Online platform for finding & working with accountants

As April 15 approaches, it’s a safe bet that small businesses and individuals across the US are on the hunt for someone to handle their taxes. Aiming to make the process easier and more transparent than ever before, Teaspiller is a platform that helps users find, hire and work online with the accountant of their choice. Users of New York-based Teaspiller begin by searching the site’s free database of more than 20,000 tax and accounting professionals across the United States. A geographic filter helps them find one close by, if that’s what they want, and accountant profiles display experience, certifications (verified by Teaspiller), practice areas, rates and even client ratings. Once users find a professional they’d like to hire, they can also choose to work with that person online, uploading documents directly. In that case, the accountant will send a quote, and the client can choose whether or not to accept it before work begins. When work is completed, payment can be made directly through the Teaspiller site. Users can also take advantage of Teaspiller’s “Ask an Accountant” service; pricing is USD 15 for a response overnight, USD 10 for a response in two days, or free otherwise. Teaspiller currently doesn’t charge accountants to be listed, but it plans eventually to offer a “pro” account option with added features, according to a VentureBeat report. It also aims to charge a commission on transactions conducted through the site. How could you bring a much-needed dose of transparency and accessibility to the professional service of your choice? (Related: Custom presentation designs in 48 hours for $99 — Transparency comes to real estate agents — A simpler way to make a doctor’s appointment — Property tax advocates.) Spotted by: Stephen Tsui