Are you looking for a reliable small business accounting firm to handle your bookkeeping, tax preparation, and payroll services? We meticulously examined authentic client feedback, detailed case studies, and agency websites to compile a list of the best small business accountants you can partner with. Browse our directory and refine your search by budget, team size, location, and other criteria.
We've also evaluated hundreds of small business accounting firms to compile this top 10 list, focusing on their expertise, key services, successful projects, client testimonials, pricing structures, and industry accolades. Review their specializations and featured case studies to find the ideal partner for your needs.
The Number 1 Small Business Accounting Firm as Selected by DesignRush Is...
Padgett
- Best for: Overall
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1966
- Size: 250-499
- Location: Athens, GA
- Notable clients: Ann Peden Jewelry, Luke Robison Farms, Bowers Fencing and Swimming Pools, Radiance by Roxanne, The Oyster Bed
Padgett helps small business owners keep neat financial records and focus on growing their businesses by managing their tax, accounting, payroll, and advisory needs. As part of its accounting service, the company handles monthly balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and account reconciliation. With over 50 years of experience, Padgett supports thousands of small businesses across North America through a network of local, independently owned and operated firms.
Padgett Success Story
- Challenge: A Chicago bakery faced significant profitability and cash flow problems. The business suffered a $34,000 loss, leading the owners to consider closing.
- Solution: Upon doing a preliminary audit, Padgett discovered that the bakery was spending a significant amount on ineffective traditional advertising, recommending allocating marketing funds to social media and community events. Another abnormality detected was that the cost of goods accounted for 50% of the revenue, prompting the agency to suspect internal theft and install a new POS system to track cashiers’ keystrokes and other surveillance.
- Results: In just a year after the collaboration, the bakery realized $47,000 profit, swinging in an impressive $81,000 in profitability since the initial contact. The successful turnaround enabled the owners to consider expansion, leading to the opening of a second, highly profitable location the following year.
Pilot
- Best for: Bookkeeping
- Average hourly rate: $1
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2017
- Size: 250-499
- Location: San Francisco, CA
- Notable clients: Sundaily, Maev, Online Stampede, Alvea, Coin Tracker
Pilot specializes in comprehensive accounting services for startups and growing businesses, offering bookkeeping, tax preparation, CFO services, and R&D tax credit processing. The company provides monthly profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and statements of cash flow reports that offer insight into the client's financial health and enable informed decision-making. Its services ensure accurate financial statements, tax compliance, and strategic financial planning, leveraging technology to integrate seamlessly with financial accounts like QuickBooks and Gusto.
Pilot Success Story
- Challenge: Sundaily, an early-stage eCommence company, needed high-quality bookkeeping but lacked the time and expertise to manage it effectively. Its CEO, Chris Tolles, wanted a robust solution to streamline the bookkeeping processes and ensure accuracy without diverting significant time from core business activities.
- Solution: Pilot integrated its bookkeeping tools into Sundaily’s existing platforms, offering advanced software and usability support. This allowed Sundaily to achieve high-quality bookkeeping with minimal effort and ensure its financial records were accurate and up to date.
- Results: Pilot’s effort enabled Sundaily to save over $18,000 annually and more than 20 hours per month, allowing it to operate more efficiently and confidently. The Sundaily team was able to spend less than an hour monthly on bookkeeping, allocating that time to focus on growth strategy and other critical business functions.
Graphite
- Best for: Accounts payable/receivable
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2016
- Size: Under 49
- Location: New York City, NY
- Notable clients: Caraway, Confiant, Rasa, Mondoo, Dashbot
Graphite Financial is a specialized accounting firm for startups, offering comprehensive bookkeeping, fractional CFO services, financial modeling, client invoicing, accounts payable, and tax services. Understanding the importance of cash flow across nascent growth stages, the company assists businesses with expertise and tools for a comprehensive overview of their runway, capital needs, revenue, and unit economics. Since 2016, Graphite has supported hundreds of growing startups with dedicated teams that act as in-house finance departments.
