Finding the right bookkeeper can be difficult, time-consuming, and even intimidating. Many small business owners hesitate because bookkeeping involves handing over sensitive financial information to someone outside their company.
We know how important it is to find a trustworthy bookkeeping partner. Whether that bookkeeper is an individual or a bookkeeping company, here are seven key things to look for to help ensure you find the right fit for your business.
1. Verify They’re a Legitimate Business Observing Best Practices
Before you go any further, make sure the person or company you’re considering is legitimate and compliant. Confirm they have an active business license and are properly registered with any applicable state authorities.
Equally important, confirm they practice good cybersecurity habits. A responsible bookkeeper will employ multi-factor authentication, password managers, encryption, and other best practices to protect client data. When you’re giving someone access to your financial information, you want to know they take security seriously.
2. Check and Use References
It’s not enough to collect references — you need to contact them. Talk with businesses similar to your own to find out whether the bookkeeper delivered what was promised. Ask how responsive they are, how they handle challenges, and whether the business would hire them again.
Consistency, reliability, and professionalism matter just as much as technical skills.
3. Evaluate Experience
Experience can make the difference between reactive bookkeeping and strategic financial insight. Ask how long they’ve been providing bookkeeping services, what industries they work in, and what accounting platforms they use most often.
Look for familiarity with modern tools and automation. The best bookkeepers today leverage the latest apps — from QuickBooks and Xero’s built-in AI features to document-matching tools like Dext — to make bookkeeping faster, more accurate, and more efficient.
If they also handle payroll, payroll taxes, or other financial processes, that can be an added advantage.
4. Understand How They Deliver Services
Clarify whether they work as an employee or an independent contractor. If it’s a company or team, that’s often preferable — it creates redundancy and ensures that if one person is out, another can keep your books running smoothly.
Discuss who provides the workspace, software, and equipment, and ask if they work remotely. Most modern bookkeepers can work securely from anywhere, which can make service more flexible.
5. Look for Certifications
Certification isn’t everything, but it helps confirm both skill and professionalism. Ask whether the bookkeeper or company has credentials such as QuickBooks ProAdvisor, NACPB, or AIPB certification.
Verify the certification source, and don’t hesitate to confirm that it’s valid and current.
6. Ensure Coordination with CPAs
Bookkeepers and CPAs serve different roles but must work hand in hand. Some bookkeeping firms employ CPAs, while others partner closely with them.
The key is a smooth, accurate handoff of financial data — especially during tax season. Ask how they collaborate with your CPA to ensure all records are accurate and ready for year-end reporting.
7. Evaluate Professionalism and Trustworthiness
Technical skills are essential, but professionalism and integrity are equally important. Observe how they communicate, how quickly they respond, and whether they follow through on what they promise.
Look for signs of a modern, dependable business: clear documentation, prompt follow-up, and visible professionalism — things like a website, business cards, and a consistent brand presence.
The most trustworthy bookkeepers stay up to date not only on bookkeeping standards and tax law but also on how technology and AI are reshaping the industry. Their commitment to continuous improvement is what makes them a long-term partner in your business success.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bookkeeper — whether an individual or a firm — can bring peace of mind and better financial clarity.
At SBS Accounting & Advisors, our goal is to help business owners make informed decisions about their financial future.
If you’d like to learn more about what to look for in a bookkeeper — or how SBS can support your accounting needs — contact us at help@sbsaccountants.com or 770-745-4283.