Types of Bookkeeping: Choosing the Right System for Your Business
Bookkeeping is essential to any business, but not all bookkeeping systems are the same. The type of system you use can affect your accuracy, reporting, tax preparation, and overall financial visibility.
Download Our Free Brochure →This article breaks down the two main types of bookkeeping systems-single-entry and double-entry-and helps you decide which one is right for your business.
1. What Are the Main Types of Bookkeeping
There are two core bookkeeping systems:
- Single-Entry Bookkeeping
- Double-Entry Bookkeeping
Each has its own structure, use cases, and advantages.
Learn more about bookkeeping fundamentals in our free downloadable guide.
2. Single-Entry Bookkeeping
Single-entry bookkeeping records each transaction once-either as income or an expense.
Best for:
- Sole proprietors
- Freelancers
- Businesses with low transaction volume
Pros:
- Simple and easy to manage
- Minimal training required
- Can be done manually or with basic software
Cons:
Download Our Free Brochure →- No error detection through balancing
- Not GAAP-compliant
- Limited reporting capabilities
Example:
You receive a payment for $1,000. You record it once under “Revenue”-no additional entry is required.
3. Double-Entry Bookkeeping
Double-entry bookkeeping records each transaction twice-once as a debit and once as a credit-keeping the accounting equation in balance.
Best for:
- Growing businesses
- Companies with employees or inventory
- Any business that needs financial statements
Pros:
- Accurate and balanced
- Allows full financial reporting
- Required for accrual accounting and compliance
Cons:
- More complex
- Requires bookkeeping knowledge or software
Example:
You pay $500 for office rent. It’s recorded as a $500 debit to “Rent Expense” and a $500 credit to “Cash.”
4. Which Bookkeeping Method Should You Use
| Business Type | Recommended Method |
| Freelancer with few transactions | Single-Entry |
| Small business with multiple accounts | Double-Entry |
| Business needing tax-ready reports | Double-Entry |
| Cash-only operation | Single-Entry may be enough |
If you’re unsure, use double-entry bookkeeping or outsource to a bookkeeping service. It’s more scalable and prepares you for taxes and growth.
State/Industry Example – Retail Business in Illinois
A boutique retail business in Chicago, Illinois uses double-entry bookkeeping to track inventory, sales tax, and vendor payments. With multiple accounts and hundreds of transactions monthly, single-entry would not provide the visibility or accuracy needed.
Test Case – Freelancer in Florida
Business: Graphic designer
Location: Orlando, Florida
Transactions: Under 50/month
Method: Single-entry spreadsheet system
Result: Simple but led to errors at tax time. Switched to RemoteBooksOnline and adopted a double-entry system with automation for accuracy and compliance.
State Tax Reference – Florida
Florida businesses must collect and report sales tax. Double-entry bookkeeping makes it easier to track liabilities and file reports accurately. Single-entry users often overlook tax obligations, increasing audit risk.
Confused about which bookkeeping method is right for your business?
Get a free consultation from RemoteBooksOnline and let us help you choose and implement the right system.
FAQs
What is the difference between single-entry and double-entry bookkeeping?
Single-entry records each transaction once. Double-entry records it twice—once as a debit, once as a credit—for accuracy and balance.
Is double-entry bookkeeping required by law?
It’s not required for all businesses but is necessary for compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and for generating financial statements.
Can I switch from single-entry to double-entry?
Yes. Many businesses start with single-entry and migrate to double-entry as they grow.
Which method is better for taxes?
Double-entry. It gives you a complete view of income, expenses, liabilities, and assets, all of which are required for tax reporting.
Can bookkeeping software handle both systems?
Yes. Most modern platforms like QuickBooks and Xero support double-entry. Some also allow simplified views for beginners.
Bookkeeping Services in Key U.S. States
Bookkeeping Services in Key U.S. ZIP Codes
- 32801 (Orlando, FL)
- 60601 (Chicago, IL)
- 75201 (Dallas, TX)
- 10001 (New York, NY)
- 95814 (Sacramento, CA)
Whether you use single-entry or double-entry, RemoteBooksOnline ensures your bookkeeping is accurate, tax-ready, and tailored to your business.
