March 15, 2025

Protect Your Business: Preventing Employee Embezzlement | Schiff Dental CPA

As a business owner, protecting your company’s financial assets is one of your top priorities. Employee embezzlement can have a devastating impact on your business, but with the right preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk. With the help of our trusted dental CPAs in Baltimore, you can implement effective internal controls and stay ahead of potential threats. Here are some key strategies to protect your business from employee theft:

1. Vet Your Hires Thoroughly

When hiring new employees, it’s essential to go beyond resumes and interviews. Employees, especially those in positions with access to financial information, should undergo background checks and reference checks. This process ensures that you are hiring trustworthy individuals who have a clean record and no history of dishonesty.

  • Benefit: Reduce the likelihood of hiring individuals who may have a history of theft or financial misconduct.
  • Recommendation: Partner with a background check service to screen all potential employees.

2. Stay Informed About Your Finances

Being hands-on with your business’s financials is critical. As a business owner, you should understand the key financial aspects of your business, such as payment methods, average deposits, and expenses. Implement a system where employees log financial transactions into your accounting software so that you or our dental CPA in Baltimore can easily track and review reports for any signs of discrepancies.

  • Benefit: Quickly spot unauthorized transactions or suspicious activity.
  • Recommendation: Review financial reports regularly to stay informed about your business’s financial health.

3. Foster Shared Responsibility in Financial Tasks

Avoid giving any single employee complete control over financial transactions. Instead, distribute responsibilities among multiple individuals to ensure there are checks and balances in place. This practice helps prevent fraudulent activities by creating an environment where employees are accountable to one another.

  • Benefit: Enhanced transparency and accountability within your team.
  • Recommendation: Assign financial tasks to multiple employees to minimize the opportunity for theft.

4. Recognize Warning Signs of Employee Theft

It’s important to be aware of common warning signs that may indicate fraudulent activity. Red flags such as unexplained spending, changes in behavior, unusual work hours, or a lack of transparency about job duties should not be ignored. If you notice any of these signs, investigate further to ensure your business is protected.

  • Benefit: Early detection of fraudulent activities before they escalate.
  • Recommendation: Stay vigilant and conduct periodic reviews to catch any suspicious behavior early.

5. Consult an External Accountant for Regular Audits

Our experienced CPAs can help ensure that your business’s financial systems are working correctly. Regular external audits can uncover discrepancies and prevent potential theft from going unnoticed. A trusted accountant can provide an unbiased review of your financial records, identify errors, and recommend improvements.

  • Benefit: Safeguard your business’s financial integrity and prevent significant losses.
  • Recommendation: Schedule regular audits with our qualified CPAs to maintain financial security.

6. Seek Guidance from a Trusted CPA

If you suspect employee embezzlement, it’s crucial to consult our dental CPAs in Baltimore before taking further action. Our professional CPAs can guide you through the process of investigating the issue, taking the necessary steps to recover any misappropriated funds, and implementing systems to prevent future incidents.

  • Benefit: Expert guidance during sensitive situations.
  • Recommendation: Contact our trusted CPAs for advice on managing potential financial threats.

Protect Your Business Today

By implementing these proactive measures, you can minimize the risk of employee embezzlement and protect your business’s financial health. If you have concerns about your business’s financial security or need expert guidance, Schiff & Associates, CPA is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about safeguarding your business.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

March 1, 2025

Save Money and Boost Your Dental Practice’s Financial Health | Dental CPA Near Me

Managing the financial aspects of a dental practice can be complex. From purchasing equipment to covering staff salaries and marketing costs, the expenses can add up quickly. However, with the right strategies in place, you can effectively save money and improve your financial health without sacrificing the growth of your practice. As your trusted dental CPA in Baltimore, Schiff & Associates, CPA offers expert advice to help you optimize your practice’s finances. Here are five practical tips to boost your bottom line:

1. Use Customized Accounting Software for Dental Practices

Investing in accounting software tailored specifically for dental practices can make a significant difference in managing your finances. These tools help you accurately track your revenue, expenses, and profits while providing detailed reports that allow for smarter decision-making.

  • Benefit: Streamline your accounting processes and ensure accurate financial tracking.
  • Recommendation: Choose software designed for dental practices to meet your specific needs.

2. Automate Patient Interactions to Save Time and Money

Leveraging technology to automate patient interactions is a great way to improve efficiency and reduce overhead costs. By using web-based portals, your patients can schedule appointments, make payments, and access basic billing inquiries online 24/7.

  • Benefit: Saves time for your staff, reduces errors, and improves patient satisfaction.
  • Recommendation: Invest in an online system that integrates with your practice’s software for seamless communication.

3. Analyze Your Marketing ROI

While marketing is essential to attracting new patients, it’s also important to measure the effectiveness of your efforts. By tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) and calculating your return on investment (ROI), you can ensure your marketing budget is being spent wisely.

  • Benefit: Maximize your marketing budget and focus on the most effective strategies.
  • Recommendation: Regularly review the performance of your marketing campaigns and make data-driven adjustments.

4. Delegate Accounting to a Dental CPA in Baltimore

Hiring one of our dental CPAs in Baltimore to handle your practice’s accounting can be a smart investment. A specialized accountant will help you navigate complex financial matters, from tax planning to budgeting and cash flow management. While it may seem like an extra expense, professional accounting services often save you money in the long run by identifying areas where you can improve efficiency and reduce costs.

  • Benefit: Free up your time to focus on patient care while ensuring your finances are in expert hands.
  • Recommendation: Partner with a dental accountant who understands the unique financial needs of dental practices.

5. Regular Financial Reviews for Long-Term Success

Lastly, regular financial reviews are crucial for identifying areas of improvement. Set aside time to evaluate your expenses, income, and cash flow on a monthly or quarterly basis. This proactive approach will help you stay ahead of potential financial issues and keep your practice in a healthy financial position.

  • Benefit: Stay on top of your practice’s financial health and make adjustments as needed.
  • Recommendation: Schedule regular financial reviews with your CPA to track your progress.

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Dental Practice

With the right strategies and expert financial guidance from Schiff & Associates, CPA, you can ensure that your dental practice remains profitable and efficient. If you’re ready to take control of your practice’s financial future, contact us today. Our specialized small-business accounting services are designed to help your practice thrive.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

February 15, 2025

The Blueprint for Excellence: Unraveling the Traits of High-Performing Teams | Dental CPA Near Me

Behind every successful business, there is a strong, cohesive team. Building a team that enhances your vision and drives your practice’s growth can be a challenge, but it is essential for long-term success. Whether you are managing a dental practice or another small business, understanding the characteristics of high-performing teams is crucial. Here’s how you can identify and foster the qualities that elevate your team to new heights.

Unity in Diversity: Every Member Plays a Key Role

In any thriving business, each team member plays an important part, no matter the size of their role. A high-performing team values diversity, bringing together individuals with unique skills and perspectives. In a dental practice, for example, the dentist, hygienist, office staff, and others each contribute their expertise toward the collective mission of providing excellent care. Recognizing and appreciating the value each team member brings fosters collaboration and a sense of purpose.

  • Unique skills: Every team member contributes their specific expertise.
  • Collaboration: Working together to achieve common goals.
  • Appreciation: Acknowledging the importance of each role.

Mutual Responsibility: Every Team Member Contributes

A successful team thrives on mutual responsibility. Each member must pull their weight and perform their role to the best of their ability. In a dental office, this means everyone from the dentist to the receptionist must perform their duties effectively to ensure the smooth operation of the practice. When one person falls short, it can disrupt the entire team’s harmony and performance.

  • Accountability: Each member takes ownership of their role.
  • Team harmony: Maintaining balance and productivity through individual effort.
  • Respect: Valuing each person’s contribution to the team’s success.

Trust: The Foundation of a High-Performing Team

Trust is a fundamental element of any high-performing team. It creates a safe environment where team members can rely on each other and collaborate effectively. In a dental practice, trust between the dentist, hygienist, and office staff ensures smooth patient care and efficient operations. Teams that trust each other are more likely to navigate challenges successfully and remain aligned with the practice’s goals.

  • Open communication: Clear and transparent dialogue among all members.
  • Decision-making: Trust fosters better group decision-making.
  • Conflict resolution: Teams with trust can handle conflicts constructively.

Recognizing Limits: Seeking External Expertise

Even the best teams sometimes reach a point where they need external help. Whether it’s for tax preparation, retirement planning, or other specialized financial advice, recognizing when to bring in external experts is a key trait of high-performing teams. As a dental CPA in Baltimore, Schiff & Associates, CPA can offer expert guidance to ensure that your business thrives financially and stays compliant with tax regulations.

  • Expert advice: Knowing when to seek outside support for specialized knowledge.
  • Growth: External expertise can enhance the team’s overall performance.
  • Wisdom: Recognizing limits and acting accordingly can drive success.

Conclusion

Building a high-performing team requires recognizing the traits that lead to success: unity in diversity, mutual responsibility, trust, and a willingness to seek help when necessary. If your dental practice needs assistance with financial planning, tax preparation, or retirement strategies, Schiff & Associates, CPA is here to help. Contact us today to discover how our expert services can contribute to your team’s success.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

February 1, 2025

Small Business Accounting: Why It Matters | Schiff Dental CPA

Small businesses are vital to our economy, but managing finances can be overwhelming. Whether you’re running a dental practice or another type of business, having a professional accountant is essential to ensure financial stability and growth. As a trusted dental CPA in Baltimore, Schiff & Associates, CPA, can help your business thrive. Here’s why small business accounting matters.

Save Time and Reduce Stress

As a small business owner, you already juggle many responsibilities. Adding financial management to your list can be stressful. A dental CPA in Baltimore can take care of the following tasks, so you can focus on growing your business:

  • Bookkeeping: Maintaining accurate records of all transactions.
  • Tax preparation: Ensuring your business files taxes correctly and on time.
  • Identifying tax deductions: Finding potential tax breaks you may miss on your own.

By outsourcing these tasks, you save time and ensure your finances are in order.

Plan for the Future

Effective financial planning is crucial for long-term success. A dental CPA can help you plan ahead by:

  • Creating a budget: Setting a clear financial plan for the business.
  • Forecasting revenue and expenses: Anticipating future financial needs.
  • Identifying cost-saving opportunities: Finding areas where you can increase profitability.

This proactive approach helps ensure that your business remains financially healthy and able to tackle new opportunities.

Stay Compliant with Tax Laws

Tax laws are constantly changing, making it difficult for small business owners to stay up-to-date. A dental CPA in Baltimore ensures that:

  • Your business remains compliant: Avoiding costly penalties and fines.
  • Taxes are filed accurately: Submitting timely and correct returns to the IRS.
  • You stay informed: Keeping you updated on the latest tax regulations and credits.

With a trusted accountant handling your taxes, you can avoid stress and focus on running your business.

Gain Expert Financial Advice

An accountant is more than just a number-cruncher. They are an advisor who can provide valuable insights into your business’s finances, such as:

  • Strategic financial advice: Recommendations for improving cash flow and profitability.
  • Payroll management: Helping you manage employee payments and benefits efficiently.
  • Retirement planning: Offering solutions to ensure long-term financial security.

With expert advice, you can make informed decisions that contribute to the growth and stability of your business.

Strengthen Your Business

Accurate financial management is key to making sound business decisions. With the help of a dental CPA in Baltimore, you can:

  • Build detailed financial reports: Giving you a clear view of your business’s financial health.
  • Make informed decisions: Whether you’re expanding or investing in new equipment.
  • Prepare for the future: Planning for unexpected costs or business changes.

Having a professional accountant helps you build a stronger, more successful business.

Conclusion

Small business accounting is critical for long-term success. By saving time, improving tax compliance, and providing expert advice, a dental CPA in Baltimore can help you navigate the financial challenges of running a business. If you’re ready to take your financial management to the next level, contact Schiff & Associates, CPA today to schedule a consultation.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

January 15, 2025

The Blueprint for Excellence: Building High-Performing Teams | Dental CPA Near Me

Behind every successful business is a team that works together in harmony to bring the company’s vision to life. In the world of dentistry and other small businesses, assembling a team that not only shares your goals but actively contributes to the practice’s growth can be challenging. Even when you have the right talent on board, achieving peak performance requires more than just assembling capable individuals. So, what does it take to create a high-performing team? Let’s explore the key traits of exceptional teams and how they contribute to success.

Unity in Diversity: Every Member Counts

In any business, particularly in dental practices, each team member plays a vital role in the operation’s success. Whether it’s the front desk staff, dental hygienists, or your office manager, every position contributes to the overall mission. A high-performing team values the diverse skills each member brings to the table, ensuring that no individual’s contributions are overlooked. This sense of unity fosters collaboration and ensures that the practice’s mission is pursued as a collective effort.

Mutual Responsibility: Accountability Across the Team

For a team to truly excel, mutual responsibility is essential. Each member must not only take ownership of their specific tasks but also hold themselves accountable for the success of the team as a whole. When one person falters, it can disrupt the entire workflow, so it’s important that everyone is dedicated to pulling their weight. This sense of accountability is built on mutual respect and drives every member to perform at their best, knowing their actions directly affect the team’s success.

Trust: The Foundation of Collaboration

Trust is the cornerstone of any high-performing team. Without trust, collaboration falters, and team members may struggle to make decisions or work through conflicts. A team built on trust allows members to speak openly, share ideas, and offer constructive feedback. When trust is established, everyone is aligned with the practice’s goals, and team members are more willing to collaborate, even in difficult situations.

Knowing When to Seek Expertise: Expanding Your Team’s Knowledge

Even the best teams have their limits. Recognizing when you’ve reached the limits of your knowledge or capacity is an important trait of high-performing teams. Seeking external expertise, such as a dental CPA in Baltimore, to assist with financial planning, tax preparation, or retirement strategies, is a sign of wisdom and forward-thinking. This openness to expert support can provide your team with the tools needed to excel and overcome obstacles.

At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we understand the importance of a high-performing team. Whether you need assistance with tax planning, bookkeeping, or financial strategy, our team of experts is here to help. By partnering with a dental CPA in Baltimore, you can ensure your business runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on what matters most—growing your practice and supporting your team.

Contact us today and let us help you build a stronger, more successful business. Together, we can take your team to the next level.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

January 1, 2025

Small Business Accounting: Why It Matters | Schiff & Associates, CPA

Small businesses are essential to our economy, but they often face unique challenges when it comes to managing finances. From navigating tax regulations to ensuring profitability, it can be difficult for business owners to stay on top of it all. That’s why having a skilled dental CPA in Baltimore is crucial. A professional accountant specializing in small business finances can provide the support you need to thrive. Let’s explore how hiring a small business accountant can benefit your company.

Save Time and Money

As a small business owner, your time is limited. Juggling day-to-day operations like sales, marketing, and customer service can leave little room for managing financial tasks. By hiring a dental CPA in Baltimore, you can delegate crucial accounting duties such as bookkeeping, tax preparation, and payroll. This frees up your time to focus on growing your business. Additionally, a qualified accountant can help you find deductions and credits that you might have overlooked, ensuring you keep more of your hard-earned money.

Plan for the Future

Cash flow management is a common challenge for small business owners. Without careful planning, it can be easy to overlook expenses or fail to plan for slow seasons. A dental CPA can help you create a realistic budget, forecast future expenses, and identify opportunities to optimize your cash flow. With their expertise, you can make informed decisions about your company’s future, whether that means expanding your operations, investing in new equipment, or pursuing other growth strategies.

Stay Compliant

Tax laws are complex and constantly changing, which makes it challenging for small business owners to stay compliant. A dental CPA in Baltimore is always up-to-date on the latest tax regulations, ensuring that your business meets all legal requirements. They can also help you avoid costly penalties by ensuring that your tax filings are accurate and submitted on time. By working with an accountant, you can focus on running your business without the fear of falling behind on tax compliance.

Expert Financial Guidance

A CPA is more than just a number cruncher. They are your trusted advisor, offering insights and recommendations based on years of experience with small businesses like yours. From understanding your financial reports to answering questions about business loans or retirement plans, a dental CPA in Baltimore can provide the expertise you need to make better financial decisions.

Build a Stronger Business

By managing your finances effectively, a dental CPA can help you strengthen your business. Accurate financial statements give you the information you need to make data-driven decisions, while expert advice ensures you’re on the right track. With a CPA’s guidance, you’ll have a solid financial foundation to weather any challenges your business may face.

In conclusion, small business accounting is crucial for long-term success. It saves you time, helps you plan for the future, ensures tax compliance, and provides expert financial guidance. If you’re looking for a trusted dental CPA in Baltimore to help you manage your business finances, contact us at Schiff & Associates, CPA today. Let us help you build a stronger, more successful business.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

December 15, 2024

Maximizing Your Investment: The Benefits of Negotiating Your Dental Practice Lease | Dental CPA Near Me

Negotiating a lease for your dental practice is a crucial step that can significantly impact your financial success. Many dentists underestimate the importance of this process and may inadvertently leave money on the table. At Schiff & Associates, CPA, your trusted dental CPA in Baltimore, we believe it’s essential to understand the benefits of negotiating your lease to ensure a thriving practice.

Gain Control Over Lease Terms

When you take the initiative to negotiate your lease, you put yourself in the driver’s seat. This control allows you to secure terms that are more favorable to your practice. You can negotiate for rent reductions, rent abatement, or even free rent for a specified period. These savings can free up cash flow, allowing you to reinvest in your practice, upgrade equipment, or enhance patient care.

Protect Your Practice’s Interests

Negotiating your lease also enables you to safeguard the unique needs of your dental practice. You can include specific provisions that protect your interests, such as clauses limiting the landlord’s ability to raise your rent excessively or modify the premises without your approval. These protections are vital for ensuring your practice remains stable and successful for years to come.

Enhance Organization and Clarity

A well-negotiated lease provides clarity and organization. By documenting all terms, conditions, and obligations clearly, you minimize the risk of misunderstandings or disputes in the future. This level of detail ensures that both you and your landlord have a mutual understanding of expectations, which can prevent potential conflicts.

Avoid Overpaying for Your Space

Through effective negotiation, you can avoid the pitfalls of overpaying for your leased space. A thorough evaluation of market conditions and comparable leases can empower you to negotiate better terms, ensuring that you’re not paying more than necessary. This financial diligence helps you make the most of your investment and contributes to the overall profitability of your practice.

Embrace the Negotiation Process

While negotiating your lease may seem daunting, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. It requires time and effort, but the potential savings and protections for your practice make it worthwhile. Having a clear strategy and understanding your goals will help you navigate this process effectively.

Partner with Experts for Success

At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we specialize in supporting dental professionals in Baltimore with their financial needs. We understand the intricacies of the dental industry and can provide valuable insights as you negotiate your lease. If you’re ready to maximize your investment and ensure your practice’s success, contact our dental CPA firm today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you make informed financial decisions that lead to lasting growth and stability for your practice.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

December 1, 2024

Protecting Your Practice from Financial Threats: Strategies for Dental Professionals | Best Dental Accountant

The dental profession plays a crucial role in the healthcare industry, making it essential for practitioners to safeguard the financial health of their practices. By understanding and mitigating potential financial threats, dentists can protect their livelihoods and ensure long-term success. At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we specialize in dental accounting in Baltimore and are here to help you navigate these challenges effectively.

Streamline Your Billing and Collection Processes

Efficient billing and collection practices are foundational to your practice’s financial stability. Ensure that you are accurately coding claims and collecting payments promptly. This minimizes the chances of delayed reimbursements and enhances your cash flow. Compliance with HIPAA regulations not only protects patient information but also shields your practice from potential financial losses stemming from data breaches or fines.

Establish a Comprehensive Risk Management Plan

A robust risk management plan is essential for protecting your practice from unforeseen financial setbacks. This plan should include comprehensive insurance coverage, such as malpractice insurance, errors and omissions coverage, and other relevant liability protections. By proactively addressing these risks, you can safeguard your practice from significant financial repercussions.

Create an Emergency Fund

Establishing an emergency fund is a prudent strategy to cover unexpected expenses. This financial cushion can help protect your practice from disruptions due to unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, creating and adhering to a detailed budget will enable you to manage your finances effectively, ensuring that you do not exceed your means while keeping your practice running smoothly.

Develop a Strategy for Delinquent Accounts

Dealing with delinquent accounts is a necessary aspect of managing a dental practice. Implement a systematic approach for collecting overdue payments, and establish a protocol for addressing patients who fail to respond to payment reminders. Accurate billing is also crucial. Ensure that you double-check all claims to avoid errors that could lead to financial losses.

Protect Against Cyber Threats

In today’s digital landscape, cyber threats pose significant risks to dental practices. Securing patient information is paramount, so invest in strong cybersecurity measures, including robust password protocols and secure data storage solutions. Regularly updating your software and conducting security audits can further fortify your defenses against potential cyber-attacks.

Stay Informed and Prepared

Finally, staying informed about changes in the healthcare industry and new regulations is vital. Being aware of legislative updates and market trends will help you anticipate potential financial threats and adjust your strategies accordingly.

At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we understand the unique challenges faced by dental professionals in Baltimore. By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your practice’s resilience against financial threats. Contact our dental CPA firm today to learn how we can assist you in maintaining a secure and prosperous practice.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

November 15, 2024

Maximize Your Tax Benefits: The Advantages of Tax Coaching for Dentists | Maryland Dental CPA

For dentists navigating the complexities of tax laws, tax coaching can be an invaluable resource. At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we specialize in providing tailored support to dental professionals in Baltimore, helping you save money and keep your finances organized. Engaging with a dental CPA ensures you capitalize on deductions and credits that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Understanding Your Tax Responsibilities

As a dentist, you face unique tax obligations. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires annual income tax returns, along with taxes on your earnings and profits from your practice. Working with a tax coach empowers you to navigate these responsibilities efficiently, maximizing deductions and credits along the way.

Expert Guidance on Tax Preparation

Tax coaching offers insights into the intricate details of tax preparation. Our experienced dental CPAs guide you through the process of completing tax forms accurately, ensuring you take advantage of every possible deduction. We emphasize the importance of timely filing to avoid penalties and interest charges, helping you stay compliant and financially secure.

Structuring Your Practice for Tax Efficiency

A crucial aspect of tax coaching is advising you on the optimal structure for your dental practice. Whether you’re considering an LLC or S Corporation, we provide guidance on how to set up your business in a way that minimizes your tax liability. Understanding the tax implications of your income and expenses can lead to significant savings.

Financial Improvement and Goal Setting

Beyond tax code comprehension, a dental CPA can help identify areas in your financial management that may need improvement. We work with you to establish financial goals and develop actionable plans to achieve them. From managing cash flow and debt to retirement planning, our coaching services are designed to enhance your financial health.

Peace of Mind with Professional Support

Tax coaching is not just about maximizing profits; it’s about ensuring you have peace of mind regarding your finances. With a dedicated tax coach by your side, you can be confident that you’re leveraging all available tax benefits. This allows you to focus on what you do best: providing exceptional care to your patients.

At Schiff & Associates, we understand the unique financial landscape that dentists face in Baltimore. Our dental CPA services are tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring you make the most of your tax benefits. To learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your financial goals, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you simplify your tax journey and secure a prosperous future for your practice.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

November 1, 2024

Maximizing Productivity and Reducing Costs: The Advantages of Partnering with a Dental CPA | Schiff Dental CPA

Running a dental practice comes with its own set of unique challenges. From managing patient records to ensuring consistent profitability, the workload can quickly become overwhelming as your patient base grows. This is where a specialized dental CPA can make a significant difference.

A dental CPA, like those at Schiff & Associates, brings a wealth of knowledge tailored specifically for the dental industry. Understanding the intricacies of maintaining accurate financial records and navigating the complexities of a successful practice, a dental CPA can be an invaluable asset in maximizing productivity and profitability.

Financial Guidance for Enhanced Efficiency

One of the key benefits of working with a dental CPA is their ability to provide targeted financial advice. They can assist in creating a comprehensive budget, developing effective pricing strategies, and formulating a robust cash flow plan. This proactive approach ensures that your practice stays on track and makes the most of its resources. Furthermore, a dental CPA can identify areas for cost reduction and operational efficiency, empowering you to allocate funds more effectively.

Streamlined Tax Management

Tax management is another crucial area where a dental CPA shines. Understanding the financial implications of various decisions is vital for maintaining profitability. A dental CPA will help you navigate tax laws, ensuring that you take full advantage of available deductions and credits. This not only maximizes your tax savings but also enhances your bottom line.

Organized Bookkeeping and Financial Oversight

Keeping your practice’s finances organized is essential for success. A dental CPA can oversee your bookkeeping, ensuring that your financial records are accurate and up-to-date. This diligence helps identify any irregularities early on, allowing you to address issues before they escalate. With proper financial oversight, you can minimize unnecessary expenses and keep your practice running smoothly.

Compliance with Regulations

Staying informed about the latest regulations and laws is vital for any dental practice. A dental CPA helps you remain compliant, reducing the risk of legal issues that could arise from oversight. They also keep you updated on changes in the dental industry, guiding you on how to adapt your practice to meet new standards and requirements.

Focus on Patient Care

By partnering with a dental CPA, you can alleviate the administrative burden and redirect your focus toward providing high-quality care for your patients. Their expertise allows you to enhance productivity while reducing costs, creating a more efficient practice.

At Schiff & Associates, we understand the unique needs of dental practices in Baltimore. Schedule a consultation with our team today to discover how our specialized dental CPA services can help you achieve your practice’s financial goals. Let us support you in creating a thriving dental practice while you focus on what you do best: caring for your patients.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

October 15, 2024

10 Essential Tips for Running a Successful Dental Practice | Dental CPAs

Running a thriving dental practice requires more than just dental expertise. It takes strategic planning, financial oversight, and a dedication to patient care. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your existing operations, these essential tips can guide you toward long-term success. At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we understand the unique challenges dentists face, and as a dental CPA in Baltimore, we’re here to help you navigate the financial aspects of your practice.

1. Establish a Clear Vision and Set Goals

A clear vision is essential for making informed decisions about your dental practice. Identify what success looks like for you, whether it’s patient satisfaction, financial growth, or expanding your services. By setting specific, measurable goals, you can create actionable steps to achieve them and ensure everyone on your team is aligned with your practice’s mission.

2. Invest in the Latest Technology

Technology plays a critical role in the efficiency and growth of a dental practice. Tools such as digital X-rays, patient management software, and automated scheduling can streamline your operations and improve patient care. Investing in technology helps your practice stay competitive and enhances the patient experience.

3. Prioritize Quality Patient Care

Providing exceptional service is at the core of any successful dental practice. Ensure that your staff is trained to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. When patients feel valued and receive excellent treatment, they’re more likely to return and refer others.

