always safe and confidential.
Financial Planning & Analysis
What is FP&A, and why is it important for my business?
FP&A stands for Financial Planning & Analysis, a critical process that helps businesses understand their financial health and make data-driven decisions. By analyzing historical financial data and forecasting future performance, FP&A provides valuable insights that guide budgeting, cost control, and long-term business strategy. It ensures that you can plan for growth, avoid financial risks, and make informed decisions to promote success.
What types of businesses benefit most from FP&A services?
FP&A services benefit businesses of all sizes, but they are especially useful for small to mid-sized businesses that may not have in-house financial experts. Whether you’re a startup looking to set up solid financial practices or an established company planning for growth, FP&A helps provide the financial clarity needed to scale effectively.
What specific services are included in FP&A?
Our FP&A services include:
- Financial Analysis: Assessing financial statements to determine profitability and efficiency.
- Cash Flow Analysis: Ensuring that your business maintains healthy cash flow by forecasting inflows and outflows.
- Budgeting & Forecasting: Creating financial models and projections to plan for future growth and expenditures.
- Variance Analysis: Comparing actual results to budgeted figures and providing insights on performance gaps.
Strategic Financial Reporting: Generating customized reports that provide actionable insights for decision-makers.
How do FP&A services help improve my business’s profitability?
FP&A helps identify areas where your business is underperforming, whether it’s through inefficiencies, excessive costs, or missed revenue opportunities. With regular financial reviews, budgeting, and forecasting, FP&A ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and that strategies are in place to boost profitability and cash flow.
What is the difference between FP&A and accounting?
While accounting focuses on recording and reporting financial transactions (historical data), FP&A uses this data to analyze financial performance and forecast future results. FP&A is more forward-looking, focusing on budgeting, strategic planning, and providing insights to guide decision-making.
Do I need to hire a full-time CFO for FP&A services?
Not necessarily. FP&A can be handled by a part-time or virtual CFO. This approach provides you with high-level financial insights and strategic guidance without the cost of a full-time CFO. A Virtual CFO can oversee your FP&A needs, offer expert financial advice, and ensure your financial strategy aligns with your business goals.
How does FP&A help with budgeting and forecasting?
FP&A ensures that your business has a clear, realistic budget based on accurate financial data. By creating detailed financial forecasts, FP&A helps you predict future revenue, expenses, and cash flow. This enables you to set measurable goals and adjust strategies proactively, ensuring that you stay on track financially.
How often should I review my financial performance with FP&A?
It depends on your business needs, but many small businesses benefit from monthly or quarterly financial reviews. Regular meetings with your FP&A team ensure that you’re always informed about your financial health, so you can make timely adjustments to your strategy and stay on top of opportunities and risks.
How do you determine the pricing for FP&A services?
Our FP&A services are offered on a subscription basis, with pricing based on factors like company size, the number of meetings, and the complexity of deliverables. We tailor our services to fit your specific business needs and budget, ensuring that you only pay for the support you require.
Can FP&A help me secure financing or investment?
Yes, FP&A services are invaluable when it comes to preparing for financing or attracting investors. By providing detailed financial forecasts, cash flow projections, and a clear financial roadmap, FP&A helps you present your business in the best light, making it easier to secure loans or investment.
How do I get started with FP&A services?
Getting started is simple. Contact us to schedule an initial consultation, where we’ll assess your business’s financial needs and goals. From there, we’ll design a tailored FP&A plan that fits your company’s size, industry, and growth objectives.