Why you should hire a bookkeeper

And why I say there are no small clients.

While maintaining accurate financial records may seem like simple common sense, actually doing it can be tougher than you think. The process involves much more than merely tracking numbers; it requires a keen eye for detail, a solid understanding of financial principles, and the ability to navigate complex accounting software.

A trained bookkeeper can ensure that all of your financial records are not only up-to-date but also meticulously organized and ready to be utilized for a variety of important purposes. These purposes may include making informed financial decisions, applying for financing, or providing necessary documentation in the event of an audit. A proficient bookkeeper does far more than just enter transactions into a computer system; they can analyze a business's performance over time, identify trends, and make informed suggestions about future plans that could enhance profitability and efficiency.

You might wonder why one would not simply hire a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for these tasks instead. After all, CPAs are credentialed, licensed professionals who have undergone rigorous training and examinations to provide a wide range of financial services. However, it is essential to consider that hiring a CPA comes with a higher price tag due to the cost associated with their licensing and credentials. A bookkeeper will generally charge around $35-$60 per hour, or they may offer a monthly rate that varies depending on the scope of work required. This rate can range from approximately $50 for basic services such as balancing the books, to upwards of $500 per month for comprehensive services that include entering all financial transactions and providing additional support to the business.

In contrast, a CPA typically starts at a rate of $150 per hour, and their fees can escalate quickly depending on the complexity of the services needed. Moreover, CPAs often do not take on small bookkeeping clients, as their focus tends to be on larger businesses or more complex financial situations. While it is true that a CPA is invaluable to have in your back pocket for tax season, addressing significant financial questions and decision-making, as well as providing audit support, their services are usually utilized only on a quarterly basis or even less frequently.

This leads to the question of why I assert that there are no small clients. Every business, regardless of its size, represents someone's ambition, and ambitions are, in essence, dreams. This is not small stuff, even if it might appear trivial from someone else's perspective.

As a bookkeeper, I believe wholeheartedly that I possess the power to help someone's dream grow and flourish. Therefore, even a tiny business with no employees and a very slim profit margin is, in my eyes, a significant client! Each client I work with is not merely a number in my ledger; they are a testament to someone’s hard work and aspirations.

My role is to support them in their journey, ensuring that their financial foundation is solid and that they are well-equipped to pursue their goals. I understand that today’s small business could be tomorrow’s success story, and that potential is what drives me to deliver my best work and to nurture these relationships with care and dedication.

Jessica Atchison

Bookkeeper