4. Implement Rigorous Quality Control Procedures

Consistency is key to maintaining a high standard of care. Establish and regularly update quality control measures across all areas of your practice, from patient care to billing procedures. Regular audits and evaluations help maintain excellence and identify areas for improvement.

5. Market Your Dental Practice Effectively

Marketing is vital to attracting new patients and growing your practice. Utilize a mix of traditional and digital marketing strategies, including SEO-optimized websites, social media, and targeted online ads. As a dental CPA in Baltimore, we recommend allocating a portion of your budget specifically for marketing efforts to ensure continued patient acquisition.

6. Build Strong Patient Relationships

Patients who feel connected to your practice are more likely to return and recommend your services to others. Take the time to build personal relationships with your patients, ensuring that they feel heard, cared for, and appreciated. Patient loyalty is invaluable to long-term success.

7. Stay Informed on Industry Trends

The dental industry is constantly evolving, from new treatments to changes in healthcare policies. Stay informed by reading industry journals, attending relevant conferences, and joining professional organizations. Staying ahead of trends helps you adapt quickly and position your practice for success.

8. Monitor Your Finances Closely

Effective financial management is critical to the success of any dental practice. Regularly monitor your income, expenses, and cash flow to ensure profitability. As a dental CPA in Baltimore, we specialize in helping dental practices optimize their financial health by offering guidance on tax strategies, budgeting, and financial planning.

9. Invest in Continuing Education

Dentistry is a constantly changing field. Ongoing education helps you and your staff stay current on new techniques, technology, and best practices. This not only enhances the care you provide but also sets your practice apart from competitors.

10. Foster a Positive Work Environment

Running a successful dental practice requires a motivated and happy team. Celebrate achievements, foster teamwork, and create a supportive workplace culture. A positive work environment boosts morale, increases productivity, and reduces staff turnover.

By following these tips, you can create a successful, efficient, and patient-focused dental practice. Partnering with a dental CPA in Baltimore like Schiff & Associates, CPA ensures that your financial management is aligned with your growth goals. Contact us today to learn how we can help your dental practice thrive with expert financial guidance and support.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

October 1, 2024

6 Steps to Take Control of Your Finances: A Guide for Dental Professionals | 21204 Dental CPA

Are you looking for help getting your finances in order? You’re not alone. Many dental professionals and business owners struggle with managing their financial situation, especially when balancing personal finances with the demands of running a dental practice. It can be overwhelming to stay on top of bills, savings, debt, and investments. But with the right approach and guidance from a dental CPA in Baltimore, you can take control of your finances and set your practice up for long-term success.

Here are six essential steps to help you get started:

Step 1: Take Financial Inventory

The first step in organizing your finances is to gain a clear understanding of your current situation. This includes both personal and business finances. Begin by listing all of your assets—such as bank accounts, retirement funds, real estate, and investments. Then, make a list of liabilities, including credit card debt, student loans, and business-related expenses. For your dental practice, factor in any equipment loans, lease payments, and outstanding vendor invoices. Knowing where you stand financially gives you the foundation to make informed decisions.

Step 2: Develop a Realistic Budget

Creating a budget is crucial for both your personal life and your dental practice. For your practice, list all income sources, including patient billings, insurance payments, and other revenue streams. Then, categorize your expenses into fixed costs, such as rent and payroll, and variable costs, such as dental supplies and marketing expenses. For personal finances, ensure that your budget includes necessary living expenses, along with savings and discretionary spending. Tracking income against expenses will help you see where adjustments need to be made for both financial growth and stability.

Step 3: Set Clear Financial Goals

What do you want to accomplish financially? Whether you’re looking to pay off practice-related debt, save for retirement, expand your dental office, or purchase new equipment, setting clear financial goals is key. With your dental CPA in Baltimore, you can map out strategies to achieve both short-term and long-term financial objectives. Having clear goals allows you to create a financial roadmap and make smarter decisions regarding savings, investments, and practice growth.

Step 4: Track Your Spending and Cash Flow

Monitoring your spending habits and cash flow is essential for staying on track with your budget. For your dental practice, this means keeping an eye on monthly income and expenses, ensuring that bills are paid on time, and avoiding unnecessary spending. For personal finances, tracking spending can help identify areas where you can cut back to save more. Use financial software or a simple spreadsheet to regularly review your finances and make adjustments as needed.

Step 5: Automate Payments and Savings

Automation can save you time and reduce the risk of missed payments. Set up automatic payments for recurring bills, such as utility payments, rent, and insurance premiums for your dental practice. Additionally, automate contributions to retirement accounts or emergency funds, both for personal and business purposes. Automated savings ensure that you’re consistently putting money aside for future needs, helping you build a financial cushion without extra effort.

Step 6: Regularly Review and Adjust

Finally, financial success requires regular review and adjustments. Work with your dental CPA in Baltimore to evaluate both personal and practice finances monthly or quarterly. Are you hitting your goals? Is your practice experiencing fluctuations in cash flow? Has your budget changed due to new expenses or changes in revenue? By staying proactive, you’ll be better prepared to handle financial challenges and seize new opportunities.

By following these steps and working with an experienced dental CPA in Baltimore, you can gain better control of your financial health and set the stage for sustainable growth. Financial planning is not just about reducing debt or increasing savings. It’s about strategically positioning your dental practice for long-term success.

At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we specialize in helping dental professionals manage their finances and make smart financial decisions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how our accounting services can support your practice growth and financial well-being.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

September 15, 2024

Essential Accounting Terms and Concepts for Dental Practice Success | Towson MD Dental CPA

Accounting plays a pivotal role in the success of any business, including dental practices. Having a solid grasp of accounting terms and concepts is essential for managing your practice’s finances effectively. At Schiff & Associates, CPA, your trusted Towson MD Dental CPA, we’ve outlined some of the most common accounting terms and their meanings to help you better understand your financials.

1. Assets

Assets refer to everything of value that your dental practice owns. This includes cash, dental equipment, office space, and inventory. Assets are vital resources that contribute to generating revenue and can be leveraged to cover your expenses.

2. Liabilities

Liabilities are the financial obligations your practice owes to creditors or other third parties. These might include loans taken out for practice expansion, accounts payable for dental supplies, and taxes due. Managing liabilities effectively is key to maintaining financial health.

3. Equity

Equity represents the difference between your practice’s assets and liabilities. It reflects the ownership interest of the practice’s shareholders and is often referred to as “net worth.” Understanding your equity position helps you assess the overall financial stability of your dental practice.

4. Revenue

Revenue is the income your dental practice earns from providing services like cleanings, exams, and other treatments. Often referred to as “sales” or “turnover,” revenue is the starting point for determining your practice’s profitability.

5. Expenses

Expenses are the costs incurred in running your dental practice, such as salaries, rent, utilities, and supplies. These are subtracted from revenue to calculate the net profit. Keeping track of expenses is essential for budgeting and financial planning.

6. Profit

Profit, also known as “net income” or “earnings,” is the amount of money left after all expenses and taxes have been deducted from revenue. Profitability is a key indicator of the financial success of your practice.

7. Cash Flow

Cash flow represents the movement of money into and out of your practice. It is the net difference between income received and expenses paid. Maintaining positive cash flow is crucial for covering day-to-day operations and ensuring the long-term viability of your dental practice.

8. Balance Sheet

A balance sheet is a financial statement that provides a snapshot of your practice’s financial position at a specific point in time. It lists your assets, liabilities, and equity, giving you a clear picture of your practice’s financial health.

9. Income Statement

An income statement, also known as a profit and loss statement, shows your practice’s revenue, expenses, and profit over a particular period. This financial statement is used to assess the profitability and financial performance of your practice.

10. Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable refers to the money owed to your dental practice for services rendered but not yet paid by patients or insurance companies. Managing accounts receivable efficiently is important to maintain a steady cash flow.

At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we specialize in providing accounting services tailored to dental practices. Whether you need help with financial planning, tax preparation, or understanding your financial statements, our team is here to support you. Contact your Towson MD Dental CPA today to schedule a consultation and ensure your practice’s financial health.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

September 1, 2024

A Guide to Ensuring a Successful Financial Audit | Maryland Dental CPA

Financial audits are a critical component in maintaining the financial health and integrity of any business. They offer valuable insights into the accuracy of financial statements and help identify potential issues with financial practices. However, to conduct a successful financial audit, thorough preparation and planning are essential. At Schiff & Associates, CPA, your trusted Maryland Dental CPA, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the process effectively.

1) Understand the Scope of the Audit

The first step in ensuring a successful audit is clearly defining its scope. An effective audit should encompass a comprehensive review of your organization’s accounting systems, procedures, and internal controls. It should also include a thorough evaluation of the accuracy and completeness of your financial statements. This clear definition ensures that the audit will cover all necessary aspects of your financial operations.

2) Develop a Plan of Action

Once the scope is defined, the next step is to develop a detailed plan of action. This plan should outline the objectives of the audit, set a realistic timeline for completion, allocate the necessary resources, and designate responsibilities among your team. Proper planning helps ensure that the audit proceeds smoothly and efficiently.

3) Identify Key Documents and Records

Preparation is key to a successful audit. Identify and gather all relevant documents and records that need to be reviewed. This includes financial statements, accounts receivable and payable, bank statements, and any other pertinent financial documents. Having these materials ready in advance will streamline the audit process.

4) Assess Internal Controls

Assessing your internal controls is a crucial step in the audit process. This assessment will help determine whether your financial statements are reliable and accurate. Evaluate your procedures for cash handling, accounts receivable and payable, banking, and other financial processes to ensure they are robust and effective.

5) Perform an Analytical Review

An analytical review involves examining the relationships between different financial accounts to detect any anomalies or potential issues. This process can reveal insights into the accuracy of your financial statements and highlight areas that may require further scrutiny.

6) Test the Accuracy of Financial Statements

After completing the analytical review, it’s important to verify the accuracy of your financial statements. This involves checking the accuracy of accounts receivable and payable, analyzing inventory levels, and confirming the precision of other financial records. These tests are essential to ensure the overall integrity of your financial reporting.

7) Prepare the Audit Report

Once the audit is complete, the findings should be summarized in a detailed audit report. This report should provide an in-depth review of the audit results, including any identified issues and recommendations for improving financial practices. A well-prepared report not only documents the audit but also serves as a valuable tool for enhancing future financial management.

By following these steps, you can ensure a thorough and successful financial audit. A well-executed audit offers assurance regarding the accuracy of your financial statements and can help identify areas for improvement in your financial practices.

At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we specialize in providing expert accounting services for dental practices. If you’re in need of a financial audit or other accounting services, please contact your Maryland Dental CPA to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you achieve financial clarity and success.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

July 15, 2024

How to Thrive in Your Practice with Bookkeeping Basics | Dental CPA in Baltimore

At Schiff & Associates, LLC, we recognize that the responsibilities of running a dental practice in Baltimore can seem endless. Managing your practice’s finances is often one of the most time-consuming and complex tasks. While there are several reliable software packages available for small business owners who wish to conduct their own accounting, partnering with a Dental CPA in Baltimore offers numerous benefits. Here’s how a specialized accountant can support your practice:

Industry Expertise

Our team at Schiff & Associates, LLC, specializes in the dental industry, staying abreast of trends that impact your profitability and bottom line. This expertise allows us to provide practice-specific tax advice to help you maximize your annual tax savings. We ensure that you remain compliant with the ever-evolving tax laws affecting your field.

Guidance on Equipment Purchases

Investing in the latest technology and equipment is crucial for keeping your practice on the cutting edge. Our specialized accountants can advise you on the financial benefits and potential liabilities of these investments, enabling you to make informed decisions that save money in the long run.

Big Picture Perspective

Specialized accounting professionals can provide useful benchmarks by comparing your practice to similar ones in the industry. This information can guide you in making informed decisions about hiring, adding new products and services, or expanding your business.

Retirement Planning Assistance

As a self-employed dental practitioner, you bear sole responsibility for your retirement planning. Our knowledgeable CPAs can advise you on suitable financial plans and help you strategize to achieve your long-term financial goals.

Professional Network

Whether you’re looking to purchase a larger facility or add a partner to your practice, our specialized accounting firm can connect you with banking professionals or loan officers who understand the nuances of the dental industry. This network can assist you in creating partnership agreements and securing necessary financing.

Comprehensive Financial Management

Accounting for a dental practice involves much more than preparing an annual tax return. Our skilled accountants provide valuable business advice, analyze your financial health, offer long-range financial planning, and guide you in making business decisions that are financially beneficial for your practice.

Contact Us

At Schiff & Associates, LLC, we offer small-business accounting services tailored to help your dental practice thrive. Contact us today to learn more about how our Dental CPA in Baltimore can support your practice’s success.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

July 1, 2024

The Best Ways to Plan for Retirement | Dental CPA Near Me

At Schiff & Associates, LLC, we understand the importance of having a solid retirement plan in place, regardless of how long you’ve been practicing dentistry. Planning for your future is one of the most critical decisions you can make in your career. By taking action now, you can create a realistic savings plan that will allow you to enjoy a comfortable retirement. As you contemplate your retirement strategy, consider these essential questions:

What is the amount you are currently saving?

During your consultation with our Dental CPA team, we’ll review your profit and loss statements, taxes, and long-term savings goals. To ensure your savings can outpace inflation during retirement, it might be beneficial to adjust some of your investments. Our expert team can provide you with personalized advice to optimize your savings plan.

Have you developed an exit strategy?

If you own or are a partner in a dental practice, it’s crucial to have a written agreement specifying who will buy you out when you retire. Think about what you plan to do post-retirement, whether it’s working part-time, pursuing a hobby, or starting a new venture. Taxes can significantly impact your retirement savings, and all these factors should be considered in your retirement strategy. Our Dental CPA firm can assist you with the details of the transition process to ensure a smooth exit.

What do you plan to do in retirement?

Whether you dream of starting a new business, traveling extensively, or taking up a new hobby, planning for these shifting priorities and potential increased living expenses is crucial. As the economy evolves, seeking advice from experts can help secure your lifestyle. Our team at Schiff & Associates, LLC, can provide guidance tailored to your aspirations.

What is the expected length of your retirement?

With advancements in modern medicine, life expectancy has increased significantly. Planning as if you will live to be 100 years old and estimating your needs accordingly is a prudent approach. Consider your health and family history when planning, and don’t forget to think about long-term care insurance as a safeguard.

What other expenses will be affected?

Retirement might reduce expenses like commuting, work attire, and team lunches, but it often brings higher costs for medical care and prescription drugs. Contact us to discuss the types of budget changes you can expect during retirement and how to prepare for them.

Don’t let decisions about your future catch you off guard, even if you are currently young and healthy. Schedule a complimentary initial consultation with our office to get more information on tax planning and preparing for a comfortable retirement. Dental professionals trust Schiff & Associates, LLC, to help them achieve their professional goals throughout their careers. You can rely on our team for comprehensive assistance.

Contact us today to start planning your secure and fulfilling retirement with the guidance of our experienced Dental CPA team.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

June 15, 2024

The Benefits of Patient Complaints | Towson MD Dental CPA


Dealing with patient complaints is a challenge no dentist enjoys. Even the most dedicated dentist with an exceptional team can face complaints, whether they’re warranted or not. However, complaints can be turned into opportunities if handled correctly. Towson MD Dental CPA, Schiff & Associates, CPA, offers some insights on how to handle patient complaints effectively:

Acknowledge and Respond
In today’s digital age, online reviews can heavily influence potential patients’ decisions. Responding to complaints promptly is crucial to prevent negative reviews from damaging your reputation. Even if you feel frustrated or dismissive, it’s essential to address every complaint respectfully.

Steps to Handle Complaints

  1. Thank the patient for bringing the issue to your attention: “Thank you for sharing your experience with us.”
  2. Repeat the complaint to show you understand: “So you’re saying you waited 40 minutes for your appointment without any updates?”
  3. Take action to resolve the issue: “I apologize for the wait. I’ll ensure our front desk informs you if there’s a delay in the future.”
  4. Thank them again and assure them of your commitment: “Thank you for your patience. We’ll do our best to make sure you’re satisfied.”

Building Patient Loyalty
Addressing complaints effectively is essential for maintaining patient loyalty. Satisfied patients are more likely to keep appointments, accept treatment plans, and refer others to your practice. Handling one complaint well can result in significant revenue over time and strengthen your practice’s reputation.

Don’t Neglect Patient Concerns
Patients whose concerns are ignored are unlikely to refer others or may even voice their complaints online. Keeping your patients satisfied is crucial for maintaining a steady revenue flow and a positive reputation in the community.

We’re Here to Help
At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we understand the importance of patient satisfaction for your practice’s success. For all your dental accounting needs in Towson MD, contact us today. We’re committed to ensuring your practice remains strong and thriving.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

June 1, 2024

Accounting Solutions for Business Challenges | Maryland Dental CPA


In addition to handling your taxes, accountants can provide innovative solutions to your business challenges. Their expertise allows them to understand the intricacies of business operations and devise solutions that may not occur to others. Here are some creative ways Maryland Dental CPA, Schiff & Associates, CPA, can help you tackle business problems:

Identifying Your Business Type
Accountants, especially those specializing in specific client types like small businesses or high-net-worth individuals, understand the unique challenges you face. A Maryland Dental CPA comprehends the intricacies of your industry, offering tailored solutions that fit your needs. They bring a holistic perspective, considering your business context to recommend the most suitable strategies.

Taking a Long-Term View
To thrive in business, you need to focus on client satisfaction and growth. An accountant can save your business time and money by managing forecasting, tax preparation, and bookkeeping efficiently. They offer insights into both the big picture and the finer details of your business, helping you avoid costly mistakes and plan for the future effectively. Their ability to foresee problems and recommend preventive measures is invaluable.

A Creative and Strategic Approach
Complex problems demand creative solutions. Whether you’re launching a startup or entering a high-growth phase, a Maryland Dental CPA can help you manage cash flow and overhead effectively. Their strategic approach combines industry knowledge with innovative financial solutions tailored to your long-term goals, ensuring your business’s success.

Avoiding IRS Audits
While the likelihood of an audit is low, it’s essential to be prepared. Working with a skilled accountant ensures you have detailed records to address any government inquiries. If you face an audit, hiring a CPA can save you time, stress, and money. Moreover, they can help you prevent future issues like poor record-keeping and errors.

Schiff & Associates, CPA, is committed to guiding you through your business finances ethically and compliantly. If you’re facing a challenging accounting issue, let our team of professionals find the solution you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward business success.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

May 15, 2024

Dental Practice Start-Up | Maryland Dental CPA


Welcome to Schiff & Associates, CPA, your trusted partner in dental accounting solutions. As Maryland Dental CPA specialists, we understand the unique financial journey of dental practitioners and are committed to providing expert guidance every step of the way. Let’s explore key considerations for starting and managing a successful dental practice.

  1. Entry Strategies:
    Whether purchasing an existing practice or starting from scratch, strategic planning is crucial. Our expertise in dental practice acquisitions and start-ups ensures informed decision-making and optimal outcomes for your practice.
  2. Practice Location:
    Selecting the right location is vital for practice success. Partnering with a dental and medical office space specialist ensures access to prime locations tailored to your practice needs, maximizing visibility and accessibility for your patients.
  3. Financial Readiness:
    Assessing your financial and emotional readiness is essential before embarking on practice ownership. Our comprehensive financial analysis helps you evaluate your readiness and plan for the financial demands of practice start-up and development phases.
  4. Lead Generation and Marketing:
    Effective lead generation and marketing are vital for practice growth. Our specialized marketing strategies and practice management expertise empower you to attract and retain patients, driving practice success and revenue growth.
  5. Cost Considerations:
    Start-up costs vary based on revenue goals, entry strategy, and location. Leveraging the insights of commercial real estate firms and dental practice lenders ensures cost-effective decision-making and financial planning tailored to your practice goals.
  6. Specialized CPA Support:
    Partnering with a dental practice CPA firm like Schiff & Associates, CPA, is essential for comprehensive support in practice acquisition, business structure, accounting, and tax issues. Our specialized expertise minimizes risks and maximizes efficiency, enabling you to focus on practice growth and success.

Embark on your dental practice journey with confidence and expertise. Contact Schiff & Associates, CPA, today to discover how our specialized dental accounting services can support your practice’s financial health and prosperity. With our team by your side, you can navigate the complexities of practice ownership with ease and achieve your professional goals.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

May 1, 2024

The Most Common Dental Bookkeeping Errors | Schiff Dental CPA


Welcome to Schiff & Associates, CPA, your trusted partner in dental accounting excellence. As Schiff Dental CPA specialists, we understand the unique financial intricacies of dental practices and are dedicated to helping you avoid costly bookkeeping errors. Let’s explore some common mistakes and how our specialized services can help mitigate them.

  1. Neglecting Monthly Book Closure:
    Dental practices must close their books monthly to reconcile accounts and prepare accurate financial statements. Failure to do so can lead to discrepancies and potential IRS penalties. Our proactive approach ensures timely book closure, helping you maintain financial accuracy and compliance.
  2. Using Non-Standard Chart of Accounts:
    Utilizing an industry-standard chart of accounts tailored to dental practices is essential for effective financial management. Our expertise in dental accounting allows us to customize your chart of accounts, streamline expenses, and optimize profitability.
  3. Understanding Cash Flow vs. Profit:
    Profit and cash flow are distinct aspects of financial health. While profit reflects revenue minus expenses, cash flow considers receivables, inventory, and depreciation. Our comprehensive analysis helps you grasp these concepts and make informed financial decisions.
  4. Proper Classification of Expenses:
    Misclassifying personal expenses and distributions can result in tax underpayment and compliance issues. Our meticulous approach ensures accurate categorization of expenses, minimizing tax liabilities and maximizing deductions.
  5. Specialized Accounting Services:
    Choosing a general accountant may overlook the unique needs of dental practitioners. Our dental accounting firm specializes exclusively in serving dental professionals, offering tailored solutions for tax planning, financial reporting, and practice management. With Schiff Dental CPA, you receive dedicated support from experts who understand your industry inside and out.

Don’t let accounting mistakes hinder your practice’s success. Contact Schiff & Associates, CPA, today to learn how our specialized dental accounting services can optimize your financial performance and propel your practice to new heights. Partner with us for peace of mind and prosperity in your dental journey.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

April 15, 2024

What Can a Dental CPA Do for Your Practice? | Maryland Dental CPA



Wondering why you should opt for a dental CPA over a traditional one? Partnering with a Maryland Dental CPA like Schiff & Associates can revolutionize the way you manage your dental practice, allowing you to focus more on dentistry while maximizing profitability. Here’s how working with a dental CPA can benefit you:

  1. Comprehensive Financial Insights:
    A dental CPA offers specialized knowledge tailored to the unique needs of dental practices. You’ll gain valuable insights into your practice’s financial health, enabling you to make informed decisions for both personal and professional growth. From assessing profitability to strategic planning, a dental CPA provides invaluable guidance to help you achieve your goals.
  2. Expert Bookkeeping Services:
    One of the foundational services offered by a dental CPA is solid bookkeeping. With their industry expertise, they ensure that your financial data is accurately recorded and presented in a clear and useful manner. Monthly bookkeeping services, coupled with regular financial statement reviews, ensure that you have a clear understanding of your practice’s financial status at all times.
  3. Strategic Planning and Projections:
    Planning for the long-term success of your practice is essential, and a dental CPA excels in this area. Leveraging their knowledge of dental industry trends and expense patterns, they can create accurate projections to guide your practice towards its goals. Whether it’s tax planning, retirement savings, or funding your children’s education, a dental CPA helps you navigate complex financial decisions with confidence.
  4. Holistic Consulting Services:
    Beyond financial management, a dental CPA offers a wide range of consulting services tailored to your practice’s needs. From profitability assessments to fee schedule reviews, they identify areas for improvement and help you capitalize on opportunities for growth. By combining financial expertise with practice management insights, a dental CPA serves as a trusted advisor for optimizing your practice’s performance.

At Schiff & Associates, CPA, we specialize in providing comprehensive accounting and consulting services for dental professionals. Whether you need assistance with bookkeeping, strategic planning, or practice management, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation with our dental accounting firm today to discover how we can help elevate your practice to new heights.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

April 1, 2024

Advantages of Outsourcing Your Dental Accounting | Schiff Dental CPA



Managing a dental practice involves a multitude of responsibilities, from providing top-notch patient care to ensuring operational efficiency. However, when it comes to bookkeeping and accounting, you might find yourself grappling with uncertainties and time constraints. After all, your passion lies in dentistry, not in numbers and paperwork. If you’ve ever questioned the accuracy of your financial records or felt the need to improve efficiency, it may be time to consider outsourcing your bookkeeping and accounting tasks.

Outsourcing these critical functions to experts like Schiff Dental CPA can have a profound impact on your practice’s productivity and profitability. By entrusting your books to professionals, you can redirect your focus towards enhancing the overall patient experience and growing your practice.

Here are several compelling reasons why outsourcing your bookkeeping and accounting makes good business sense:

  1. Accuracy and Informed Decision-Making:
    Expert accountants will ensure the accuracy of your financial records, empowering you to make well-informed decisions about your practice. With reliable bookkeeping in place, tax time becomes less stressful, and surprises are minimized.
  2. Peace of Mind and Financial Preparedness:
    Accurate accounting records provide peace of mind, allowing you to maintain better control over cash flow and stay informed about your practice’s financial standing. This level of preparedness enables you to navigate unforeseen challenges, such as a global pandemic, with confidence.
  3. Strong Personal Financial Planning:
    A financially healthy practice sets the stage for robust personal financial planning, including aggressive retirement savings. By outsourcing your accounting tasks, you create space to focus on long-term financial goals both personally and professionally.
  4. Specialized Expertise:
    Accountants specializing in dental practices bring a wealth of industry-specific knowledge and experience to the table. From managing cash flow to providing meaningful data insights, these professionals play a pivotal role in optimizing financial management.
  5. Cost Savings and Flexibility:
    Outsourcing eliminates the need to hire and train in-house staff, saving on employee benefits, payroll taxes, and recruitment expenses. Additionally, dental accountants offer flexible solutions tailored to your practice’s specific needs, ensuring optimal support whenever required.

Schiff Dental CPA offers comprehensive accounting services designed to streamline financial management for dental practitioners. From account reconciliations to payroll journal entries, our experienced team handles it all, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your patients and practice growth.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by bookkeeping tasks or simply seeking to offload this responsibility, outsourcing to Schiff Dental CPA is the solution you need. Let us help you succeed by leveraging our expertise in dental practice finance. Contact us today to explore how we can support your practice’s financial success!

