Outsourcing virtual bookkeepers shifts financial management burdens from owners to experts. Small business owners often need professional help with the complexity of managing finances, tax filing, and preparing financial statements. Yet, finding reliable bookkeeping services for small businesses remains a challenge, necessitating a guide to navigate the many options available.

Catena exhibits a deep understanding of these challenges and has vast experience in offering financial guidance. Recognizing the importance of accurate financial data, from cash flow analysis to sales tax management, we provide advisory services to simplify financial reporting. Our dedication extends to providing a dedicated bookkeeper and finance expert, ensuring that small business owners streamline their financial transactions and bank statement management.

From our careful observation, we've compiled this guide that explores the best online bookkeeping services for small businesses, emphasizing its notable features. We'll also guide you in choosing the right bookkeeping services by assessing their skills. Afterward, you will gain insights into managing business transactions, understanding pricing tiers, and choosing between core and enterprise plans.

Let's dive in!

8 Sites to Hire Bookkeeping Services for Small Businesses

Finding the right bookkeeping services for small businesses can streamline financial management and enhance operational efficiency. With numerous options, selecting a service that aligns with your business needs and budget is crucial. It helps you keep your finances in check and your business on track for success.

Here are eight carefully selected platforms that streamline your financial operations and foster business success:

1. Catena - Best Overall Bookkeeping Services for Small Businesses

Catena excels in providing outstanding bookkeeping services for small businesses. Focusing on offering the best support, they specialize in matching companies with top-tier virtual assistants (VAs) skilled in finance and bookkeeping. Catena's VAs are dedicated and equipped with the necessary skills to ensure your financial management is flawless and efficient.

What sets Catena apart is their unique approach to managed services. They offer pre-vetted professionals, ensuring only the top 1% of talent makes it through their rigorous selection process. This process includes detailed attention to detail, proactive problem-solving, and effective communication skills, which are assessed through live simulations. 

Notable Features of Working with Catena

• Top 1% Talent: Catena's intense selection process ensures only the best bookkeepers work with your business.
• Managed Services: They handle everything from payroll to compliance and ongoing training, offering small businesses a high-touch, plug-and-play solution.
• Flexible Hiring Models: Whether you need managed services or direct placement, Catena has a plan that fits your business needs.
• Industry Expertise: With a broad range of industries served, they know exactly what it takes to support your unique business.
• Rapid Onboarding: Their streamlined process ensures you're matched with the suitable VA in less than two weeks.

Catena Pricing Plans

Catena offers two flexible pricing models tailored to your company's needs:

• Managed Services: It is ideal for businesses looking for a comprehensive solution, including compliance, payroll, and training support.
• Direct Placement: If you prefer to manage their hires internally, this model provides a one-time, upfront fee with a 90-day replacement guarantee.

Small businesses across various sectors, including healthcare, legal firms, real estate, startups, and venture capital, find immense value in partnering with Catena. Their tailored approach ensures that whether you're a burgeoning startup or a niche market player, Catena's bookkeeping services will be a perfect fit, enabling you to focus on growth. At the same time, they manage the intricacies of your financial record-keeping.

2. Bench - Best for Comprehensive Tax and Bookkeeping Solutions

Bench provides comprehensive bookkeeping services for small businesses. They are best known for their dedicated expertise in managing financials to offer total peace of mind. Specializing in services from monthly bookkeeping to tax advisory and filing, Bench stands out as a leading provider for small business owners seeking a one-stop financial management solution.

What sets Bench apart is its unique approach of combining real human expertise with powerful financial software. This blend is something few others offer, ensuring personalized service backed by cutting-edge technology. Their services are not just about bookkeeping; they include tax preparation, filing, and advisory, managed through a proprietary platform for seamless financial tracking and support.

Notable Features of Working with Bench

• Dedicated Bookkeeping Team: Bench assigns a team of experts to each client, ensuring personalized support and direct access to professionals.
• Powerful Financial Reporting: Their platform provides monthly financial statements and visual reports for insightful business management.
• Real-Time Insights: Access updated financial data anytime, aiding in prompt and informed decision-making.
• Stress-Free Tax Season: Bench offers a year-end package with everything needed for tax filing, premium tax prep, and advisory services.

Bench Pricing Plans

Bench offers various pricing plans tailored to different needs:

• Monthly Bookkeeping: Ideal for businesses that are up-to-date with their bookkeeping.
• Tax Advisory and  Filing: Combines bookkeeping with tax preparation and filing services.
• Direct Contact: Reach out to Bench directly for specific pricing details as they tailor their services to each business's unique needs.

