Key Takeaways
- Outsourced bookkeeping for CPA firm operations has plenty of benefits, like lower expenses and more efficiency, security, expertise, and availability.
- Look for an outsourcing CPA bookkeeping service that will best integrate with your systems, communication skills and style, and other expectations.
- Because outsourcing bookkeeping is a subject not many people know a lot about, many think it means compromising quality, control, and cost and is only suitable for large firms with one-time projects, but these ideas couldn’t be further from the truth.
Managing bookkeeping tasks can be time-consuming and distract from more intensive financial activities at a certified public accountant (CPA) firm. Fortunately, outsourced bookkeeping companies can help.
By delegating bookkeeping responsibilities to a specialized service provider, your CPA firm can save time and resources while ensuring accurate financial records.
In this article, we will explore the top seven outsourced bookkeeping companies for CPA firms in 2024. Our goal is to help you understand the benefits of bookkeeping outsourcing and choose the best option for your firm’s needs.
What Are the Benefits of Outsourcing Bookkeeping Services for CPA Firms?
Outsourcing bookkeeping services can bring several advantages for CPA firms, including:
Streamlined operations
Outsourcing bookkeeping tasks can free up time and resources, allowing your CPA firm to focus on more complicated or high-level accounting services. This leads to increased efficiency and streamlined operations.
Improved efficiency
Bookkeeping companies have specialized expertise and advanced technology to manage financial records accurately and efficiently. This can lead to better decision-making for CPA firms and allow you to complete tasks even if your team isn’t specialized in them.
Cost savings
Outsourcing bookkeeping services can lead to reduced costs for CPA firms, as you do not have to invest in hiring and training in-house bookkeepers or purchasing expensive bookkeeping software. Furthermore, you can save on salary expenses by hiring bookkeepers in regions outside of the US who offer more competitive rates.
Scalability
Outsourcing bookkeeping services can be a flexible option for CPA firms. Outsourced providers can scale their services up or down as needed, depending on your business’s needs.
Increased security
Bookkeeping companies have strict security measures in place to protect sensitive financial data. This can provide peace of mind for CPA firms and their clients.
What Should You Look for in Outsourced CPA Bookkeeping Services?
Before we dive into our list of top outsourced bookkeeping companies, let’s first discuss the key factors to consider when choosing a partner.
Integration with existing systems
It is important to choose a bookkeeping provider that can seamlessly integrate with your firm’s existing systems and software. This will ensure a smooth transition and avoid any disruptions in your business operations.
Security and data protection
Outsourcing bookkeeping means sharing sensitive financial information with a third party. Given that the finance sector became the most breached industry in 2023, it’s crucial to choose a provider with strong security measures and protocols in place to protect your clients’ data.
Communication and collaboration
Effective communication and collaboration are essential for a successful partnership with an outsourced bookkeeping provider. Strong communication brings a wide range of benefits, with most business leaders reporting that it increases productivity, customer satisfaction, and employee confidence.
Make sure to choose a service provider that possesses strong communication skills, has clear communication channels, is responsive to inquiries, and is able to work in your time zone or collaborate effectively asynchronously.
Cultural alignment is also important, as it can impact outsourced bookkeepers’ understanding of financial practices and regulations.
Reliability in sending reports
Timely and accurate reporting is crucial for CPA firms to make informed decisions. Choose an outsourced bookkeeping provider that has a track record of providing reliable financial reports on time.
Industry-specific expertise
Every industry has its own unique accounting and bookkeeping requirements. It is important to choose a provider that has experience in handling the financials of your clients’ industries, as they will have a better understanding of your specific needs and challenges.
Top 7 Outsourced Bookkeeping Companies for CPA Firms
Without further ado, and in no particular order, here’s our list of the top recruiting and bookkeeping companies that help CPA firms outsource qualified bookkeepers:
1. Near
At Near, we are passionate about helping firms find and hire the best outsourced talent, which is why we’re putting ourselves at the top of this list.
We’re a recruitment firm specializing in recruiting from Latin America (LatAm). Through our experience, we understand the unique needs and challenges of CPA firms. Our team works closely with our clients to find highly skilled bookkeepers who can handle all kinds of financial software and comply with US GAAP.
2. Unison Globus
Unison Globus provides CPA and F&A services through outsourcing, including outsourced bookkeeping and accounting for US CPAs. It is certified as a “Great Place to Work” with a location in Florida and additional locations throughout India.
