Key Takeaways
- Outsourced online accounting services provide cost savings, flexibility, and access to specialized expertise.
- Consider outsourcing if you are overwhelmed by financial management, lacking in-house expertise, or experiencing rapid business growth.
- Leading companies like Near, Bench, H&Co, Auxis, and Aprio offer exceptional outsourced accounting services tailored to various business needs.
Imagine trading in endless spreadsheets and late-night calculations for a team of financial experts dedicated to optimizing your business’s financial health. With outsourced online accounting, you can do that—all while achieving substantial cost savings and streamlining your operations.
This article will explore the eight most compelling reasons to outsource your online accounting services. You will learn how this strategy can enhance your business operations, improve compliance, and allow you to benefit from advanced tools and technology.
Additionally, we will help you identify the telltale signs that indicate it’s time to embrace this transformative approach. We will also introduce you to the top five providers in the industry, ensuring you can start your search for your ideal partner with the best options available.
Benefits of Outsourced Online Accounting Services
Outsourcing online accounting services can revolutionize your business operations. By leveraging outsourced professionals’ expertise and advanced tools, you can improve efficiency, accuracy, and financial insights.
These third-party experts handle essential accounting processes, including preparing and analyzing financial statements, managing accounts receivable and accounts payable, and overall streamlining your accounting operations.
Here are the key benefits you can expect from online nearshore or offshore accounting services.
1. Cost savings
Eliminating the need for an in-house accounting team can significantly reduce overhead costs, such as salaries, benefits, office space, and software licenses. Outsourced online accounting services often operate on a subscription model, providing predictable pricing and greater budget control.
2. Streamlined operations
Outsourcing frees up your internal team, allowing them to focus on core business activities. The accounting provider handles all aspects of financial management, from bookkeeping and invoicing to payroll taxes and tax preparation services, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
3. Access to specialized expertise
Outsourced online accounting firms boast a team of experienced, skilled professionals with diverse skill sets, ensuring you have access to the right expertise for your specific needs. This team can include virtual bookkeepers who handle daily transactions and specialists in financial reporting, which can be particularly valuable for complex financial matters or industry-specific regulations.
4. Scalability and flexibility
As your business grows and evolves, your accounting needs may change. Outsourced online accounting services offer the flexibility to easily scale up or down, adapting to your changing requirements without the hassle of hiring or training new staff.
5. Enhanced accuracy and compliance
Professional accounting firms adhere to strict quality control standards, minimizing the risk of errors and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. This can help you avoid costly penalties and audits, safeguarding your business’s financial health.
6. Better time management
Outsourcing your accounting tasks frees up your time, allowing you to focus on strategic initiatives and growing your business. The accounting provider takes care of time-consuming tasks, such as reconciling accounts, generating reports, and filing taxes, enabling you to allocate your time more effectively.
7. Advanced technology and tools
Reputable online accounting firms invest in cutting-edge technology and software to streamline processes, automate tasks, and provide real-time financial insights. This can help you make informed decisions based on accurate and up-to-date data.
8. Objective financial insights
Outsourcing provides an objective perspective on your financial performance, free from internal biases. Experienced accountants can identify areas for improvement, offer strategic advice, and help you make sound financial decisions. They can also ensure compliance during tax season and manage financial reporting.
This includes providing detailed financial reports and insights into your cash flow to support better business planning.
When Should You Outsource Online Accounting for Your Business?
Recognizing the right time to outsource online accounting services can unlock many strategic advantages. Here are five key indicators that it might be the perfect moment to make the switch to outsourced accounting:
1. Overwhelmed by financial management
If you’re spending countless hours on bookkeeping, payroll, or tax preparation, it’s likely your time could be better spent on core business activities. Outsourcing can alleviate this burden, allowing you to focus on growth and strategy.
2. Lack of in-house expertise
If your current team lacks the specialized knowledge required for complex accounting functions, it can lead to errors, inefficiencies, and compliance issues. Outsourcing provides access to seasoned professionals who can handle these challenges with ease.
3. Rapid business growth
As your business expands, your financial operations become more intricate. Outsourcing allows you to scale your accounting services seamlessly, ensuring you have the resources to support your growth without adding to your overhead.
4. Cost concerns
If you’re looking to cut costs without compromising on quality, outsourcing can be a cost-effective solution. Hiring a remote independent contractor or partnering with an accounting firm can be much more affordable than hiring an in-house, full-time accountant.
5. Need for advanced technology
Keeping up with the latest accounting software and tools can be time-consuming and expensive. Outsourced online accounting providers leverage cutting-edge technology to streamline processes, automate tasks, and provide real-time financial insights, giving you a competitive edge.