Small business owners across various industries find Bench's services invaluable. Whether up-to-date on bookkeeping or years behind, Bench provides a tailored solution that benefits any small business looking for clarity and control over their finances.

3. Milestone - Best for Custom Bookkeeping Solutions

Milestone offers customized bookkeeping services for small businesses, setting a high standard in maintaining and organizing financial records crucial for tracking revenue and expenses. Their expertise in financial management ensures that entrepreneurs can focus on growth while Milestone manages the intricate details of their financial operations.

They tailor their offerings to meet the specific needs of each business, utilizing best-in-class technology alongside a team of experienced bookkeepers and accountants. This bespoke service, especially their outsourced CFO services and cash flow forecasting, positions Milestone uniquely in the market.

Notable Features of Working with Milestone

• Customized Accounting Plans: Tailored to meet the unique needs of your business, whether you're just starting or ready to scale.
• Advanced Financial Analysis: Beyond basic bookkeeping, offering in-depth analysis and forecasting to inform strategic decision-making.
• Fractional CFO Support: Access to executive-level financial expertise, providing strategic guidance and operational oversight.
• Best-in-Class Technology: Utilization of the latest accounting technologies for efficient, accurate financial management.

Milestone Pricing Plans

Milestone structures its pricing to accommodate the varying needs of small businesses:

• Essentials Plan: A basic yet comprehensive bookkeeping and accounting solution for small business owners.
• Growth Plan: Includes controller support and additional accounting services for mid-sized businesses.
• Direct Contact: Get in touch with Milestone for specific pricing and to customize a plan that best fits your business needs.

Small to mid-sized businesses in various growth phases benefit most from Milestone's services. From startups requiring extensive bookkeeping to established businesses seeking strategic financial guidance, Milestone take financial management to the next level.

4. Block Advisors - Best for Advanced Bookkeeping Tools

Block Advisors excels in delivering tailored bookkeeping services for small businesses, offering significant savings compared to traditional accountants. Their expertise in providing up to 50% off the typical rates makes them a go-to for small business owners seeking to balance quality with affordability.

The standout feature of Block Advisors is their ability to offer personalized bookkeeping solutions through their dedicated accountant service. This unique offering includes inventory, expense management, and advanced accounting options like accrual-based accounting and sales tax filing, setting them apart from competitors.

Notable Features of Working with Block Advisors

• Dedicated Accountant: Each client is paired with their accountant, providing customized service and personal assistance.
• Advanced Bookkeeping Tools: They offer tools for complex financial needs, from inventory management to accrual-based accounting.
• Catch-Up Bookkeeping: Their service is designed to update your books, ensuring you're always caught up.
• Easy Transition from QuickBooks: Making the switch to Block Advisors is simple, with assistance in transferring historical data.

Block Advisors Pricing Plans

Block Advisors offers three main pricing tiers to cater to different bookkeeping service needs:

• Premium Plan: Starting at $299/month for businesses with complex bookkeeping requirements.
• Full-Service Plan: Beginning at $175/month, ideal for professional bookkeeping help with a dedicated accountant.
• Self-Serve Plan: At $39/month, suitable for businesses handling their bookkeeping with guidance.

Small businesses across various sectors can benefit from Block Advisors' bookkeeping services, particularly those seeking a balance between cost and comprehensive financial management. Whether it's a startup or a more established company with intricate bookkeeping needs, Block Advisors offers the tools, expertise, and personalized support to ensure financial clarity and compliance.

5. FinancePal - Best for Bookkeeping Mobile App Integration

FinancePal stands out for its customizable bookkeeping services for small businesses, ensuring that clients receive precisely what they need without overspending. Their expertise in delivering personalized financial solutions makes them a top choice for small businesses across various sectors. They specialize in everything from transaction recording to comprehensive tax prep services.

FinancePal is committed to matching small business financial record-keeping with their specific budgetary constraints, which distinguishes it. They offer a unique blend of tech innovation and expert human oversight, providing small businesses with the financial clarity and control they need to thrive.

Notable Features of Working with FinancePal

• Custom Recommendations and Business Projections: Their expert team provides tailored advice and future financial projections, helping small businesses plan for growth.
• Mobile App Integration: The FinancePal app allows business owners to manage their finances remotely, offering features like eSignature for seamless transactions.
• US-Based Experts and Dedicated Team: Clients benefit from a dedicated, U.S.-based team of financial experts, ensuring personalized and consistent service.
• Comprehensive Financial Solutions: From payroll to tax returns, FinancePal offers full services, making it a one-stop shop for small business financial needs.

FinancePal Pricing Plans

FinancePal customizes its pricing plans based on the business's required services, ensuring affordability and value. Contact them directly for tailored quotes for services based on individual business needs.