Graphite Success Story
- Challenge: Cookware brand Caraway encountered difficulties establishing a strong finance and accounting department while launching and expanding its consumer packaged goods (CPG) business. The startup needed a partner to offer accounting expertise and assistance as it managed the expansion of its product offerings, team, and sales channels.
- Solution: Graphite developed Caraway’s finance and accounting function, offering fundraising and business scaling guidance. As part of the service, it assisted the client in selecting the right systems and establishing processes for accounts receivable, bill payment, and other essential functions.
- Results: Caraway was able to concentrate on launching and expanding its business without being burdened by the complexities of back-end accounting. Caraway benefited from the expert accounting support, ensuring critical tasks were handled attentively and efficiently.
Schultz & Associates, CPA
- Best for: Tax preparation
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 1992
- Size: Under 49
- Location: Canton, MI
Schultz & Associates, CPA provides comprehensive accounting services for startups and small businesses. It assists with bookkeeping, payroll, financial statement auditing, and tax preparation, among other things. Schultz & Associates, CPA operates from three branches, having serviced over 200 business clients from a broad range of industries. The company caters to clients that have business or nexus in other states, tending to their multi-state income tax and sales tax needs.
Schultz & Associates, CPA Success Story
- Challenge: A plumbing contractor in Westland sought to streamline its accounting and bookkeeping processes. With his business growing, the client needed tax preparation and planning assistance.
- Solution: Schultz & Associates expanded its services from weekly payroll processing and end-of-year accounting to full-service accounting support. The company helped the plumbing company migrate from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online, automated their bill pay processes, prepared invoices for long-term projects, managed incoming funds, performed monthly bank reconciliations, and provided timely monthly financial reports.
- Results: The plumbing contractor experienced notable revenue growth despite a marginal increase in service fees. Schultz & Associates' efficient accounting process management allowed the client to handle an additional 2-5 service calls per week, thereby boosting its income.
Check Schultz & Associates, CPA Agency Profile
Hiline
- Best for: CFO services
- Average hourly rate: $1
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2016
- Size: 100-249
- Location: Syracuse, NY
- Notable clients: Avidon Health, Jahnel Group, Early Childhood Alliance Onondaga, Verse Gaming, Tim The Tatman
Hiline offers comprehensive accounting services tailored for small businesses, ensuring their bookkeeping, tax filing, and payroll are efficiently managed so clients can focus on their core business activities. The company assigns a dedicated accounting team to keep financial data well-organized through meticulous record-keeping and account reconciliation. Its capabilities extend to CFO services, human resources (HR), accounts payable, spend management, and accounting system implementation.
Hiline Success Story
- Challenge: Avidon Health enlisted Hiline’s CFO services to instill stability across its accounting and finance operations. The client previously relied on an overburdened external bookkeeper and a junior internal accountant, which hindered its scalability and financial reporting accuracy.
- Solution: Within the first month of onboarding, Hiline reviewed and adjusted financial records during a cleanup project. The accounting firm introduced a team-based approach that combined day-to-day transactional work with high-level advisory services.
- Results: Avidon Health achieved better financial stability, accurate and timely financial reports, and improved business operations through refined KPI and forecasting metrics. This partnership allowed Avidon Health to focus on its core competencies, scale effectively, and position itself for sustained growth.
Bench Accounting
- Best for: Automating bookkeeping processes
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2013
- Size: Under 49
- Location: Vancouver, Canada
- Notable clients: Outsider Supply, Trainual, Career Change Expert, Radiator, Violet Moon Jewelry
Bench Accounting provides bookkeeping and tax services tailored for small business owners, offering expert support and user-friendly software to streamline financial management. When signing up clients for its bookkeeping service, Bench Accounting assigns a dedicated bookkeeper for guidance that provides real-time financial insights and monthly bookkeeping and prepares tax-ready financials, including filing assistance. Trusted by over 25,000 American business owners, the small business accounting firm delivers accurate financial management, real-time insights, and robust reporting.
Bench Accounting Success Story
- Challenge: McKenzie Thompson, founder of Outsider Supply, struggled to manage her books while running her apparel business. Thompson initially managed her own bookkeeping but soon felt overwhelmed, particularly during tax season, exacerbated by the exhausting demands associated with running the business.
