Why Hiring a Bookkeeper (Not a CPA) Is the Smart, Affordable Choice for Small Businesses
Discover why hiring a bookkeeper instead of a CPA can save your small business money—without sacrificing quality. Learn the difference and find the right fit for your business needs.
When you're running a small business, every dollar counts. You need financial help—but do you need a CPA, or would a professional bookkeeper be a better fit?
Here's the truth: For most day-to-day financial tasks, a qualified bookkeeper can do everything you need—at a fraction of the cost of a CPA.
Let’s break down why working with a bookkeeper who is not a CPA can be a smart, affordable choice for your business.
1. Bookkeepers Handle Your Everyday Financial Needs
Most small businesses need help with:
Recording income and expenses
Categorizing transactions
Reconciling bank accounts
Managing accounts receivable/payable
Generating financial reports
This is exactly what bookkeepers specialize in.
You don’t need a CPA to manage your books. Bookkeepers are trained to maintain accurate records, keep your finances organized, and give you a clear view of where your business stands.
2. CPAs Are Expensive—Because They’re Doing a Different Job
CPAs are licensed accountants with advanced training. They typically focus on:
Tax planning and filing
Complex financial audits
High-level advisory services
Because of this, their hourly rates are often 2–3x higher than a bookkeeper’s.
If you hire a CPA to do bookkeeping, you’re paying top dollar for work that a qualified bookkeeper can handle just as well—and more affordably.
3. Affordable Bookkeeping = Consistency + Cost Control
When you partner with a freelance bookkeeper, you get:
Regular, consistent support
Transparent pricing (often a flat monthly fee)
No need to scramble at tax time—your books are already clean and ready
Why overpay for tasks that don’t require a CPA license?
Many CPAs even refer their clients to bookkeepers for ongoing monthly support so they can focus on year-end tax prep.
4. When You DO Need a CPA, Your Bookkeeper Can Collaborate With One
A good bookkeeper will work hand-in-hand with your CPA when needed—especially during tax season or if a financial issue arises.
You’re not choosing between one or the other—you’re just being smart about when to use each.
Final Thoughts
If you're a small business owner looking to save money without sacrificing quality, a bookkeeper (not a CPA) is often the right place to start.
At Freelance Bookkeeping, we specialize in helping small business owners across New Hampshire and beyond stay organized, up-to-date, and ready for tax season—without the high price tag of a CPA.