Bookkeeping & Accounting Services

Bookkeeping and accounting services maintain financial records, process transactions, reconcile accounts, prepare financial statements, and ensure tax compliance for small businesses.

You work remotely using cloud accounting software (QuickBooks Online, Xero, FreshBooks), serving multiple clients across industries or specializing in specific sectors (e-commerce, contractors, professional services).

Success requires accounting knowledge, attention to detail, and understanding business finances.

Getting certified (QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Xero certification) or licensed (CPA for accounting) increases credibility and rates.

Pricing typically charges $300-2,000+ monthly per client depending on transaction volume and complexity.

Serving 15-25 clients creates full-time income.

Startup costs are minimal - certifications, software subscriptions, website, and insurance under $3,000.

Revenue is highly recurring since businesses need ongoing bookkeeping.

Operating costs include software subscriptions, continuing education, and insurance.

Marketing works through accountant/CPA referrals (you handle bookkeeping, they handle tax returns), business associations, local advertising, and LinkedIn.

Challenges include client onboarding complexity (cleaning up messy books), seasonal tax season crush, and client businesses failing.

Success requires systems for efficiency, specialization for expertise, excellent communication, and proactive financial insights beyond basic bookkeeping.

Many bookkeepers scale by hiring additional bookkeepers or evolving into full-service accounting firms.