- Solution: Bench Accounting implemented an automated, real-time accounting solution that alleviated the bookkeeping burden for the small business owner, enabling her to focus on apparel production. The integration with Shopify allowed for seamless connection of store accounts, allowing the owner to have centralized access to information.
- Results: With Bench’s support, Thompson was able to refocus on creative work and customer interactions, make informed financial decisions, optimize advertising spending, and manage cash flow effectively. Collectively, these efforts allowed the small business owner to position Outsider Supply for sustained growth.
Check Bench Accounting Agency Profile
SLC Bookkeeping
- Best for: Year-end accounting
- Average hourly rate: $1
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2007
- Size: Under 49
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Notable clients: Archtype Development, Mountain Yoga Sandy, Tsunami Restaurant & Sushi Bar, Cubcoats, CharPoles
SLC Bookkeeping offers outsourced accounting services for small businesses, providing high-value controller services and expertise at a fraction of the cost of a full-time CFO. It specializes in accurate reconciliation, reporting, forecasting, and strategic planning for various industries, including restaurants, real estate, and law firms. Its key services include project consulting, monthly reporting, financial forecasting, and small business mentoring.
SLC Bookkeeping Success Story
- Challenge: The owner of Archetype Development was constantly stressed due to neglected bookkeeping tasks, which led to outdated financial records, inaccurate or non-existent financial reports, and significant challenges during tax season, including filing for tax extensions and paying unnecessary late fees and interest.
- Solution: SLC Bookkeeping provided regular monthly bookkeeping updates, allowing the small business owner to focus on growing the business. This systematic approach ensured accurate recording of deposits and purchases, reduced statement errors, and facilitated better tax planning and decision-making.
- Results: SLC Bookkeeping’s assistance allowed Archetype Development to achieve an 80% sales increase and a 300% profit growth. The regular financial updates and accurate reporting enabled the owner to make informed business decisions and identify opportunities for further growth.
Check SLC Bookkeeping Agency Profile
Milestone
- Best for: Financial forecasting
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2020
- Size: Under 49
- Location: Carmel, IN
- Notable clients: Blind Zebra, Sullivan Hardware & Garden, Lessonly, Adipo Therapeutics, Bohu Digital
Milestone offers comprehensive accounting, HR, and payroll services tailored to support entrepreneurial ventures. As a small business accounting firm, Milestone provides bookkeeping, monthly accounting, cash flow forecasting, fractional CFO support, HR management, strategic HR initiatives, payroll processing, and accounting system implementation. Aiming to help businesses maintain tidy books and financial records, the company offers assistance with processing vendor and customer invoices, recording credit card transactions, reconciling bank and credit card accounts, and collecting payments from customers.
Milestone Success Story
- Challenge: As a young and growing company, sales operation system provider Blind Zebra faced slow days-to-pay, inefficient practices, and a lack of financial visibility. Seeking to introduce stability across its financial operations, the company hired Milestone for higher-level accounting support.
- Solution: Milestone deployed a strategy focused on best practices and integrated a new tech stack to increase operational efficiencies and streamline information flow. Collaborating with the Blind Zebra team, the small business accountant developed a tailored reporting package and financial forecast, ensuring alignment with the business's specific needs.
- Results: Milestone’s interventions reduced Blind Zebra’s days-to-pay from 40 to 15 days on average, significantly improving cash flow. This allowed the company to triple its revenue and expand its team to 11 coaches.
Check Milestone Agency Profile
TGG Accounting
- Best for: Financial consulting
- Average hourly rate: $50
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2006
- Size: 100-249
- Location: San Antonio, TX
- Notable clients: PTTOW!, PRO Compression, Tourmaline Enterprises, BirdRock Systems, RockStep Capital
TGG Accounting specializes in scalable outsourced accounting services for small businesses, offering a full team of financial professionals such as CFOs and controllers. Comprehensively, its accounting service covers accounts payable, accounts receivable, CFO services, bookkeeping, reconciliations and closing, and tax planning. The company ensures GAAP-compliant reporting to enhance business valuation and financial clarity and works closely with internal teams to streamline processes, reduce risks, and optimize profitability.