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

March 15, 2024

Do Dentists Need a Dedicated CPA? | Dental CPA Near Me

There are a number of reasons why dentists need a dental CPA. You can grow your revenue and cut costs with the help of financial housekeeping.

In addition to keeping track of your books and maintaining your accounts, dental accountants are also responsible for ensuring that you take advantage of all government schemes and programs that support small businesses. Additionally, they ensure that you are always in compliance with the policies. Dental CPAs are also responsible for tax preparation and optimization.

Many experienced CPAs offer virtual CFO services to help dentists scale their practices through budgeting, forecasting, planning, and strategic implementation of financial decisions. The guidance and mentorship of a virtual CFO is invaluable for ambitious dentists who are interested in expanding and scaling their practices.

Dental Accountants: What You Should Consider

It is common for small business owners and dentists to overlook some crucial elements when choosing a professional dental accountant, which can end up costing them a lot in the long run. When hiring a dental CPA for your practice, consider these factors.

1. Provided Services

CPAs can either be generalists or specialize in serving a specific segment of the industry. Ask your CPA about their range of services and how any additional services that they recommend will impact your revenue at your next meeting. If your CPA only offers a few services, it may be time to switch. 

2. Dental accounting knowledge and experience

When searching for a dental CPA, you should consider the level of experience and expertise they bring to the table.

An experienced dental accountant will optimize your tax position, claim necessary deductions, and take advantage of specific government programs. In addition to ensuring accounting compliance, dental accountants can often be a jack of all trades and help your business grow.

3. Transparency and communication 

Many dental accountants don’t disclose their activities and strategies transparently due to the complexity of the field. It may not be a good fit for your business to hire an accountant who isn’t openly communicating, guiding, and mentoring you. Transparency and the quality of communication are therefore crucial factors to consider.

4. Providing value for money 

Revenues and costs are two essential components of a business. Hiring a dental CPA should provide you with more value than the cost itself in order for it to be a worthwhile investment.

Choosing the best option doesn’t mean choosing the cheapest. Consider the cost and benefits of your investment before making your decision.

5. Fees that are clear and transparent 

Dental bookkeeping and accounting costs need to be transparent and clear in order for you to plan your dental expenses effectively. Wouldn’t it be nice to avoid unpleasant surprises down the line? The dental accountant you hire should offer transparent pricing and be open to discussing all the costs involved in hiring them before you sign on.

6. Having the ability to answer complex questions 

You rely on your dental accountant for a variety of things related to money and finances. Would you want to work with someone who can not answer complex questions? It is unlikely that you would. A dental CPA with a background in accounting should be able to answer any money-related question you may have openly and transparently.

The best people to work with are those who are always able to provide you with the correct answers whenever you have a question. It is only possible for them to accomplish this if they have a clear understanding of what they must do and what dental practices require from their accountants.

So there you have it! We hope that you now understand why dentists require specialized dental accountants. Our accounting firm specializes in assisting dentists. To schedule a consultation with one of our experts, please contact us today.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

March 1, 2024

Identifying Overspending in Your Practice | Best Dental Accountant

You are responsible for many non-clinical tasks as a dental practice owner, including human resources, tax filing, contracts, and insurance. When ignored, these things can inhibit growth and even cause significant problems in a business.

The practice of keeping accurate accounting records is known as bookkeeping. A company’s sustainability depends on its records. In addition to managing cash flow and meeting financial obligations, accurate bookkeeping helps businesses plan their investments.

In the eyes of some business owners, it is a tedious task that must be completed before their CPA can file their taxes. Keeping clean books can help you do more than just file your tax return on time. You can use it to spot fraud, map business growth and identify areas of overspending.

Types of financial ledgers

A financial ledger shows your company’s profit and loss. A comparison is made between the revenue coming in and the expenses going out.

Profit and loss statements and balance sheets are the most important ones to review.

Balance Sheet

Essentially, a balance sheet is a statement of a company’s assets, liabilities, and owner’s equity at a particular point in time. The balance sheet is typically prepared at the end of a set period (e.g., quarterly or annually). There are two columns on a balance sheet. On the left, you can see the company’s assets. Liabilities and owner’s equity are listed to the right.

A balance sheet provides important information to a business owner about the health of the company. The owner, however, isn’t the only person who looks at the balance sheet. If you plan to sell your practice, lenders, investors, partners, or buyers will review it when you apply for financing.

Profit and loss statement

In finance, a profit and loss statement (P&L) shows a company’s revenues and expenses during a particular period. This statement explains how revenues are transformed into net income.

In addition to recording the practice’s collections, the P&L separates your statement into two sections:

  • Direct expenses: costs that vary according to production. As you see more patients, these costs will increase—like lab fees, supplies, hygiene, and chairside salaries.
  • Fixed expenses are costs that are specific to your company and remain constant regardless of the quantity of goods or services produced.The cost of your building rent, insurance, pension, or subscriptions, for example, is the same month to month, regardless of your production level.

By tracking both direct and fixed expenses, the business can identify overspending or areas for growth.

It is important to be organized.

No matter who manages this report, whether you do it yourself or hire a bookkeeper, a poorly organized P & L will not be helpful. Expenses should not be listed in separate categories on five pages. As with tracking your personal expenses, categorizing your expenses allows you to focus on the big picture. You will not use it if it is not usable.

An organized P & L allows you to sit down every year and review where your business is this year to date, last year, and even the year before. As a result, you can spot outliers and trends.

A monthly review is also very important. There may be things that come through that you will not remember at the end of the year. For example, if your insurance fees were extremely high last month, you will remember that you had paid your annual insurance premiums. Given everything you have going on, it is unlikely that you will remember each detail like this at the end of the year.

A CPA can not proactively plan your tax projections if your books are not up-to-date. Furthermore, if you only prepare them for a six- or nine-month period, they will be unable to strategize for you.

Outsourcing

It is important to leave financial statement management to a professional to ensure that all the categories are reported consistently, as well as to ensure that bank and payroll reconciliations are done on a monthly basis, which allows the owner to ensure that they are always tied to cash. It is also possible to detect fraud by staying organized.

In addition to other benefits, having good, clean books will make filing your tax return easier for your tax preparer. It can save you both time and money on your tax bill. As a result, it is cheaper, but it also prevents errors from occurring. You pay more in taxes when stuff gets missed.

It’s not only time-saving to have a professional accountant handle your monthly bookkeeping; it’s also strategic.

Rather than categorizing expenses, owners can now use the output strategically to enhance their businesses. It could be that accounts receivable have been running too high and have gone unnoticed, or lab supplies have gradually risen over the past six months. Early insight into changes can increase profitability in the short and long term.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Phone: 410-321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

February 15, 2024

3 Ways Dental Office Owners Can Save on Their Taxes |

The dental industry is highly competitive, and margins can be tight. So, it’s important to save money wherever you can—and that includes your taxes. Here are three ways dental office owners can save on their taxes:

1. Take advantage of small business tax deductions.

As a small business owner, it’s important to take advantage of all the tax deductions and credits that are available to you. This can help reduce your tax liability and leave you with more money to reinvest in your business.

There are several small business tax deductions available, and the best way to take advantage of them is to work with a tax professional. They can help you identify the deductions you qualify for and file the necessary paperwork.

While taking advantage of small business tax deductions can save you money, it’s important to remember that they can also add complexity to your tax return. So be sure to work with a tax professional who can help you navigate the process and maximize your savings.

2. Invest in energy-efficient dental equipment.

If you’re looking to invest in new dental equipment, you may want to consider energy-efficient options. Energy-efficient dental equipment can help you save money on your energy costs, and it can also help you reduce your carbon footprint.

There are a variety of energy-efficient dental equipment options available on the market today. From energy-efficient dental chairs to LED dental curing lights, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can even find energy-efficient dental handpieces that can help you save even more money.

If you’re looking to invest in new dental equipment, energy-efficient options are definitely worth considering. Not only can they help you save money, but they can also help you reduce your impact on the environment.

3. Hire an accountant who specializes in dental office taxes.

As a dental office, you have unique tax needs that require the expertise of an accountant who specializes in dental taxes. Dental offices are subject to many of the same taxes as other businesses, but some unique taxes apply specifically to dental offices. For example, dental offices are required to pay a special tax on the sale of dental supplies.

Accountants who specialize in dental office taxes will be familiar with all the tax laws that apply to your business. This will help ensure that you are complying with all the tax laws and that you are taking advantage of all the tax breaks and deductions that are available to you.

In conclusion, dental office owners can save on their taxes in a variety of ways. The most effective way is to contact a dental accountant and schedule a consultation. Other methods include taking advantage of tax breaks and hiring a tax accountant. By taking these steps, you can save money on your taxes and improve your bottom line. Please contact our office today to learn how we can help.

February 1, 2024

3 Dental Bookkeeping Mistakes You’re Probably Making (And How to Fix Them) | 21204 Dental CPA

Owning a dental practice is a demanding position. In addition to seeing patients and managing your staff, you also have to keep track of your finances. While bookkeeping may not be your favorite task, it’s important to make sure that you’re doing it correctly. Otherwise, you could end up making mistakes that cost you money.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss three common dental bookkeeping mistakes and how to fix them.

Dental Bookkeeping Mistake #1: Not Tracking Your Income

One of the most important aspects of dental bookkeeping is tracking your income. Without accurate records of what you’ve earned, it’s impossible to make informed financial decisions for your practice. Yet, many dental practices fail to track their income properly, leading to all sorts of problems down the road.

If you’re not tracking your income, you could be making some serious mistakes that could have a negative impact on your practice. Here are just a few of the things that can go wrong if you’re not keeping accurate records of your dental practice’s income.

  • You could miss out on tax deductions: Without accurate records of your income, you could miss out on important tax deductions that could save you money.
  • You could make poor financial decisions. Without knowing how much money you’re bringing in, it’s difficult to make sound financial decisions for your practice.

Dental Bookkeeping Mistake #2: Failure to Track Expenses

One of the most important aspects of running a successful dental practice is keeping track of your expenses. This can be a difficult task, as there are many different items that you need to keep track of. However, it is essential to track your expenses in order to maintain a healthy financial situation for your practice.

One of the biggest mistakes that dental practices make is not tracking their expenses. This can lead to major financial problems down the road. Tracking expenses can be done in a variety of ways, but consistency is the key to success. 

You can use a simple spreadsheet to track your expenses, or you can use more sophisticated financial software. Whichever method you choose, make sure that you track all of your expenses on a regular basis. If you are not tracking your expenses, you are putting your dental practice at risk. 

3rd Dental Bookkeeping Mistake: Failing to Keep Up with Accounts Receivable

One of the most important aspects of dental bookkeeping is staying on top of your accounts receivable. This refers to the money that is owed to you by your patients. When patients don’t pay their bills on time, it can put a strain on your cash flow and make it difficult to keep up with your own bills.

One way to stay on top of your accounts receivable is to use a software system that can track payments and send reminders to patients who are behind on their payments. There are a number of different software systems available, so be sure to do your research to find one that will work well for your dental practice.

Another way to stay on top of your accounts receivable is to hire a bookkeeper or accountant to handle this aspect of your business. This can be a good option if you don’t have the time or resources.

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re making at least one of these three dental bookkeeping mistakes. But don’t worry, we can help! Our dental accounting office offers a wide range of services to help you get your bookkeeping in order. We’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your needs. So, please contact us to schedule a consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!

January 15, 2024

Using Feedback to Improve Workplace Performance | Dental CPA Baltimore

We exchange feedback almost continuously from the leadership team as well as from the team members. Leading is as much about listening as it is about speaking. Although feedback is one of the most important aspects of performance improvement, it can also be one of the most challenging aspects of the process. People generally do not like to look at themselves critically. Throughout the following sections, we will illustrate some of the most effective methods for not only receiving constructive feedback but also handling it in such a way as to ensure its maximum effectiveness.

Ask for what you need:

People tend to assume that when something goes wrong, they will be informed and corrected as soon as possible. In an ideal world, this would be wonderful, but unfortunately, it isn’t the case when we look at what is happening in reality. By asking for feedback directly, you give your employees and your leaders the chance to provide you with valuable insights into what they think of your practice. You may miss out on mistakes that have been made or innovations that have improved processes or operations if you don’t ask.

Even if your feedback is not received formally, it can help strengthen your systems and enhance your performance. Do not hesitate to request feedback whenever possible.

Rather than reacting, listen and digest.

We can find it difficult not to feel personally attacked when we receive feedback, especially when it is critical. In situations like this, the worst thing you can do is react without considering the perspective of the other party. Listen to what they have to say and consider the reasons behind their feelings.

To understand the other person’s perspective, keep a clear head and ask clarifying questions. Positive and helpful feedback may be misinterpreted and turned into a destructive situation. Consider asking for additional time to digest your feedback if necessary. There is no harm in returning to discuss your feedback in greater detail and from a different perspective. If you allow yourself the necessary space and time, you will be in a position to deal with feedback more constructively and gain a better understanding of your leadership style and practice.

Providing Feedback Through Reflection:

Having a conversation with your team members is not the only way to receive valuable feedback. The successes and failures you have experienced can also provide you with valuable insight into your strengths and weaknesses. Are you prone to experiencing the same failure repeatedly? It may be necessary to determine the root cause of the problem and formulate a plan to prevent it from occurring again in the future.

The ability to hear criticism, whether constructive or not, can be difficult. It is, however, true that, at the end of the day, that brief period of difficulty will pay off for you and your practice in the long run. Our accounting team might be able to provide you with non-biased, constructive feedback from an outside perspective that may help you to grow your practice. Having the ability to analyze your strengths and areas for improvement is a great way to help you grow your practice. Contact our dental accounting office today to schedule a consultation.

January 1, 2024

What Makes a Real Dental CPA Better than Accounting Software | Dental CPA Baltimore

Dental CPA Baltimore

In the years to come, as humanity expands further into the digital age, the number of accounting software providers who promise to offer everything your business requires will certainly grow. The truth is that, despite what these claims may suggest, a real dental accountant is still superior to software for your practice. 

The majority of people believe that accountants are experts in basic math, but that isn’t the case. To save ourselves the time of having to analyze and interpret the results, we let the computers do the majority of the math for us.

Although computers are capable of balancing your numbers, they cannot determine whether those numbers are accurate or what their implications are for the financial future of your organization. By contrast, a dental accountant can analyze the financial health of your practice by comparing your numbers to those of successful practices, tracking your progress over time, and determining the appropriate overhead costs for your practice.

A dental CPA is also available to assist you with determining what goals you wish to accomplish and what decisions you need to make to accomplish them. One of the weaknesses of software programs, not recognized by many, is that they can only tell you when something is wrong. Most of the time, they are unable to determine what the problem is and they are unable to provide a solution that is unique to your situation.

Because dental accounting professionals have vast experience in everything related to dentistry, they know what financial strategies will work and which will not. Their services do not end with just doing the math; we also provide support during financial emergencies as well as when you simply wish to learn how you can manage your money more effectively. 

While there is no denying the fact that these software tools can be very useful when they are used correctly, their value is often only as great as the person who uses them. Individuals who are inexperienced when it comes to managing their finances on their own may make costly mistakes they could have avoided with the support of a professional.

A dental accountant will be able to assist you at whatever stage you are at in your dental career. Your business and your career will thrive with our team of dental CPAs. The services we provide range from tax preparation and minimization to business management, start-up services, retirement planning, and yes, even bookkeeping. To arrange a consultation with one of our dental accounting professionals, please contact us today.

December 15, 2023

Accounting Problems – How A Creative Mind Can Solve Them | 21204 Dental CPA

Al Capone, a notorious crime boss and mobster, committed countless crimes either directly or through his organization. Ultimately, it was not his gangster reputation that led to his arrest and sentencing. Instead, Capone was charged with income tax evasion. It took a team of accountants to bring down a man who had been the crime boss of Chicago for seven years.

The story has little to do with dentistry, but it is an example of how important accountants are to every industry. When you hire a dental accountant, you can be confident that they are professionals who have dedicated their lives to dentistry. Dental accountants are more than just tax preparers; they are specially trained to understand dental businesses and offer solutions that others may not consider. The following are a few ways that dental accountants can assist in the success of your practice.

Understanding Dentistry:

The services of an accountant of any type will be beneficial to your practice, but a dental CPA understands the ins and outs of dentistry and can utilize this knowledge to your advantage. Dental accountants are uniquely qualified to assist you since they comprehend the broader context of dentistry and can approach a problem from multiple perspectives. Since they fully understand your business, they can recommend a solution that will be ideal for you and which you can feel confident about.

Looking At The Big Picture:

Traditionally, accountants have been analytical thinkers. To solve a financial issue in your practice, you may need a new perspective that takes into account all the consequences. Dental accountants are capable of thinking laterally, which is one of the main reasons why they can greatly contribute to your practice’s success.

Creative Thinking:

Difficult problems require creative solutions. Even though accountants aren’t known for their creativity, you may be surprised to learn that their line of work actually requires quite a bit more creativity than might be expected. A dental accountant combines their dental knowledge and experience with a unique approach in order to create innovative solutions that help your practice meet and exceed its financial goals. 

Having the right accountant can make the difference between success and failure in your practice. Although it is best to consult an accountant before problems arise, we are always available to help you. For assistance with your financial goals and a highly specialized approach, please contact our team of professional dental CPAs.

December 1, 2023

Accountants Should Have These 5 Qualities | Best Dental Accountant

The most effective way to evaluate your practice’s performance is to hire a professional dental accountant. As a dentist, we realize that you have a lot on your plate, and accounting may be the last thing on your mind. However, not all accountants are the same, so you should know what you’re looking for before you hire one. Here are five characteristics to look for before you hire an accountant.

Awareness

Even though it may seem like a no-brainer, your accountant should be an expert in dental bookkeeping and accounting. Make sure dentists are aware of the best options for financial support and stay on top of practice-related financial details and information.

Well organized

If you’ve ever attempted to do your own accounting, you know how quickly it can get complicated. An experienced accountant will know how to resolve issues and maintain accurate records. As well as allowing you to achieve your goals more quickly, it will also guarantee your company is both compliant and efficient.

Trustworthy

The most important factor when choosing an accountant is trustworthiness. Do not hire an accountant blindly without proper research. Often, you entrust them with your practice, your finances, and even your life. It’s all about your reputation. Before you sign anything, take the time to become familiar with the company and accountant. Ask for references from other professionals.

Reputable

The devil lies in the details, and a single mistake could cost you your practice and your reputation. Examine how your accountant will avoid mistakes and keep you informed about your finances. In your role as a doctor, you spend a lot of time getting to know your patients. An accountant should perform the same service for your practice, recognizing the significance of accuracy. 

Committed

The top dental accountants place great importance on customer service. If you want your practice to be successful, then you should expect them to go the extra mile to ensure that this happens. It is for this reason that we respect and dedicate ourselves to every client we work with. As a client, you should feel confident and comfortable as your accountant performs all work on your behalf.

You have devoted all of your energy and effort to establishing a reputable dental practice. We are here to assist you. Contact us today to arrange a consultation with one of our dental accounting professionals. Let’s work together to help you achieve your financial goals.

November 15, 2023

The Three Keys to a Profitable Dental Practice | Best Dental CPA

Having the opportunity to establish your own practice is one of the many gratifying aspects of being a dentist. Whether you choose to work independently or in a partnership, you are at the top of your game. Being the CEO of a small business entails responsibilities beyond appointment rooms. It takes time and money to make a business successful. It is crucial to understand overhead, revenues, and marketing strategies. Here are some valuable tips that can assist you in becoming more profitable.

Review your expenses.

Practices that wish to increase profits should place this at the top of their priority list. It is recommended that you provide a detailed breakdown of your monthly expenses. This includes equipment, supplies, employee salaries, liability insurance, and rental or property taxes. Examine this list carefully for anything that is not strictly necessary or that your practice is spending too much of its resources on. Depending on your business, you may be able to reduce your overhead by cutting back on particular supplies, finding creative ways to limit your insurance payments, or even deducting more expenses. Having a certified dental accountant ensures that this work will be carried out correctly and efficiently. 

Determine Your Growth Goals.

Often, businesses without clearly defined goals are their own worst enemies. If you do not have concrete objectives, you are more likely to fall into a state of complacency with your company. There is no doubt that complacency leads to stagnation and loss of profit. To achieve maximum profitability, you should map out where you wish to be in three months, six months, one year, and five years. Determine how many patients you want to gain in each time frame and devise strategies to help you achieve that goal.

Be an Expert in Online Marketing.

The majority of people in today’s society conduct an online search to locate a dentist in their area. Research indicates that 90 percent of Americans use search engines to locate local businesses. Dental offices are among these businesses. What is the best strategy to attract more traffic to your website and establish a presence on these search engines? Internet marketing is the answer. More specifically, search engine optimization (SEO). SEO marketing has one simple goal: to get the website and content of a business to rank as high as possible in search engine results. This is an essential step to improving profits in today’s market, where Google, Bing, and Yahoo dominate the way we find small businesses.

We can help your business become more profitable. Please contact our dental accounting firm today. We will assist you in taking your business to new heights.

November 1, 2023

Dental CPAs: the Most Valuable Asset | Best Dental Accountant

Dental CPA

As a dental practice owner, you have already attended dental school, completed a residency, and taken continuing education courses. By following this conventional route to obtaining your qualifications and schooling, you might not have acquired extensive knowledge of bookkeeping or accounting. Owning a practice can be a shock to the system when a dentist discovers that the “business side” of dentistry is overwhelming. 

Despite what some might think, dental offices are businesses, and dentists are the CEOs. Owning a dental practice or working in a partnership with several dentists should be treated like a business. By increasing revenue, reducing overhead, maximizing deductions, and minimizing taxes, you can lessen your tax burden. Dental CPAs help dental practices achieve all these goals. Here’s how.

It is their specialty.

Dental CPAs are more than just accountants. CPAs who specialize in dental practices work exclusively for dentists. Because of this, they have specific knowledge that other accountants do not have. CPAs with expertise in dentistry have an insider’s view of expenses, trends, and ways to lower a practice’s tax burden. Additionally, they know what new equipment delivers the best return on investment and how to minimize the depreciation of assets unique to the dentistry industry.

They can analyze the financial health of your firm.

Having a dental CPA goes beyond just keeping track of your business’s taxes. CPAs can also provide valuable insight into the overall business model of your company. A qualified dental CPA can review a practice’s financial statements and determine how expenses can be reduced and profits can be increased. As dental industry experts, they’re familiar with financial oversights and inefficiencies.

In just a few months, a dental CPA will be able to analyze your practice’s finances and make actionable suggestions that make an immediate difference.

Benchmarks in the industry

Benchmarking refers to the process of comparing a company’s performance metrics with those of competitors and industry standards. Although a dentist may not be aware of how their practice compares to practices in California, Texas, and New York, a competent dental CPA does. They are well versed in the industry’s key performance indicators (KPIs). In addition, they take into account factors such as patient volume, profit margins, and the percentage of patients who are currently on schedule.

Benchmarks and key performance indicators are powerful tools for framing and understanding your business. The best way to make use of these tools is through a dental CPA.

Our team is available to answer any questions you may have regarding any of these strategies. For more information about how a dental CPA can help you, please contact us today.

October 15, 2023

A Dental Accountant Can Help You Retire Confidently | Dental Accountant Maryland

Stephen Covey made famous a saying that has stuck with us for years. He said, “Start with the end in mind.” There is no time like the present to start planning for your retirement. These words can mean many things to many different people, but to us, they mean that you should never be too young to start. 

The planning required for your eventual retirement as a dentist with your own practice is much more extensive than that of the average person. Your financial waste can be reduced with the help of a dental accountant, allowing you to retire sooner. 

Approximately how much are you saving?

When you meet with our dental accounting team, you will discuss your dental profit and loss, taxes, and long-term savings goals. Changing your investments during retirement may be beneficial to your savings as it may outpace inflation.

What is your exit strategy?

A written agreement that details who will buy you out when you retire would be helpful if you are a dental practice owner or partner. Determine whether you plan to retire outright or work part-time. Consider how taxes will impact your retirement savings. You should consider these and many other factors when planning your retirement. Our dental accounting firm can help you with the details of the transition.

When you retire, what do you plan to do?

Your priorities and living expenses may have to shift if you are considering starting a new venture, traveling more, or embracing a hobby. Considering how rapidly the economy is changing, it is worthwhile consulting experts to help you future-proof your lifestyle.

How long will you be retired?

Life expectancy has increased dramatically due to advances in modern medicine. Depending on your health and family history, you may want to plan as if you’ll live to be 100 years old and estimate your needs accordingly.For example, have you considered long-term care insurance?

Will there be any other changes to expenses?

Even though retirement may eliminate your commute, work wardrobe, and team lunches, it also means higher medical costs. Consider what changes to your budget you may experience during retirement.

You can start working through this list at any time. The majority of accountants recommend meeting with your advisor annually to discuss your progress and make any necessary adjustments. 

Dental accountants are similar to financial coaches. Among the many services accountants can offer, they can assist in finding the right pensions, properties, and business opportunities for you to invest in while you are still employed. They can also help you understand where your money is going as your income grows, ensuring you have a better financial future once you retire.

In addition to helping you divide up your assets after you retire, an accountant ensures that they don’t fall into the wrong hands.

You shouldn’t have to work during retirement. Get financial peace of mind by contacting a dental accountant today. Let’s talk.

October 1, 2023

Are You Making a Costly Mistake? | Dental Broker Baltimore

Dentists are experts at what they do. They maintain healthy teeth. Most of these dentists are less experienced in ensuring their books are kept accurately and reflect the financial health of their practice. Both of these skills are necessary to ensure longevity in your practice. In light of this, here are three common bookkeeping mistakes that could be costing you thousands of dollars and, ultimately, your business.

The Difference Between Cash Flow and Profit

It is not easy to understand financial reports. Inexperienced people can sometimes be confused by the complexity, leading to costly mistakes. It is common for dentists and in-house bookkeepers to mistake profit figures for cash. This is incorrect. Due to this mistake, dentists make purchases that incur overdraft fees, which can cost a lot of money for your practice. Profit is calculated using a profit and loss statement. However, cash flow is calculated using a cash flow equation and factoring in depreciation expenses, inventory, and accounts receivable.

Incorrectly recording transactions in the wrong period

It is another common mistake for practices to “close the books” at the end of each month. As your in-house bookkeeper reconciles accounts and prepares financial statements, transactions from previous periods can be entered incorrectly. If this mistake is not caught, all of your future reports, your tax documents, and your cash figures will be wrong. You can imagine how bad that is. The IRS can slap harsh penalties on individuals who misrepresent cash, regardless of whether it was an honest mistake.

