Accountant shortage weighing heavy on Canadian companies during tax season: survey

As businesses and individuals file their taxes this spring, many Canadian organizations find themselves short-staffed in the accounting department, leading to efficiency and accuracy concerns, according to a survey.

The survey, conducted by human resources firm Robert Half, found that 90 per cent of finance and accounting hiring managers have experienced challenges due to a shortage of available accountants.

More than 40 per cent of those respondents said the shortage has increased inefficiencies, including delays in financial processes, and another 34 per cent said it has led to concerns over accounting accuracy.

Of those hiring manager dealing with challenges related to the shortage, nearly half said their existing staff members have been overburdened as a result, and another 33 per cent said they had trouble securing enough staff for tax season.