FinancePal's bookkeeping services for small businesses are ideal for startups, retail stores, and construction companies, among others, looking for scalable financial solutions. Their industry-specific expertise means they can offer valuable insights and tailored services, ensuring businesses can find the financial management support they need to succeed.

6. Fusion Accountants - Best for Onsite & Offsite Bookkeeping Options

Fusion Accountants stands out for their tailored bookkeeping services for small businesses. They specialize in various bookkeeping services, from statutory and management accounts to payroll and VAT. Fusion Accountants ensure that small businesses receive the support they need to thrive.

What distinguishes Fusion Accountants is their award-winning approach to professional bookkeeping for startups. They leverage a few leading online accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, and FreeAgent. Their team's extensive training and certification by these software partners allows businesses to benefit from optimized processes, efficiency, and deep insights into their operations.

Notable Features of Working with Fusion Accountants

• Personal Client Manager: Provides a dedicated expert to guide and support your business, ensuring tailored and effective bookkeeping solutions.
• Onsite & Offsite Bookkeeping Options: Flexibility to choose between onsite bookkeeping for in-depth business understanding and offsite bookkeeping for convenience.
• Automated Transaction Processing: Seamless integration with online software for efficient and accurate transaction management.
• Cloud-Based Accounting Solutions: Utilizes leading online accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, enabling efficient and accurate bookkeeping.

Fusion Accountants Pricing Plans

Fusion Accountants offer diverse pricing plans to accommodate the varied needs of small businesses:

• Start-ups/Basic: Starting at £99 + VAT per month, covering all essential compliances, including payroll for 1-4 directors.
• Growth Package: Begins at £199 + VAT per month for established businesses, including payroll for up to 10 directors/employees.

Small businesses across various sectors benefit from Fusion Accountants’ bookkeeping services. Start-ups, contractors, and established enterprises find their comprehensive, customizable solutions and personal client manager approach invaluable in managing their finances efficiently and effectively.

7. Pilot - Best for Scalable Bookkeeping Services for Small Businesses

Pilot specializes in bookkeeping services for small businesses, tailored to support growth at every stage. Their expertise in delivering best-in-class bookkeeping ensures that small businesses receive squeaky-clean books, allowing owners to make informed decisions crucial for their business's success. With services designed to grow alongside your business, Pilot excels in adapting to your evolving financial needs.

They also provide a long-term partnership with built-in flexibility, ensuring they can accommodate the dynamic needs of growing businesses. This future-proof approach and efficient communication tools position Pilot as a prime choice for small businesses seeking comprehensive financial management.

Notable Features of Working with Pilot

• Expert Support: Dedicated teams work closely with your business, providing tailored bookkeeping services and a comprehensive understanding of your financial landscape.
• Scalable Services: Flexible service offerings, from startups to multi-hundred-person teams, are designed to scale.
• Efficient Communication: Streamlined communication through a user-friendly portal, making getting timely responses and insights easier.
• Integrated Tax Services: Offers seamless bookkeeping and tax preparation services, ensuring compliance and accuracy.

Pilot Pricing Plans

Pilot introduces various pricing plans to suit different stages of business growth:

• Starter Plan: Designed for pre-revenue companies, starting at $499/month, billed annually.
• Core Plan: Catered to companies with streamlined needs, priced at $699/month, billed annually.

Pilot's bookkeeping services for small businesses are ideal for various industries, including startups, consumer goods, retail, law firms, and professional services. Their approach ensures businesses maintain accurate financial records and gain strategic insights to support decision-making and growth.

8. Invensis - Best for Tailored Bookkeeping Solutions for Small Businesses

Invensis specializes in offering tailored accounting and bookkeeping services for small businesses, ensuring that each client receives personalized attention to meet their unique financial needs. With over 22 years of experience and expertise in handling various industry verticals, Invensis stands out for its ability to overcome small business accounting challenges, including tax preparation, payroll, and comprehensive financial management.

What makes Invensis unique is its adept use of technology to automate business accounting services. They manage standard accounting tasks and implement innovative solutions like automatic bill payment systems and strategic planning using key performance indicators.

Notable Features of Working with Invensis

• Expert Team: Invensis boasts a large, experienced professionals dedicated to providing exceptional financial management for small enterprises.
• Customized Solutions: They offer a wide range of services tailored to the specific needs of small businesses, ensuring effective financial management.
• Advanced Technology: Utilization of the latest accounting software for automation and efficiency in bookkeeping tasks.
• Comprehensive Service Range: From payroll processing to audit preparation, Invensis provides an extensive suite of services to cover all accounting needs.

