Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started and Finding the Right Service

How do I find out more about working with SBS?

Please click the “Get Started” button on this web page. After filling out a short form, we’ll review your information and someone from our office will be back in touch with you within 24 hours.

What services does SBS Accounting & Advisors provide?

SBS provides bookkeeping and accounting, controllership, tax planning and preparation, business advisory, cash flow management, budgeting and forecasting, KPI tracking, and QuickBooks support. Services are customized based on the level of financial support your organization needs.

What types of businesses are the best fit for SBS?

SBS works with small businesses and other organizations across a wide range of industries. We have particular experience with construction companies, professional service firms, real estate businesses, churches and nonprofit organizations, and other owner-led organizations. The best fit is generally an organization that wants reliable financial information and more useful insight into its performance.

How do I know whether I need bookkeeping, accounting, controllership, or advisory services?

Bookkeeping focuses on recording and organizing day-to-day financial activity. Accounting includes reconciling accounts, closing the books, and preparing accurate financial reports. Controllership adds stronger financial processes, controls, budgets, forecasts, KPIs, job costing, and regular financial reviews. Advisory services help owners use that information to set goals, evaluate performance, and plan for the future. We’ll help you determine the appropriate level of support based on your current situation and goals.

I noticed that your firm is located in metro Atlanta. Does it matter that we’re located elsewhere?

Not at all. Due to modern technology our services can be provided virtually anywhere. All of our communications with our customers can effectively be handled via the phone and through our apps.

At least initially, I would like to have someone do my bookkeeping from my office. Do you offer that?

If you are located in the Atlanta-metro area, we are open to coming onsite on a temporary basis to aide in the transition to remote services.

I am currently not using QuickBooks or Xero. Do you take clients who use other accounting software?

Yes. We will discuss with you the pros/cons of moving to either QuickBooks Online or Xero so that you can make the right decision for your organization.

What happens during onboarding, and how long does it take?

After the initial conversation, we’ll review your current accounting setup, discuss your needs and goals, define the services to be provided, and request the records and system access needed to begin. We’ll then outline the transition process and expected start date. Timing depends on the complexity of your organization, the condition of your books, and how quickly the necessary information can be provided.

Accounting and Controllership Services

My books aren’t up to date. Can you help me get caught up?

Yes. Through our initial interview process we’ll give you a list of exactly the things we need from you (i.e. view-only online banking access) to get you back on track.

I am currently using another bookkeeper. Can I move over to you?

Most certainly. Although it is best if we can get a copy of your accounting file, it is not necessary. We can start with a copy of your most recent bank statements.

What is included in SBS’s monthly accounting services?

Services are customized to the needs of each organization. Depending on your plan, they may include bank and credit card reconciliations, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll support, sales tax, 1099 preparation, month-end closing, financial reporting, tax services, and financial review meetings. Your proposal will clearly identify the services included in your engagement.

What reports do I get with your bookkeeping services?

A P&L and Balance Sheet are included in all plans. Reports included in the Silver and Gold plans are much more robust and include graphs, charts, and KPIs. Custom reports are also available upon request.

Can SBS help with cash flow, forecasting, KPIs, and job costing?

Yes. Depending on your needs, SBS can help you develop and maintain cash flow projections, budgets and forecasts, KPIs, management dashboards, and job-costing or project-tracking reports. We can also meet with you regularly to review the results, identify areas that need attention, and discuss practical opportunities for improvement.

Tax Planning and Preparation

Does SBS provide year-round tax planning or only tax-return preparation?

SBS provides both tax preparation and proactive tax planning. We monitor tax-law changes that may affect you, recommend appropriate tax-saving strategies, prepare your returns, and remain available to answer tax questions throughout the year.

Can SBS prepare both my business and personal tax returns?

Yes. SBS offers both business and personal tax-return preparation. Depending on your engagement, we can coordinate the two so that your business activity and its effect on your personal tax situation are considered together.

Can SBS help if I receive an IRS or state tax notice?

Yes. SBS can review the notice, explain what the taxing authority is requesting, and help determine the appropriate response. Please provide us with a complete copy of the notice, including every page, so we can review it and confirm the assistance you need.

Plans and Pricing

How does SBS determine the cost of its services?

Pricing is based on the services you need, the volume and complexity of your financial activity, the number of companies involved, the current condition of your books, and the level of ongoing support required. After learning more about your organization, we’ll recommend an appropriate service plan and provide a custom quote.

What is the cost for catch-up work?

Catch-up work is billed on a per-project basis. Please contact us for a free quote for your project.

Do you charge a setup fee?

Yes. The amount of the fee depends upon how much cleanup and setup work needs to be done.

What if I have multiple companies?

Typically, we design our plans and services on a per-company basis. However, depending upon the scope of services needed by each company, SBS may be able to provide a multi-company discount.

What if I need something that is not listed on your plans and pricing page?

Please contact us so we can learn more about your needs and how we might meet them.