Managing your payroll

Dental practices often think handling payroll is a simple task. However, many minor mistakes can easily lead to major problems and penalties. Payroll errors can be frustrating and costly for both employers and employees. A mistake in state tax deductions can result in a sizable tax deduction from an employee’s last paycheck of the year, and this deduction may coincide with the holiday season. Missed hours or incorrect pay rates can also inadvertently decrease an employee’s pay, leading to frustration and lasting resentment. It is these mistakes that cause employee-employer strain and negatively affect your employees. For the employer, incorrectly calculated payroll tax obligations can result in fines and penalties. Generally speaking, dentists aren’t experts in the complex world of government tax regulations.

Not using experienced dental accountants

Managing your practice’s finances yourself or hiring an inexperienced bookkeeper can be disastrous. An unreliable accounting system can lead to high tax bills, theft, cash mistakes, and more. 

A dental accountant can help you save time and money by implementing an efficient system. Having an accurate understanding of your practice’s finances at all times will give you peace of mind. For more information, please contact our office.

September 15, 2023

Our Accounting Team Will Save You Time | Dental CPA Maryland

The IRS, business management, and day-to-day business issues can all seem overwhelming. Most likely, you got into your field to do what you do best, not to do accounting, and even though accounting is essential, we know it might just not be your cup of tea. Most business owners feel the same way. Lack of interest or knowledge does not excuse you from responsibility. In addition, a good accountant can mean the difference between success and failure for your business. Hire our team of trusted CPAs as your best defense against the complexities of accounting.

In contrast to an accounting computer program, a specialized accountant provides more than basic numbers. If you do not have a background in accounting, you will need a CPA to organize and present the data effectively. An experienced CPA will go far beyond what a computer program will do. We will gather the right information about your business so we can identify what needs to be done and plan accordingly.

As a skilled dentist, you can perform a root canal from afar and spot a cavity from a mile away. When it comes to dental bookkeeping, you may be less confident. With our professional dental bookkeeping services, we can both improve accuracy and efficiency, as well as troubleshoot a specific problem. As a result of taking over your practice’s bookkeeping, you will have more time to attend to your patients and manage your practice.

Here are a few benefits of outsourcing your bookkeeping:

  • By saving time, you can focus on growing your dental practice.
  • By reducing production costs, you are only paying for what you need.
  • Our expertise in this field means you can trust the accuracy of your books.
  • Compliance with dental bookkeeping best practices.
  • Having access to the best bookkeeping software and data backup solutions is

Your CPA will ask questions and propose solutions to problems, such as: what is the financial health of your practice? Are there ways to reduce taxes and increase revenue? Is another team member needed?

Your CPA will provide you with services based on your needs. For example, you may only need your taxes prepared. But if you’re looking for the maximum benefit of a specialized accountant, they can also provide you with added security, tax planning, and expert business advice. Remember, an excellent accountant can save you both time and money while providing peace of mind. 

Our office can help you get started in your search for a CPA. 

September 1, 2023

Is Your Business Healthy? | Dental CPA Baltimore

Success is subjectively defined. On the other hand, most people would agree that achieving a healthy work-life balance is one of the most important aspects of success. You can prevent career burnout by establishing healthy business habits. You may be dissatisfied with your career and question the health of your business if you experience any unhealthy habits.

Develop healthier habits. Arrive at work at the same time every day. Being consistent with yourself and your team can make a world of difference in creating a peaceful work environment. Make time to work on your business and stick to it. The stress that comes from administrative work, important decisions, and other responsibilities of an owner can be overwhelming. This eventually affects your team and patient satisfaction. 

Make sure you know your number. Money is not the cause of all evil. It is also not the answer to every problem. It is an essential part of running a successful business. To make smart investments, it’s crucial to know where you stand financially. Consider how purchasing that $30,000 “high-tech solution to all of your problems” will help you provide better patient care. What is the return on investment? How have others in your position made this investment profitable? We will advise you on major financial decisions. You should always keep track of your numbers. We are here to help.

There’s an old saying that says, “You have to spend money to make money,” and that’s certainly the case in dental practice financial management. For dental practices, this often means investing in initiatives that increase patient satisfaction and increase practice visibility. Offer discounts or preferential treatment to long-term customers, such as priority scheduling for appointments. Improve the overall patient experience with the help of new technology and facility upgrades. Last but not least, set a marketing budget for the practice that includes offline and online marketing activities, including localized SEO.

The responsibility of owning a business can be very fulfilling and rewarding. Accomplishing everything on your to-do list can be challenging. Be sure to prioritize your responsibilities and set deadlines. Simply doing this will help you find time for the things that are often put on the backburner. When you are clear about your priorities, it will be easier to say “no” when necessary and to stay focused on checking off important items.

We can assist you in making wise financial decisions. Please contact our dental accounting office today to schedule a consultation.

August 15, 2023

The Importance of Professional Bookkeeping for Dentists | Best Dental Accountant

You spent years as a dentist, gaining education and experience to open your own practice. If you pursued conventional methods of education and training, you probably did not acquire skills in bookkeeping, much less accounting. Most likely, you focused your dental practice on the areas where you were trained and knowledgeable, which included patient care and relations, administrative duties, payroll, and possibly some basic marketing. No doubt, you’ve had to expand your repertoire as your practice evolved.

Perhaps you have neglected your bookkeeping and accounting over the years. Instead of struggling with your finances, why not hire an accounting or bookkeeping service? 

Why should you hire a professional bookkeeper?

Despite your competence in running your dental practice, you may not possess the skills and expertise required to manage your books as effectively and accurately as a professional agency. Just as bookkeepers and accountants do not perform their own dental care, you would be better off placing your bookkeeping and accounting responsibilities in the hands of a professional.

A bookkeeper will manage some of the financial aspects of your practice that a bookkeeper will manage:

  • Company Bank Accounts 
  • Insurance billing
  • Account Payable 
  • Accounts Receivable
  • Cash flow

The Advantages of Outsourcing Bookkeeping

  • By reducing bookkeeping time, more time can be allocated to patient care.
  • Due to fewer operational expenses, the dental practice saves money by only paying for what it needs. As a result, the company may be able to provide raises annually to employees. 
  • As the dentist and owner of your practice, you can be assured of the accuracy of the bookkeeping services provided, allowing you to manage your office more effectively and efficiently.
  • Instead of trying to handle the finances, you and your staff can place much more emphasis on patient care. The result is greater patient satisfaction thanks to improving the overall experience.
  • Instead of you and your staff being responsible for the practice’s bookkeeping, which can lead to uncertainty and errors, you have access to bookkeeping specialists. This approach allows you to enjoy consistency with your bookkeeping practices and have more time to devote to financial strategy, which puts you in a proactive position when managing your finances.
  • In addition, you can also utilize premier bookkeeping programs within your dental practice. The programs will allow you to back up and save your data for years to come, making it easy for you to maintain your financial records reliably and persistently.

The Advantages of Professional Accounting Services for Dental Practices

It is essential to work with a skilled accountant who develops high-level strategies aimed at improving your practice’s financial standing. A professional accountant will prepare financial statements, analyze operational costs, prepare tax returns, and consult with your dental practice on financial decisions. 

Certified accountants provide accounting services tailored to specific industries. As your business grows, your taxes will become more complex. We will help you maximize your tax savings as your business grows. In addition to tax planning and support, we offer insight into current trends and relevant issues to help companies make wise decisions. Whether you’re starting your first company or managing your established one, you can rely on our team to provide you with strategic advice along the way. 

Contact us if you would like to learn more about how our team can assist you.

August 1, 2023

3 Time Saving Strategies Boost Your Practice’s Productivity | Best Dental CPA

Your most valuable resource is time. Managing your time can be impossible on some days. Think about the strategies you currently use to manage your time. What other tools could you use to protect your most valuable asset? These three methods will help you maximize your time.

Reevaluate Your Management Strategies.

Without spending a dime, you can buy time. Use a new method for tracking practice productivity. Having your team email their task lists for the day can be a great way to keep them organized. Each staff member can describe quantitatively what they do, making it easy to refer back to them. The previous method would avoid micromanagement of employees by asking, “What did you do today?” With a full schedule of appointments, implementing management tasks is difficult.

Since you know what each team member contributes, you can reduce the number of daily meetings. A daily list of completed tasks allows everyone at your practice to be aware of which tasks need to be handled.

Maximize efficiency by using apps.

“Lost time is never found again.” Ben Franklin knew this 200 years ago. How can you use this knowledge in running your practice? You can track your practice with several tools available on your phone. Using these tools can help you become more efficient. Today, you don’t need to manage all aspects of your business manually.

Utilize scheduling apps and software. Apps such as these will help you save time and keep track of your practice’s performance. If you need some guidance, feel free to contact our accounting firm.

Consider Express Check-In.

Losing time is not always the fault of your team. One late patient can disrupt your whole schedule. Make registration easy for your patients. Provide patients with online forms they can fill out before they come in. This will help your entire practice run smoothly. Working with your patients to create a smoother, faster registration is the best way to avoid becoming known as a practice that runs behind schedule. Your patients will not want to fill out redundant paperwork. Whenever possible, rework any documents or forms to prevent your patients from repeatedly filling out information such as their name and address.

Time management is an essential skill for successful business leaders. Set up methods that allow you to measure productivity in concrete, quantitative terms. Make your life easier with technology and let your patients work with you to save time. Think differently about your time management strategies.

Our accounting firm can help you implement strategies that will help you be more efficient. Please contact us for a consultation.

July 15, 2023

Increase Your Confidence As A Dental Practice Leader | Dental CPA

Dental CPA

The varying nature of confidence can be exemplified as a business leader because of the stressful nature of leading a dental practice. Confidence can grow with a conscientious effort. We’ve come up with a few ways to increase your confidence in the dental practice, leading to a more positive work environment. 

Consistency is Key

Rapidly changing methods and ideas can prevent a business leader from feeling

confident. The business should work for the practice leader, not the other way around.

Gaining a sense of consistency and stability with schedules, rules, and realistic  expectations can lead to an increase in confidence that the practice will run smoothly.

Know and understand the key parts of the dental office, important dates, and the function of each role. You can only become confident in your business operations when you fully grasp the nature of the entire business.

Stay True To Yourself

Being afraid to say what you think can be viewed as a lack of confidence. Speaking your mind, while still having a professional filter, can build confidence as it shows you are part of a team and contributing. Being yourself will also get rid of any notion that team members might have that you are not being a genuine person. Openness and authenticity will not only strengthen your bond with your team, but are also essential traits for effective leadership.

Be Open to Criticism

Change cannot come from one person alone, and not all criticism should be seen as an attack against you. Listen to feedback from team members and customers and tailor that feedback into something positive. Do not let the criticism fester and destroy your

confidence. Take it and use it to grow.  Accepting constructive criticism and negative comments can help increase your confidence.

Know What You Are Talking About

Fully understanding what you are talking about can help improve your confidence. If you are a dental practice leader, strive to know everything you can about the office and

its operations. If you are speaking about a topic, research everything you can about that topic. Become the expert. You will be better positioned to demonstrate confidence when it is clear that you are invested in what you are discussing.

Confidence can not only make or break your career, it can impact the dental practice as a whole. Contact Schiff & Associates for a dental practice evaluation and analysis to make sure you are working at your full potential. 

July 1, 2023

Signs That It Is Time To Hire A Dental Accountant | Best Dental CPA

How do you know when it is absolutely time to hire a dental accountant? Occasionally there are certain tasks that you are able to do on your own, but these tasks may be very time consuming. When you are busy with clinical work, it is easy to overlook certain things or make financial mistakes. Here are a few signs that confirm you need an accountant:

  1. You earn over $200,000 per year– Your odds of being audited once you start earning over $200,000 a year increase to nearly 4%. While this may not seem like a large number, it’s actually an increase of over 300%. Having your financials in order in case this does occur is vitally important once you become a high-earner.
  2. You are a business owner or are self-employed– Utilizing the services of an accounting professional is vitally important for any business owner or entrepreneur. Tax laws change annually. The current US tax code has over 7 million words in it. Making sure that all of your deductions are included, your assets are depreciating properly, and that you are maximizing your tax savings will wind up saving you money in the long run.
  3. You are setting money aside for others– When putting money aside for your children, grandchildren, or anyone you want to take care of, it’s very important to use a financial professional to decide which vehicles to use for tax-deferred or tax-free savings. This includes college savings plans or trusts.
  4. You are incurring large capital gains tax– The key to success in paying big  capital gains tax is paying at long-term rates. An accountant can help you with a Qualified Small Business Tax Credit, can help minimize your taxes, and can help you set long-term payment goals.
  5. You are experiencing rapid growth in your business– Not only is keeping your finances up-to-date time consuming, it’s also complicated. When you’re experiencing rapid growth, it’s time to call in an accounting professional. Having more customers, team members, and vendors is going to require more paperwork and number crunching and can rapidly become impossible for you to keep up with. 

Contact Schiff & Associates, today if any of these signs apply to you and your dental practice. Our professional dental CPAs can help you organize the financial aspect of your practice. 

June 15, 2023

Tips For Your New Dental Career | Dental CPA Near Me

Starting your new dental career can be one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking) times of your life. Whether you are starting your own practice from scratch or joining

one that is already established, there are several important aspects to keep in mind.

We have compiled a quick guide that will help you manage your priorities as a new dentist with confidence and ease. 

  1.  Protect Your Work-Life Balance– While you might be used to a heavy schedule during your years in school, don’t let yourself burn out. You deserve a healthy work-life balance. By setting boundaries and following them, you can enjoy your time with friends, family, or hobbies without feeling overwhelmed by your work schedule.
  2. Know Your Strengths – Your practice should center on two things: what you are compassionate about, and what you are incredible at. Don’t pursue a specialty just to appeal to your community if it isn’t something you are excited about. Focusing on your strengths will bring you more satisfaction in your work as well as higher quality to your service.\
  3. Manage Your Debt– Dental school graduates usually have a significant trail of student debt following them. Whether you refinance, make extra payments, or choose an alternate repayment plan, focus on reducing your balance instead of simply paying off the interest. Don’t forget to contribute early to your retirement fund, either. The best time to start saving was yesterday.
  4. Successful Practice Management– A dental practice is a business, and a business needs a strong leader. Dental schools don’t typically prepare you for the financial and leadership elements of your career, so don’t be afraid to seek coaches or consultants. With the right mentor, both you and your practice can succeed.
  5. Continue Your Education– The last advice you want to hear as a new dentist is ‘more schooling,’ but it’s true. Once you have settled in, you should look for new opportunities to hone your skills. There exists a world of workshops, lectures, and courses that can further your passion in dentistry, bring you confidence in your work, and improve the value of your practice.

With the right mindset and plan, you can build yourself up as a new dentist, achieving your leadership and financial goals. If you are considering starting your own practice, our team will be the resource you need to secure your future in success. Contact Schiff & Associates today to schedule a consultation.

June 1, 2023

The Achievement of Financial Freedom | Dental CPA

It’s no secret that, as a dental practice owner, you take on a great deal of responsibility and overwhelming  financial stress. Here in our office, one of our main goals is to help you achieve financial freedom so that you can completely focus on leadership and business growth. The following tips will help you create a more solid foundation for your dental practice and help you along in your financial journey.

  1. Organization is key. It is important to make sure that you always have systems in place. This will ensure that no details are missed and that everyone has a protocol to follow. Disorganization can quickly lead to unhappy customers, and ultimately, the downfall of a business. Efficient organization can also help bring opportunities for improvement to your attention. 

      2. Dream big.  Your dental practice will only be as successful as you envision it to be. Set   

          clear goals with deadlines to use as a ruler for your success. Goals will help with financial         

          decisions that present themselves. By setting goals with clear expectations, you will be 

          able to assess how small decisions can have a true impact on your practice in the future. 

          It will help you define a clear path toward your financial freedom. 

       3. Always have a plan. Without both short-term and long-term financial plans in place, you   

       will be setting yourself up to fail. How will new earnings be allocated; how much will go    

       toward savings? Are you budgeting for new purchases? Where will money come from if 

       business gets slow?  If you don’t already have the answers to these questions, this is a 

       great place to start. Planning for the unexpected helps to ensure that your dental practice  

       will survive surprise expenses. 

       4. Make wise financial decisions. When starting a dental practice, it is inevitable that you   

      will acquire some strategic debt. The key to success in the business will be an analysis of  

      your return on investment. Don’t make big purchases without a thorough analysis of the 

      value that it will bring to your practice. 

If you need help creating a plan or making a financial decision, our office is available to help. Our goal is to put you on the path toward financial freedom. We want to help take some of the financial stress away so that you can focus on your community, patients, and business growth. Contact Schiff & Associates today for a business consultation

May 15, 2023

Burnout Within the Dental Practice | Dental Accounting

Burnout Within the Dental Practice

Dentistry can be an overwhelming and stressful career, to the point where it can actually affect your productivity. Dental burnout is common among both dentists and their teams. Learn how to recognize the signs of burnout and how to manage it before it begins to significantly impact you and your dental practice. 

Identify Signs of Dental Burnout

Feeling bored, tired, or finding it hard to concentrate are all signs that you are beginning to burn out. You may also notice that your team is beginning to lack the signs of enthusiasm that they once displayed. As soon as you begin to notice these things occurring, it is important to take action immediately. Don’t allow a temporary period of burnout to negate the countless hours of work and money that you put into your education and career. Instead, begin to look for ways to peak your interest again. 

Identify the Problem Areas

When production numbers begin to take a dip, identify the area that is being affected. A dental CPA can help you analyze your numbers to see where things are falling. When the production numbers in the practice start to fall, team morale can be greatly affected. By identifying these areas promptly, things can be adjusted or fixed before the dissatisfaction in the office increases to a point of no return. 

Identify New Areas to Explore

Learning a new skill or attending a convention/seminar are ways to bring excitement back into the workplace. Sign up for a CE course on a subject that interests you. Join a local study club to meet new peers. By expanding your skills, you can increase the number of services you provide which can help bring in new patients or boost production. To get the team involved, select a course that everyone can participate in or look into team building activities. This will greatly help improve team morale. 
Burnout will most likely happen to everyone at some point during their career. Being proactive and identifying signs of burnout early on is the best way to get you and your team back on track. If you feel you may be experiencing burnout, contact a dental CPA with Schiff & Associates, LLC to help determine areas of opportunity that are available in your practice.

May 1, 2023

5 Common Dental Payroll Mistakes | Best Dental CPA

Handling payroll for a dental office can be more complicated than many people think. There are many minor errors that can lead to major payroll mistakes. One of the best things that you can do is train your team to catch these errors before they become bigger issues. We’ve listed the five most common payroll mistakes that can be easily avoided. 

  1. Paying employees the wrong rates

Immediately after a team member is hired, given a raise, or there is any kind of adjustment in pay, make sure that the pay is correctly logged into your system. Using an hourly wage to pay as salary in a program can create rounding errors. Always be sure to double check the pay rates. Manual error can lead to owing back-pay, among other future issues. 

  1.  Not tracking bonuses or gifts

Bonuses or gifts that have monetary value need to be closely tracked. Gifts like a gift card or Apple watch are often overlooked. Please be sure to keep a log of gifts and bonuses for year-end/tax purposes. 

  1. Estimated recordkeeping 

Don’t procrastinate on logging shifts worked for a pay period. Days can often blend together and the longer that you wait, the harder that it is to recall which days team members worked, left early, etc. Having to go back and review notes and e-mails regarding shifts can be time consuming and stressful, and can lead to incorrect pay. 

  1. Holidays or haphazard payroll 

Make an effort to set a fixed schedule for payroll. Have a plan for dealing with holidays that affect the normal payroll schedule. Missing or late payroll can cost your business in the long run by incurring penalties or creating tax headaches. It can also make it harder for team members that depend on the money. 

  1. Misclassification of Employees

There are a number of differences between an employee and a contractor on both the state and federal levels. Make sure you classify your team members and any temporary team members correctly to ensure an accurate and smooth process. Misclassifying an employee can cost you heavy penalties. 

Payroll can be an uncomplicated process if the correct protocols are followed. Follow a strict system, don’t procrastinate, and fix any mistakes as soon as possible. Contact our office with any questions or concerns in regards to payroll and taxes. 

April 15, 2023

4 Ways to Increase Patient Flow | Best Dental CPA Towson MD

Marketing is at the heart of most business growth, but it is only the beginning. Even the best outreach efforts won’t advance your dental practice unless you can convert new leads into active patients. 

There are many reasons outside of your control that might stop someone from scheduling an appointment; however, make sure you are taking all possible measures to ensure they book with you and follow through. 

Here are four ways to help your team more effectively sell the value of your service to potential new patients: 

Be available and responsive: As a dental professional, you know what it’s like to be busy. Your patients have busy lives of their own, so it’s important that your team is available to take calls as

they come in and that you strive to offer flexible appointment times to accommodate the workweek. 

Offer a friendly and welcoming environment: As you well know, some people suffer from dental anxiety. Work to overcome this discomfort quickly by communicating in a warm, affirming and caring attitude with your marketing, over the phone, and in person. 

Make sure your team greets patients by their name and gets to know them. Ask patients during each step of a procedure how they are feeling. Offer sedation dentistry if you do not already. 

Don’t hard-sell a service: While you are expected to tout the benefits of the treatments you offer, patients are often turned off by pushy approaches, especially for elective procedures. Take the time to get to know each patient’s needs, treatment goals, and budget. Make them feel valued and understood, and you will increase the likelihood of treatment plan acceptance. 

Master the art of the follow-up: Repetition is one of the easiest techniques for cementing something into memory. If a potential new patient reaches out to your office, be sure to follow up if you don’t hear from them again. You never know the reason they didn’t call back; taking that extra step can offer a second chance to make a connection and help your practice stand out in their mind. 

Many dentists struggle to think about their practice as a business. It is likely that you chose dentistry because of a desire to serve and heal and did not think about sales and bookkeeping. Our dental CPA firm understands this so we offer ideas on tax savings, practice growth, and how to boost new patient numbers. 

Contact us today and see what kind of difference we can make for you!

April 1, 2023

Laughter in the Workplace is No Joke | Dental CPA 21204

Healthcare is a serious business fraught with stress and experts are now touting the value of levity in breaking the tension found in the workplace. Books and courses about injecting humor into business are springing up, including a Stanford Business School course for executives called, “Humor: Serious Business.” 

Scientific studies have shown that joking and laughter relieve tension, boost the immune system, and relax the muscles. Laughing can increase memory, energy and creativity, as well as elevate mood. It can knit teams together and create a psychological safe haven. 

While the addition of humor to the workplace does not remove deadlines or reduce performance expectations, it can help create a more enjoyable work life. Additionally, laughing can increase memory, energy, creativity, and elevate the mood. 

Any office can benefit from these effects, so why not consider adding some lighthearted moments to your team’s day?

Here are a few suggestions to help inject humor into your workdays. 

● Try sharing a tasteful, work-appropriate joke with your team to start the morning huddle and invite them to bring their own. 

● Post a board in a shared space and challenge everyone to bring a funny quote, image, or comic strip to hang. 

● Put on a silly shirt day once a month, decorate the office for a holiday, and allow holiday dress-ups during Halloween or holidays like Valentine’s Day. 

● Take funny photos or videos of you and your team and share them on social media. Keep your humor on-brand and non-offensive to all. 

If using outright humor doesn’t feel right to you, think about its cousin, levity. This is simply an elevation of mood that feels calming and light. Finding moments to share a laugh can invigorate the culture of your office. 

There will always be pressure to attract new patients, increase productivity, and handle emergencies as they arise. Consider adding fun into your daily routing when the time is right. It should put everyone at ease and make the serious work of dentistry more enjoyable for both your team members and patients alike. 

Far from making your practice look frivolous, experts say humor inspires confidence and loyalty. If you can make your patients smile, they will remember how you made them feel and will be more likely to stay with you. 

A happy team leads to a successful practice. Let our accounting team help you along the way with guidance, insight, and our custom-tailored financial services. Contact us today to see what we can do for you!

March 15, 2023

Dental Practices and Human Resources: Frequently Asked Questions | Schiff & Associates Dental CPA

Whether you manage your practice’s human resources or oversee a practice manager, you are responsible as a business owner for ensuring your policies are appropriate, legal, and fair. Few practice owners are trained in HR, but some level of knowledge is important for the viability of your practice. 

Here are a few commonly asked questions regarding aspects of human resources for dental practice owners. 

What questions should I avoid during interviews? 

There are a few basic, even common questions that are never appropriate for an interview setting. Some of these include: 

● What is your marital status?

● Do you have children? 

● What is the origin of your (unusual) name? 

While such questions seem like natural ice-breakers, they are illegal. They can lead to the sharing of information about protected class status such as disability, family status, ethnic or religious heritage, sexual orientation, and others. 

Even if their answers would have no bearing on your decision, these questions can leave you open to a complaint if the position is not offered. You should always keep questions business-related. 

What should I do if an employee refuses to sign a disciplinary action form? 

If this happens, bring a witness into the room, and note the refusal to sign. Have the witness sign confirmation that the disciplinary action form was provided to the employee. Remind the employee that refusal to sign does not negate the disciplinary action and further infractions will lead to more serious consequences. 

We use software to track employee hours and the program has a function to automatically deduct meal times so employees do not need to manually clock in and out. Should we use this function? 

Before you decide to use an automatic system of this type, consider the time saved by not manually entering hours. Then compare it to the time lost by entering corrections if a team member misses lunch, returns early, or runs late. 

If your office rarely deviates from schedule, this might be beneficial. However, if you find that you are making corrections more than once or twice a week, this function could cost more time than it saves. 

Understanding the nuances of human resources is an important part of building a strong practice. As bookkeepers, tax preparers, and valuable advisors to dental practices, we can also help you create a profitable operation. Contact our office today for a free initial consultation.

March 1, 2023

7 Goal-Setting Strategies for Your Dental Practice | Schiff & Associates Dental CPA

Have you defined goals for your practice? Planning and achieving milestones provides a sense of personal satisfaction, inspiration to others, and often, greater profitability. Whether you want to double your patient flow, open a second office, or become a key opinion leader (KOL), your goals can be attainable if you create a strategy and work towards them systematically. 

Here are seven strategies for goal-setting: 

Define your objectives: If you only have a big-picture idea of what your goal looks like and a fuzzy vision of how to achieve it, stop and reassess. Start with the “why,” and progress to the “how.” 

Sketch or write it out, measure it, and break it down into steps. Ambitious plans are only successful if you create a detailed map to reach them. 