TGG Accounting Success Story
- Challenge: A technology startup needed to validate its business model and secure essential financing to propel its growth. Lacking the internal expertise and structured processes to navigate from concept to a fully functional company, the client reached out to TGG Accounting for assistance.
- Solution: TGG Accounting collaborated closely with the startup's leadership to develop robust accounting, financial, and HR systems and strategize a clear path forward. TGG deployed a dedicated team, including a CFO consultant, to implement best practices and ensure the company's readiness for investment rounds.
- Results: The start-up successfully transitioned from pre-incorporation to post-revenue status. It secured over $3.5 million in capital through a combination of equity and debt financing, facilitated clean audit reporting, and established credibility in the market. This enabled the start-up to attract angel investors, obtain bank financing, and secure Series A funding.
Check TGG Accounting Agency Profile
Ignite Spot
- Best for: Client invoicing
- Average hourly rate: Inquire
- Minimum budget: Inquire
- Founded: 2013
- Size: Under 49
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Notable clients: Capstone Strategy Group, Pelipost, BHCS, Lendio, Single Grain
Ignite Spot specializes in bookkeeping and accounting services tailored for small businesses, offering comprehensive financial management. Its service includes data entry, payroll processing, and financial reporting using tools like QuickBooks and TSheets. Its US-based team ensures efficient, secure, and personalized service, helping businesses streamline operations and achieve financial clarity without the overhead of an in-house team.
Ignite Spot Success Story
- Challenge: Capstone Strategy Group encountered financial management issues, including disorganized accounting practices, rushed tax preparation, lack of visibility into profit margins, and service overpayment. Seeking to obtain proactive financial advice and a comprehensive understanding of tax laws, the client partnered with Ignite Spot.
- Solution: Ignite Spot organized Capstone Strategy Group’s books, ensured NY tax law compliance, automated invoicing, and implemented a system for accurate profitability tracking. Working together, the team established a COGS-matching system aligned with monthly accounting rather than a cash basis, providing Capstone with a precise, up-to-date understanding of profitability.
- Results: Capstone Strategy Group improved its financial organization, reduced overpayments, and gained better visibility into profit margins. The partnership provided significant time savings for the founders and instilled confidence in their financial management. The company now benefits from clean, up-to-date financial reports and strategic decision-making supported by accurate financial insights.
Check Ignite Spot Agency Profile
How We Picked the Best Small Business Accountants
To pick the best small business accountants, we reviewed their portfolios, testimonials, case studies, industry reputation, team expertise, client roster, and executive management. Through in-depth assessment, our selection team evaluated each company’s track record and capabilities that make it excel in the field.
These are the criteria we used to rank the top small business accounting firms:
- Reviews: Quality of work, client satisfaction, and level of trustworthiness
- Portfolio: Successful accounting projects with results backed by case studies
- Awards and press: Accolades and recognitions from reputable third-party agencies
- Team bios: Overview of employee profiles and relevant accounting experience
- Top services: Core offerings and areas of focus
- Small business accounting expertise: Ability to provide tailored accounting assistance spanning tax processing, financial reporting, payroll management, and strategic financial consulting services
Visit the DesignRush Agency Ranking Methodology for more information on how we research agencies.
10 Most Popular Small Business Accounting Firms Compared
| Agency name | Location | Hourly rate | Size | Best for |
| Padgett | Athens, GA | Inquire | 250-499 | Overall |
| Pilot | San Francisco, CA | $1 | 250-499 | Bookkeeping |
| Graphite | New York City, NY | Inquire | Under 49 | Accounts payable/receivable |
| Schultz & Associates, CPA | Canton, MI | Inquire | Under 49 | Tax preparation |
| Hiline | Syracuse, NY | $1 | 100-249 | CFO services |
| Bench Accounting | Vancouver, Canada | Inquire | Under 49 | Automated bookkeeping processes |
| SLC Bookkeeping | Salt Lake City, UT | $1 | Under 49 | Year-end accounting |
| Milestone | Carmel, IN | Inquire | Under 49 | Financial forecasting |
| TGG Accounting | San Antonio, TX | $50 | 100-249 | Financial consulting |
| Ignite Spot | Salt Lake City, UT | Inquire | Under 49 | Client invoicing |
Organic rankings are determined by five factors: top services, reviews, portfolio, awards/press, and team expertise. Sponsored listings pay for a placement that appears above organic positions. Sponsorship does not affect star ratings or review content - read more on our methodology page.
