What Services Are Included in Bookkeeping and Payroll?
Many small business owners look to simplify operations by bundling bookkeeping and payroll services under one provider. But what exactly does that include? And should you combine both, or separate them?
Download Our Free Brochure →Let’s break down what’s typically covered in a bundled bookkeeping + payroll package, and what you need to watch out for.
What’s Included in Bookkeeping Services
- Transaction categorization (income, expenses, vendor payments)
- Monthly bank & credit card reconciliations
- Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet reports
- Tax-ready books for your CPA
- Receipts and document tracking
- Ongoing support by phone or email
(See our Professional Bookkeeping Services page for full details.)
What’s Included in Payroll Services
While Remote Books Online does not offer payroll processing, many businesses choose to integrate with third-party payroll providers like Gusto, ADP, or QuickBooks Payroll. Here’s what a standard payroll provider usually includes:
- Employee onboarding and W-4 collection
- Payroll runs (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.)
- Direct deposit and tax withholding
- Quarterly and annual payroll tax filings
- W-2 and 1099 generation
If your bookkeeping provider claims to “include payroll,” make sure to clarify if they’re running payroll or just recording it.
Should You Combine Bookkeeping and Payroll?
Here’s what to consider:
Pros of Bundling
- Fewer vendors to manage
- Consolidated monthly billing
- Easier reconciliation when one team handles both
Cons of Bundling
- Limited flexibility (especially if you grow fast)
- If one service suffers, you may feel stuck
- Lack of specialization-some firms are better at one than the other
At Remote Books Online, we focus solely on bookkeeping. That’s why many CPAs and business owners use us for books and integrate payroll through their preferred provider.
Download Our Free Brochure →Test Case
A dental practice in Texas was using an all-in-one firm for books and payroll. After three missed payroll filings and multiple IRS notices, they separated the two.
They moved bookkeeping to RBO, integrated with Gusto for payroll, and regained full financial control. Within 30 days:
- Their books were CPA-ready
- All prior notices were resolved
- Their payroll provider handled filings properly and on time
FAQs
Does RBO run payroll?
No. We handle your books and categorize payroll entries, but we do not issue paychecks or file payroll taxes.
Can you work with my payroll provider?
Absolutely. We regularly integrate with Gusto, QuickBooks Payroll, ADP, and others.
Can I get everything in one report?
Yes. Your financial reports will include payroll costs properly categorized for your CPA or accountant.
Conclusion: Know What You’re Really Getting
Not all bundled services are created equal. Bookkeeping and payroll are both critical-but need dedicated expertise. If you’re looking for reliable, CPA-ready books without the confusion of a bundled plan, Remote Books Online is here to help.
Start a 30-day free trial or request a quote today and simplify your books-without the payroll headaches.
Curious what’s covered? Our professional bookkeeping guide lists key services like reconciliations and reporting.
Want both bookkeeping and accounting in one place? Our guide to combined services explains how we handle both for seamless financial management.
Want to combine bookkeeping and tax services from one provider? Our choose the right bookkeeping & tax services guide helps you evaluate qualifications, services, pricing, and support for seamless financial management.
