I am a California Certified Public Accountant (currently inactive) and am considering starting my own accounting practice. My professional background includes audit experience at a "Big Six" accounting firm (which makes me a bit old-school, doesn't it?), as well as years of industry experience in accounting, finance, and project management within corporations. Later, I left the workforce to care for my children, and during that time, I also managed a small foundation on a part-time basis.

Currently, I am nurturing an idea: taking on a small number of clients to provide bookkeeping, payroll processing, and accounts payable/receivable management services. Small businesses can outsource some or all of their accounting activities to me. I have some tax handling capabilities, but for more complex filings, I may hire external consultants for assistance.

To be honest, I have just begun exploring this idea. I am particularly focused on several aspects: how to best structure the business, how to connect with potential clients and other service providers, and how to truly bring this venture to life. I would greatly appreciate any thoughts and opinions.