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- Grapevine, Texas
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
We are a CPA Firm based in San Antonio, TX with a team of smart, hardworking and light-hearted accounting professionals who are passionate about helping fellow business owners succeed...
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- Business Consulting
- Accounting
- Location
- San Antonio, Texas
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
Omnis wants to be your first choice for professional virtual bookkeeping for all businesses! We place a high priority on giving our clients individualized, friendly service. We’ll spend time getting to know you and your goals. Then we’ll make a plan and take action...
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- Accounting
- Business Consulting
- Location
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- Number of Employees
- Under 49
Our firm offers a wide range of services to our individual and business clients. Because our firm is relatively small, our clients benefit by getting personalized, quality service that is beyond comparison...
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- BPO
- Accounting
- Location
- Los Angeles, California
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
Fineman West & Company provides a full spectrum of accounting, tax, and business advisory services backed by unrivaled expertise, an unsurpassed passion for understanding our clients’ stories, and a commitment to helping our clients achieve and maintain financial success...
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- Accounting
- Business Consulting
- Location
- Los Angeles, California
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
Milam, Knecht & Warner, LLP is a valuable strategic and competitive advantage for your business. Many CEO’s and business owners tell us that various business issues keep them up at night. We have solved these late night worries by providing the tools and processes needed to proactively optimize, measure...
Top Services:
- Business Consulting
- Accounting
- Location
- Glendale, California
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
In 1988, Dana Piazza founded the accounting firm that would become PDM. He started the practice with an office in Torrance, California, shortly thereafter adding an office in San Pedro...
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- Accounting
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- Number of Employees
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Prime Accounting Solutions provides top-notch accounting services at affordable prices — we are locally owned and operated, and providing accounting solutions for small businesses as well as being licensed tax preparers. Our goal is simple; provide our clients with peace of mind knowing their financials are...
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- Number of Employees
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In 1971 Robert Hall had a dream to create an accounting firm that offered the businesses and residents of Los Angeles, high-quality tax services. He recognized that each business is unique and the traditional “cookie-cutter” tax preparation approach was not serving their best interests. Out of this desire...
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- Accounting
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- Number of Employees
- Under 49
No other firm does what we do! We are the best single source for business services integrating: *Legal *Tax *Accounting *Business Management Consulting What does that mean? It means we can answer the questions and explain the intricate issues you face as a business owner each day in terms you can understand...
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- Accounting
- Business Consulting
- Location
- San Diego, California
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
We designed our advanced business and accounting services to better help your business establish a solid foundation for growth. You can customize your service package further by adding payroll, accounting, human resources, tax preparation or any of our other help you might require in addition to business...
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- BPO
- Accounting
- HR Outsourcing
- Location
- San Diego, California
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
California employment law is complicated and constantly changing. To stay current and in compliance, professional HR support is critical. South Bay HR delivers quality, affordable professional human resources and recruiting services for employers throughout Southern California. Our company’s expertise...
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- Redondo Beach, California
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
American Accounting & Tax Services offers a premium service at a great value to citizens and businesses. Bookkeeping, Taxes, and accountants for all needs...
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- Number of Employees
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Allen Street Consulting offers a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance financial efficiency for small businesses and nonprofits in Western New York. From setting up and optimizing QuickBooks for seamless bookkeeping, payroll, sales tax, and inventory control to providing expert guidance on...
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- Business Consulting
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- Buffalo, New York
- Number of Employees
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Dansa D'Arata Soucia LLP is a public accounting and consulting firm comprised of diverse professionals who bring together the best practices, experiences, and service concepts to deliver premier assurance, tax and consulting services to our clientele. With some of the region’s most recognized organizations...
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- Location
- Buffalo, New York
- Number of Employees
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Small Business Accounting Company Hiring Guide
What is an accounting firm for small businesses?
