Frequently  Asked Questions

Do I need a bookkeeper?  I already have a tax preparer.

Bookkeepers work directly with the business owner on the financial details that happen within the business.  Your bookkeeper records, classifies and reconciles your transactions to provide up-to-date financial reports.   These reports reflect the state of your business, which helps you to make better business decisions. 

 

At fiscal year end, your bookkeeper will supply a package of financial reports to you and your tax preparer.  Organized books make the life of your CPA or tax preparer much easier, allowing them to focus on the tax strategies of your business and to prepare your taxes on a timely basis.

 

What is a virtual bookkeeper?

A virtual bookkeeper is a person who works remotely, utilizing current technologies and the internet to complete tasks such as expense coding, reconciliation, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll coordination and financial reporting. Virtual bookkeeping is not location-dependent and services may be offered to clients across the United States (or perhaps across the world).

 

Why hire a virtual bookkeeper?

Outsourcing your bookkeeping needs has become a cost-effective option for business owners.

On-site bookkeepers require office space and furniture, a computer, employee benefits, employer-paid taxes and HR/administrative support in addition to their salary.  While on-site bookkeepers cost around $52,000 a year, plus payroll taxes and benefits; a virtual bookkeeper is paid as a consultant (independent contractor) and will normally cost between $3,600 and $24,000 a year, depending on the services contracted.  Another benefit is that bookkeeping services are tax deductible.

 

What kind of clients do you work with?

Our preferred niche is to support mature, responsive, service-based professionals.  The ones that understand the responsibility of treating their business like a business.  We've walked in your shoes and understand the many hats you wear to run your business.  That's where we offer added value as a business adviser, referral partner and trusted confidant. 

 

Examples of clients we support are realtors, real estate firms, independent financial advisers, photographers, business coaches, marketing professionals, pet sitting/walking services, dog breeders, book brokers, massage therapists, home improvement contractors, ceramic tile installers, HVAC contractors, crawl space waterproofing contractor, helicopter mechanic, commercial foundation contractor and we manage owner-financed properties for several land developers.

​

What accounting software do you use?

Our practice uses XERO cloud-based accounting software exclusively for our clients because of the many user-friendly features it has for small-business owners.  We think you'll love it too!  If you are currently using a different accounting software platform, we can use your Trial Balance figures from your books and start a fresh set of books in XERO.

 

How do I get my financial data to you?

There are many options for sending pertinent documents to us.  Most banks offer "bank feeds" where your transactions can be downloaded into your accounting software.  Many banks offer accountant logins with restricted access and permissions.  

 

How much do you charge for your services?

Regular monthly bookkeeping prices are based on the size of your business, the number of bank and credit card accounts to reconcile, the number of loans and amortization schedules to maintain, the volume of transactions in all these accounts as well as the frequency of financial reporting needed.  Pricing for catch-up work is based on complexity and the number of months or years of backlog. 

​

My books are behind and a mess - can you help me catch up?

However big you think your mess is, chances are we've seen and cleaned up bigger ones.  We have experience in getting financial transactions organized and caught-up after months or even years have gone by.  Don't let embarrassment hold you back from getting the help you deserve.  

 

Taxes are coming due soon - can you help me get ready?

Yes, of course.  If you are close to the deadline, we may have to work overtime. Let's talk it over.

 

What about confidentiality?

Your company’s financials are a private matter and are treated with the utmost care and respect.

 

How do I reach you when I have questions?

We are very responsive to emails as the preferred communication method, normally within one business day, so your questions and concerns are dealt with in a timely manner.  You will also have our business phone number for texts and emergencies.

​