How to find a good bookkeeper
As a small business owner, your business is your baby. You’ve poured your heart, soul, and endless hours into making it grow. But let’s be honest: categorizing a long list of bank transactions when you’re already exhausted isn't exactly joyful.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the numbers, hiring a bookkeeper is the ultimate act of self-care for your business. But how do you find someone you can trust with your books? Here is your guide to finding a financial partner who brings simplicity and confidence back to your life.
Some must-have qualifications
You don’t need to hire a corporate firm, but you do need someone with the right credentials. Since you likely use QBO, look for these specific markers:
QuickBooks certified proadvisor: This is the gold standard for QBO. It means they’ve passed rigorous testing by Intuit and stay updated on the latest software features.
Relevant experience: Do they understand the world of a small business owner? If you have a team (or plan to hire one soon), are they comfortable setting up and running payroll? Have they worked with other businesses in your industry?
Understanding the tax return connection
While your bookkeeper doesn't necessarily need to be the person who files your taxes, they should have a deep familiarity with how a tax return is structured. A great bookkeeper understands that the work they do in QBO all year long is the foundation for your annual filing.
Look for a partner who:
Speaks the language: They should understand how your chart of accounts maps to your tax categories (Schedule C or Form 1120-S for most small businesses).
Collaborates with your CPA: They should be comfortable speaking with your tax preparer to ensure your books are "tax-ready" soon after year-end. A good bookkeeper can make your CPA’s job a lot easier, saving you $$$ on tax preparation fees.
Knows the boundaries: A professional bookkeeper knows exactly where their job ends and the tax preparer's job begins, ensuring you have a seamless team supporting you.
Is virtual bookkeeping ok?
Folks, it’s 2026. The future is now. For most small businesses, a virtual bookkeeper is the most efficient and cost-effective choice. Here’s why:
Real-time collaboration: Because your data is in the cloud, both you and your bookkeeper can look at the same screen at the same time. No more handing off shoeboxes of receipts.
Lower overhead: You aren't paying for their office space or supplies. You’re only paying for their expertise.
Expertise over geography: You aren’t limited to whoever happens to live in your zip code. You can find the perfect fit for your specific industry.
Fit check
When you meet a potential bookkeeper, you aren't just checking boxes; you’re looking for a personality fit. Here are a few questions to get the conversation started:
"How do you handle communication?" Look for someone who is proactive, not just reactive. You want a partner who reaches out before there’s a problem.
"Can you help me understand my reports, or do you just record the numbers?" A great bookkeeper doesn't just "do the books"; they help you find the story behind the numbers so you can make confident decisions.
"As my business grows, what other ways can you support me?" You want a partner who can scale with you. Do they offer budget tracking or cash flow forecasting down the road?
At the end of the day, hiring a bookkeeper should feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. They should bring simplicity to your systems and clarity to your monthly reviews.
The right person should make you feel empowered, not intimidated. You should actually want to pick up the phone when you see them calling! Your books are a story of your hard work — choose a partner who values your story and supports your growth every step of the way.
