How do I find a good Bookkeeper?

Bookkeeping might not be the most glamorous part of running a business, but it’s definitely one of the most important. It’s all about keeping track of money coming in and going out so you can make better financial decisions, stay tax-ready, and understand the true health of your business.

Still, many small business owners have questions about bookkeeping—how much it costs, whether it’s worth it, and if it’s really necessary if you already use software like QuickBooks. Let’s break down some of the most common questions.

How much does bookkeeping cost?

It depends on the size and complexity of your business. Some bookkeepers charge hourly (typically $20–$50 per hour), while many offer flat monthly packages. For small businesses with fairly simple needs, you can expect to pay around $200–$300 per month. The good news is you only pay for what you need—no full-time salary required.

How do I find a trustworthy bookkeeper?

The best place to start is by asking other business owners for referrals. Online searches and reviews are also helpful, but look for someone with experience in your specific industry. A good bookkeeper should be reliable, transparent, and happy to walk you through their process so you feel comfortable.

Is a bookkeeper cheaper than an accountant?

Yes, usually. Bookkeepers focus on daily financial tracking—recording transactions, reconciling accounts, preparing reports—while accountants handle bigger-picture items like tax strategy, audits, and financial planning. Most businesses benefit from having both: a bookkeeper for the day-to-day, and an accountant for higher-level strategy.

How do people usually find bookkeepers?

• Referrals from colleagues or friends

• Searching online directories and reviews

• Networking events or small business groups

• Reaching out to local bookkeeping or accounting firms

Outsourced virtual bookkeepers are becoming especially popular, since you don’t need to be in the same city to work together effectively.

Is hiring a bookkeeper worth it?

Absolutely. A bookkeeper saves you time, prevents costly mistakes, and provides accurate reports that help you make better business decisions. Instead of spending hours with spreadsheets, you can focus on running your business.

Bookkeeper vs. Accountant: Which is better?

It’s not about which is better—it’s about what you need. Think of a bookkeeper as your foundation: they keep your numbers clean and organized. An accountant builds on that foundation with tax planning, compliance, and financial advice. Together, they’re a powerhouse team for your business.

Do I still need a bookkeeper if I use QuickBooks?

QuickBooks (or similar software) is a powerful tool, but it still needs human oversight. Software can’t categorize transactions correctly every time or understand the context of your business decisions. A bookkeeper ensures accuracy, consistency, and compliance.

Can I do bookkeeping myself?

Yes, you can—but ask yourself if you should. Bookkeeping requires attention to detail, knowledge of accounting principles, and time. If you make mistakes, they can be expensive to fix. Most business owners find it’s worth the investment to outsource this task to a professional.

The Bottom Line:

Bookkeeping is essential for every business, no matter the size. While software can help, nothing replaces the expertise and reliability of a professional bookkeeper. By outsourcing your bookkeeping—especially to a virtual bookkeeper—you’ll save time, reduce stress, and always know where your business stands financially.

At Antelope Bookkeeping and Consulting, we help small business owners stay organized and confident with virtual bookkeeping services designed to fit your needs and budget.