How to Start a Bookkeeping Business

So you’ve decided you want to be a bookkeeper (congratulations!) and you’ve decided to take the leap to start your own bookkeeping business!  Bravo!!

If you put in the work and follow the steps below, it’s nearly guaranteed that you will be successful.  You will have the freedom to choose when you work, where you work, and who you work for. And if all goes well, you will never, ever have to go work as an employee for someone else again.  

But you’re probably asking how to go about doing that?  A lot of people think that starting a business can be a daunting task. Really it is pretty straightforward if you’re organized and have someone guiding you through the process.

It can be broken down into these simple steps.  

First, you’ll need a name.  When thinking about a name, think about branding and your image.  Do you want the business to be centered around you? Or do you want the business to grow bigger than you.  If the answer is the latter, you should probably keep your name out of the business name. If the answer is the former then you should definitely include your name in the business name.
Side Note: if the business name you choose doesn’t include your last name, you will likely need to file a DBA or fictitious license with your county.  There is no right or wrong answer to the above questions.  But, while you are asking those questions...

Next, you should sit down and write a business plan.  This will help you set some goals on paper and focus your vision.  It will also likely get you excited and inspired all over again about your next great adventure. There are several free online business plan templates and wizards to help get you started.  

With your new business name, you should secure your web domain. Go to godaddy.com to check availability

Next, you’ll need to choose what type of entity to be? See our LLC article here
Once you choose your entity type, you will need to get an EIN from the IRS you can apply for one online for free here.

With your new EIN you’ll need to get a new separate bank account

And maybe a business credit card… See why we recommend establishing business credit early here.

Now it’s time to start branding yourself.

First step is to get a logo to go with your name and your image
Check out logojoy, tailorbrands, design inspired and 99 designs

Make a website
Think of your site as a digital business card.  So keep it simple to start!

Check out sitey, weebly, squarespace, and wix to start.

If you’re experienced with websites use wordpress

If you need professional help check out my friends over at parallel designs and

If you haven’t already, you should definitely get signed up with your free Quickbooks Online proadvisor account and work on your profile.

You’ll want to order some business cards that match your branding

Check out vistaprint’s deals

You should also get a business license from your City before you start doing work.  The process and fee varies from city to city but is usually a simple form and a reasonable fee for new businesses.  Check your city’s websites for more details.

Now that you’ve crossed your t’s and dotted your i’s it’s time to get to work!

If you’re looking for more resources to take your bookkeeping business to the next level.  You should also check out Bens Bookkeeping Class and once you’ve mastered those skills check out StacyK Academy.