Bookkeeping: Do it yourself or hire a bookkeeper?

Bookkeeping: Do It Yourself or Hire a Bookkeeper?

Bookkeeping is the process of tracking all the company’s business transactions. This is so you can see exactly where your business is spending money, where the most revenue is coming from, and help you decide which tax deductions you can claim.

Why bookkeeping is important:

  1. It helps identify more tax deductions – no expenses fall through the cracks.
  2. Catch financial mistakes – bank errors, invoicing mistakes, etc.
  3. Get a clear picture of where your money is going – track expenses and income, track busy and slow seasons for planning purposes, and helps avoid cashflow issues the most common reason businesses fail.

Those all sound like legit reasons to make sure to do your bookkeeping right? But how do you go about it?

Well, you have a few choices!

  1. Do your own bookkeeping.
  2. Hire an in house bookkeeper.
  3. Outsource bookkeeping.

Doing your own bookkeeping:

As a business owner, you may opt to do your own bookkeeping to avoid extra expenses, but ask yourself do you have the knowledge and adequate time to take on this job?

Going the DIY route can help keep expenses low and it may not be too complex if you don’t have many transactions. You will also be familiar with your numbers and won’t have to rely on a bookkeeper to let you know where your business stands financially.

But remember this can be time consuming, especially if you aren’t familiar with accounting and risks you not being able to focus on other important aspects of your business. On top of that if you have just recently picked up some bookkeeping skills, there is a chance you may have some hiccups or errors, which can leave you with inaccurate books.

Hire an in-house bookkeeper:

This option can save you time, but can be more costly and may only be best depending on your specific industry needs. For example, if you have a lot of special and specific requests and may need to consult your bookkeeper daily, having someone in house may be a good option. By having someone in house you can count on them to answer your questions right away and will save you from an email or a call to your outsourced bookkeeper.  Although don’t weigh out your other options already! Outsourcing can still be a good idea!

Outsource bookkeeping:

Outsourced accounting and bookkeeping have become a more common solution for many small business owners today. This is because outsourcing bookkeeping can be much more economical than having an internal accounting department, which will require you to pay full salaries and employment tax.

You then can focus on what you do best & work on improving the business because after all you did not go into business to oversee your books! The best thing you can do for your business is determine where your time is best spent.

And even if you do have special and specific needs some bookkeepers do offer customizable services to fit what will work best for your business.

At Stratlign we offer stress free and customizable outsourced bookkeeping:

Our bookkeepers are QBO Pro advisors making sure your books are done right and accurately! There is no 800 number over here or a robot you must go through to speak to someone. You just give us a call and get connected with your assigned bookkeeper who will be familiar with your books and can answer any questions that come up for you! This way your service is convenient, and you have all the tools and resources to make the best decisions for your business as well as get through tax season with ease.

To learn more about how our bookkeeping services can meet your needs contact us today at 508-563-2218 or fill out a “Let’s Talk” form and a team member will reach out to you!

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Justice Bragg

Business Development Specialist, Florida

At work, Justice is passionate about helping the team make decisions and connections that propel the business forward. He prioritizes client satisfaction by serving as a medium to facilitate communication to the proper channels making sure every issue is properly addressed.

Outside of work, Justice enjoys exercising by going to the gym and playing pickleball with his friends. He is a self-proclaimed foodie who can’t say no to trying a new restaurant, sometimes even immediately regretting it.

Zachary Williams

Staff Accountant, Florida

At Level Accounting, Zach is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. He is dedicated to ensuring financial success for our clients.

Beyond the office walls, Zach’s weekends are filled with adventure, whether he’s exploring Florida’s hidden gems with his wife or battling it out in tournaments. When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find him at the movies or casting his line out for a relaxing fishing session.

Melanie Jerome, MBA

SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT, FLORIDA

Meet Melanie J, one of our senior staff accountants! Melanie ensures your financial health with precision and expertise. Beyond the office, she’s a true crime enthusiast who loves traveling and outdoor adventures. Whether she’s balancing books or exploring new trails, MJ’s dedication and skill set the standard for excellence in our team.

Seren Lunsford, MBA

STAFF ACCOUNTANT, INDIANA, QUICKBOOKS ONLINE PRO-ADVISOR

Meet Seren, one of our dedicated staff accountants here at level accounting! She is responsible for bookkeeping & payroll. Outside of the office, you can find her on the sidelines of a soccer pitch, karting track, or baseball diamond, cheering on her two active boys. Seren is also a proud owner of two gentle giants, her beloved Great Danes. In her downtime, she channels her creativity into baking and decorating sugar cookies, always eager to experiment with new baked goods ideas and recipes. With her expertise in accounting and her passion for family, pets, and baking, Seren brings a unique blend of professionalism and warmth to our team.

Ivette Rivera

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT, FLORIDA

Ivette Rivera is our Executive Assistant at Level Accounting, juggling schedules and keeping things running smooth.

When she’s not crushing it at work, Ivette is an avid participant in her church community. As a mom, she’s all about those quality moments, whether it’s baking up a storm, hitting the water for some kayaking fun, or just chilling with a good book or binge-worthy show. And let’s not forget her partners in crime at home: Harley Quinn, the fridge-raiding pit bull, and Atlas, the cat who rules the roost. Ivette’s all about that balance between work hustle and personal bliss.