How Much Do Bookkeepers Charge?
There is no fixed rate for bookkeeping because it depends on several factors. But in general, bookkeepers charge in one of the following ways:
- Hourly Rate
- Monthly Flat Fee
- Per-Transaction Rate
- Package Deals
Let’s break them down and see what you might expect to pay.
1. Hourly Rate
Many bookkeepers charge by the hour. The cost usually depends on their experience and location. Here’s a general idea of hourly rates:
| Bookkeeper Type | Average Hourly Rate (USA) |
|---|---|
| Beginner/Freelancer | $20 – $40 per hour |
| Experienced Bookkeeper | $40 – $75 per hour |
| Certified Bookkeeper | $60 – $100 per hour |
| Bookkeeping Firm/Agency | $75 – $150 per hour |
Hourly billing is a good option if you have only a small amount of bookkeeping work or don’t need help regularly.
2. Monthly Flat Fee
Some bookkeepers offer a monthly package. This is a fixed price every month based on the amount of work they do. It’s common among small businesses that want to know exactly how much they’ll pay each month.
| Business Type | Monthly Bookkeeping Cost |
|---|---|
| Sole Proprietor/Freelancer | $100 – $400 |
| Small Business (1-10 employees) | $300 – $800 |
| Medium Business (10+ employees) | $800 – $2,500 |
The price depends on how many transactions you have, how many accounts need tracking, if you need payroll help, and how often you need reports.
3. Per-Transaction Rate
Some bookkeepers charge per transaction. For example, they might charge $1.50 for every bank or credit card transaction they process. This method is less common but can work well for businesses with few transactions.
4. Package Deals
Many bookkeeping services now offer packages with specific features. These packages can include services like:
- Bank reconciliation
- Invoicing
- Expense tracking
- Tax-ready reports
- Payroll support
- Software integration
Example of a Package Deal:
| Package Name | Features Included | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Plan | Up to 50 transactions, bank rec., reports | $200 |
| Growth Plan | Up to 200 transactions, invoicing, payroll | $500 |
| Premium Plan | Unlimited transactions, all features | $1,200 |
What Affects Bookkeeping Costs?
Here are the main things that affect how much you’ll pay for bookkeeping:
- Size of Your Business
More transactions and employees mean more work for the bookkeeper. - Business Complexity
If you have inventory, multiple locations, or do business internationally, bookkeeping will take more time. - Number of Accounts
The more bank accounts, credit cards, and loans you use, the more your bookkeeper will need to manage. - Frequency of Service
Do you need bookkeeping daily, weekly, or monthly? More frequent service = higher cost. - Software Used
If your bookkeeper uses special tools or software, that may be included in your price — or it might cost extra. - Experience & Certification
Highly experienced or certified bookkeepers usually charge more but can work faster and more accurately. - Location
Bookkeeping prices can vary by region. For example, a bookkeeper in New York or California might charge more than someone in Texas or Florida.
Freelance Bookkeeper vs. Bookkeeping Firm
Should you hire a freelance bookkeeper or a firm? Both have their benefits:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Freelance | Lower cost, flexible, personal attention | May lack backup if sick/unavailable |
| Bookkeeping Firm | More resources, team support, more tools | Higher cost, may feel less personal |
If you’re a very small business or just starting, a freelance bookkeeper may be enough. But if your business is growing fast, a firm can offer more services and support.
Online Bookkeeping Services
Online bookkeeping is becoming very popular. Services like Bench, Bookkeeper.com, and Pilot offer monthly packages. These platforms use software and remote bookkeepers to keep your books updated.
Online services may charge:
- Basic Plans: $250 – $500/month
- Advanced Plans (with tax filing): $500 – $1,000+/month
These services are best for businesses that prefer everything online and want regular reports.
Should You Do Your Own Bookkeeping?
If you’re just starting out, you might consider doing bookkeeping yourself using tools like QuickBooks or Wave. This can save money, but it takes time and effort to learn.
Pros of DIY Bookkeeping:
- Saves money
- You stay close to your finances
Cons of DIY Bookkeeping:
- Time-consuming
- Easy to make errors
- No expert advice when problems happen
If you make mistakes, it can cost more to fix later — especially during tax season. Hiring a bookkeeper can help avoid that.
Learn more about Accounting Software
Is Bookkeeping Worth the Cost?
Yes, in most cases. A good bookkeeper doesn’t just save you time — they also help you avoid expensive mistakes. They can keep your business organized, help you with cash flow, and make tax time easier.
Think of a bookkeeper as a partner who helps you focus on your business while they handle the numbers.
Final Thoughts
So, how much do bookkeepers charge? It depends on your needs. You might pay anywhere from $100/month for basic services to over $1,000/month for full-service bookkeeping. The best approach is to:
- Decide how much help you need
- Compare hourly vs. monthly vs. package options
- Talk to a few bookkeepers or services
- Choose the one that fits your business and budget
Bookkeeping is an investment — and choosing the right person or service can make your financial life much easier.
Also Read:
- What is Digital Bookkeeping?
- Do Bookkeepers Do Taxes?
- A Comparison of Bookkeeping and Accounting Indicates That…
- What Services Do Bookkeepers Provide?
- What is a Virtual Bookkeeper?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly rate for bookkeepers?
The average hourly rate for bookkeepers in the USA is between $20 to $100, depending on their experience, location, and services provided. Beginners usually charge less, while certified or firm-based bookkeepers charge more due to their skills and added support.
How much do bookkeepers charge per month?
Monthly charges vary based on business size and complexity. Freelancers or small businesses might pay $100 to $400, while medium to large businesses may pay $500 to over $2,000 monthly for more advanced services and regular financial reporting.
Do bookkeepers charge by the hour or monthly?
Bookkeepers can charge hourly or offer monthly flat rates. Hourly is great for small or one-time tasks. Monthly fees work better for ongoing needs like payroll, reports, and daily transaction recording. Choose based on how much support your business needs.
What services are included in bookkeeping fees?
Bookkeeping fees usually cover transaction entry, bank reconciliation, invoicing, expense tracking, and preparing monthly financial reports. Some bookkeepers also offer payroll and tax prep support, but those may cost extra depending on the service plan you choose.
What factors affect bookkeeping service pricing?
Prices depend on business size, number of transactions, payroll, software used, and whether the bookkeeper is freelance or from a firm. More complex businesses with inventory, multiple accounts, or employees will usually pay more for bookkeeping services.
Are bookkeeping services worth the cost?
Yes. A good bookkeeper saves you time, avoids costly mistakes, and helps manage finances better. They keep your books accurate, so you’re ready for taxes, loans, or audits. The money spent on a bookkeeper is often saved in peace of mind and accuracy.
How do online bookkeeping services charge?
Online bookkeeping platforms offer monthly packages. Basic plans start at around $250/month and go higher for services like payroll and tax filing. These services are great for remote businesses or anyone who wants regular reports with less paperwork.