Top 5 Companies To Consider To Outsource Online Accounting Services
We’ve compiled five reputable companies to simplify your search for the best outsourced online accounting partner, whether that’s an independent accounting professional or an accounting firm. So, while some companies below specialize exclusively in online accounting, others offer broader recruitment services, including sourcing online accounting professionals.
Regardless of their approach, each company on this list is dedicated to providing exceptional financial management solutions.
1. Near
We couldn’t resist putting Near at the top of our list—not just because it’s us, but because Near truly stands out in helping businesses hire remote professional accountants from Latin America, offering substantial savings of 30% or more on overhead costs.
Trusted by companies like Hotjar, Expensify, and Deel, Near has a talent pool of over 35,000 candidates, ensuring we find you the perfect fit for your accounting needs in under 21 days.
Our candidates bring extensive experience in the accounting industry, including Big 4 and US GAAP expertise, making them ideal for driving your financial success.
2. Bench
Trusted by over 25,000 small businesses, Bench is an on-demand accounting, bookkeeping, and tax advisory platform. Instead of syncing with QuickBooks or Xero to offer support, Bench offers proprietary software and real experts to completely transform (and take over) your accounting needs.
They also partner with Stripe and Gusto—two other platforms beloved by small businesses—to offer additional savings on payment and payroll processing.
3. H&Co
H&Co offers comprehensive outsourced accounting services in the US and several other countries, catering to large and medium-sized companies. The company has developed expertise in portfolio, joint venture, construction, and REIT accounting.
With offices in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia, H&Co offers bookkeeping, statutory accounts preparation, management accounts, and year-end tax filings.
4. Auxis
Specializing in finance and accounting, business support, IT, and digital transformation, Auxis delivers customized nearshore outsourcing services tailored to modern business needs. Their primary delivery hubs in Costa Rica and Colombia ensure cultural alignment, operational standardization, and substantial cost savings.
Trusted by leading organizations like Sonos, Visa, and British American Tobacco, Auxis provides exceptional service, driving tech and business excellence in a time zone that aligns with US businesses.
5. Aprio
Aprio provides comprehensive accounting outsourcing services tailored to various industries, including SaaS, eCommerce, and government contracting. With over fifty technology partnerships, Aprio offers expert advisers for accounting, state and local sales tax services, payroll, and HR needs.
Aprio’s government contracting accounting experts assist with navigating complex regulations like DCAA and FAR. They also support nonprofits with GAAP-based accounting services, grant accounting, and audit preparation.
Factors To Consider When Outsourcing Accounting Services
When outsourcing your accounting services, evaluate several factors to ensure you choose the right provider. Here are key considerations to keep in mind.
1. Specific needs of the business
Before diving in, clearly define your business’s specific accounting needs. Are you looking for basic bookkeeping, comprehensive financial management, or specialized services like tax preparation or CFO advisory? Identifying your requirements will help you narrow down your options and find a provider that aligns with your goals.
Additionally, consider if you want to limit your search for accounting partners to certain countries. Consider whether you prefer a partner who works in a US-compatible time zone, such as those in Latin America, or if providers based in Europe or Asia would be suitable. A partner in a closer time zone can facilitate better communication and collaboration, making the working arrangement more efficient and seamless.
2. Tailored solutions
Every business is unique, and your accounting solutions should reflect that. Look for providers that offer customizable services tailored to your specific industry, size, and growth stage. A one-size-fits-all approach may not address your specific challenges and opportunities.
3. Reputation and experience of the provider
Research potential providers thoroughly, checking their reputation, client testimonials, and industry experience. Look for certifications and affiliations with reputable accounting organizations. A provider with a proven track record and positive reviews is more likely to deliver reliable and high-quality services.
4. Security and confidentiality
Financial data is sensitive, so prioritize providers with robust security measures in place. This includes encryption protocols, secure data storage, and strict access controls. Ensure they comply with industry standards and regulations to protect your confidential information.
5. Integration with existing systems
If you already use accounting or business management software, ensure the provider’s systems seamlessly integrate with your existing tools. This will streamline data transfer and eliminate manual data entry, saving you time and reducing the risk of errors.
Final Thoughts
By leveraging the expertise of remote accounting professionals, your business can benefit from efficient bookkeeping processes, accurate financial reporting, and comprehensive tax preparation services, all while reducing overhead costs compared to hiring in-house team members.
If you’re ready to transform your financial operations and unlock new levels of efficiency, consider partnering with Near.
Book a free consultation today. Let’s discuss how we can help you find, hire, and pay top remote accountants from Latin America.