If you’re tired of finding small—or large—mistakes in your finance books, you need a bookkeeper. 

But how do you find a good bookkeeper? What qualifications should you look for? Do you even need a bookkeeper or just a software program?

This guide will break down the types of bookkeepers, the cost of bookkeepers, and how to find a good bookkeeper so that you can be an expert at landing the perfect match for your bookkeeping needs. 

It’s Time to Fire Yourself—Your Finances Will Thank You!

We know how it goes—you’re the boss, the sales guru, and sometimes even the one fixing the office printer. But if you’ve become your own bookkeeper too? Yeah, it’s time for an intervention.

Let’s be honest: if your life has become one long date with Excel and you’re losing sight of the bigger picture, it’s time to bring in a pro. You wouldn’t perform surgery on yourself (I hope!), so why are you still doing your own books?

Here’s when it’s time to pass the baton:

  1. Your books look like a crime scene: If receipts are stuffed into drawers and the thought of reconciling makes you break out in hives, it’s time for a rescue mission—AKA, a bookkeeper.

  2. You’re dodging tax deadlines like bullets: If tax time turns you into a ball of stress, and you find yourself missing deadlines,  hoping the IRS doesn’t come knocking, you need a bookkeeper keeping you in check year-round.

  3. Cash flow? More like cash mystery: If you’re always asking, “Where did all the money go?” it’s time for someone who can track your cash and make sure things don’t fall through the cracks.

  4. You’re scaling up: When your business starts growing, so do the financial headaches. A bookkeeper can handle the heavy lifting while you focus on that big boss energy.

  5. You’re not a numbers nerd: Let’s face it—unless you dream about balancing ledgers at night, finances are not your jam. A pro bookkeeper will make sure your books stay spotless, so you don’t have to.

What Does a Bookkeeper Do?

small business bookkeeper

A bookkeeper is your financial right hand, managing the day-to-day tasks that keep your business running smoothly. They handle everything from tracking expenses and income to balancing the books and making sure your accounts are accurate and up-to-date. 

On top of that, a great bookkeeper helps with payroll, prepares financial reports, and keeps you tax-ready—so you can focus on growing your business instead of getting lost in the numbers.

Types of Small Business Bookkeepers 

Not all bookkeepers are created equal, and finding the right fit depends on your business’s needs. Here’s the lowdown on the different types of bookkeepers out there:

Freelance Bookkeepers

  • Price: Freelancers are typically more budget-friendly, charging between $20 to $75 an hour depending on their experience.
  • Process: Freelancers usually work remotely and handle the basics—tracking expenses, invoicing, and maybe some light reporting. They’re independent operators, so be prepared to use their preferred software or provide your own.
  • Schedule: Flexibility is their game, but remember, you’re not their only client, so instant access might not always be on the table.
  • Experience: You’ll find everything from beginners to experts in the freelance pool. Do your homework—check credentials, reviews, and experience.
  • Good For: Small businesses or startups needing part-time bookkeeping without the hefty price tag of a full-time service.
  • How to Find a Good One: Ask for recommendations, scour reviews, and make sure they’ve got experience in your industry before you commit.

Bookkeeping Firms

  • Price: Firms come with a bigger price tag, often charging between $500 to $2,500 a month depending on what you need. 
  • Process: With a firm, you’re not just getting a bookkeeper—you’re getting an entire team. They handle everything from daily bookkeeping to high-level financial strategy. 
  • Schedule: Firms are structured, meaning you’ll get regular updates, reports, and check-ins. It’s like having an entire accounting department without the overhead. 
  • Experience: Firms tend to have bookkeepers with deep experience across multiple industries, so you’re in good hands no matter your niche. 
  • Good For: Medium to large businesses that need a full range of financial services and prefer the expertise of a team. 
  • How to Find a Good One: Go for firms with a strong track record in your industry. Be clear about the services you need and check that they can handle your business size.

Bookkeeping Software

  • Price: Whether you do the bookkeeping yourself or hire a bookkeeper, accounting software is nonnegotiable. There are a few free options out there, but most paid solutions range between $10 and $240 per month, with QuickBooks Online (QBO) subscriptions averaging around $65 per month. 
  • Process: The software handles basic tasks like invoicing, expense tracking, and reports—but you’re still doing the legwork. If you’re comfortable managing the books yourself, this is the way to go. 
  • Schedule: Available 24/7, but don’t forget—you’re the one doing the work unless you pair it with a service. 
  • Experience: If you’ve got a handle on basic accounting, the software works. If not, you might find yourself in over your head. 
  • Good For: DIY business owners who don’t mind taking the reins and want an affordable, hands-on solution. 
  • How to Find a Good One: Look for software that fits your business size, has great customer support, and integrates with your existing tools.

How to Interview a Good Bookkeeping Candidate

bookkeepers for small businesses

Once you’ve found a potential bookkeeper, it’s time to make sure they’re the right fit. The secret? Ask situational questions that get to the heart of their behavior, not just their skills. 

  1. “Tell me about a time when you…” had to solve a tricky financial problem. This will show their problem-solving abilities in action.
  2. “Give me an example of…” when you had to present complicated financial information to a client. Then ask how they made sure the client understood. Follow up with, “How did you know they got it?”
  3. “What would you do if…” you spot an error in a client’s financial records? Look for their attention to detail and integrity.
  4. “What did you do when…” you had to meet a tight deadline during tax season? This will show how they handle pressure.

Don’t settle for surface-level answers. Push for specifics and real examples. 

Where to Find a Good Bookkeeper

Finding the right bookkeeper can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. 

Instead of spending hours sifting through endless profiles and reviews, consider using a matching service, like Bookkeeping Match Up that connects businesses with vetted, experienced bookkeepers. 

How to Find a Good Bookkeeper: Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I spend on a bookkeeper?

The cost of a bookkeeper can vary depending on the complexity of your needs. Freelance bookkeepers may charge between $20 to $75 per hour, while firms can range from $500 to $2,500 per month. Remember you get what you pay for!

What makes a good bookkeeper?

A good bookkeeper is detail-oriented, trustworthy, and skilled at managing your financials. They should have experience in your industry and be proactive about keeping your accounts clean and tax-ready. 

Should I hire someone to do my bookkeeping?

If managing your own books is eating into time better spent growing your business, it’s definitely time to bring in a professional. A bookkeeper will not only save you time but also ensure that your finances are accurate and compliant, helping you avoid costly mistakes down the road.

Is a bookkeeper cheaper than an accountant?

In most cases, yes! Bookkeepers handle the day-to-day tasks of managing your finances, while accountants often come in for higher-level services like tax preparation or financial planning. Bookkeepers typically charge lower rates, so they’re a more cost-effective solution for routine financial management.

Find Your Perfect Bookkeeping Match!

bookkeeping match up

Ready to stop stressing over your books? Find your perfect bookkeeping match today and let the pros handle your finances—so you can get back to what you love—running your business!

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!