A small business accounting firm is a firm that provides specialized financial services designed to meet the needs of small businesses and startups. Its primary goal is to help businesses track and maintain accurate financial records and comply with regulatory requirements in order to maximize profits and minimize tax liabilities.
Small businesses face specific challenges that accounting firms can help overcome, without disrupting their financial stability and growth potential:
- Navigating complex tax laws and regulations to avoid penalties
- Providing accurate and timely financial statements for decision-making
- Assisting in creating realistic budgets and financial projections
- Handling payroll processing and ensuring compliance with labor laws
- Keeping detailed records of business expenses for better cost control
- Preparing for and assisting during audits to ensure compliance and accuracy
- Advising on financial strategies for business expansion and scaling
- Managing and structuring business loans and credit lines effectively
- Implementing accounting software and systems for efficient financial management
98% of small business owners report that their accountant enhances their confidence in their business, with nine out of ten saying that their accountant or bookkeeper contributes to the growth of their business. Notably, data also shows that 71% of small businesses outsource at least one accounting function.
Success Story
While the statistics speak for themselves, the following case study further showcases how accounting agencies are pivotal in propelling small businesses like yours to sustained growth:
- Challenge: Workplace wearables company Kinetic faced significant financial management challenges as it scaled. After raising substantial funds during its seed funding, the company’s existing financial model and certified public accountant (CPA) services proved insufficient, prompting it to seek a more sophisticated financial management solution.
- Solution: Graphite developed a tailored financial model for the company’s complex offering suite. Graphite also provided accounts payable and accounts receivable and prepared monthly report packages for both internal management and external stakeholders.
- Results: With Graphite’s support, Kinetic gained control over its finances. As their business model evolved with the addition of insurance services, the outsourced solution offered flexibility and ensured proper financial reporting.
What services do accounting firms for small businesses provide?
Accounting firms for small businesses provide specialized services, strategic financial advice, and financial planning support, helping clients navigate financial challenges and make informed decisions. They act as a financial partner to small businesses, assisting them with the day-to-day tasks of recording and reconciling financial transactions.
Some of the specific services they provide include:
- Bookkeeping
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date financial records to track income, expenses, and overall financial health - Tax preparation and planning
Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal tax laws while minimizing tax liabilities through strategic planning - Fractional CFO
Providing part-time CFO services that include financial strategy, oversight, and guidance without the cost of a full-time CFO - Bank reconciliation
Comparing and matching the business’s financial records with bank statements to ensure consistency and accuracy, and identify any discrepancies - Financial planning
Assisting with budgeting, financial forecasting, and long-term financial strategies to support business growth and profitability - Payroll management
Handling all aspects of payroll processing, including wage calculation, tax withholdings, and labor law alignment - Auditing and assurance
Examining financial records and statements to verify their accuracy and regulations compliance, intended to identify any discrepancies or areas of financial risk - Consulting services
Offering specialized advice on financial management, optimizing accounting processes, implementing accounting systems, tax planning, regulatory compliance, and strategic financial decision-making - Financial statement preparation
Compiling and presenting accurate financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, to give a clear picture of the business’s financial performance and position - Cash flow management
Tracking the cash flow and implementing strategies to maintain consistency, ensuring the business can meet its financial obligations and invest in growth opportunities
Success story
In exploring the significance of small business accountants, our experts selected the following case study that shows how Pilot aided Maev in implementing a structure that elevated their financial operations and oversight:
- Challenge: As a solo founder of dog nutrition product line Maev, Katie handled product development, operations, marketing, and all financial tasks. After securing seed funding, Katie realized her self-managed approach to accounting hindered her ability to focus on growth, leading the small business owner to partner with Pilot.
- Solution: As part of the service, Pilot provided fractional CFO services to assess the company’s growth and operational metrics. It provided tax, accounting, and bookkeeping services. Additionally, Pilot implemented a new inventory management system, streamlined bookkeeping in QuickBooks, and developed a robust KPI dashboard for the small business.
