When it comes to managing your business finances, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing who to trust with your bookkeeping and accounting responsibilities. For small business owners, there are two main options: outsourcing bookkeeping services to an outsourced CFO or working with a traditional accountant.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two options and help you determine which one is right for your business.
Why Outsource Your Bookkeeping?
Before we dive into the differences between an outsourced CFO and a traditional accountant, let’s first discuss the benefits of outsourcing your bookkeeping in general.
Outsourcing bookkeeping responsibilities frees up valuable time for small business owners to focus on running their operations, identifying new opportunities for growth, and enjoying some much-needed relaxation. With outsourced bookkeeping, you also get access to essential reports and financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
In addition, having your bookkeeping taken care of by a professional expedites the tax filing process. You’ll have all the numbers you need to fill out forms quickly with IRS-compliant reports for your tax return.
Related: What is an Outsourced CFO?
When Should You Outsource Your Bookkeeping?
Typically, there are a few signs that it’s time to leave the DIY behind and bring on a professional. It may be time to outsource your bookkeeping if DIY bookkeeping is taking up more time than you can afford, your books are never up to date, you’ve missed out on tax write-offs, you’re struggling to stay on top of your cash flow, you’re having trouble tracking accounts receivable and payable, or making your estimated tax payments has become a major hassle.
Related: The Benefits of Outsourcing Your Bookkeeping
Types of Outsourced Bookkeeping Services
Now, let’s take a closer look at the two main options for outsourced bookkeeping services: an outsourced CFO or a traditional accountant.
Outsourced CFO: An outsourced CFO is a professional who provides financial management and accounting services to several businesses. In general, outsourced CFOs offer more than just bookkeeping services. They may also provide strategic financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting services to help businesses grow and thrive.
A key benefit of working with an outsourced CFO is that they can help you make informed financial decisions by providing detailed financial reports and analyses. They can also provide customized financial advice and guidance to help you meet your business goals.
Traditional Accountant: A traditional accountant is an in-house professional who provides accounting and bookkeeping services to a business. They typically offer a range of services, including preparing financial statements, providing tax advice and planning, and handling compliance issues.
Traditional accountants tend to be a more expensive investment than outsourced CFOs, as they require a full-time salary and all the office and computer programs and equipment they need to do their job, as opposed to an outsourced CFO, who has their own gear and only charge for the work they do.
Outsourced CFO vs. Traditional Accountant: Which Is Right for Your Business?
The decision of whether to work with an outsourced CFO or a traditional accountant ultimately depends on the specific needs and goals of your business. Here are two factors to consider:
- Business size and complexity: If your business is larger or more complex, a traditional accountant may be a better fit. If your business is small and straightforward, an outsourced CFO may be a better fit.
- Budget: Outsourced CFOs tend to be more affordable than traditional accountants, so if cost is a major factor for your business, you may want to go with an outsourced bookkeeping service.
- Objectives: What would you like your accountant or bookkeeper to provide you? Once you identify your needs, you can research, compare and contrast all your options and make the best choice.
We’re happy you found this article informative! Go back to our blog page to find more tips, tricks and guidance on bookkeeping, to ensure your business is financially sound and ready to grow to the next level.
Running a business is hard work, bookkeeping shouldn’t be.
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