Monthly Bookkeeping Starter Guide (2025 Edition)
Master your monthly bookkeeping routine with this step-by-step guide-perfect for small business owners, freelancers, and startups in 2025.
Staying on top of your books every month is the simplest way to avoid backlogs, tax stress, and missed deductions. This monthly bookkeeping guide walks you through what to do, when to do it, and how to keep your books clean and accurate year-round.
Use the steps below to follow along, or download this guide as a PDF.
For ongoing support, explore our Monthly Bookkeeping Services or view the full range of Bookkeeping Services available.
Weekly Tasks
- Import and review bank and credit card transactions
- Categorize expenses as they come in
- Match deposits to sales or receivables
- Save digital receipts in your system or app
End-of-Month Tasks
- Reconcile all accounts (bank, credit, PayPal, etc.)
- Review P&L and balance sheet for accuracy
- Tag uncategorized or unusual entries for review
- Run aging reports (A/R and A/P)
Checklist for Reports to Run Monthly
- Profit & Loss Statement (P&L)
- Balance Sheet
- Cash Flow Statement
- A/R and A/P Aging Summary
Best Practices
- Use bank rules to auto-categorize vendors
- Always reconcile to bank statements—not just balances
- Review financials with your CPA or tax pro quarterly
- Document all owner draws, loans, and capital contributions
Monthly Tools & Tips
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Use cloud-based software (QuickBooks, Xero, Wave) - Back up files monthly if using desktop versions
- Create standard templates for recurring invoices and bills
When to Get Help
If you find that monthly books are falling behind-or you’re unsure how to review reports properly—it may be time to outsource your bookkeeping.
RemoteBooksOnline provides Monthly Bookkeeping with CPA-reviewed accuracy, all at flat monthly rates.
Test Case: Olivia’s Design Studio in California
Problem: Olivia missed 5 months of reconciliations and couldn’t assess her project profitability.
Solution: We implemented monthly bookkeeping services and created custom reporting by project.
Outcome: She now gets monthly reports by the 5th, improved cash flow forecasting, and saved 20 hours per month.
Want peace of mind each month?
- Learn about our Monthly Bookkeeping Services
- Behind on books? View Catch-Up Bookkeeping
- See what’s included in all Bookkeeping Services
- Clean your books first? Try the QuickBooks Cleanup Checklist
You can also explore this checklist directly from our Bookkeeping Services pillar page or through our the Monthly Bookkeeping hub page to stay on top of tasks throughout the year.
Let us handle the monthly work - so you can focus on growth.
Call us at 1-800-583-0148 or