Is It Worth Hiring a Bookkeeper for My Small Business?

Introduction
If you're a small business owner, you've likely asked yourself this question:
"Do I really need a bookkeeper, or can I manage it myself?"

With so many apps and online tools available, it’s tempting to handle your own books. But the truth is, DIY bookkeeping can often lead to costly mistakes and wasted time. In this article, we’ll walk through what bookkeepers actually do, when it makes sense to hire one, and how it can impact your business’s growth and financial health.

What Does a Bookkeeper Do?

Bookkeepers manage the daily financial records that keep your business running smoothly. Their responsibilities typically include:

• Recording all income and expenses
  

• Reconciling bank and credit card statements
  

• Categorizing transactions accurately
  

• Managing accounts payable and receivable
  

• Generating financial reports for tax filing or business decisions

While this may sound simple, doing it correctly and consistently is what separates a growing business from a chaotic one.

Signs You Might Need a Bookkeeper

You may not realize you need help until things start slipping. Common red flags include:

• Dreading tax season or filing late
  

• Feeling unsure about your actual profits
  

• Struggling to stay on top of invoices or collections
  

• Spending hours on spreadsheets instead of running your business
  

• Your accountant charges extra to clean up messy books

If any of these apply, hiring a bookkeeper isn’t just worth it—it’s essential.

What Does a Bookkeeper Cost?

Bookkeepers typically charge from $300 up to $10,000 per month depending on your business size, complexity, and volume of transactions. It is always important to find a company that understands your company's needs and doesn't cut corners.

But compare that to:

• Thousands in missed deductions and overpaid taxes
  

• Hundreds in late fees or penalties

• Lost time that could be spent generating revenue

In most cases, a professional bookkeeper will save you more money than they cost.

Why Software Alone Isn’t Enough

Platforms like QuickBooks or Wave are helpful, but they rely on accurate input and consistent management. They don’t:

• Know how to classify tricky transactions
  

• Spot patterns that could trigger an audit
  

• Strategically organize your records to lower your tax burden
  

• Collaborate with your CPA or tax preparer

Software is a tool. A bookkeeper brings strategy, insight, and accuracy.

Final Thoughts

If you're making more than $50,000 a year in revenue or spending more than a couple of hours a week on financial tasks, hiring a bookkeeper can make a significant difference. It's not just about outsourcing a task, but investing into your business's growth and financial clarity.

Need Help Deciding?

We offer a free 15-minute bookkeeping checkup to help you understand whether now is the right time to bring in professional help.

[Schedule your free checkup here]