Take it one step at a time: It can be easy to focus on all the effort required to reach a goal and quickly become overwhelmed. Break it down into milestones that are weekly, quarterly, and

even yearly. Creating these incremental steps allows you to celebrate minor achievements and pivot quickly if a plan is not working. 

Create visual reminders: Set up a vision board or a private Pinterest page for visual inspiration. A Kanban-type board or thermometer poster can help you measure progress. 

Choose what works best for you and your type of goal. The more tangible you make your vision, the more inspired you will be to turn it into reality. 

Talk about it: Talk to your personal advisors, friends, loved ones and, if appropriate, your team about your goals. It will keep you accountable and allow others to share your inspiration. 

Map out benchmarks: Define the steps needed to achieve your dream, such as creating a new marketing plan, adding an additional team member, or a setting out on a real estate hunt. Work your plan by breaking the large steps into smaller ones. 

Don’t let setbacks defeat you: Remember the old saying, “Quitters never win and winners never quit?” The road to reaching dreams can be bumpy; expect setbacks and roll with them. Don’t allow yourself to feel discouraged or defeated. 

Show yourself kindness: Don’t work to the point of burnout. Take breaks and be as gracious to yourself as you would to a friend who is on a mission to achieve a goal. 

Through gradual and measurable goal-setting, you will likely gain the clarity needed to reach your objective. Our dental accounting team can help you create a roadmap based on our many years of experience and put the financial pieces into perspective. 

Contact us today to make an appointment for a free consultation and set your goals in motion!

February 15, 2023

How to Get More Out of Hygiene Appointments | Schiff & Associates Dental Accountants

21204_Dental_Accountants_Towson_MD

Dental hygiene appointments are a major revenue driver for most dental practices. They are responsible for about one-third of total production numbers for most practices. Making the most of these appointments can help to improve profitability. 

A recent study shows that there is room for improvement. Just 17 percent of dentists say most of their active patients keep hygiene appointments every six months, and at least one in ten appointments are no-shows. 

The department can train to increase case acceptance and promote elective services. In fact, hygiene numbers could increase as much as five times among current, active patients with some diligent planning. 

How Much Does a Hygiene Department Contribute to a Dental Practice?

Numbers vary, but one industry benchmark suggests that each hygienist should produce around three times their wages, or about 33 to 35 percent of the practice total. If you want to improve your margin, your department could benefit from systemization. 

Start with a hard look at the numbers. Each month, analyze the hygiene department’s finances. Look at the collection to production ratio, no-shows, and the time spent with each patient. Studying these numbers will help to identify ways to maximize the department’s productivity. 

It can be a challenge to keep prophylaxis appointments moving while giving each patient maximum attention. The average time spent on scaling – 20 to 30 minutes – can present an optimal time to educate patients on oral health, focus on case acceptance, and discuss elective procedures. 

Make sure your team educates patients on the importance of dental hygiene exams and the consequences of skipping them. Some patients view these appointments as mere teeth cleanings; they likely don’t have a grasp on all of the benefits of cleanings and examinations. 

Emphasize the need for regular oral cancer screenings as well: how one person dies every hour of an oral cancer and how simple, painless exams can detect a problem early enough to treat it successfully. 

Improve Case Acceptance and No-Shows 

After analyzing your hygiene department, scrutinize and revamp your appointment confirmation system. Some practices set up their hygienists to schedule next appointments chairside or escort patients to the front desk. 

Another way to decrease no-shows is by sending multiple reminders through a variety of mediums such as phone calls, texts, emails, and physical postcards. Some practices call or text a day or two before the appointment. 

While some of your patients might balk at multiple messages, they are less likely to ignore them. Make sure patients understand that a missed appointment robs another patient of an opportunity to receive care and treatment. 

When you boost hygiene production, you are likely to improve your bottom line. If you’d like to gain greater financial insight into your practice’s profitability, contact our dental CPA firm today.

February 1, 2023

How Team Morale Impacts Your Practice | Schiff & Associates Dental CPA

Dental_CPA_21204_Towson_MD

The days seem to fly by in a dental practice, barely leaving time for you to check in with your team. Do you really know how they are feeling about work? Dental practices, like any healthcare organization, can be stressful and busy environments, but as a leader, you need to ensure patients receive positive, professional care. 

Team morale is vital to patient satisfaction and retention – and it makes good financial sense to invest in. According to a recent Gallup poll, there are roughly 22 million actively disengaged employees costing the economy up to $350 billion dollars a year in lost productivity. Key factors cited in the report included illness, absenteeism, and attitude.

When you are working inside a person’s mouth – a most intimate act – you can imagine how quickly they will pick up on a poor attitude. 

Servant Leadership 

Morale can be improved through a concept known as servant leadership. It is centered around getting to know each team member on a personal level, recognizing their contributions, and thus creating a feeling of pride within the team. A harmonious work environment flows from the top and engenders trust in the organization. 

In 1970, the late pundit Robert K. Greenleaf coined the phrase servant leadership saying, “the great leader is seen as servant first, and that simple fact is the key to his greatness.” 

Get to Know Your Team 

Learn what motivates each team member and plan rewards accordingly. Some might enjoy a photo and thank-you post on social media, others a private, hand-written note, and almost everyone would enjoy a paid day off. Think about what makes sense for your team and budget. Your efforts, no matter how small, will serve to energize your employees and make them feel good about serving patients. 

Recognize Contributions 

Group recognition is also important. Plan a catered employee luncheon or hand out gift certificates. Create an employee recognition week and include it in your patient newsletter. 

Practice self-awareness 

Check in with your own state of mind each day and be mindful of spreading sour vibes. Hold yourself accountable for following through on promises; handle conflicts quickly; adopt an open-door policy that makes your team feel comfortable. 

Meet 

Holding morning huddles and team meetings keeps everyone on the same page and fosters easy communication. It also makes you aware of potential job satisfaction roadblocks, such as an overwhelming caseload or uneven work distribution.

Pitch in 

Finally, employees always appreciate a leader who rolls up their sleeves and helps when the going gets tough. 

The trust, appreciation, and support you give your team can make a tremendous difference in office harmony, patient experience, and your bottom line. To ensure a thriving practice, make morale a priority. 

If you’d like to learn more about creating a harmonious work environment, get in touch with our team today!

January 15, 2023

Are You Ready for an Audit? | 21204 Dental CPA

21204 Dental CPA
Young manager or banker pointing at financial paper while reading it or checking data by workplace

The prospect of an IRS audit can be a daunting experience, especially now that the government is expecting greater levels of accountability. An effective way to beat the stress associated with that dreaded envelope in the mail is to be proactive. While a dental accountant can help to buffer you against an audit, there are a few steps you can take to be proactive. 

Document Everything 

Get in the habit of keeping up with your tax records year-round to be better prepared if you are targeted. Staying organized is critical. Use whatever personal filing system works for you so you always know where your files and documents are located. Be sure to make both a digital and paper trail for redundancy.  

Learn How Audits Work 

If you are unaware of what an audit entails, take time to learn about the process. Knowing what questions an IRS examiner might ask or what documents they will want to see goes a long way toward being prepared. A dental accountant can also explain the process and arm you with the knowledge you’ll need to feel confident. 

Gather All Necessary Information 

Before the audit takes place, ensure you have gathered all documentation that you will need to make available to the auditor. If you believe something is missing, be proactive and contact they vendor for the missing records. When you have all your documents in one place, lay out the information and label it for the auditor. This will help to make the process more efficient.  

Beware of Red Flags 

If you are a practice owner, you will need to be scrupulous in reporting income down to the penny. Be aware of red flags such as travel, entertainment, and vehicle expenses. Ensure you are substantiating all deductions so that they align with your reported income.   

Hire a Dental Accountant 

While the tax laws are always changing, our dental accounting firm keeps up with the latest updates. We understand the nuances of deductions in your field and can answer questions in a way that DIY tax software can’t.   

Get a Pre-audit Compliance Report 

If you have let your bookkeeping become disorganized, or you’re feeling overwhelmed, get on track with a thorough examination of your financial data. Our experienced dental CPA team will help you establish a system and provide the documentation if you are ever faced with an IRS audit. 

For more information on audits, or additional accounting advice, contact us today

January 1, 2023

Are You Making an Informed Acquisition? | Towson MD Dental CPA

Towson MD Dental CPA
Mature Adult man working in the office

Whether you are creating a startup or purchasing an existing practice, the acquisition process comes with tax challenges. Make sure you are prepared and have all the information needed to complete your forms. Our dental accounting firm can help you run the numbers and determine your costs.  

Here are other factors to consider when purchasing a dental practice. 

Determine Practice Value 

Before you commit to purchasing a particular practice, get a professional appraisal of all tangible assets. This can include everything from the soundness of construction, to the useful life of the equipment. The location, cash flow, salaries, number of active patients, and goodwill should all be factored in. As dental accountants, we offer solid estimates of your acquisition costs and their tax implications  

Verify Seller Information 

To make an informed acquisition of a dental practice, research your prospect with care. Visit the location at different times of the day. When talks get serious, verify patient counts through practice management software, or viewing a sample of charts. If you are not buying the building, review the lease terms to see if you can get out of a disadvantageous situation.  

Consider the Cost of Build-outs and Renovations 

Factor in the costs of updating your new practice. Even the most aesthetically pleasing and technologically advanced office might require some renovations or changes to fit your vision. This is especially true for an older office that will need modernization. A great deal on a building might not be a bargain after all when you factor in renovation costs.  

Reputation is More Important Than You Think 

If you are seeking to purchase a practice, determine its standing in the community. If the seller has poor reviews or has difficulty retaining patients, consider those important potential hurdles to overcome. It is possible to build a better reputation for your new practice, but it will require a proactive approach. You might want to increase your marketing budget, host open houses to show off your new team and renovations, and build goodwill through community outreach and charity efforts.  

If you need advice on the hidden costs of acquiring a dental practice, require tax preparation services, or could use financial guidance on running your practice, please contact our dental accounting firm and request a complimentary consultation today. 

December 15, 2022

Does Your Dental Office Make the Right Impression? | Towson MD Dental CPA

Towson MD Dental CPA

When patients walk through your office door, they form an immediate impression about your practice. No matter how competent you are, and no matter how friendly your team is, your practice will be judged by what people see up front. Increasingly, they want more than just a clean office. 

Make the Waiting Room Look Like a Living Room 
Research, led by physician and author Esther Sternberg, shows that patients are putting a premium on healthcare design. They want practices that pay attention to aesthetics and sensory wellbeing. Baby Boomers respond to an upscale, hotel-like atmosphere, while Millennials and Generation Z value artwork and digital connectivity. All groups value a waiting area that feels more like a comfortable, but uncluttered living room than a sterile space.  

How does your office stack up? Walk into your waiting room from the point of view of a new patient. How are the furnishings? Are the walls painted in a soothing color or a hue that is harmonious with your brand? Is the floor spotless? Does the waiting room smell clean and fresh? [Text Wrapping Break][Text Wrapping Break]If you and your staff just don’t have time to deep clean, consider a janitorial service. Your accountant can help you build this into your budget.  

Focus on Decor 
Place a premium on making patients feel comfortable with decor. It doesn’t need to be expensive. A rustic or oriental-style rug on a hardwood or laminate floor adds warmth. Lighting can add dimension and a modern touch. [Text Wrapping Break][Text Wrapping Break]As for the walls and furnishings, healthcare decorators favor a mix of warm and cool colors, perhaps with an aquarium or a Zen-like fountain.  

Amenities count, too. Some dental offices are adding massage chairs, aromatherapy, paraffin hand-wax stations, and noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones. Check out Pinterest for ideas and ask your patients what would add to their experience. Be sure to showcase your decor in your social media marketing to attract new patients.  

Look at Your Team 
Ultimately, team interaction with patients is more important than decor. Make sure your office etiquette is up to par, that each team member greets visitors in a polite manner, and answers phone calls promptly and professionally.   

Keeping your dental office clean and inviting is more important than you might think for attracting and retaining patients. To learn how you can afford upgrades to your office, call our dental accounting firm.

December 1, 2022

The Financial Rewards of Work-Life Balance in Your Dental Practice | 21204 Dental CPA

Schiff Dental CPA

Work-life balance is essential for productivity and long-term financial success. Here are tips on how to balance personal time with business needs for both you and your team.   

Motivating Your Team  
Work-life balance needs to be built into your practice values. If your employees are well-rested and feel their family life is manageable, they are likely to put more energy into their work and be happier overall. Those who feel stressed might request more sick days, which puts a financial strain on your practice. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control Foundation says lost productivity from absenteeism costs U.S. employers nearly $226 billion each year, or $1,685 per employee. 

As a practice owner or manager, you likely can’t give your team the perks of a large corporation, such as subsidized daycare, FMLA, or an employee-assistance program; however, you can be sensitive to your team members’ needs, such as child or eldercare responsibilities, and schedule accordingly. Creating a strong team culture in this way also motivates employees to help one another.  

Consider implementing an employee incentive program for milestones met. A day off is ideal, but if that is unworkable, you can implement other meaningful perks, such as commissions, raises, and bonuses. However you choose to compensate your employees, it is important to remember that happy team members tend to be loyal, productive, and motivated to deliver excellent patient care.    

How to Achieve Work-Life Balance as a Dental Practice Owner 
When you are responsible for teams as well as patients, you have double the workload. Add to that continuing education and paperwork, and it can be difficult to carve out time for reflection, organizing, and personal errands. The answer lies in planning. 

Use a calendar or scheduling app to plan your day. Set aside blocks of time to work with patients, arrange team meetings, and attend organizational group functions. Your calendar should be your primary time-management tool. It can also include your outside commitments, such as children’s school activities, birthdays, and anniversaries.  

By including nonwork events on your calendar, you minimize the risk of schedule conflicts between your work and personal lives. 

Honor Your Own Time Off 
When you decide to take a day off, make sure you put it on your calendar and honor it. Make your scheduling priorities clear with your team members and make instructions clear so they are not left wondering how to handle unexpected situations while you are away. 

The key to achieving work-life balance is creating clear boundaries for you and your team members and truly learning how to unplug. It can help your practice become a more productive place that in turn boosts profitability

For more tips on creating a more harmonious, financially savvy dental practice, contact our team for a consultation

November 15, 2022

How Do You Handle After-Hours Phone Calls? | Schiff Dental CPA

Time is money, and if you are not taking advantage of after-hours phone calls at your dental practice, you could be missing out on new opportunities to connect with patients and grow your practice.  

You may have created an effective marketing strategy that is getting the phone to ring, and you have probably trained your team in proper phone etiquette; but have you considered what happens if a prospective patient calls on nights and weekends? 

If someone phones you after hours seeking information or to reschedule an appointment, they will likely leave a message or call back during regular business hours. However, a potential new patient who needs emergency dental treatment is more likely to hang up and call around until they get a person to answer.  

Many dental practices do not have phone coverage outside standard hours of operation or during lunch; others have an answering machine. Both can feel impersonal and frustrating to patients and prospects.  

If your patient discovers late one night or on a Sunday that they need to reschedule an appointment the next business day, chances are your team won’t hear the voicemail until it’s too late to make changes. If your phones are being answered outside working hours, issues like this can be addressed more promptly, leading to better scheduling and happier patients. 

If you are interested in 24/7 phone coverage, you can either hire an answering service or train your team to share the responsibility. If a professional answering service makes sense for you, talk to a dental accountant in Towson, MD about the cost of building it into your budget and the possible return on investment it could yield.  

The other option, sharing the responsibility among team members, may cost you less and offer a more personal interaction. No one has better knowledge of your practice, your patients, and your schedule than your own team. Discuss with your accountant the most effective way to compensate team members for this time, such as paying them a set amount per shift or per call answered. 

If you believe lack of 24-hour phone availability is detrimental to your business, talk to our dental accounting team in Towson, MD about adding this service into your fixed costs and exploring the tax ramifications. Arrange a free initial consultation today.

November 1, 2022

Smart Ways to Plan for Retirement | Maryland Dental CPA

No matter how long you have been practicing dentistry, it’s important to put a retirement plan in place. Act now to create a realistic savings timeline for a comfortable senior lifestyle. Here are some questions shared by our dental cpa in Towson to ponder as you consider your retirement strategy.  

How much are you currently saving? When you meet with our dental accounting team, you will review the details of your P&L, taxes, and your long-term savings objective. During retirement, it may be beneficial to change some of your investments to help your savings outpace inflation. 

Do you have an exit strategy? If you are a dental practice owner or partner, it would be helpful to create a written agreement about who will buy you out when you retire. Ask yourself whether you plan to retire outright or work part-time. Think about how your retirement savings will be affected by taxes. These issues and more should inform your strategic plan for retirement. Our dental accounting firm in Towson can guide you through details of the transition process. 

What do you plan to do during retirement? If you have your heart set on starting a new venture, traveling more, or embracing a hobby, you may have to plan for shifting priorities and greater living expenses. The economy continues to change, and it is worth your while to lean on experts to help future-proof your lifestyle.  

How long will you be retired? Advances in modern medicine have increased life expectancy dramatically. Depending on your health and family history, you may want to plan as though you will live to be 100 and estimate your needs accordingly. Have you considered long-term care insurance, for example? 

What other expenses will change? Retirement may eliminate your commute, work wardrobe, and team lunches; however, for most people, the golden years is a time of higher costs for medical care and prescriptions. Talk with us about the types of budget changes that are likely to occur during retirement. 

Don’t let decisions for the future creep up on you, even if you are young and healthy. For more information on tax planning and looking ahead to a comfortable retirement, contact our dental accounting office in Towson, MD and schedule a complimentary initial consultation. We are experts in helping dentists achieve their goals during their active working life and beyond.

October 15, 2022

How Patient Complaints Can Help Your Business | Certified Dental Accountant Towson MD

21204 dental CPA

No one likes to see a patient complaint. Unfortunately, you can be the most compassionate dentist with an exemplary team and follow procedures to a T, and still get a few complaints. Our advice: use them as opportunities. 

The complaint may have a kernel of truth or completely baseless; the important takeaway is this: handle with care: about 94 percent of people use online reviews to choose a business; you do not want a complaint to snowball into a bad review. That can quickly lead to a loss of revenue. That is why it is critical to respond to them. 

When complaints are brought to your attention, you and your team may feel frustrated, discouraged or annoyed. That is normal. It can also be easy to feel cavalier about a complaint you see as minor. After all, some complaints are objective: the office décor, wait times, or insurance issues that are completely out of your hands. 

Handle All Complaints with Respect 

Even concerns that feel trivial or unfair to you should be handled respectfully. That means making the patient feel heard; letting them know that you take the complaint seriously; and promising to look into it. 

Here are the steps shared by our Towson dental CPA you should take: 

  • Acknowledge and thank your patient for bringing their concerns to you, without judgment: “I appreciate your taking the time to let me know what you experienced.” 
  • Affirm by repeating the complaint back to the patient: “So you’re saying you had to wait 40 minutes for your appointment and no one checked on you. I’m sorry to hear that.” 
  • Commit to taking action to correct the situation, if warranted. “Sometimes things get backed up. I’ll talk to the front desk team to make sure they are letting you know if there’s a delay.” 
  • Thank them again: “I do thank you for taking the time to let me know what happened. We appreciate that you put your trust in our practice and we’ll do whatever it takes to make sure you are satisfied.” Follow through on your commitment, you will earn loyalty from that patient. A complaint is an opportunity for you to cement a patient’s trust. 

Keep Building Patient Loyalty 

Patient loyalty is a fragile thing, so it is essential to maintain it. Loyalty can translate into fewer rescheduled or cancelled appointments, increased case acceptance, and even referrals to friends, family, and social media connections. Over time, handing one complaint correctly can lead to hundreds or even thousands of dollars in revenue. It is also the right thing to do. 

However, if patients leave your office feeling that their concerns were not heard, they are unlikely to refer others to you, or worse, complain on online reputation sites and social media. 

Satisfied patients help keep your revenue flowing; our dental accounting firm is there to keep it strong. Call us for all your dental accounting services.

October 1, 2022

Can One Toxic Employee Spoil Your Practice | 21204 Dental CPA

21204 dental CPA

Hiring new employees is time-consuming, stressful, and sometimes expensive. It’s no wonder, then, that many businesses find it more cost-effective and less emotionally taxing to retain employees, even if they turn out to be a negative influence. Enter the devastating effect of the toxic employee.  

Dental offices tend to be small and close-knit, which makes it even more difficult to confront someone about their behavior and let them go. While finding the right fit for your practice can be a challenge, holding onto a toxic team member can be far more costly. 

What is a Toxic Employee? 

A toxic employee may be a competent worker, or started out that way, and they may be decent people at heart. For whatever reason, however, their actions and attitude become a drag on the workplace culture. See if you recognize these red flags shared by our dental CPA in Maryland in your practice: 

  • Poor attitude: This type of person will exhibit passive-aggressive characteristics. They may agree with a directive on the surface, but accompany it with eye-rolling, exaggerated sighs, sarcastic comments, muttering, complaints, or a confrontational tone. 
  •  Dishonesty: Whether blaming others for their own mistakes, refusing to accept responsibility, or outright lies and thefts, this type of toxic employee can harm your bottom line as well as morale – especially if you don’t confront it.  
  • Lack of engagement: This type of employee avoids work, lacks enthusiasm and is lackadaisical toward responsibilities. They are often inattentive at meetings and huddles.  
  • Falling work performance: The toxic employee will not do any more than the bare minimum of what is expected. They appear disinterested in feedback or training and are otherwise unwilling to improve. 
  • Bullying behavior: Anyone who intimidates other team members, is disruptive, or otherwise makes others feel uncomfortable, could be a toxic employee.  

If you recognize any of these indicators, you have two choices. You can give them another chance or let them go. There is almost always an underlying reason for someone’s toxic attitude: The employee may be going through personal turmoil or carrying forth maladaptive behaviors from childhood. Some toxic employees don’t even realize they are behaving in a negative way until someone points it out.  

While practices are often family-like, keep any discussion strictly work-related. Outline your findings in a factual manner and document, if possible. Create an improvement plan and a timeline. Consult labor laws in your state for additional guidance.  

Your second choice is to outright fire the toxic employee. You may have no choice if you have found an issue that puts patients at risk or involves financial malfeasance.    

If you are still on the fence about letting a negative team member go, consider these consequences of keeping a toxic employee. 

  • Loss of new patients: If a toxic employee is interacting with potential patients, they are creating a negative image of your business, which can lose hundreds or thousands of dollars in revenue. 
  • Loss of existing patients: If they are treated poorly even once, they may choose to take their oral care elsewhere – and they may tell other people. 
  • Loss of your best team members: Your best people want to work in a positive environment where they feel supported and appreciated. By tolerating the complaints, bullying, or shoddy work of one toxic person, you risk losing valuable team members. 

Don’t compromise your business or your best team members by refusing to fire toxic employees. For more strategies to improve your practice, contact our Maryland dental CPA. Also contact us if you are trying to buy a dental practice.

September 15, 2022

Don’t Ignore Negative Reviews | Towson MD Dental CPA

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Finding a bad review of your practice is a slap in the face and it happens even to the most conscientious practitioners. Someone might be having a bad day and take it out of you. Sometimes the review is deserved and presents a growth opportunity. While we all act differently to criticism, the one thing you should not do is ignore a bad review. When ignored, negative feedback can have a detrimental impact on your practice.  

Can You Afford to Lose Patients to Bad Reviews?  

Potential patients who are considering using your dental services will invariably look at your reviews. If any bad reviews are ignored, they may not give you a second glance. They might make the assumption that you don’t care about your patients or care to address deficits. That is a sure way to lose out on new business and any referrals they might make in the future. This applies not only to potential patients but current ones who keep track of reviews.  

Reviews are (Usually) Forever 

Negative feedback on review sites is usually there, out in public, for all time. It is difficult if not impossible to remove bad reviews. This creates a lasting list of negative impressions on your practice that can be referenced by others. That is why it is important for dentists to address poor reviews whenever possible. Show the client or customer that you care about their thoughts. Do not attack; stick to facts and apologize if warranted. While it may not win a patient back, it may be appealing to future patients, especially if you also have many positive reviews.   

Show You Respect Your Patients 

No one wants to be treated disrespectfully; we all want our voices heard and to be valued as individuals. If you ignore negative reviews, you are essentially telling both the reviewer and prospective patients that you don’t care what they have to say. While some reviewers just want to be nasty (or may be competitors trying to sabotage you), legitimate patients who do complain feel passionately enough about your business to voice their concerns. If you don’t validate those concerns, expect them to take their business elsewhere.  

Missing a Chance to Learn 

You are not perfect; no one is. Mistakes present an opportunity for leaders to learn. It is even better when a patient presents those mistakes clearly. This will allow you to learn why the mistake happened and how to fix it so it doesn’t happen in the future. If you ignore feedback, you open the door to a mistake happening again. Negative reviews offer a chance to learn and grow your business; if you ignore them you miss that opportunity. 

Great reviews are not the only ones that can help improve your practice. Bad reviews present an opportunity to learn from them and grow. If you choose to ignore poor reviews, the consequences could be disastrous. Not only could you lose current patients, but prospects, too.  

When you see a negative review, take a step back and see what you can learn from the experience. Address their concerns, by telephone if possible, and make every effort to create positive experiences in the future. 

Contact our Towson MD dental CPA for a consultation today on other ways to grow your business. 

September 1, 2022

Information Sharing Through a Dental Study Club | Towson MD Dental CPA

smiling Doctor, Dental CPA Towson MD

Have you considered joining a dental study club? The dental profession is constantly changing, as are all health and science fields in general. It can be challenging to stay current with advances in techniques and new technologies every year. In leaner times, too, it is important to stay current within your continuing education budget.  

There are many reasons to consider joining a group of fellow dentists in exchanging knowledge and ideas. Here are some of the most valuable advantages you stand to gain. 

Continuing Education 

When travel and extended time off are not feasible, dental study clubs allow you to pool resources of a group of dental professionals and attend continuing education lectures. These groups also make it possible to participate in hands-on clinical training in your area. This added source of training and education can serve as a valuable way to stay current with new technology and techniques affordably.  

Learn a New Practice Area 

If you want to focus your practice on one or more specific areas of dentistry, such as implants, Botox or sleep apnea treatment, a dental study group focused on those areas can help. You can find and attend the courses you need to develop the skills and qualifications to reach your desired goal. 

Peer Support 

Group discussions have been shown to be one of the most effective ways to share experiences, techniques, challenges, and new ideas with like-minded individuals for the benefit of everyone involved. With a dental study club, you are interacting with other dentists and specialists in your area. Informal gatherings allow you to explore new ways of approaching a problem or a treatment, bounce ideas off of other professionals, and benefit from what your peers have already tried. 

