As your business grows, managing finances can become increasingly complex. While QuickBooks makes accounting more accessible, there may come a point when handling it yourself is no longer practical. That’s when hiring a QuickBooks Professional—a certified expert in QuickBooks software—can make a significant difference.
But how do you know when it’s time to bring in a professional? This guide explores what a QuickBooks Professional does, the signs that indicate you might need one, the costs involved, and how to find the right expert for your business.
Understanding What a QuickBooks Professional Does
What Is a QuickBooks Professional?
A QuickBooks Professional is typically a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, accountant, or bookkeeper who specializes in using QuickBooks software to help businesses manage their finances. These professionals have extensive knowledge of QuickBooks features and can optimize the software to fit your company’s specific needs.
What Services Do They Provide?
A QuickBooks Professional assists with various financial tasks, including bookkeeping, payroll management, and tax preparation. They ensure that records are accurate, categorize transactions correctly, and generate financial reports that help businesses track their financial health. They also manage payroll by setting up employee payments, calculating tax withholdings, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. Additionally, they help with tax filings, ensuring businesses take advantage of deductions while avoiding costly mistakes. If any software issues arise, a QuickBooks expert can troubleshoot errors, reconcile accounts, and streamline financial workflows.
According to Intuit, businesses that work with a QuickBooks ProAdvisor experience improved accuracy and efficiency in their financial management.
Signs Your Business Needs a QuickBooks Professional
Your Finances Are Becoming Too Complicated
As your business grows, financial transactions become more complex. If you have multiple revenue streams, a growing number of expenses, or employees to pay, keeping track of everything can be overwhelming. A QuickBooks Professional can help you maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
You’re Spending Too Much Time on Accounting
Many business owners find themselves dedicating too many hours to bookkeeping instead of focusing on running their business. If reconciling accounts, categorizing expenses, or preparing financial reports takes up too much of your time, outsourcing to a QuickBooks Professional can help you stay focused on business growth. According to a report by B2B Reviews, 21% of small business owners admit to not knowing enough about bookkeeping, and nearly 70% of small businesses operate without an accountant. Hiring an expert can prevent errors and free up valuable time.
Cost vs. Benefit: Is It Worth Hiring a QuickBooks Professional?
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of hiring a QuickBooks Professional depends on their experience and the level of service you need. Freelance QuickBooks ProAdvisors typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour. If you need ongoing bookkeeping support, costs range from $300 to $1,000 per month. For full-service accounting firms that handle everything from payroll to tax planning, costs can exceed $1,000 per month. The complexity of your finances and the size of your business will determine the best option.
What Are the Benefits?
Although hiring a QuickBooks Professional is an investment, it often saves businesses money in the long run. A professional can help prevent accounting errors, maximize tax deductions, and improve cash flow management. A study found that businesses utilizing external financial advisors, such as accountants and bookkeepers, attributed an average of 11.5% of their additional income to the advice and services received. By outsourcing financial management, business owners can focus on scaling their companies rather than getting stuck in the details of bookkeeping.
How to Find the Right QuickBooks Professional
Where to Look for a Qualified Expert
Finding the right QuickBooks Professional starts with trusted resources. The QuickBooks ProAdvisor Directory is an excellent place to search for certified experts. Many businesses also find experienced QuickBooks specialists through freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Additionally, local accounting firms often provide QuickBooks-specific services, making them a great option for businesses that prefer in-person consultations.
What to Ask Before Hiring a QuickBooks Professional
Before hiring a QuickBooks Professional, it’s important to ask the right questions. Start by confirming their credentials—ask whether they are a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor and how long they’ve been using QuickBooks. Experience in your industry can also be a significant advantage, as different industries have unique accounting needs. Additionally, clarify what services are included in their pricing and whether they offer ongoing support or one-time assistance. A qualified expert should be able to explain how they can help your business streamline its financial management.
Conclusion
Hiring a QuickBooks Professional is a smart decision when financial tasks become too complex or time-consuming. Whether you need help with payroll, taxes, or bookkeeping, a qualified expert can save you time and money while ensuring accuracy in your financial records.
