How Much Does Bookkeeping Cost for Small Businesses?
Bookkeeping prices vary, but most small businesses pay $150-$375 per month for core bookkeeping. Your actual rate depends on the number of accounts, monthly expenses and transactions, complexity (industry-specific workflows), and add-ons like payroll or sales-tax filing. This guide breaks down each factor and shows how to control costs without sacrificing accuracy.
What Drives Bookkeeping Price?
Four variables move your price more than anything else.
Accounts
One bank or credit card account typically qualifies for entry-level pricing; more accounts mean more reconciliation work each month.
Monthly Volume
Higher monthly expenses and transaction counts increase categorization and reconciliation effort.
Complexity by Industry
Construction job-costing, restaurant tips, e-commerce refunds, or SaaS revenue recognition add workflow complexity.
Add-Ons
Payroll, sales-tax filing, and AP/AR support add scope and cost.
Typical Monthly Price Ranges
As a starting point:
- $150-$195/month: 1-2 accounts, low volume, general services/retail
- $225-$325/month: 3-6 accounts or higher volumes/complexity
- $325+/month: 7-8 accounts and/or very high volume or complex workflows
Catch-Up and Cleanup Pricing
One-time cleanup is usually priced by the number of months and volume. Expect lower rates for ≤$10k monthly expenses/≤200 transactions, and higher for >$50k/>1,000 transactions.
Outsourced Bookkeeping vs. In-House Costs
Outsourcing avoids salary, benefits, hiring, training, and software management. For most small businesses, the monthly flat rate is significantly lower than hiring even part-time in-house help.
How to Control Your Bookkeeping Costs
- Consolidate bank/credit card accounts where practical
- Standardize expense categories and vendor names
- Automate document collection (bank feeds, receipt tools)
- Add payroll or sales-tax only when needed
- Use a monthly plan that includes your accounting software
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FAQs
What is the average monthly cost for bookkeeping?
Most small businesses pay $150–$375/month for core bookkeeping, depending on accounts, volume, complexity, and add-ons.
Does the monthly fee include QuickBooks or Xero?
Yes. Our monthly plans include the accounting software subscription.
How do you price catch-up bookkeeping?
Flat rate by months and volume. We quote upfront and complete up to 12 months in about 7 days.
Can I add payroll or sales-tax later?
Yes. Start with bookkeeping, add payroll or sales-tax filing any time.
