Online bookkeeping services can save you money—and time—in the long run, and they can be a great investment. We reviewed more than a dozen online bookkeeping services to determine our eight best. Here’s what you need to know when considering an online bookkeeping service for your small business.

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Payroll and staff accountants take on more analytical and managerial support roles, as opposed to the record-keeping responsibilities of bookkeepers. There are some professional drawbacks due to software advancements that perform similar roles to bookkeepers and accounting clerks. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 5% decline in bookkeeping occupations from 2023 and 2033.

Is a Bookkeeping Certification Worth It?

Although you don’t need a bachelor’s degree, it can make you more competitive. Only 12% of entry-level bookkeepers have a bachelor’s degree, so having one is an easy way to gain an advantage. Consider a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business administration, or finance. You’ll be dealing with a lot of financial data and numbers in this career path.

• Note that NACPB’s bookkeeping certification is different from its CPB license.
• AIPB offers a series of six self-paced classes and accompanying workbooks, all of which are part of AIPB’s CB preparatory course.
• For example, if you have an accounting degree, you can pursue payroll accountant or staff accountant positions.
• Tight deadlines, regular financial reporting, and reconciling discrepancies can be demanding at times.

How Do You Register for the Exam?

Tasks, such as establishing a budget, planning for the next fiscal year and preparing for tax time, are easier when financial records are accurate. Every job and person is different, but it usually takes about six months of on-the-job training to really get a grasp on the bookkeeping role. If you have a degree in accounting or a related discipline, you will probably pick it up quicker than if you don’t. Many accounting programs feature internships and practicums that help you build experience as you learn. Bookkeepers typically don’t need experience, as they often learn the required skills as they go. As a result, many accounting professionals start their careers in a bookkeeping role to build the experience they need for more senior positions.

You can earn certification from the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) and the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB). The NACPB offers a certified public bookkeeper (CPB) certification, while the CPB offers a certified bookkeeper (CB) certification. Both the CPB and CB certifications require similar eligibility requirements.

While bookkeepers used to keep track of this information in physical books, much of the process is now done on digital software. While bookkeepers may not need any professional certifications or credentials, many employers prefer them and some even require them. Depending professional bookkeeper on the certificate or certification program you complete, you may be required to recertify regularly to keep your credential. Recertification can ensure that you have mastered the latest bookkeeping skills, techniques, approaches, and technologies.

When discrepancies arise between bank statements and bookkeeping records, bookkeepers investigate and resolve them, maintaining financial accuracy. Decimal is great if you’re looking to quickly access your business records. The Decimal service comes with automated, up-to-date categorization of your transactions, bank reconciliation and bookkeeping journal entries. A dedicated accounting team for your business, as well as access to a technology team, can always help.

This also provides a competitive advantage for bookkeepers beginning their careers. For example, a certification from California State University, Fullerton costs $2,195. The price of this certification includes the cost of enrollment, workbooks and the four-part national certification exam. After passing the AIPB’s certification exam, you will be recognized as a certified bookkeeper.

Both offer similar benefits regarding membership, resources and renewable credentials. While other bookkeeping credentials do exist, those offered by AIPB and NACPB are the most renowned and respected. To get a better understanding of bookkeeping responsibilities, let’s explore what a bookkeeper is and what their role involves.

Online bookkeeping is an important solution for small businesses looking to outsource their financial upkeep and management. To find the best online bookkeeping services available, we reviewed and analyzed 13 companies and hundreds of data points across 15 categories. We then gave each criterion a weighted score and landed on a final star rating out of five. If you’re looking for something in addition to the one-time Live Expert Cleanup option, we like the range of monthly online bookkeeping services QuickBooks Live offers. The Live Expert Assisted plans come with QuickBooks expert one-on-one guidance and access to tax resources so you can manage your books on an ongoing basis.