Learn the Value of Networking 

Getting to know your peers satisfies the need to interact with like-minded professionals and even gain a source of referrals. While it may not be the primary reason to join a dental study club, virtual and face-to-face meetings are highly beneficial. Specialists, in particular, depend on referrals from other dentists. It can be much easier to refer a patient or gain a referral when you have developed a relationship with other professionals and know how they treat their patients, what technologies they use, and similar information. 

The collegial exchange of knowledge, solutions to challenges, and support can be invigorating while the format is economical. Consider joining or starting a study club in your area, and let our dental CPA know if we can help with setting financial goals and budgeting.  Contact our dental CPA today

August 15, 2022

How to Get the Most Out of Team Meetings | 21204 Dental CPA

Best Dental CPA

Regular team meetings can play a critical role in the health and growth of your dental practice. That one simple point can impact every aspect of your business. Your people, your patients, and your overall practice benefit from regular team meetings. The key is to make them effective. 

Keep Goals and Expectations in Focus

The core of your practice is your vision, your goals, and your strategy for growth. Each member of your team needs to understand all these things and, just as importantly, needs to understand their part in your plan. Without that overarching understanding, your team is working blindly and less able to actively contribute toward reaching your practice goals.

A team meeting is an ideal format for open discussion about your vision, goals, and strategy. Not only can you use this discussion to ensure every member is clear on your expectations, but you may find that their unique perspective creates an exchange of ideas on more effective ways to reach goals – and how each person can best contribute.

Encourage Participation

Workplaces are a microcosm of the larger world. Some people are comfortable speaking in front of a group, some hate it. Some speak loudly, some must be drawn out. Ask each team member privately if they are comfortable speaking at meetings. If not, encourage them to share a written note or an email with you and address their point in the meeting. 

Keep Meetings Positive

Have a round-table discussion of anything on your team’s mind. Have people share wins and learnings and don’t rebuff constructive criticism. Make sure each person is made to feel comfortable sharing their ideas with the rest of the group. This can be tricky when there are interpersonal issues within the team. If there are, enforce a no-tolerance policy for put-downs, belittling or dismissiveness.  

Casual vs. High-Level Meetings

While not every team meeting needs to include a high-level discussion of vision, goals, and strategy, it is a good idea to discuss these points at least once or twice a year and when bringing a new employee into the team. Additionally, many successful dentists find it useful to touch on how the strategies are being implemented and to discuss any measurable progress toward goals at least monthly. This helps keep your team engaged and motivated toward achievement.

Engage with Education

One of the most common components of an effective team meeting is education. Your team needs to know what the policies are, what is on the agenda for the day, if there are any specials being offered, and if anyone is sick or on vacation. Any new ideas, training, or techniques that can be shared should be. Your patients benefit from correct and consistent information from all members of your team. Make sure everyone is on the same page.

Only you can determine when and how often you should hold team meetings. Whether you meet daily, weekly, or on some other timeline, make sure your meetings are encouraging, educational, and affirming. You will see benefits to your team, your patient experience, and your practice as a whole.

Contact our Maryland Dental CPA team to learn more today.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Email: ASchiff@Schiffcpa.com
Phone: (410) 321-7707
Url: https://welcome-11f6d10.netsolhost.com/
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

June 15, 2022

Boosting Your Practice’s Profitability | Best Dental CPA

21204 Dental CPA

Have you ever wondered how you can maximize your practice’s return on services and recoup some of your capital? Our Dental CPA Maryland provides strategies to help boost your office’s profitability. 

How to Optimize your Dental Practice

Reviewing your production reports and ensuring procedures are in place can help save time and money. If a procedure is charged incorrectly, it can increase costs over the course of a year.

If possible, adding high-dollar procedures to your practice such as endodontics, teeth whitening, and other cosmetic services can greatly boost your bottom line. Training dental hygienists in various procedures, such as soft-tissue management and whitening, can also maximize a dental practice’s profitability.

Build a Great Dental Team

In order to recruit and hire the best possible candidates, it is worth paying above-average wages to experienced people in the field. This avoids high employee turnover, which can become costly. A friendly and knowledgeable dental team will also help with patient retention.  

Facilities and Equipment

If possible, purchase all your dental and office equipment, rather than lease it. This avoids a number of issues including higher retail costs, interest payments, hidden fees, and lease-breaking penalties.

Strive to maximize your office space. If your current patient volume doesn’t allow you to use all your offices, consider subletting either your primary or secondary office space. Another option: Merging your office with another dentist. Done right, it can help you fully utilize your space and reduce overhead.

There are a variety of ways to boost profits and cut costs while owning a practice. To start, focus on your core services, team, and office space. We know opening a practice can be costly and leave many dentists in debt, especially after finishing school. Contact our Dental CPA Baltimore team of dental accountants today for help with managing your budget and ways to maximize your return on investment.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

June 1, 2022

How to Choose the Right Dental CPA | Dental Accounting

Dental CPA Baltimore

Hiring a dental specific CPA (certified public accountant) for your practice not only provides greater financial transparency; it’s an excellent resource for making informed business decisions. If you’re considering hiring a dental CPA, it’s important to know what qualities to look for in candidates. The following are important steps in helping determine the ideal CPA for you.

Determine Your Needs

Before you start looking for an accountant, determine why you need a dental CPA. Are you looking for a CPA to help with your financial business strategy? Do you need help with your bookkeeping or filing your taxes? Once you determine your specific needs, you can assess which skills you should look for in a dental CPA.

Ask Around

Colleagues experienced in running their own practices can be a helpful resource in providing advice on this process. Ask what traits they look for in a CPA. With their knowledge in mind, begin conducting your own research guided by your particular needs.

Here are some general questions to ask yourself when looking for a dental CPA:

  • Do they meet my specific needs?
  • Are they up-to-date with their knowledge? Do they use modern software?
  • Are they established and reputable?
  • What dental practices do they currently represent? 

Look for Dental Industry Experience

Many accountants spend a majority of their time working with clients in a vast number of industries and don’t necessarily have specific experience with dentistry. If you are looking for an accountant with dental industry knowledge, contact our Dental Broker Baltimore today. We offer a variety of services to fit everyone’s needs. We look forward to hearing from you.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

May 15, 2022

Goal Setting Strategies | Dental CPA Baltimore

21204 dental CPA

No matter how impressive your vision for your practice may be, dreams require hard work and strategic planning. Highly successful practice owners learn to set goals realistically and effectively. Master the skills of effective goal-setting, strategic planning, and assessment to find greater success in your business.

Set Incremental Goals

Start small when setting goals by establishing daily and weekly goals. It can be easy to let ambition take over while you dream of long-term goals. However, you cannot reach your long-term goals without smaller victories along the way. Setting smaller, incremental goals provides the opportunity for you to be in consistent control of your practice. You will know if you miss a weekly goal, and you can then adjust your strategy to make sure your team can stay on track moving forward. If you are only setting quarterly or yearly goals it can come as a surprise when you miss them, or your team might be left struggling to meet them in the eleventh hour.

Make Goals Visible

You and your team need a visual reminder of what your goals are and when you plan to achieve them. Put them up on a bulletin board in the office or include them on your calendar. Write your goals in a place you look daily as a consistent reminder. We all have those back-of-the-mind thoughts or ideas that might be good if implemented, but they are frequently forgotten. Make your goals visible to you and your entire team.

Measure Your Goals

How will you know if you achieved your goal if you cannot measure it? Goals should have a measurable standard. Perhaps your goal is to see a 20% increase in your monthly new patient numbers in a 6 month timeframe. By defining specific numbers and timeframes, your goals will lead to action. Abstract goals are often set and missed. When a goal is clear and measurable, you can more easily create a plan that accomplishes the goal at hand. Once you’ve set measurable goals, make sure you have a cadence for evaluating them. Will you be reviewing your progress weekly, monthly, or quarterly? This timeframe will vary based on the size of the goal and effort needed to evaluate change. 

Evaluate your goal-setting protocol to identify areas of opportunity. Master these skills and you will be on your way to the success you desire.

Contact our dental accounting firm in Towson, MD today to see what our team can do for you.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

May 1, 2022

Tax Tips For Dental Practices | 21204 Dental CPA

21204 dental CPA

Annual financial reports show that many Americans overpay on their taxes by a collective one billion dollars every year. This happens when people fail to hire experts who are well-versed in available tax credits and deductions. Considering tax implications, laws and spending before tax season can help you to properly plan and take advantage of credits and write offs available to you.  

There are a number of deductions to consider, including:

  • Charitable Expenses – Depending on the nature of your giving and documentation, you may be eligible for a deduction related to charitable contributions. 
  • Job-Hunting Costs – Whether seeking employment or to recruiting employees, you may have expenses in this category worthy of consideration. 
  • Lifetime Learning Credit – With proper documentation, certain programs may allow for a tax credit. 

Bigger Picture Changes

In addition to claiming credits during the actual filing process, there are a number of big-picture changes you may want to consider in the coming year.

  • Choose the Right Business Structure – An experienced dental accountant in 21204 can help analyze your practice structure and advise you when deciding the business structure of your practice. 
  • Maximize Your Medical Benefits – Any smart tax strategy includes proper management of medical benefits. For example, businesses with employees can take advantage of Medical Expense Reimbursement Plans. These allow you to write off medical bills as business expenses.
  • Choose the Right Retirement Plan – Retirement plans help ensure financial stability and living standards when you eventually retire. An experienced accountant can help you choose between a 401k, defined benefit, SEP, and more to meet your goals.

Tax season only comes once a year, but it’s something any dental professional should be considering long before April. Our experienced accountants can help turn a hefty tax payment into a large return. Contact our dental accounting firm in Towson, MD today to see what our team can do for you.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

April 15, 2022

New Hire Onboarding: The 30-60-90 Day Benchmarks | Dental Accountant Baltimore

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One way to introduce a new team to the policies in your practice is through 30-60-90 onboarding. This method uses identifiable goals and metrics in order to show new employees how to integrate themselves into your team. You can successfully bring new team members into your practice and set them on the path towards personal and professional growth. Contact our dental CPA in Towson, MD to learn more.

30 Days

An employee’s first thirty days on the job are essential to building relationships. They are also vital to ensuring he or she knows the expectations of their position. Collaborate with new team members on a set of three or more goals that they can work on during their first month. Emphasize that the focus should be on absorbing as much information as possible.

60 Days

After the first thirty days, your new hire should be familiar with your practice’s routine. They should be able to effectively execute the tasks they learned during the first thirty days. At this point, team members should adjust their focus from learning about daily operations to focusing on contributing to the practice’s mission.

90 Days

By ninety days your new team members should be fully integrated into your practice’s workflow and executing their tasks independently. More importantly, they should be able to take the lead on projects and responsibilities without supervision. When problems arise, your new team members will be able to react and solve them while also being proactive in preventing them from happening again.

How Can You Make An Effective 30-60-90 Plan?

The best 30-60-90 plans take an extra step to look beyond numbers. You want your new employee to think critically as they settle into their new role. With that in mind, there are a number of things you can keep in mind as you create a 30-60-90 plan that will lead your employees to great success.

  • Emphasize the big picture – Think about why you hired this specific person for this role, whether it be to fill a need in your practice or expand your team. Make sure they plan goals and metrics that reflect your overall priorities.
  • Ask and answer questions –  Your new hire needs a baseline understanding of the status quo in order to be effective in their new role. Encourage them to ask whatever questions they need to understand their priorities and direction.
  • Be flexible – Don’t worry about if your new hire doesn’t grasp things immediately. 90 days is a significant length of time, and there is often an adjustment period. Provide constructive feedback and course-correct as necessary.

With proper planning using the 30-60-90 method, you can introduce new team members to your practice and provide them with a baseline knowledge to help you achieve long-term goals. Consistent contributions from every member of your team are vital to making your practice a success. Contact our dental accounting firm in 21204 today to learn more about what 30-60-90 planning can do for you.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

April 1, 2022

Financial Freedom is Within Your Reach | Dental Accountant Maryland

21204 dental CPA

Whether you’re starting up a new practice or have owned a practice for years, the financial stress that can come from being a business owner can sometimes overwhelm even the most consummate professionals. Our primary focus at Schiff & Associates, CPA is to help you achieve complete financial freedom so that financial worries and concerns never interfere with your ability to provide the best quality care. 

Below are some tips shared by our 21204 dental CPA you can follow on your own to help build a rock-solid foundation for your practice. 

1. Set goals. Don’t hesitate to dream big. Your practice will only be as successful as you envision it. Setting goals allows you to have a clear ‘ruler’ to measure your success and can help you make better financial decisions in the present. By recognizing that every small decision you make now can have a true impact on the future, you’ll be able to start setting yourself up for success. Your future self and future team will thank you.

2. Have a plan. As the saying goes, “failing to plan is planning to fail.” In order to see true growth, you’ll need to have both short and long-term plans set in place for your practice. How will you allocate new earnings? How is your practice prepared to deal with slow times or another unexpected shutdown? How are you budgeting for new purchases? If you don’t already have answers to these questions, this is a great place to start. Planning for the unexpected and for the future can help safeguard your profitability from being derailed by unplanned expenses.

3. Act wisely. When starting or growing your practice, there can be benefits to taking on strategic debt. However, doing so in a manner that will benefit, rather than hinder your growth requires a firm understanding of the returns you can expect on your investments. Don’t make big purchases without a plan, but instead weigh the potential benefits and risks of all your financial decisions.

4. Stay organized. Disorganization can be the quick downfall of any business. In order to ensure that  you’re not letting anything slip through the cracks, it’s important to have systems in place that will guarantee that no details are missed. In addition to protecting you from unforeseen troubles, efficient organization can also help bring opportunities for improvement to the forefront. 
If you want to take steps towards achieving true financial freedom, [business name] is here for you. Our goal is to make the process of managing and running your practice as smooth as possible, allowing you to focus on delivering quality care to your patients and growing your business. Contact our dental accounting firm in Towson today to learn more.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

March 15, 2022

The Business Management Tools You Need For A Successful Practice | Dental CPA 21204

21204 dental CPA

Business management tools refer to the systems, applications, and methods used by dental practices in their day to day operations. These tools are used to ensure that they can keep up with changing markets, ensure a competitive position within those markets, and improve their performance. Many of these tools shared by our dental CPA in 21204 can be used to help manage your operations and guide your practice towards success.

Mission Statements

These are short statements that define what your practice is and identifies your goals. According to Forbes magazine, a mission statement must answer these questions:

  • “What do we do?”
  • “How do we do it?”
  • “Whom do we do it for?”
  • “What value are we bringing?”

Mission statements provide a sense of direction that helps your practice make beneficial decisions and plan for the future. It also gives a clear, defined purpose, and acts as a motivational tool to encourage your staff to work towards a common goal.

Strategic Planning

Strategic planning builds off of mission statements. It is the process of defining a direction for your practice, and making decisions that contribute towards that direction. A proper strategy outlines how your end goals will be achieved by the means you have.

Strategic planning can be simple, and has a demonstrable impact on your practice’s success. Write down your core values, and create a vision of where you want to be within five years. Then determine what the steps are that will help you achieve that vision. Make sure to stress these goals and vision to your staff and explain how they tie in to your mission statement. This will ensure they work towards them every day.

Customer Relationship Management

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) is the act of using data analysis to improve business relationships with your current and potential patients. CRM compiles data from a wide range of sources, including your practice’s website, marketing materials, and social media. Using the CRM approach helps you learn about your patient base and how best to cater to their needs.

The best way to bring customer relationship management into your practice is to invest in a CRM system. These are software programs that can store patient information, record notes about their treatments, and manage marketing campaigns all in one central location. There are many of these systems designed specifically for dental practices, including Curve Dental, Dentrix Ascend, Denticon, and more.  Contact our dental broker in Towson, MD to learn more.

Leadership

You’re more than just an owner of a practice. You’re also the leader of your team. Having quality leadership skills is more than just being able to delegate and hire the right people for the job.  It’s about staying in control emotionally and being consistent in leadership.

It can take a long time to reach a point where you’re consistent, and that’s perfectly fine- but don’t settle for half-measures. Communicate with your team and ask them for suggestions about what you can do to lead better.

All of these management tools and more can help improve the performance of your practice. Our team has resources to help you learn more about business management tools and how to maximize your potential. Contact our dental accounting firm in Towson, MD to find out more.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

March 1, 2022

Key Performance Indicators in the Dental Industry | 21204 Dental CPA

Dental CPA in Maryland

Key performance indicators (KPIs) refer to a set of quantifiable measurements used to gauge a dental practice’s long-term performance. KPIs are used by dental offices to measure progress towards tangible goals, such as increasing collections by 20% in a year, or improving patient retention rates by 5%. Using these goals to evaluate specific areas of your practice will show you where you can improve in order to better your financial success. Contact our dental accounting firm in 21204 to learn more.

The Different Types of KPIs

KPIs can be organized into several different types, depending on what area of your practice they affect. There are five categories:

  • Inputs – Inputs refer to the resources used in producing outputs (see below). For a dental practice, inputs can refer to the supplies used during the day, such as tools and cleaning solutions, along with the time investment from the staff.
  • Process – Also called “activity,” these measure the processes used in producing outputs (see below.) For dentists, process KPIs measure the cost of performing procedures, such as how much fluoride is given to a single patient or how much anesthesia is used during a surgery.
  • Outputs – Outputs refer to measurements that indicate the amount of work done and what was produced. In most businesses, outputs refer to tangible products. In dentistry, outputs can be used to assess things like how many patients are seen in a day.
  • Outcomes – These KPIs are more abstract, focusing on accomplishments and impacts. Patient satisfaction and positive retention rates are two major outcomes practices can focus on.
  • Project – Like outcomes, project KPIs are rather abstract. They are meant to answer questions related to milestone progress towards important initiatives. For example, adding a specific amount of new patients via a marketing campaign is a project KPI.

How Can I Use KPIs In My Practice?

One important thing our dental accountant in Towson wants you to keep in mind is that KPIs do not have to be tied to financial data. Outcome and project KPIs can help improve a practice’s relationship with their patients and community. Every aspect of a practice can be analyzed and improved through smart use of KPIs. Establishing them is an easy process:

  1. Write a clear goal for the KPI.  Tie the goal to a key business objective, something integral to the organization’s success. Make sure the goal is strategic, otherwise it will not translate into tangible outcomes.
  2. Communicate the new KPIs to employees. Be sure to not only explain what the goal they’ll be working towards is, but why they’re working towards it. Someone on staff may even have an idea to improve it.
  3. Review KPIs regularly. Use records and hard numbers to track progress. For example, if a process KPI is set to reduce fluoride use to make stock last 10% longer, compare the amount of fluoride used before and after the goal was introduced.
  4. Evolve your KPIs if need be. If the results fall short of expectations, fine tune the goals or change directions entirely. Change may bring about a new, more efficient way of getting to the same destination.

Key performance indicators are an effective strategy to get your practice to where you want it to be. They are easy to define and act upon, making them reliable ways to track progress. For more information on KPIs and how they can be used to grow your practice, contact our experienced dental accounting firm in Towson, MD today for more information.

Schiff & Associates, CPA
Phone: (410) 321-7707
100 West Road, Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

February 15, 2022

What You Should Know About Your Practice’s Finances | Dental Broker Baltimore

Best Dental Accountant

As the owner of your own dental practice, you’re most likely also responsible for the financial health of your practice. As the leader of your own business, this responsibility probably isn’t one that you would change, but it may be one that you can improve on. Here are a few ways that you can better understand your finances to help ensure your growth and continued success.

Do you Have a Strong Billing Strategy?

Managing the finances of your business means collecting payments from your patients and their insurance companies. Short of hiring an enforcer to collect payments like some kind of dental loan shark, a strong billing strategy can help you receive these payments in a timely and efficient manner. If you struggle to collect payment, take a look at what strategies you use and learn how to help improve the day-to-day functionality of your practice. An accountant may be able to help you create a more powerful billing strategy. 

How Are You Spending, and What Returns Are You Seeing?

By knowing this information about your practice finances, you’ll have a much clearer picture of your practice. From this knowledge, you can make more informed decisions about which expenditures continue to make sense, and which you could most likely cut back on without seeing a large dip in productivity. Understanding your practice’s finances and using that understanding to make better decisions is the main speciality of our dental CPA in Towson, MD. If accounting and handling the finances of your practice isn’t your strong suit, our team is here to help.

Prepare For the Future, Whether it Holds Growth or Decline

You solve problems for your practice every day. This won’t change in the future, but you can ensure that you’re equipped to handle even the most difficult of problems by preparing for the future with your finances.

Setting aside a little money consistently can help you have a large fund when opportunities for growth pop up. This fund can also be used if you ever find yourself in an emergency. Either way, having a financial plan is essential for a thriving business and a stable financial future.

If you’re ready to take your practice to the next level, give our team of skilled accountants a call. We can help with more than just your taxes. Together, we can discuss the current financial health of your practice and devise a plan for growth and a more secure financial situation. Whatever your needs, our expertise is here to help your practice grow. Contact our dental accounting firm in Towson for more information.

February 1, 2022

Our Dental Accountants Can Help Your Practice Grow | Towson Dental Practice for Sale

21204 dental CPA

As a practicing dental professional and business owner, you have a lot of your plate. With so many competing demands, you may find you struggle to find time for proper accounting. One consideration that can help streamline your practice and give you more time for other priorities is hiring a professional dental accountant. Our team of dental accounting experts in Towson can provide you with the expertise and knowledge you need when you don’t have time to do your own accounting. Of course, in addition to the time saving benefits, there are many reasons why a dentist might need a dental accountant, including:

  • Stay Compliant With Tax Laws. Accounting professionals will keep up on the trends in your industry. Our dental accountant will make sure your practice doesn’t end up paying more annual taxes than you need to. Tax laws are always evolving, and staying compliant with all the various changes can be difficult if you aren’t a dental accountant.
  • Assisting With Retirement Planning. Whether you’re in the first year of your practice or you can see retirement within the next couple years, it’s always a good idea to think about retirement and planning for the future. Having an accountant can help you set goals and plan for your future and the future of your practice.
  • Opportunities to Grow. Eventually you’ll want to invest in new equipment for your practice. As your practice grows, you may consider moving to a bigger office. Our dental accountant will look at your financials and advise you to make the best decision for your practice.

When it comes to running a successful practice, managing your finances is a key concern. If you’re looking to optimize how you spend your time and resources, consider speaking with a member of our team. Our dental accountants in Towson, MD can offer you the expertise and support you need to manage this all-important area of your business so you can focus more on patient care and even take your practice to the next level. If you’re ready to learn more about how our team can help you, schedule your consultation today.

January 15, 2022

What to Consider When Selling Your Dental Practice | Towson Dental Practice for Sale

21204 dental CPA

Selling your dental practice can be quite an intimidating prospect. You may have numerous questions, such as: How do you make sure the practice you’ve worked so hard to create, or the team you’ve come to love is properly taken care of after you’re gone? When is it too soon to make a decision, or has the time frame already passed? The good news is, the important decisions you’ll face when attempting to sell a practice don’t have to be faced alone. Our dental accountant in Towson is here to help you with expert guidance and knowledge because we’ve helped many dentists just like you create successful transitions. With that in mind, here are a few things to consider when it comes time to sell.

Determine a “why”

It is important to understand why you’re considering selling the practice in the first place. Is the practice underperforming financially? Has it become too much work? It could also be more of a personal reason. Have you lost passion for the business? Are you considering retirement? Knowing why you’re selling is an important first step, especially if it is something that can be turned around or improved. Occasionally understanding the why can change your initial plans before they go too far.

Timing is key

If you’ve fully committed to selling your dental practice and are happy with your “why”, it’s important to look at the timing. Do you have a hard sell-by date? Or will you take your time? Knowing how you want to time each step is an important part of the selling process, and can make or break a deal in the end. Having a date to sell by can increase pressure, and affect the results of the sale. Taking time and assessing when the best time to sell is can take more time, but may be more rewarding in the end.

Consider partnering with outside experts

Personally handling every aspect of the sale of a dental practice can be a full-time job itself, and adding it onto a still functioning dental practice can be an overwhelming situation. Using partners or contacting outside help can make the situation go much more smoothly. It may be helpful to consider contacting a broker to help with closing, or a marketing agency to help you find the right buyer for your dental practice. Adding these resources can save you time and help with your totals in the end.

There are many factors to consider when selling a dental practice. Make sure you take the time to think through all areas that may affect your situation. An important decision like closing a dental practice can have many repercussions and eliminating as many variables as possible will only make for a better sale in the end. If you’re looking for expert assistance in the sale of your business, call our dental accounting office in Towson, MD today and see how we can help you.

January 1, 2022

How to Be a More Effective Practice Leader | 21204 Dental CPA

21204 dental CPA

At the core of any thriving dental practice is an effective and powerful leader. When a team has direction, intention, and a clearly articulated purpose, they’re able to achieve the desired goals. With that in mind, it’s important to be the best leader you can possibly be. Whether you’re opening a brand new practice for the first time, or have been leading a team for multiple years, there’s always room to grow and our dental accountant in Towson can help.

Effective leaders create a compelling direction.

People work best when they have a set of goals they’re working to achieve, and your team is no different. When communicating, make sure you set concrete and attainable goals for your employees. Make sure they understand why these goals are important, not only to the success of your practice, but to their own personal success. As they work to achieve these goals, it’s important to monitor their progress in order to make sure everyone is performing at an optimal level.

Effective leaders create lasting solutions.

When an issue inevitably arises in your practice, how will you address it? If your solution is a temporary fix, it will only lead to more headaches and struggles for your team later. The difference between a leader and a follower is that a leader won’t settle for a quick fix when they know their team is capable of more. Just like in dentistry, it’s important to treat the root cause of the issue, rather than just the symptoms themselves.

Effective leaders know when to be flexible, and when not to be.

Many new leaders make one of two mistakes. They either allow their team to walk all over them, giving in to any demand or complaint, or they take the opposite approach and refuse to change anything. Both are disastrous and will derail the success of your practice. There are times when you will have to go with the flow, making adjustments based on what your team and your practice needs. These changes can affect everything from your systems to your leadership style. However, there are also times when you must push your team and your practice forward.

Effective leaders understand when they need support.

Oftentimes, leaders believe that they need to handle it all themselves, having the weight of the entire practice on their shoulders. This isn’t the case. When you lack the time or expertise to complete a project at a high level, it’s more than acceptable to ask for outside help. If your accounting skills are holding you back from a greater level of success, our team is here to help you with expert accounting services. We know how to leverage your finances to help you achieve your goals and stay on track. Contact our dental accounting office in Towson, MD for more information.

