Accountants Access: Connecting Your CPA and Your Financial Accounts

by | Oct 5, 2020 | Accounting

As part of the client accounting services we provide, Senter CPA requests access to certain bank information to help ensure timely and accurate reports. As such, obtaining what we call accountants access helps us save time performing services and thus saving our clients money. With accountants “view-only” access we can retrieve statements and view checks payable, as well as the added capability to record, organize and analyze business transactions. With client accounting services, you are able to make better and timelier decisions, perform tax planning and feel confident in your numbers.

Rest assured, we don’t want full-access to your accounts, nor should you trust other outsourced advisors with such access. This is why it’s in the best interest of our clients and our team to obtain accountants access or view-only access to bank accounts, credit cards, loans or other various accounting related accounts. 

Why Do We Need Access?

As accountants, we need on demand access to ensure we provide excellent service, while allowing you to focus on what you do best and grow your business.

Is It Secure?

It’s very secure. We do not want the ability to transfer funds, pay bills or move money, except in cases where we are engaged to do so. To ensure excellent service, we only want read-only or view-only access to provide the extra layer or transparency and security.

Benefits of Accountants Access:

  • Ensure bank and balance sheet reconciliations are a breeze
  • Saves both client and accountant time
  • Saves client money with efficient service
  • Allows accountants to provide more timely and efficient service
  • Aides in timely reports and on demand client reports
  • Aides in best tax planning practices
  • Aides in timely compliance and filing of tax returns

Not all institutions are created equal when it comes to providing access to third parties. Surprisingly enough, there are still large banks who do not offer the capability to add users to an existing account. There are also times when our firm has to work with a banks IT department to establish connection, but thankfully most banking institutions have the view only access capability waiting for the correct authorization from the account holder and can be set-up in minutes.

Senter CPA: Your Accounting Team

Our goal is to be part of your team, help save tax dollars and achieve your goals. We are your trusted accountants and advisors in Clarkston, Michigan. If you are interested in discussing accounting and bookkeeping solutions,  please give us a call at 248-934-0550 or click the contact us button below. We look forward to hearing from you.

Confessions of a Bookkeeper

Let’s clear something up right away: bookkeeping is not just typing numbers into a spreadsheet while drinking coffee and judging people’s expense decisions. Well, it’s partly that. But there’s so much more to it.

Received an Odd Michigan Treasury Notice? You’re Not Alone

If you recently received a strange notice from the Michigan Department of Treasury, take a breath. You are not the only one.

2026 Tax Season in the Books: Thank You

Thank you for trusting us. Thank you for supporting our team. Thank you for your patience, your feedback, your referrals, and your grace during one of the busiest times of the year.

So You Filed Your Taxes… Now What?

You did it. You gathered the documents, answered the questions, signed where needed, and got your tax return filed. If we helped prepare it for you, we can confidently say you handled your part like a pro. Now comes the part nobody loves but everyone participates in anyway: waiting for your refund.

Missed Tax Deadline?

If April 15 came and went and you didn’t file your tax return, or submit an extension, you’re definitely not the only one. It happens every year for all kinds of reasons. The important thing now is what you do next.

The IRS Dirty Dozen for 2026 and Why Those “Tax Hacks” Might Cost You

Every year, the IRS releases its “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams, and every year the schemes get a little more creative and a lot more convincing. The 2026 list is no exception.

Extensions Aren’t Scary

Not going to make the April 15the deadline?

That’s okay. Nothing bad will happen.

Tax Extensions for 2025 Returns: What Current Clients Need to Know

First, let’s be clear

A tax extension gives you more time to file. It does not give you more time to pay.

Beware of the Latest IRS Impersonation Scam

IRS impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated. The newest trend involves fraudulent IRS communications – delivered via email, phone calls, or even seemingly official mail – that attempt to intimidate individuals into providing personal information or making payments.

How Senter CPA Helps You Stay Organized, Compliant, and Confident

Accurate record-keeping, strong organizational habits, and effective use of accounting software are essential pillars of sound financial management. Whether managing a small business, a nonprofit, or personal finances, these practices not only ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements but also support smarter decision-making and long-term financial health.

Always remember, Senter, CPA is here for you if you need any assistance.

Don't hesitate to give us a call at 248-934-0550, or contact us below.

Confessions of a Bookkeeper

Let’s clear something up right away: bookkeeping is not just typing numbers into a spreadsheet while drinking coffee and judging people’s expense decisions.

Well, it’s partly that. But there’s so much more to it.

Received an Odd Michigan Treasury Notice? You’re Not Alone

If you recently received a strange notice from the Michigan Department of Treasury, take a breath. You are not the only one.

2026 Tax Season in the Books: Thank You

Thank you for trusting us. Thank you for supporting our team. Thank you for your patience, your feedback, your referrals, and your grace during one of the busiest times of the year.

So You Filed Your Taxes… Now What?

You did it. You gathered the documents, answered the questions, signed where needed, and got your tax return filed. If we helped prepare it for you, we can confidently say you handled your part like a pro. Now comes the part nobody loves but everyone participates in anyway: waiting for your refund.

Missed Tax Deadline?

If April 15 came and went and you didn’t file your tax return, or submit an extension, you’re definitely not the only one. It happens every year for all kinds of reasons. The important thing now is what you do next.

The IRS Dirty Dozen for 2026 and Why Those “Tax Hacks” Might Cost You

Every year, the IRS releases its “Dirty Dozen” list of tax scams, and every year the schemes get a little more creative and a lot more convincing. The 2026 list is no exception.

Extensions Aren’t Scary

Not going to make the April 15the deadline?

That’s okay. Nothing bad will happen.

Tax Extensions for 2025 Returns: What Current Clients Need to Know

First, let’s be clear

A tax extension gives you more time to file. It does not give you more time to pay.

Beware of the Latest IRS Impersonation Scam

IRS impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated. The newest trend involves fraudulent IRS communications – delivered via email, phone calls, or even seemingly official mail – that attempt to intimidate individuals into providing personal information or making payments.

How Senter CPA Helps You Stay Organized, Compliant, and Confident

Accurate record-keeping, strong organizational habits, and effective use of accounting software are essential pillars of sound financial management. Whether managing a small business, a nonprofit, or personal finances, these practices not only ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements but also support smarter decision-making and long-term financial health.