Frequently asked questions

Clear, direct answers to the most common questions about hiring bookkeepers, CPAs, and financial advisors — including costs, credentials, and how to find the right fit for your business.

How much does a bookkeeper cost?

A bookkeeper typically costs $30–$85 per hour for freelancers, or $300–$2,000 per month for ongoing packages. Pricing depends on your business size, monthly transaction volume, location, and the bookkeeper’s credential level. Remote bookkeepers are generally 20–40% less expensive than in-person services.

What does a bookkeeper do?

A bookkeeper records and organizes all financial transactions for a business: tracking income and expenses, reconciling bank and credit card statements, managing accounts payable and receivable, processing payroll, and generating profit-and-loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports. They keep your books accurate so your CPA can file taxes and advise on strategy.

What is the difference between a bookkeeper and a CPA?

A bookkeeper records and organizes day-to-day financial transactions. A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is a licensed professional who performs higher-level work: tax preparation and filing, financial audits, strategic tax planning, and business advisory. Most small businesses need both — a bookkeeper for ongoing record-keeping and a CPA for annual taxes and planning.

When does a small business need a bookkeeper?

Hire a bookkeeper when any of these apply:

• You spend more than 5 hours per week on financial records
• You have more than 50 monthly transactions
• You run payroll for employees
• Your personal and business finances are mixed
• You have missed a tax deadline or received an IRS notice
• Monthly revenue exceeds $10,000

What credentials should a bookkeeper have?

Look for these recognized credentials:

• CB — Certified Bookkeeper (American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers)
• CPB — Certified Public Bookkeeper (NACPB)
• QuickBooks ProAdvisor — certified in the most-used bookkeeping software
• CPA — licensed accountant who also offers bookkeeping

All professionals on BB FinPro are credential-verified before listing.

Can a bookkeeper help with taxes?

A bookkeeper prepares your books for tax season and provides clean records to your CPA. However, only Enrolled Agents (EAs), CPAs, and tax attorneys are legally authorized to prepare and file tax returns and represent you before the IRS. Some bookkeepers also hold EA credentials — always confirm before assuming tax filing is included.

What does a bookkeeper charge per month?

Monthly bookkeeping packages range from $300–$2,000 per month. A sole proprietor with simple finances pays $300–$500/month. A small business with payroll and inventory typically pays $700–$1,500/month. High-volume businesses with multiple entities pay $2,000 or more monthly.

How do I find a verified bookkeeper near me?

Use the BB FinPro bookkeeper directory — filter by state and specialty, and read real client reviews. Every listed professional is credential-verified. Remote bookkeepers work with clients across all 50 states and are often 20–40% less expensive than local in-person options.

What is the difference between a financial advisor and a financial planner?

A financial advisor is a broad term covering stockbrokers, insurance agents, and wealth managers. A financial planner (especially a CFP® — Certified Financial Planner) specializes in comprehensive planning: budgeting, retirement, insurance, estate planning, and investment strategy. A CFP® designation requires passing a rigorous exam and maintaining fiduciary duty to clients.

How do I know if a financial advisor is legitimate?

Verify any financial advisor through these official sources:

• FINRA BrokerCheck — brokercheck.finra.org
• SEC IAPD — adviserinfo.sec.gov
• CFP Board Verify — cfp.net/verify

Always ask: are they a fiduciary? Fiduciaries are legally required to act in your interest — not earn commissions on products they sell you.