December 15, 2021

Can Your Practice Weather a Financial Storm? | Certified Dental Accountant Towson MD

21204 dental CPA

One of the core financial planning tenets is the need to establish an emergency fund. Having a financial safety net is essential, especially today when the economy and the world is facing so much uncertainty. Should an unexpected natural disaster, staffing upset, or other unplanned event interrupt the flow of business to your practice, are you prepared to ride out the difficulty?

Defining a financial emergency

The criteria for what constitutes a financial storm or emergency will be defined differently based on each practitioner’s unique circumstances. A large, financially stable practice may barely notice if several staff members suddenly quit. That same scenario could wreak havoc on a small practice. Of course, a fire, flood or other damaging event is likely to be disastrous for any practice if you are unable to see patients and generate revenue for an extended period of time. This is why having a business emergency fund in place is so vital: to help you carry on, make payroll and pay bills until things return to normalcy.

How much should you set aside?

Our dental accountants in Towson recommend saving between 3 and 6 months salary in individual emergency funds. However, these amounts will likely be insufficient for even a small dental practice. There are a number of variables, but here are some questions to consider as you calculate what makes sense for you:

·         What are your insurance limits?

·         How much time will you wait for insurance claims to be processed?

·         What risks are not covered by insurance?

·         How long can your practice survive if you are unable to generate revenue?

·         What would it cost to arrange coverage for staff members who quit unexpectedly?

·         How much are replacement costs for essential equipment that is damaged and inoperable?

Knowing where to start

Many people don’t save for a rainy day because they don’t anticipate financial emergencies until it’s too late to prepare. If you have not begun shoring up your practice against financial storms, now is the time to begin putting a plan in place. An excellent place to start is by scheduling a consultation with our dental accounting office in Towson, MD. We can assess your assets and your risk, and identify vital next steps to ensure your practice is financially secure, no matter what the future holds.

December 1, 2021

Streamline Your Practice with Better Accounting | Best Dental Accountant

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As a dental practice owner, you have a lot on your plate. From seeing patients and managing your staff to staying abreast of trends in your profession, there is not a lot of extra time for balancing the books. Yet, profitability is always a priority, so how can you streamline your practice and create better efficiencies so that your practice can truly thrive? One of the best ways is to hire an accountant who specializes in your area of expertise. Our dental accountant in Towson, MD can offer the following advantages:

1.              Keeping you abreast of industry trends. Specialized accounting professionals will be mindful of trends that impact your profitability. This means you’ll enjoy practice-specific tax advice suited to your practice size and location so you don’t end up paying more annual tax than you should. A specialized accountant is also aware of evolving tax laws and can help you stay compliant and avoid unwanted audits.

2.              Serving as a sounding board. At some point you will probably consider investing in new equipment or perhaps consider an office expansion. Staying competitive requires looking for opportunities to grow. A specialized accountant can consult with you and help you look at various pros and cons prior to making a financial commitment. Having a sounding board for important monetary decisions can help you avoid a poor investment that could cost you in the long run.

3.              Assisting with retirement planning. Even if you see retirement as a long way off, planning ahead can make the difference in terms of your future nest egg. Having a CPA who understands your goals, your business and your target retirement age can free you up to focus on other things, like caring for patients.

4.              Spotlighting best practices. When you engage the services of a dental-industry accountant, you can take advantage of all of their industry know-how. They can share lessons learned from similar practices, connect you with other professionals in related industries, and provide trusted advice about important business decisions.

When you think about streamlining your practice, hiring an accountant may not be the first decision that comes to mind. But you may not realize how much of your time and energy is spent on the myriad of financial decisions and concerns that are inherent in running any small business. A skilled dental-industry accountant may be just the support you need to take your practice to the next level of success.

To learn more about how our small-business accounting services can help your dental practice thrive, contact our dental accounting firm in Towson today for more information.

November 15, 2021

Safeguard Your Practice with a Specialized Dental CPA | Dental Broker Baltimore

21204 dental CPA

When it comes to managing the financials of your dental practice, you need an accounting professional that employs a high degree of attention to detail. That’s why hiring a certified public accountant (CPA), like our dental accountant in Towson, MD, with dental experience should be one of the first moves you make. 

A dental CPA’s reach extends further than just balancing your financial statements at the end of each quarter. Instead, think of a dental CPA as more of an advisor. Their role is to guide you through the various pitfalls and obstacles that can encumber dentists and their practices. Overseeing point of sale transactions (POS), insurance billing, cash flow, and accounts receivables/payables are just some of the routine tasks covered by a CPA. However, unlike a general accountant, a specialized dental CPA can advise you on industry-specific best practices.

Sound Financial Advice for Dentists

Dentists are not unlike most business owners who typically find it difficult to relinquish control over their office finances. However, a specialized CPA can provide additional insight that strengthens the overall financial health of your practice, such as whether your staffing matches your production levels. They can guide you on timing when it comes to investing in new equipment. Or give you tips on what to do now, to minimize tax payments later. Are you thinking of expanding your building or bringing in another dentist? Dental CPAs provide the extra set of eyes and financial advice you need when making important business decisions where your emotions might cloud your judgment.

Fraud Prevention

Unfortunately, fraud is also a common occurrence in dental practices. Its source can originate both internally and externally. Losses from employee theft or insurance claim irregularities can quickly accumulate into thousands of dollars. If not caught in time, fraud can irreparably damage the business you’ve worked so hard to grow. An experienced, specialized dental CPA is well-aware of the common origins, red flags, and methods associated with such industry-specific fraud cases. Their keen understanding of how to implement fraud-deterrent policies and procedures will help protect your livelihood. Even when no fraud is suspected, it’s a good idea to conduct a risk assessment to gauge the likelihood that it could occur in the future.

A Smart Investment for Your Dental Business

Running a profitable dental practice goes far beyond crunching numbers on a spreadsheet. A specialized dental CPA will be able to listen to and communicate clearly with you and your staff when it comes to goals and best practices. Their intricate understanding of the variables that sway your practice’s production comes into play on a daily basis. 

Partnering with a dental CPA can undoubtedly guide you towards a successful and profitable future in dentistry. Contact our dental accounting firm in Towson, MD today for a consultation.

November 1, 2021

How to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Employee Embezzlement | 21204 Dental CPA

21204 dental CPA

Let’s face it: As a business owner, you have many responsibilities. Juggling the demands of clients, overseeing staff, and monitoring financial transactions can be overwhelming. That’s why putting safeguards and internal controls in place is so important, to help you avoid the risk of theft from employees. While it may be hard to imagine that the smiling face you hired to greet visitors could be stealing from you, that kind of naivety has cost business owners thousands of dollars in annual revenue. It can be difficult to prevent employee theft, but educating yourself now and putting processes in place to better secure your financial picture can help minimize the possibility of it happening to you. Here are some tips to get you started.

Know Who You’re Hiring
It’s not enough to select a new employee based on their resume or personality. Your new hire will likely be handling confidential information, so anyone whom you consider bringing on board should undergo a professional background check. You should also request references, including contact information from their previous employer.

Learn as Much as (and More Than) Your Employees
Over time, employees may see which clients pay with cash, who writes checks, the average daily and weekly deposit amounts, and how much money comes in from outside sources. This is information you should be familiar with as well. Require that each employee log these details in your accounting software and ask your accountant to help you create a program that includes a check and balance system with daily opening and closing reports. That way, either you or your dental accountant in 21204 can run and analyze these reports—never an employee.

Delegate Shared ResponsibilitiesNo individual in your office should control any financial process from start to finish, so make sure you establish and implement a team approach to these tasks. This will let you know who recorded which transactions and create a higher degree of accountability among your staff.

Look for Common Red Flags

You should always keep an eye out for common indicators that an employee might be stealing from the practice. Pay attention if someone on your team is suddenly spending beyond their means, is always the first in the building and last to leave, or is overly protective or secretive of their work.

Schedule an Outside Audit

Serious financial damage can add up quickly if you’re the victim of embezzlement, so it’s important to periodically hire an outside accountant to review your finances and look for irregularities. He or she will be able to monitor your employees’ work and catch errors, mistakes and theft.

If you notice that the numbers in your business aren’t adding up, it’s best not to tell anyone on your staff since the suspect could find out and destroy incriminating evidence.  Instead, talk to a trusted CPA first so they can put a fool-proof process in place to catch your thief and get your money back in your business where it belongs. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment to learn more, contact our dental accounting office in Towson, MD today.

October 15, 2021

4 Money-Saving Tips to Keep Your Dental Practice in the Black | Dental Broker Baltimore

21204 dental CPA

Running a profitable dental practice requires a significant investment of both time and money. Regardless of the size or age of your office, you have ongoing overhead and expenses related to things like:

  • Instruments, tools, and equipment
  • Marketing
  • Office rent or mortgage
  • Utilities
  • Staffing and payroll
  • Insurance
  • Technology and software
  • Building or equipment maintenance

With so much to keep up with, you might be wondering if there are tangible ways you can actually save money while continuing to help your practice grow. Here are some proven accounting tips that can get your dental practice headed in the right direction:

  1. Select the right software: Choosing accounting software customized for your practice can help you accurately assess and track your expenses and revenue. While there are several “good” programs out there, you might not be getting all of their intended benefits unless you’re using a system designed specifically for your field of business.
  1. If possible, automate patient interactions: Web-based portals allow patients to interact with your office online, 24/7. Utilizing such technology can save you and your staff significant amounts of time when it comes to appointment scheduling, answering the phone, accepting payments, or addressing simple billing questions. Once perceived as impersonal, online portals are increasingly becoming a preferred service by most patients because of their convenience.
  1. Track your marketing efforts: Marketing your practice is essential for attracting and converting prospective new patients. The question is, are you analyzing your efforts to ensure that you’re getting the best return on your investment? If you aren’t sure what your ROI is, it will be impossible to know if your marketing budget is being invested wisely or simply wasted altogether. 
  1. Hire a professional so that you can focus on what you do best: Investing in a professional dental accountant may feel counterintuitive if your goal is to cut overall costs, but in many cases, hiring a financial advisor can help you find, make, and keep more of your hard-earned money.

The accounting needs of a dental practice are detailed and complex. While there are reliable do-it-yourself programs designed to make small business accounting easy, there are additional benefits that come with hiring an accountant who specializes in dental practice operations. Contact our dental accounting office in Towson, MD today to learn more about how our small-business accounting services can help your practice thrive.

October 1, 2021

Does Your Practice Really Need an Accountant? | Dental Accountant Maryland

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In many ways, we rely on the internet to solve our problems and answer all of the questions we ever have, instantly. The internet is such a useful tool, that more doctors are beginning to turn to it for their accounting needs, making it seem as if an accountant really isn’t all that necessary.

But while the internet can be an extremely useful place, don’t be fooled. The internet can’t solve everything and your practice really does still need an accountant.

Our accounting team doesn’t just crunch the numbers. We have years of experience and education that allows us to explain your financial statements. In turn, we help you understand those statements in order to truly grasp the ins and outs of your business. These insights can include useful information on cash flow and any recognizable patterns, how your inventory is being managed, whether the pricing of your services is reasonable, and even your business financing. 

From those insights, we can help you analyze which areas are ready for growth, what changes need to be made and how you can create a plan for continued success. In short, an accountant gives you the resources and guidance you need to make better, more informed decisions for your practice. The internet might be able to help you in some ways, but it can’t provide the level of depth and personalized understanding of individual situations that we can.

Accountants are also great for all the roles they are usually associated with. We can provide expert advice and oversight on aspects of your practice finances, such as payroll and estimated tax payments.

We work efficiently, avoiding costly errors that someone with less experience could make and we make sure that everything is completed fully and on time to help protect you from audits.

Hopefully, we’ve convinced you of the benefits an accountant can have for your practice. If so, get in touch with our dental accounting team in Towson, MD and have a conversation about how we can best serve your practice and financial goals.

September 15, 2021

Bookkeeping Basics to Help Your Practice Thrive | Certified Dental Accountant Towson MD

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As a small business owner, you likely wear a lot of hats. When it comes to managing your office finances, you’ve likely realized that there are many tasks that demand more time and attention than you have to offer. While there are reliable software packages designed to streamline do-it-yourself small business accounting, there are also numerous benefits associated with hiring an accountant trained in your practice field. For example, a skilled accountant:

Understands your industry. Specialized accounting professionals will stay abreast of trends that impact your profitability and bottom line. That means they can offer you practice-specific tax advice to make sure you maximize your annual tax savings. They are also knowledgeable about new tax laws so you stay compliant in your ever-evolving field.

Can offer advice on equipment purchases. Investing in the latest technology and equipment is an important part of keeping your practice on the leading edge. A specialized accountant can advise you on the financial benefits and liabilities associated with these types of investments, so you can make informed choices that save you money in the long run.

Is trained to help you see the big picture. Industry-specific accounting professionals can provide useful comparisons that benchmark your practice against other similar ones. This kind of insight can help you make informed choices when it comes to hiring, adding products and services, or expansion decisions that require a financial investment.

Can assist with retirement planning. If you are self-employed (and many dental practitioners are), responsibility for retirement planning is solely up to you. A good CPA can advise you on the right types of plans for your situation and help you strategize on your long-term financial goals.

Is connected with other industry professionals. Perhaps you want to purchase a larger facility or add a partner to your practice. A specialized accounting firm can connect you with banking professionals or loan officers who understand the nuances of your field, and also advise on business structure best practices when it comes to creating a partnership agreement.

Accounting for a dental practice encompasses so much more than simply preparing an annual tax return. A skilled small-business accountant can offer sound business advice, help analyze the financial health of your practice, provide long-range financial planning, and guide you toward business decisions that keep you in the black. To learn more about how our small-business accounting services can help your dental practice thrive, contact our dental accounting office in Towson, MD today for more information.

September 1, 2021

Common Characteristics of High Performing Teams | Schiff Dental CPA

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Teamwork makes the dream work, or so the saying goes. With a team of rockstars behind you, your practice can truly soar into the success that you envisioned when you first started your own business. However, creating that amazing team can be more difficult than you may have thought. Even if you have the right people, there may be something that is holding them back from reaching their full potential. Look at this list of common characteristics of high performing teams. Which ones are your team performing well on? Which do they lack? By comparing this list to your own, it may just give you the insight you need to reach the next step.

No Individual Member is More Important than the Team:

In any business, there are going to be some members of the team that are in positions of power. However, this should not make them more or less important than any other member on the team. When your team knows that they are all equals working to accomplish the same goal of success for your practice, it can help create a team that relies on the necessary people to get the job accomplished.

Each Person Carries Their Own Weight:

It’s important for every team member to be performing optimally in their own role. When one person is falling behind, the rest of your team can struggle to pick up the slack while maintaining their own work. Ultimately, what this characteristic boils down to is mutual respect. If you have a team that respects each other, they’ll be working to ensure everyone has what they need in order to do their job as best they can. Without that respect, it’s likely that people will be performing the bare minimum in their role.

Trust:

As important as mutual respect is the level of trust your employees have in each other. When you have a team that trusts one another, it allows for strong cohesion, conflict management and natural agreement when issues arise. Cohesion built upon trust means that every member of your staff is working towards the same goals, knows how to work together, and can make the right judgement calls when problems arise.

Understanding Limitations:

Some of the best teams know when it’s time to ask for outside help. Whether it’s a task that your team may not have the experience or knowledge to fully complete, or the workload seems to be simply more than they can handle, outside assistance or perspectives are nothing to be ashamed about and can help your team succeed at a higher level.

If you and your team require help with tax prep, retirement planning, or any accounting related service, we are here for you. Contact our dental accounting office in Towson, MDtoday and let us know how we can help. 

August 15, 2021

The Power of Feedback in Improving Workplace Performance | Dental CPA Baltimore

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The exchange of feedback between leaders and their teams is an almost non-stop process. Official, or not, good leaders are as willing to listen to feedback as they are giving it out. Feedback is one of the most important aspects of improving performance, and yet it can be one of the most difficult things to hear. Very few people enjoy viewing themselves in a critical light. Below, we’ll outline some of the best ways to not only get constructive feedback, but also how to handle feedback for optimal benefit when it comes.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For It:

People will often assume that if something is wrong, they’ll be told and corrected. While in a perfect world, this may be the case, it is unfortunately not the reality. When you directly ask for feedback, you give your employees and your leaders the opportunity to give you valuable insights into the operations of your practice. Without asking, you may be missing out on mistakes being made, or innovations that have changed operations for the better. 

Even if the feedback is not received in an official setting (such as an “on the fly” direction) it can give you the ability to bolster your systems and improve your practice. Make sure you ask for that chance as frequently as possible. 

Don’t just React – Listen and Digest:

When feedback comes to us, it can sometimes be difficult to not feel personally attacked – especially if the feedback is critical. The worst thing you can do in this type of situation, would be to react without really considering what the other person is saying. Make sure you hear what them out and think about why they feel the way they do. 

Do your best to stay clear headed and ask clarifying questions to help you fully understand the other person’s view point. Sometimes, the most positive and helpful feedback can be misinterpreted and turned into a destructive situation. If you need to take the time to digest, think about asking for time to do so. It never hurts to come back and be able to discuss feedback in more detail and from a different perspective. Taking whatever space and time you need will ultimately help you deal with feedback in a more constructive way and help you to understand your practice and your leadership style better. 

Reflection is a Form of Feedback:

A conversation with a manager or employee is not the only way to get feedback. You can also learn a lot about your strengths and potential limitations by reviewing the successes and failures you have had in your position. Is the same failure happening over and over again? It may be time to figure out the root cause of the issue and create a plan to make sure it doesn’t happen again. 

Criticism, constructive or not, can be difficult to hear. Ultimately however, that brief time of difficulty will turn in to large dividends for both you, your team, and the practice as a whole. If you’re looking for constructive feedback from an outside perspective that can help your practice grow, contact our Schiff Dental CPA team. We’ll be able to analyze your strengths and areas for improvement in order to help you bring your practice to the next level. 

August 1, 2021

Why a Real Dental CPA is Still Better Than Any Accounting Software | 21204 Dental CPA

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As humanity expands ever outward into the digital age, the number of available accounting software that claim to be able to do it all for your practice are only going to increase. While you may be tempted to believe these claims, the truth is this: a real accountant is still better for your practice than any software. Why? We’re glad you asked.

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Contrary to most people’s opinions of accountants, basic math is not our speciality. We allow computers to do most of the math for us in order to save ourselves the time to analyze and interpret the results. 

Any computer can do the work it takes to balance your numbers, but none of them can understand whether those numbers are actually right, or what they mean to the financial future of your practice. Conversely, a dental accountant has the capability to analyze the financial health of your practice by comparing your numbers to benchmarks set by successful practices, tracking progress through past years, and determining proper overhead costs for your practice. 

Our team is also here to help advise you on your goals, and what decisions need to be made in order to meet them. Another pitfall of software programs that many do not realize is that they can only tell you when something is wrong. Most of them are unable to tell you exactly why something is wrong and none of them are able to help provide you with a specialized solution. 

Dental accountants know which financial strategies work in the dental field and which do not, because we have the experience to do so. Not only can we do the math, but we provide support during a financial emergency, or even when you just want to learn how to spend your money more wisely.  

While there is no arguing that these software tools can be useful in the right hands, they are often only as good as the person using them. If an inexperienced individual is attempting to manage all of their finances on their own, it may result in costly errors that could have been avoided with a professional. 

Wherever you are on your career journey, an accountant can help you find success. Help your practice and yourself with professional accounting services from our team. We can assist you with everything from tax prep and minimization to business management, start up services, retirement planning, and yes, bookkeeping. Contact our Schiff Dental CPA today to get started.  

July 16, 2021

How An Accountant Can Solve Problems Through Creative Solutions | Allen Schiff CPA

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Al Capone was a notorious mobster and crime boss who committed countless crimes either himself or through his organization. However, the crime that finally got him caught and sent to prison wasn’t related to his gangster reputation. Ultimately, Capone was arrested and convicted for income tax evasion. The man who had a seven year reign as crime boss of Chicago ended up being taken down by a team of accountants. 

Maryland Dental CPA

While this story may not have much to do with dentistry, it is a testament to just how important accountants can be to any field. More than just the people who help you with your taxes, accountants are trained to understand businesses and create solutions that others may not think of. Here are just a few of the ways accountants can solve problems for your practice find success.

Understanding Dentistry:

While an accountant of any type may be able to be helpful to your practice, a dental CPA fully understands all the ins and outs of dentistry and is able to use that knowledge to help you. Dental accountants are uniquely qualified to assist you because they understand your issues in the larger context of dentistry and can examine an issue from every relevant angle. They know the business and therefore have a better grasp on will be the right solution for you. 

Big Picture Thinking:

Accountants are known for their analytical minds. When it comes to solving a financial problem in your practice, a new perspective that considers all the widespread consequences may be exactly what your practice needs. This capacity for lateral thinking is one of the reasons why dental accountants are able to make such significant contributions to your practice success.

Creativity:

Difficult problems require creative solutions. While accountants aren’t always respected for their originality, you may be surprised to know that their line of work takes quite a bit more creative flexibility than most believe. Combining their knowledge of the dental field with the ability to bring a unique approach allows dental accountants to come up with innovative solutions that work to meet and exceed your practice’s financial goals.  

While it’s better to have an accountant before trouble arises, we are here to help you no matter your circumstances. If you’re facing a problem that requires a special touch, contact our Dental CPA Baltimore team of professional dental accountants today and find the solution for success you’ve been looking for.

July 1, 2021

5 Qualities Your Next Accountant Should Have | 21204 dental CPA

Allen Schiff CPA

The easiest way to gage how well your practice is doing is to hire a professional dental accountant. However, not all accountants are the same, and you should know what you’re looking for before you trust your business to anyone. As you research your options, make sure your next accountant has these five qualities.

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Informed

It may seem like a no brainer, but your accountant should be an expert in bookkeeping and accounting specific to the dental industry. Make sure they know the best options for dentists and stay on top of practice related financial details and information. 

Organized

If you’ve tried to do your accounting yourself, you know just how quickly it can turn messy. Hire an accountant that knows how to clean up the mess and keep it that way. Not only will this allow you to reach your goals faster, but it was also help ensure your business is both efficient and compliant. 

Credible

Trust is one of the most important factors when deciding on an accountant. You are often putting your practice, your financials and your life in their hands. In this case, reputation means everything. Find out everything you can about the company and accountant before signing anything. Consider contacting professional references for testimonies.

Responsible

The devil is in the details, and one mistake could cost your practice dearly. Discuss the ways that your accountant would avoid mistakes and stay familiar with your financials. You spend a lot of time familiarizing yourself with your patients, an accountant needs to do the same with your practice. 

Dedicated to You 

The top dental accountants understand that customer service is paramount. Your accountant should go above and beyond to help your practice become successful. Our team knows this to be the case, and gives each of our clients the respect and dedication they deserve. Contact our Towson MD Dental CPA office today and see how a great accountant can help you.  

June 15, 2021

Top Three Tips for a Profitable Dental Practice | 21204 Dental CPA

Best Dental Accountant

Part of what makes being a dentist so exciting and fulfilling is establishing your own practice. Dentists can work on their own or in a partnership setting. In either case, though, they’re at the top of their business. Being the CEO of a small business comes with responsibilities outside of the appointment rooms. Dentists need to invest time making sure their practices are profitable. This means having a grasp of things like overhead, revenue, and marketing strategies. Here are some of the most important tips to help dental practices become more profitable. 

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Analyze Your Expenses

This should be the first priority for any practice focused on widening profit margins. Dentists should produce a detailed list of their monthly expenses. This includes equipment, supplies, employee salaries, liability insurance, and rental costs or property taxes. Carefully scrutinize this list for anything that’s not strictly necessary, or that your practice spends an excessive amount on. You may be able to reduce your overhead by cutting down on specific supplies, finding savvy ways to limit your insurance payments, or even writing off more expenses to reduce your taxes. There are myriad routes to pulling down your overhead. They all start with patiently poring over your expenses. Having a certified dental accountant is a great way to make sure this work is done accurately and effectively.  

Establish Growth Objectives 

Businesses without specific goals are often their own worst enemy. That’s because when you lack concrete objectives, you’re more likely to fall into a state of complacency with your company. It goes without saying, of course, that complacency leads to stagnation and lost profits. Dental practices that want to be as profitable as possible should map out where they want their business to be in three months, six months, a year, and five years. Have a clear sense of the number of patients you want to gain within each time frame, and start developing strategies that help get you there.

Master Online Marketing 

In 2019, the majority of people looking for a dentist in their area will use the internet to find one. In fact, statistics show that 90 percent of Americans use internet search engines to find local businesses. That includes dental practices. So how can dentists gain a foothold in these searches and put their practice’s website in front of as many eyes as possible? The answer is online marketing. More specifically, search engine optimization (SEO) marketing. SEO marketing has one simple, powerful objective: get a business’s website and content to rank as high on search engines as possible. In today’s marketplace, where Google, Bing, and Yahoo dominate the way we discover small businesses, this is a critical step in boosting profits.

For expert help in making your business as profitable as possible, contact our Dental Accountant in Baltimore office today. We know how to help your business generate all new levels of success.

June 9, 2021

Why a Dental CPA Is Your Most Valuable Asset | Best Dental CPA

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Dental practices are businesses, and the dentists at the heart of them are CEOs. If you own a dental practice, or are one of several dentists in a partnership-based practice, you should be treating that practice like a business. That means looking for ways to grow revenue, trim overhead, maximize business deductions, and minimize your tax liability. A dental CPA can help dentistry firms achieve all these goals. Here’s how. 

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They’re Specialists

A dental CPA is more than just a generic accountant. Dental CPAs work exclusively with dentists and their practices. This means that they have specialized knowledge that other accountants lack. Dental CPAs have an insider’s grasp of the industry, including expenses, trends, and the best ways to lower a practice’s tax burden. They also understand what new equipment is delivering the best return on investment, and how to save money every year from the depreciation of assets unique to the dentistry field. 

They Can Analyze Your Firm’s Financial Health

The benefits of having a dental CPA go far beyond just getting an advantageous grip on your business’s taxes, though. They can also apply their financial acumen to your overall business model. An experienced dental CPA will be able to look at a practice’s financial reports and determine how it can reduce its expenses and increase profits. They’re trained to recognize financial oversights and areas of inefficiency specific to the dental industry.

Given just a few months to carefully analyze your practice’s finances, a dental CPA will be able to make insightful, actionable suggestions that make an immediate difference. 