- Results: The partnership allowed Katie to concentrate on raising funds, hiring, and growing the brand. Pilot’s CFO services team developed a financial model that allowed the founder to analyze revenue scenarios for new funding rounds, which doubled as a projection tool for investors.
What are the different types of small business accounting firms?
There are several different types of small business accounting firms, mainly differing by the scope of service, specialization, target clients, and regulatory compliance. As such, they can be categorized as:
| Type | Function |
| Bookkeeping firms | Primarily handle day-to-day financial record-keeping, including managing accounts payable and receivable, reconciling bank statements, and maintaining the general ledger |
| Tax accounting firms | Help businesses comply with tax regulations, file tax returns, and develop strategies to minimize tax liabilities |
| Audit and assurance firms | Perform audits to identify weaknesses in financial operations, highlight areas of improvement, and provide assurance services to add credibility to financial reports |
| Public accounting firms | Typically employ CPAs specialized to review financial statements, prepare tax returns, evaluate accounting procedures, analyze operations, and recommend cost cuts and revenue enhancements |
| Consulting accounting firms | Offer advisory services, including financial planning, business strategy development, mergers and acquisitions support, and risk management |
How much is the average cost of accounting for small businesses?
The average cost of accounting for small businesses can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per year, depending on the business size, complexity, and required services.
Here’s a general breakdown of service cost for small business accounting:
- Bookkeeping: $100 to $300 per hour
- Tax preparation: $100 to $500 per project
- Consulting services: $200 to $500 per hour
- Financial statement review: $1,000 to $5,000 per project
- Audit: $5,000 to $25,000 per project
- Payroll services: $50 to $150 per hour
The top 50 small business accounting firms on DesignRush charge an average of $89 per hour. 17.3% of the small business accountants on DesignRush accept projects under $1,000, offering assistance for small-scale projects. Comparatively, 0.6% accept projects with a minimum budget of $50,000, covering broader and complex accounting undertakings.
Why should I hire an accountant for my small business?
You should hire a small business accounting firm because they understand small businesses' unique challenges, can maintain accurate financial records, and know how to optimize cash flow. Their financial planning and compliance expertise can help you build a strong financial foundation and boost your business's growth and stability in a competitive market.
Hire small business accountants because they:
- Can reduce administrative burdens, allowing clients to focus on core business activities
- Maintain clean and organized books for accurate financial insights and decision-making
- Handle sensitive issues like value added tax (VAT) returns
- Deliver cost savings by minimizing errors, maximizing tax deductions, and averting penalties
- Provide strategic financial guidance into matters related to funding options, tax planning, and financial forecasting
- Provide strategic tax expertise to ensure regulatory compliance and minimize audit risks
- Use advanced tools and software for improved accuracy and real-time financial insights
- Scale services as businesses grow, accommodating increasing financial complexities and transaction volumes
- Mitigate financial risks through internal controls, fraud detection, and robust financial reporting practices
Success Story
DemandJump demonstrates the advantages of partnering with a small business accounting firm, as exemplified through its collaboration with Milestone.
- Challenge: DemandJump, a marketing strategy platform for SaaS companies, faced a pivotal moment when its CFO exited, leaving the company in need of comprehensive financial leadership to support their growth ambitions.
- Solution: In 2021, DemandJump reached out to Milestone for fractional CFO and accounting services. Combining its accounting expertise with robust financial forecasting tools, Milestone helped the client simulate various scenarios and uncover potential results, thus significantly enhancing their ability to make informed business decisions.
- Results: DemandJump has streamlined back-office operations, improved decision-making processes, and positioned itself for scalable growth. Milestone's strategic advice and operational support have empowered DemandJump to navigate its growth trajectory confidently and capitalize on new market opportunities.
How do I choose the best accounting firm for my small business?