Its bookkeeping services include accounts payable and receivable, bank and credit card reconciliations, financial reporting, and cleanup/catch-up activities.
3. Global FPO
Global FPO is an accounting, taxation, and consulting service that offers outsourced bookkeeping for CPAs and accounting firms.
A truly global company, Global FPO offers services to companies in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Europe. It promises to help diagnose IFRS changes, create IFRS SOPs, implement, test, finalize, and post implementation reviews, and more
4. Meru Accounting/Accounts Junction
Meru Accounting is an Indian accounting outsourcing company serving the US, Australia, and the UK.
Its outsourcing services include accounts receivables and payables management, payroll management, bookkeeping, reconciliation, and more. The firm also has expertise with accounting platforms like Xero, Zoho Books, and QuickBooks.
5. BooksTime
BooksTime offers accounting and bookkeeping services to companies in multiple industries, particularly accounting firms.
During tax season, its team helps prepare all the required forms on time. It also converts statements and data into popular digital formats, like Excel, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop files, and more.
6. Velan Bookkeeping
Velan provides outsourced bookkeeping services for CPAs among its broader financial services.
Its financial experts are ready to help with accounting software like Sage, Intuit, Peachtree, QuickBooks, Quicken, NetSuite, Intuit, and Microsoft Dynamics GP. The company’s bookkeeping services are available throughout the US.
7. KMK & Associates Chartered Accountants
KMK & Associates offers cost-effective outsourcing solutions for US-based CPA firms by outsourcing to India. Clients receive back-office support services, enabling them to concentrate on the strategic growth of their business.
Its staff is highly skilled in handling the entire bookkeeping process, from recording transactions to preparing periodic financial statements.
Common Misconceptions About Outsourcing Bookkeeping Services
Most people don’t fully understand outsourcing, leading to many false ideas about it. Let’s clear up some of the fog surrounding outsourcing bookkeeping services.
Myth 1: Outsourcing bookkeeping services is expensive
In reality, outsourcing can save CPA companies money by reducing the need for in-house bookkeepers and overhead costs. Outsourced bookkeeping companies often have competitive pricing and offer customizable packages to fit a firm’s budget.
Myth 2: Outsourcing means a loss of control
Outsourcing bookkeeping services does not mean losing control over financial records. In fact, many outsourced companies provide real-time access to financial information and work closely with CPA firms to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Myth 3: Outsourcing is only suitable for large firms
Outsourced bookkeeping services can benefit firms of all sizes. Small and medium-sized CPA firms can especially benefit from outsourcing, as it enables them to focus on core competencies without the burden of managing bookkeeping.
Myth 4: Outsourcing means compromising quality
Outsourced bookkeeping companies specialize in providing accurate and reliable financial records. They often have a team of skilled professionals with expertise in bookkeeping, ensuring high-quality work.
Myth 5: Outsourcing is only for short-term projects
Outsourced bookkeeping companies can provide long-term solutions for CPA firms. They can adapt to a firm’s changing needs and help it scale its services as the business grows.
Final Thoughts
Outsourcing bookkeeping services can bring numerous benefits to CPA firms, including cost savings, increased efficiency and accuracy, access to specialized expertise, and more time for core activities.
At Near, we specialize in recruiting top talent from LatAm to help businesses like yours find the best nearshore professionals for their needs.
Schedule a free consultation call and learn how we can help you find the perfect outsourced bookkeeper for your CPA firm.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your firm’s bookkeeping operations and take them to the next level with bookkeeping outsourcing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is outsourcing bookkeeping secure for CPA firms?
Yes, outsourcing bookkeeping can be a secure option for CPA firms. Reputable outsourced bookkeeping providers have strict security measures in place to protect sensitive financial information and comply with industry regulations.
Additionally, they often have backup systems in case of data loss or breaches.
How much does it cost to outsource a bookkeeper?
The cost of outsourcing a bookkeeper varies based on factors like experience, the services required, and the outsourcing location.
For example, the average salary of a bookkeeper is about $54,800 in the US and $42,000 in LatAm, a difference of $12,800.
How do you ensure a successful relationship with an outsourced bookkeeping provider?
To ensure a successful relationship with your outsourced bookkeeping partner, set clear expectations from the beginning and provide a comprehensive onboarding process.
Establish clear lines of communication and performance metrics, and regularly monitor the provider’s performance. Provide feedback to ensure continuous improvement and deal with any issues promptly.