Suggestions to help you hold down the cost of bookkeeping services.

Every stage of business growth can benefit from accurate, efficient bookkeeping. Though some small business owners may choose to keep their own books initially, that may not always be the best choice. A successful company almost invariably grows to the point that a bookkeeper becomes a necessity. Though there may be instances in which it is not possible to use the services of a bookkeeper because of cost considerations, a competent, efficient bookkeeper often provides a value that exceeds the cost of the service.

That's particularly true when you use a bookkeeper on an hourly contract basis, but the same care should be used finding a contract bookkeeper as would be used to hire a full-time employee, perhaps more. Obviously, because of the sensitive nature of bookkeeping work, it's imperative to find an individual who is trustworthy and experienced. Take a little time to do some research. Talk to other business owners you know. Ask for referrals. If you decide to advertise for bookkeeping services, carefully check the references of individuals that respond.

Generally, hiring a more-qualified and higher-quality bookkeeper means paying more per hour (you get what you pay for), but there are ways you can hold down the cost of their services. Among them:

Make sure that the information you provide to your bookkeeper is as complete and accurate as possible. If your bookkeeper has to correct mistakes and search for missing information, that takes additional time that you'll have to pay for. Time is money.
Make the commitment to come into the 21st century and keep your financial records on a computer. If you insist on keeping handwritten records, your bookkeeper will have to input those records onto a computerized system. Why pay for that time needlessly? By the way, when you're selecting your bookkeeper make sure they're willing to provide occasional help with whatever software system you decide to use in your business.
If there are some written records you have to keep, make sure they are neat, orderly, and legible. Deciphering figures takes time and can often lead to mistakes.
Learn as much as you can about the process of bookkeeping. This offers two benefits. First, you may decide that there are some aspects of bookkeeping you can handle yourself, which will help you reduce costs. More importantly, the conversations you have with your bookkeeper will be easier and more productive.

Contact Rowand & Company, PS today to learn how your small business can benefit from working with a professional accounting firm.

Every stage of business growth can benefit from accurate, efficient bookkeeping

"I use Debra Rowand's office to prepare my business and personal taxes because she's always provided excellent service. While I run a one-man incorporated business and take responsibility for a number of things, I prefer to leave taxes to the professionals. I'd be crazy spending time trying to learn the inscrutable rules and regulations of all the various tax authorities. They are like moving ocean waves, and you have to keep your eye on them all the time or face the consequences. Debra's job is knowing what the rules are, and applying that knowledge to each client's needs. The main benefit for me, is that for a reasonable fee during the various tax annual events, I can keep working for my clients, knowing that an organized package will arrive from her office on time. All I have to do is confirm the information on the forms, write some checks and mail some envelopes. Then I'm done with what could be a grim task, but is instead pretty easy. Best regards."

~ Aaron Gimbel, A.W. Gimbel, Inc.

How to Hold Down the Costs of Bookkeeping Services