How to Do Bookkeeping Remotely
As more businesses embrace flexible and remote operations, bookkeeping is no exception. Whether you’re a business owner managing your books from home or a professional bookkeeper offering remote services to clients, virtual bookkeeping has become the new normal.
In this guide, we’ll cover how to do bookkeeping remotely – including the tools you need, daily workflows, data security considerations, and how to stay accurate and organized from anywhere.
What Is Remote Bookkeeping?
Remote bookkeeping is the practice of maintaining a company’s financial records from a location outside the office using cloud-based software and secure communication tools. Bookkeepers work with clients entirely online – categorizing transactions, reconciling accounts, generating reports, and supporting tax prep – all without needing to be physically present.
Tools You Need for Remote Bookkeeping
Here’s what you need to run or manage your books remotely:
1. Cloud Accounting Software
Examples include QuickBooks Online, Xero, and FreshBooks. These platforms allow real-time access from anywhere and support bank feeds, invoicing, and reporting.
2. Receipt and Document Capture Apps
Use apps like Hubdoc, Dext, or even the mobile version of QuickBooks to scan and upload receipts and bills.
3. Secure File Sharing
Cloud-based platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox, or a secure client portal, help transfer documents safely.
4. Bank Feed Integration
Connect your business bank and credit card accounts to your accounting software to automate transaction downloads.
5. Communication Tools
Slack, Zoom, or secure client portals keep communication open between the bookkeeper and client.
Daily and Weekly Remote Bookkeeping Tasks
Remote bookkeeping follows the same best practices as in-person bookkeeping – just from a different location:
- Categorize transactions from bank feeds
- Reconcile bank and credit card accounts
- Upload and match receipts
- Monitor invoices and bills
- Record payroll and taxes
- Run monthly financial reports
- Communicate questions or issues with the client
At RemoteBooksOnline, our team manages all of these tasks behind the scenes as part of our full-service bookkeeping packages.
How Remote Bookkeeping Works at RemoteBooksOnline
- Secure Access Setup: You provide read-only or accountant access to your accounting software and bank feeds.
- Ongoing Bookkeeping: Our certified team categorizes transactions, reconciles accounts, and tracks your financials every week.
- Monthly Reports Delivered: We generate clean Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow reports monthly.
- Support When You Need It: Have a question? Reach out via email or phone. We’re your remote back-office finance team.
Test Case: Consultant Runs Books Remotely While Traveling
Business: Marketing consultant traveling between the U.S. and Europe
Problem: Couldn’t manage bookkeeping on the road, invoices were delayed, and reports were always outdated.
Solution: Signed up with RemoteBooksOnline for full remote support using QuickBooks Online.
Results:
- Bank feeds and card accounts linked securely
- Invoices created and tracked without logging into QuickBooks
- Monthly reports emailed like clockwork
- Consultant no longer worried about bookkeeping from different time zones
Frequently Asked Questions
Is remote bookkeeping secure?
Yes. With encrypted access, limited user permissions, and secure portals, remote bookkeeping is safe when done professionally.
Can I do remote bookkeeping without QuickBooks?
Yes, but tools like QuickBooks Online or Xero are highly recommended for automation, speed, and accuracy.
Do I need to hire someone in my area?
No. Bookkeeping can be handled remotely by professionals anywhere in the world, as long as communication and security are in place.
What if I fall behind while working remotely?
We offer catch-up bookkeeping to help you get back on track quickly and efficiently.
Can I outsource remote bookkeeping?
Absolutely. At RemoteBooksOnline, we manage the entire process remotely for businesses across industries.
Let Us Handle Your Books – Wherever You Are
RemoteBooksOnline gives you the flexibility of remote bookkeeping with the reliability of certified professionals. Whether you’re managing your business from home, the office, or the road, we’ll keep your books accurate and ready for tax time.
Explore our remote-friendly bookkeeping solutions, or sign up for a free trial.