Industry Benchmarks

Benchmarking is the practice of comparing a business’s performance metrics with both competitors and the highest standards in the industry. While a dentist in Ohio may have no idea how their practice compares with firms in California, Texas, or New York, a good dental CPA does. They’re thoroughly versed in the industry’s key performance indicators (KPIs). These include metrics like patient loads, profit margins, and the percentage of active patients that are currently under schedule. 

Dentists primarily focused on their patients and the scientific aspects of their profession may have never even considered evaluating their practices in these ways. But benchmarks and KPIs are powerful ways to frame and understand your business. Dental CPAs can leverage those tools better than anyone. Our office offers you expert guidance on all of these financial strategies and more. Contact our certified dental accountant in Towson MD today and learn more about the many ways a Dental CPA can help you.

May 11, 2021

Retire Confidently With a Dental Accountant | Best Dental CPA

Retire Confidently With a Dental Accountant

There is a saying made famous by Stephen Covey that has stuck with us for years. The saying goes, “begin with the end in mind”. While these words can mean many different things to many different people, to us, they mean that it’s never too early to start planning for your retirement. 

Talk About Retirement with Dental CPA in Maryland

As a dentist with your own practice, your eventual retirement requires a great deal more planning than that of the average person. Hiring a dental accountant can reduce your financial waste, helping you to retire sooner with confidence. 

If retirement planning feels like it’s still a long way down the road, consider what has to be accomplished in order to ensure success:

  • In-depth debt reduction strategies
  • A strong practice exit plan (estate planning)
  • A retirement funding plan
  • Understanding risk management
  • And, if necessary, providing for your family.

It’s never too early to start working your way through this list. In fact, its recommended by most accountants that you meet with your advisor at least once a year to report on your progress and make necessary adjustments. 

Think of a dental accountant like a financial coach. Among the many services offered, accountants can help you find the right pensions, properties, and business opportunities to invest in while you’re still working. As your revenue starts to increase, they can also help you understand where your money is being spent in order to put you in better financial shape once you’re ready to retire. 

When you do retire, an accountant will also help you divvy up your assets while making sure they don’t fall into the wrong hands.

Retirement shouldn’t feel like work. Start building financial peace of mind today with a certified dental accountant. Contact our Towson MD Dental CPA office for more information.

May 1, 2021

Thousand Dollar Mistakes You May Be Making | 21204 dental CPA

Thousand Dollar Mistakes You May Be Making

Most dentists are experts at what they do. They keep teeth healthy. Many of those same dentists are less experienced in making sure their books are well kept and accurately reflect the financial health of their practice. Both of these skills are absolutely critical to maintaining the longevity of your practice. With that in mind, here are 3 common bookkeeping mistakes that could be costing you thousands of dollars and eventually your entire business.

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Misunderstanding the Difference Between Cash Flow and Profit

Understanding financial reports is no easy task. The complexity can often be confusing for inexperienced people, leading to some costly mistakes. Commonly, a dentist/in house bookkeeper will mistake profit figures for the amount of available cash. This is not correct. As a result of this mistake, dentists make purchases hat incur overdraft fees and charges costing your practice a lot of money. Profits are computed using a profit and loss statement. Cash flow however, is measured using a cash flow equation and factoring in depreciation expenses, inventory, and accounts receivable.  

Accidently Recording Transactions in the Wrong Period

Another common mistake is made as practices “close the books” at the end of each month. As your in house bookkeeper reconciles accounts and prepares your financial statements, transactions from previous periods can be wrongfully entered. If this mistake goes unnoticed, all of your future reports will be wrong as well as you tax documents and cash figures. As you can imagine, that is not good news. Misrepresentation of cash, whether or not it was an honest mistake, can mean a doubling of repair costs and harsh penalties from the IRS.

Not Working With an Experienced Dental Accountant

Trying to manage your financials yourself or hiring and inexperienced bookkeeper can spell disaster for your practice. High tax bills, theft, common cash mistakes and more are all results of an unreliable accounting system. 

Working with a dental accountant can save you time and money by implementing an effective system. Give yourself the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have an accurate understanding of your practice finances at all times. Contact our Towson MD Dental CPA office for more information.

April 7, 2021

Best Dental CPA | How Hiring a Dental Accountant Can Save Time

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Staff issues, the IRS, practice management, day to day business needs; it can all seem overwhelming. It’s more than likely that you got into the dental field to be a dentist, not an accountant, and even though those are important, we know it might just not be your thing. You don’t have to worry- most dentists feel the same way. But unfortunately lack of interest or knowledge doesn’t let you off the hook. After all, the right accountant can be the difference between your practice succeeding or failing. As your best line of defense against the complex and brutal business world, a specialized CPA can save you not only a great deal of time, but also money.

 Unlike an accounting computer program, a specialized accountant does more than provide basic numbers. Unless you or someone on your staff has a background in dental accounting, you’ll need a CPA to organize and present the data in a useful way. A skilled dental CPA will go multiple steps further than a computer program ever could. Just as you gather information to help treat your patients, your dental accountant will use those reports to evaluate, diagnose and plan in order to keep your business running as efficiently as possible.

The CPA will ask questions and create solutions to problems such as: How is the financial health of you practice? What can we do to minimize taxes and generate more revenue? Is it time to add another dentist?

Services your CPA will provide depend upon your needs. You may only need your tax returns prepared. But if you’re looking for the maximum benefit of a specialized accountant, they can also provide you with added security, tax planning and expert business advice. Remember, an excellent dental CPA can save you both time and money while providing peace of mind.

If you have questions about what a specialized CPA can do for you practice, or would like to begin your search for a CPA, contact Schiff & Associates today.

April 1, 2021

Dental CPA in Maryland | Is Your Business Healthy?

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The definition of success is subjective. However, many can agree that accomplishing a healthy work-life balance seems to be one of the most important ways to achieve success on many levels. By establishing healthy business habits, you can minimize the occurrence of career burn-out. If you’re experiencing career dissatisfaction and questioning the health of your business, consider the following:

Establish healthier habits. Arrive at work at the same time each day. Consistency for yourself and your team can make a difference in creating a peaceful work environment. Dedicate time to work on your business and stick to it. When administrative work, important decisions and other owner responsibilities stack up, it’s common to carry that stress around with you. Eventually it affects your team and patient satisfaction as well.

Know your number. Money is not the root of all evil. It’s also not the solution to every problem. It’s a necessary component to running a healthy business. It’s important to know where you stand financially and have the ability to make smart investment decisions. Before purchasing that $30,000 “high tech solution to all of your problems”, consider how it will truly aid in providing better care for your patients. What will the ROI be? How have others in your situation made this investment profitable? Our team will help advise your major financial decisions. When it comes to your numbers, it’s helpful to know where you stand at all times. We are here for you.

Owning a business can be a very satisfying and rewarding responsibility. It can be difficult to find the time needed to accomplish everything on your to-do list. Prioritize your responsibilities and create deadlines. This alone will help you make the time for the important items that often get pushed to the backburner. Once your priorities are clear, it will become easier to say “no” when necessary and to have the focus required to check off important items.

If you’d like assistance in making wise financial decisions, contact us at Schiff & Associates today.

March 15, 2021

Allen Schiff CPA | There’s Power in Numbers

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Being a member of the exclusive Academy of Dental Certified Accountants (ADCPA.org) allows our team the benefit of providing collective experience, national averages and best practices. The ADCPA meets twice per year to learn and grow together. By joining with dentistry’s top dental accountants, we have the ability to expand our service offerings, continually improve our communication and technology, as well as learn about ancillary supporting services which benefit our dental clients.

If considering a general CPA for your dental practice, consider the advantages to hiring an ADCPA member.

When uniting with other top dental CPA’s, our team at Schiff & Associates have the ability to learn alternative ways to serve our clients. We discuss controversial topics and learn where our peers stand in terms of providing the most ethical, and beneficial tax strategies. Having a CPA that is well versed in tax law and is up to date on best practices can save you time and money.

Dental CPAs provide a wide range of dental specific accounting needs. As your Practice grows, your taxes become more complex. Dental CPAs will share effective techniques for maximizing your tax savings. Aside from tax planning and support, we offer proficient insight on current trends and relevant issues that aid in making sound decisions for your business. Whether starting your first practice or managing your established growth, you can rest assured knowing your our team is by your side, providing you with strategic advice, every step of the way.

For more information on how our team will help you, contact Schiff & Associates.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Email: ASchiff@Schiffcpa.com
Phone: (410) 321-7707 Ext #1205
100 West Road Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

March 1, 2021

21204 Dental CPA | 3 Ways to Buy Time: Boost Your Practice’s Productivity with Time-Saving Measures

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Time is your most precious resource. On certain days, managing your time is not just difficult, it is downright impossible. Ask yourself about the strategies you are currently using to organize your day. What other tools could you be leveraging to save your practice’s most precious commodity? Here are 3 methods you can implement to maximize your time.

1. Re-evaluate Your Management Tactics

You can buy time without spending a dime. Employ a new way of keeping track of practice productivity. You can have your team record their tasks for the day in a quick email. Each staff member can quantitatively list their duties, allowing for simple reference later. This cuts down on micromanaging your staff by way of asking, “What did you do today?” Managerial work is difficult to implement after a full day of back-to-back appointments.

You can cut back on daily meetings because you will have a clear picture of what each team member is contributing. Having a list of completed tasks at the end of the day allows for everyone at your practice to be keenly aware of who is to be held accountable for each task.

2. Utilize Apps to Maximize Efficiency

“Lost time is never found again.” Ben Franklin knew this more than 200 years ago, so how can you apply this knowledge to running your practice? There are numerous tools available for your phone that can be a valuable resource for keeping track of your practice. You can benefit from the use of efficiency apps. In today’s world, there is no need to manage all aspects of your business manually.

Take advantage of scheduling apps and software. You can schedule emails to remind patients to book their next visit to your office without having to send it in real time. This can be an indispensable tool for patient retention, by keeping you in consistent contact with your patients. Apps such as these will help you save time and keep track of your practice’s performance.

3. Consider Express Check-In

It is not always your team that is responsible for lost time slipping through your fingers. One late patient can set the whole day off-schedule. Make it easy for your patients to register. Provide compliant forms online for patients to fill out before coming into the office. Saving time at the front desk will help your entire practice run on schedule. Never allow for your practice to earn a reputation of running behind schedule, instead work with your patients to create a smoother, faster registration. Your patients will not want to fill out redundant forms. Rework any documents or forms where possible to prevent your patients from filling out information such as their name and address multiple times.

Successful business leaders are experts at time management. Put methods in place that allow for concrete, quantitative results to measure productivity. Utilize technology to make your life easier and allow your patients to work with you to save time. Don’t get caught watching the sand fall through the timer, take action and rethink your time management strategies.

Schiff & Associates, LLC
Email: ASchiff@Schiffcpa.com
Phone: (410) 321-7707 Ext #1205
100 West Road Suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

February 15, 2021

Dental CPA Near Me | 4 Simple Ways to Reduce No-Shows

Dental CPA Near Me

Whether your patient is scheduled for a cosmetic consultation, restoration placement, or routine hygiene and screening visit, you want to be certain they will come. When your patient cancels with little or no notice, they delay important treatment and wreak havoc with your schedule. Even one missed appointment per day can lead to thousands in lost revenue in a single year.

Reports indicate that about one in ten patients cancels or skips scheduled dental visits. Consider these 4 easily implemented strategies for reducing your practice no-show rate:

  1. During a patient’s visit, clearly communicate the state of their oral health. Explain what treatment they need, why they need it, and when it needs to happen. Emphasize the benefits of receiving the treatment in a timely manner. Patients who understand the value of their treatment are more likely to remember and return as scheduled.
  1. Ask your patient to choose how their appointments are confirmed. Offer to use text, email, mail, or phone calls, if possible, so they are more likely to receive their reminder. Consider offering your patient the ability to authorize you to contact a spouse, parent, or partner who most often handles scheduling or reminding them of commitments.
  1. Whatever their method of choice, follow through with appointment reminders at least 24-48 hours prior to their scheduled window. If you speak to someone directly during a reminder, choose words that prompt the patient to agree to call if they cannot keep the appointment. Cancellations are less frequent when the patient feels they have made a commitment.

4. Set aside time at least once a month for your team to reach out to patients who are not yet scheduled for their next visit. Use the preferred contact method on file and offer same day or next day appointments, if possible. This has the benefit of both bringing back inactive patients and filling openings left by cancellations or reschedules.

Communication is key in reducing no-shows and reactivating patients. Before implementing new strategies for scheduling, hold a team meeting and discuss your new policies in detail. Be certain that every member on your team is ready and willing to explain the value of treatment, follow up with patients, and support the changes to your systems.

For more ideas that can help your business thrive, contact our office for a consultation.

100 West Road suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

February 1, 2021

Towson Dental CPA | 4 Ways to Grow Your Confidence as a Business Leader

Dental CPA Near Me

The up and down nature of confidence can be exemplified as a business leader because of the stressful nature of maintaining a high-ranking position. Confidence can grow with practice and effort. Here are four ways to grow confidence as a business leader.

Consistency is Key

Rapidly changing methods and ideas can prevent a business leader from feeling confident. The business should work for the business leader, not the other way around. Gaining a sense of consistency and stability with schedules, rules, and realistic expectations can lead to an increase in confidence that the business will run smoothly. Know and understand the key parts of the business, important dates, and the function of each role. You can only become confident in your business operations when you fully grasp the nature of the entire business.

Be Yourself

Being afraid to say what you think can be viewed as a lack of confidence. Speaking your mind, while still having a professional filter, can build confidence as it shows you are part of a team and contributing. Being yourself will also dispel any notion coworkers might have that you are not being a genuine person. Openness and authenticity will not only strengthen your bond with your employees, but are also essential traits for effective leadership.

Be Open to Criticism

Change cannot come from one person alone, and not all criticism should be seen as a slight against you. Listen to feedback from coworkers and customers and tailor that feedback into something positive. Do not let the criticism fester and destroy your confidence, take it and use it to grow as a person. Accepting constructive criticism and negative comments can help increase your confidence. 

Know What You Are Talking About

Fully understanding what you are talking about can help improve your confidence. If you are a business leader, strive to know everything you can about the business and its operations. If you are speaking about a topic, research everything you can about that topic. Become the expert. You will be better positioned to demonstrate confidence when it is clear that you are invested in what you are discussing.

Confidence can not only make or break your career, it can impact the business as a whole. You can take your confidence to the next level, while learning how to prevent situations from arising that can be detrimental to your confidence. 

For a consultation, contact our team.

100 West Road suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

January 20, 2021

Towson Dental CPA | 5 Signs You NEED an Accountant

Have you wondered whether you actually need to have a professional accountant? Here are 5 signs that confirm you do:

1)     You earn over $200,000 per year – Your odds of being audited once you start earning over $200,000 a year increases to nearly 4%. While this may not seem like a large number, it’s actually an increase of over 300%. Having your financials in order in case this does occur is vitally important once you become a high-earner.

2)     You are a business owner or are self-employed – Utilizing the services of an accounting professional is vitally important for any business owner or entrepreneur. Tax laws change annually. The current US tax code has over 7 million words in it. Making sure all of your deductions are included, your assets are depreciating properly, and you are maximizing your tax savings will wind up saving you money in the long run.

3)     You are setting money aside for others – When putting money aside for your children, grandchildren, or anyone you want to take care of, it’s very important to use a financial professional to decide which vehicles to use for tax-deferred or tax-free savings. This includes college savings plans or trusts.

4)     You are incurring large capital gains tax – The key to success in paying big capital gains tax is paying at long-term rates. An accountant can help you with a Qualified Small Business Tax Credit, minimize your taxes, and help you set long-term payment goals.

5)     You are experiencing rapid growth in your business – Not only is keeping your finances up to date time-consuming, it’s also complicated. When you’re experiencing rapid growth, it’s time to call in an accounting professional. Having more customers, employees, and vendors is going to require more paperwork and number crunching and can rapidly become impossible for you to manage.

Contact our team today to learn how we can make your life easier. 

100 West Road suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

January 6, 2021

Dental CPA in Towson | Career Tips for New Dentists

Starting your professional career as a new dentist can be one of the most exciting (and anxious) times of your life. Whether you are beginning your own practice or joining one, there are several important aspects to keep in mind. We have compiled a quick guide that will help you manage your priorities as a new dentist with confidence.

  1. Protect Your Work-Life Balance – While you might be used to a heavy schedule during your years in academia, don’t let yourself burn out. You deserve a healthy work-life balance. By setting expectations and following them, you can enjoy your time with friends, family, or hobbies without feeling tread on by your work schedule.
  2. Know Your Strengths – Your practice should center on two things: what you are compassionate about, and what you are incredible at. Don’t pursue a specialty just to appeal to your community if it isn’t something you are excited about. Focusing on your strengths will bring you more satisfaction in your work as well as higher quality to your service.
  3. Manage Your Debt – Dental school graduates usually have a significant trail of student debt following them. Whether you refinance, make extra payments, or choose an alternate repayment plan, focus on reducing your balance instead of simply paying off the interest. Don’t forget to contribute early to your retirement fund, either. The best time to start saving was yesterday.
  4. Successful Practice Management – A dental practice is a business, and a business needs a strong leader. Dental schools don’t typically prepare you for the financial and leadership elements of your career, so don’t be afraid to seek coaches or consultants. With the right mentor, both you and your practice can succeed.
  5. Continue Your Education – The last advice you want to hear as a new dentist is ‘more schooling,’ but it’s true. Once you have settled in, you should look for new opportunities to hone your skills. There exists a world of workshops, lectures, and courses that can further your passion in dentistry, bring you confidence in your work, and improve the value of your practice.

With the right mindset and plan, you can build yourself up as a new dentist, achieving your leadership and financial goals. If you are considering starting your own practice, our team will be the resource you need to secure your future in success. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

100 West Road suite 410
Towson, MD 21204

December 31, 2020

Schiff Client Update, December 31, 2020

PPP#1 Loans

  1. Covered Expenses paid with your PPP#1 Loan will now be tax deductible for money already received
  2. PPP#1 funds will not be taxable income, which means the expenses paid with the PPP#1 funds will be tax deductible
  3. The New Tax Bill, that President Trump signed on Sunday, December 27, 2020, repeals the requirement of deducting the EIDL advance from the PPP forgiveness amount
  4. The EIDL advance up to $10,000 per Practice (or $1,000 per Employee), will not have to be repaid.
  5. The New Tax Bill simplifies the forgiveness process on PPP loans of $150,000 or less. (We have yet to see what that new process or form will be). Please wait to apply for forgiveness, for the Banks are still waiting on updated guidance from the SBA and the US Treasury. Please remember, you MUST file for forgiveness, 10 Months after your 24 week period is up. If you do not file for forgiveness, your PPP Loan , will become a two (2) year Loan payable at 1% interest.

PPP#2 – Second Round of Funding

  1. The SBA will have 10 days (after the New Tax Bill is enacted) to establish regulations for the next round of PPP#2 funding. Thus, please keep in mind that the highlights below are terms we anticipate being signed into law; however, the SBA’s regulations may alter this.
  2. $284.5 Billion in funds will be available through the next PPP#2 loans.
  3. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP#2) offered through March 31, 2021.
  4. Is your Practice eligible for the second round of funding (PPP#2)? Businesses with less than 300 employees who have had a 25% or greater reduction in collections (i.e., gross receipts) in any ONE quarter of 2020, when compared to that same quarter of 2019. For example, let’s assume you collected $100,000 in April 2019, $1000,000 in May 2019 and $100,000 in June 2019 for a total of $300,000 for Q2 of 2019. We will need to compare that to the same quarter of 2020 (April, May & June 2020) to determine if you have a reduction of Collections that are 25% or better. I sense most of you will, since you were closed a good portion of Q2 2020. If so, we will then need further guidance from both the SBA and the US Treasury, as to what criteria will be needed to be satisfied to meet the new requirements of the PPP#2.
  5. I will be working with the ADA in January 2021 as the PPP#2 develops and will be reporting back to you at that time. The ADA has been “off the charts” supporting Dentistry throughout this process. Your membership with the ADA is working for you!!  

Other Key Tax Provisions for Dentistry

  1. Employee Retention Tax Credit: Extended through July 1, 2021; We are waiting on further guidance as to how this work in 2021.
  2. COVID-Related Pay Tax Credits: Extended to March 31, 2021. These are the refundable payroll tax credits for Emergency Paid Leave and Emergency Family Medical Leave Pay that were set to expire on December 31. Please e mail Diane Nelson, CPA, MST at DNelson@schiffcpa.com for further guidance and help if needed.
  3. Charitable Giving Incentive Extended: One-year extension of the $300 “above the line deduction,” meaning you can take this deduction even if you are not using itemizing your deductions on your individual income tax return. Is now $600 if Married Filing Joint (MFJ). Please see note below on giving to the ALS Clinic at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Thank you!
  4. Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA) Relief: Allows individuals to carry over any unused health and dependent care FSA benefits from 2020 into 2021 plan year.

Department of Health & Human Services (HHS)

Many of you received Phase 2 funding from the Department of Health & Human Services. Some of you, even received funding from HHS recently within their Phase 3 funding. As of today, we will have to report to the Department of HHS in January 2021 and again in July 2021 as to how you used these proceeds and what monies were spent on such. As soon as January 2021 begins for Small Business, the Department of HHS will be supplying us with further guidance as to what documents will be needed in order to gain full forgiveness. As of now, please save all documentation (Invoices, Canceled Checks and Credit Card Receipts) for any items you purchased that would qualify for PPE Equipment & Supplies. We will be sending out an updated e-mail with instructions, as soon as the requirements become apparent to us.  

2020 4th Quarter Estimated Payments due , January 15, 2021

During the last Quarter of 2020, we have met with most of our clients. During your 2020 year end meeting, we presented to you, two (2) scenarios with respect to your Tax Position as of December 31, 2020. Please review such, and please pay the 2020 4th Quarter Estimate based on the Column of your Tax Projection that states the PPP Loan will not be taxable. If you have any questions, please contact your Schiff Team Member on Monday, January 4, 2021.

Maryland – LLC’s , Sub S Corporations – Maryland MD 510 Payments due TODAY, December 31, 2020

Recently, the State of Maryland changed their tax laws as it relates, to the State of Maryland Taxes due from Pass Through entities, such as a Maryland LLC, Maryland Partnership and a Maryland Subchapter S Corporation. The new Tax Law, will allow you to pay your State Taxes through your entity, and receive a tax deduction. Please be sure to pay this Tax with Maryland Tax Form 510D. https://www.marylandtaxes.gov/forms/20_forms/510D.pdf. Please pay today, December 31, 2020, if you have not done so.

This only applies to Maryland Partnerships and Corporations, NOT SOLE PROPIETORSHIPS taxed as an LLC!

ALS Clinic at Johns Hopkins Hospital Baltimore – Cindy Schiff

As you have gotten to know Cindy, life was not about her, but about mankind. There will be no better way to honor her life with a contribution to research of the horrible disease of ALS. Contributions in Cindy’s name can be mail to:


Hopkins ALS Clinical & Education Fund
c/o Lora Clawson, CRNP
JHOPC – Suite 5070A 
601 North Caroline Street
Baltimore MD 21287

Or , you can pay on line at >>

https://secure.jhu.edu/form/als?fbclid=IwAR3RvQ3xmUM0vdcXfrcxvOI1XF7h1k5j58ARe8iWPvqtUx38lWl6lyV4QfM

Special “THANKS” to each of you, that have made a Contribution to the ALS Clinic at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore in honor of Cindy’s Name. I am so appreciative of each you and your generosity. The ALS Clinic in Baltimore, is amazed at the abundance of love as well!  My heart is filled with amazing warmth & comfort….Thank you!

ADCPA PODCAST on PPP Funds & Cindy Schiff & the ADCPA

As most of you know, the ADCPA produces a weekly PODCAST on Dental Practice Management as well as Dental Finance. The December 16th PODCAST was on >>>What Dentists Need to do to Qualify for a New PPP Loan in the Next Round of Stimulus as well as was dedicated to Cindy & her life. If you would like to listen to this Podcast, please click on the Hyper Link below. I am grateful for Art Wiederman, CPA (ADCPA Los Angeles CA) for dedicating the PODCAST to Cindy & her life.

https://blubrry.com/art_of_dental_finance/71634748/what-dentists-need-to-do-to-qualify-for-a-new-ppp-loan-in-the-next-round-of-stimulus/

December 21, 2020

Additional Coronavirus Response and Relief (ACRR)

This morning the text of the new Additional Coronavirus Response and Relief (ACRR) legislation was released. If the legislation is passed by Congress and signed into law, it will include the following items:

1.  PPP Deductibility – Expenses used to obtain loan forgiveness will be deductible.

2.  EIDL Grant taxability – The EIDL Grant (up to $10,000 received in April 2020) will be tax free and related expenses will be deductible.

3.  EIDL Grant impact – The EIDL Grant will no longer reduce PPP loan forgiveness. Under the CARES Act, if a practice received a $100,000 PPP and $10,000 EIDL, it would be eligible for $90,000 forgiveness and be left with a $10,000 PPP loan. That adjustment is being eliminated allowing for the potential to obtain full forgiveness.

4.  Simplified application – PPP loans of under $150,000 will be eligible for a one page simplified forgiveness application but still must retain documentation and meet the requirements of the program.

5.  2nd Round PPP – If your practice incurred a 25% or greater reduction in collections in any 2020 calendar quarter compared to 2019, it may be eligible for a 2nd PPP loan. Most practices should have incurred such a reduction for the 2nd quarter that includes April – June 2020. We need additional time and guidance to determine if there will be other limitations.

6.  Stimulus payments – Taxpayers with under $150,000 adjusted gross income (married filing joint) or $75,000 (single) will be eligible for an additional $600 stimulus payment or 2020 tax credit.

7.  Meals – Business meals provided by a restaurant paid in 2021 and 2022 will be 100% deductible but still require normal documentation including the business purpose, who attended, and what business was discussed. There is no change to business meals paid in 2020.

It is important to note that even if this legislation is passed without changes, it will take the Treasury Department, SBA, and IRS a few weeks or months to clarify some details. 

This is GREAT NEWS to all business owners! A early Christmas gift before Christmas!  :>)

December 16, 2020

Next Round of HHS Grant Relief Funds 12/16/20

Today, December 16, 2020, many of you should be receiving the next round of HHS Payments (Phase 3 Payments).  Please check your bank statement for they are ACH into your Business Checking Account. For those of you, that have had your 2020 year-end meeting with us, you may want to increase your Estimated Tax Payments due January 15, 2021, for these funds are taxable. Please contact your Schiff Team Member for any questions you may have. If your 2020 year-end meeting is coming up, we will need this info from you ASAP, so that we remain current.