Invensis Pricing Plans

Invensis tailors its pricing plans based on the unique requirements of each small business, ensuring cost-effective solutions for their accounting needs. Small businesses are encouraged to contact them directly for specific pricing details, allowing for a customized quote that best suits their financial management needs.

Small businesses across various industries, especially those facing revenue and cash flow challenges, will find Invensis’ bookkeeping services particularly beneficial. Their expertise and tailored solutions make them an ideal partner for small businesses looking to streamline their accounting processes and secure their financial future.

Bookkeeping Services for Small Businesses: Essential Skills to Look For

Choosing the right bookkeeping services for small businesses demands a keen eye for essential skills. Beyond managing books, the ideal service ensures compliance, financial clarity, and strategic planning. This exploration identifies critical technical and soft skills indispensable for high-quality bookkeeping.

Technical Skills

Technical proficiency is the backbone of effective bookkeeping, combining software mastery with financial acumen to maintain accurate books and ensure tax compliance.

• QuickBooks Online Mastery: Expertise in popular accounting software, like QuickBooks Live, is crucial. It simplifies financial reporting, monthly expense tracking, and payroll services.
• Tax Preparation Services: Skills in tax prep, tax returns, and providing tax advice are essential, ensuring businesses navigate tax season flawlessly.
• Financial Reporting and Analysis: Generating monthly financial reports, balance sheets, and key performance indicators aids strategic decision-making.
• Accrual Accounting Proficiency: Understanding both accrual basis and cash basis accounting ensures financial records reflect the real financial health of a business.
• Inventory Management: Effective control over inventory through proprietary or popular bookkeeping software supports accurate assessment of business assets.

Soft Skills

Soft skills complement technical abilities, fostering trust, effective communication, and strategic partnership between businesses and their bookkeeping service.

• Clear Communication: Essential for articulating financial insights and tax advice and explaining complex accounting terms simply.
• Problem-Solving Mindset: Ability to navigate financial challenges, offering solutions that align with business goals.
• Adaptability: Staying agile with tax laws, software updates, and business model shifts ensures services remain relevant.
• Attention to Detail: Guarantees financial records are error-free, leading to reliable tax prep and financial reporting.
• Client-focused Approach: Understanding the unique needs of small businesses, from managing bank accounts to advising on business finances for the long run, tailors services for maximum impact.

Interview Questions to Ask Bookkeepers

Hiring bookkeeping services for small businesses involves asking the right questions. This ensures you select a team skilled in handling your financial needs, from tax services to daily bookkeeping tasks. Here are eight essential questions:

• How do you manage tax services?- Understanding their approach to tax time, including preparations and filings, reveals their competence in crucial financial areas.
• Can you handle bill pay and manage my business’s monthly expenses?- This question determines if they offer comprehensive accounting services, including managing outflows and paying bills on time.
• What additional services do you provide beyond basic bookkeeping?- Look for services like financial planning or payroll support that indicate a well-rounded team capable of handling diverse financial tasks.
• Do you use proprietary software or standard accounting tools?- Knowing if they have a dedicated finance expert familiar with various platforms can be a good solution for integrating your bookkeeping systems.
• Is there an option for a free trial to assess your services?- A trial period allows you to evaluate their efficiency and fit with your business without commitment.
• Who will be my account manager or point of contact?- Ensuring you have a dedicated person, possibly with the expertise of a chief financial officer, ensures personalized service.
• What is your pricing structure? Is it a flat rate, or does it vary?- Understanding whether they offer a core, starter, or growth plan helps anticipate costs and find a plan that suits your budget.
• How do you ensure security for sensitive information, like credit card details and back office data?- Security measures for protecting financial data are crucial, especially when working with a virtual bookkeeper or an external accounting firm.

Key Takeaway

Selecting the ideal bookkeeping service provider is critical for any small business's financial health and compliance. The market offers a wide range of bookkeeping services for small businesses, each with unique features and benefits. A thorough evaluation of these services enables business owners to maintain accurate records, adhere to regulatory standards, and make informed financial decisions. Small businesses need to invest time in this crucial selection process.

Furthermore, business owners must explore each available option to pinpoint the bookkeeping service that aligns perfectly with their requirements. The diverse landscape of small business accounting services means there’s a solution out there that fits every business model and budget. Embracing professional bookkeeping services is a strategic investment. This approach ensures financial order, facilitates growth, and provides peace of mind.

Book a free consultation with Catena today to explore how our solutions can support your business’s financial needs. We offer tailored bookkeeping services for small businesses designed to streamline financial management and boost efficiency. Our expertise in financial management for small enterprises makes us the partner you need to secure your company’s financial future.