You can choose the best accounting firm for your small business by following a methodical approach to ensure they meet your specific business needs. Here are the steps to consider:
- Define your service expectations
Clearly outline what you expect from the accounting firm. Consider aspects like financial reporting, tax planning, compliance, and advisory services tailored to your industry and business size. - Set a realistic budget
Establish how much you can allocate towards accounting services, taking into account the complexity and scope of the help needed. - Research potential firms
Seek small business accountants with a proven track record, positive client feedback, and expertise in your industry. Use marketplaces, online repositories, and agency directories like DesignRush to research service providers. - Look for referrals
Ask industry associates and business peers across your network for recommendations on reputable accounting firms they trust and have had positive experiences with. - Look into their accreditations
Some services require specialized certifications. To ensure the accounting firm can perform these services, inquire about the accreditations they possess. - Evaluate service offerings
Look for firms offering comprehensive services such as bookkeeping, payroll processing, tax preparation, financial analysis, and advisory services. Ensure their offerings align with your needs. - Technology proficiency
Inquire about the firm's accounting software and technology use and ensure they leverage modern tools that integrate well with your existing system. - Send a request for proposal (RFP)
Prepare a detailed RFP outlining your project requirements, including needed services, expected deliverables, and timelines. Compare proposals from different firms to understand their approach and compatibility with your request. - Interview the selected candidates
Conduct interviews to assess their expertise, experience, and approach to handling your specific accounting needs. - Evaluate their communication
Choose a firm that communicates clearly, listens attentively to your needs, provides regular updates, and offers proactive advice. - Contract negotiation
Before finalizing the contract, negotiate terms, payment schedules, and service agreements. Ensure the contract allows flexibility to adjust strategies based on evolving business conditions.
Are you looking for a reliable small business accounting firm? Visit our Marketplace and send us the details of your project. Based on the requirements, we'll connect you with five agencies that fit your criteria — free of charge!
How do I choose the best small business accounting firm on DesignRush that fits my budget?
You can choose the best small business accounting firm on DesignRush that fits your budget by using our website’s filters to look for suitable options based on a budget, location, hourly rate, and more.
To get you started, here are several options tailored to different budget ranges:
| Low Budget: $1k above | |
| Mid Budget: $10k above | |
| High Budget: $50k above |
What are the key success metrics in accounting for small businesses?
Key success metrics in accounting campaigns for small businesses encompass various financial and operational indicators that reflect the effectiveness and efficiency of the accounting practices. Common key success metrics include:
- Cash flow
Measures the net amount of cash being transferred into and out of a business, ensuring liquidity - Revenue
Calculates the total income generated from the sale of goods or services before any expenses are deducted - Return on Investment (ROI)
Evaluates the efficiency of an investment by comparing the net gain or loss related to its initial cost, typically expressed as a percentage - Gross margin
Measures the difference between revenue and the cost of goods sold (COGS), indicating the profitability of a company’s core activities - Profit margin
Determines the percentage of revenue remaining after all expenses, taxes, and costs have been deducted, reflecting the business’ overall profitability - Accounts receivable
Calculates the total amount of money owed to the business by customers for goods or services that have been delivered but not yet paid for - Accounts payable
Calculates the total amount of money the business owes to suppliers or creditors for goods and services that have been received but not yet paid for
What questions should I ask before hiring small business accountants?
Before hiring small business accountants, you should ask the following questions to ensure they are a good fit for your needs:
Its Relevant Background
- What is your experience with small businesses?
- How long have you been in this business?
- Can you provide references from other small business clients?
- What are your qualifications and certifications?
Its Services and Processes
- What type of accounting services do you offer?
- How do you handle tax preparation and planning?
- Can you assist with financial forecasting and budgeting?
- What accounting software do you use and recommend?
- How do you ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data?
- What is your approach to managing cash flow and expenses?
- How do you stay updated on changes in tax laws and accounting standards?
- What steps do you take to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations?
Related to Your Project
- Can you help with setting up and maintaining accounting systems?
- How often will you provide financial reports and updates?
- How do you structure your pricing? Are there any additional costs and charges that I need to be aware of?
- What support do you offer during audits or regulatory reviews?
- Can you provide training for my staff on accounting practices?
- How will you ensure my financial information remains secure and confidential?
What are the best accounting firms for small businesses in the US?
The top small business accounting firms in the United States are:
- Padgett
- 4.6 stars on DesignRush (3 reviews)
- 5.0 stars on Google (2 reviews)
- Top clients: Ann Peden Jewelry, Luke Robison Farms, Bowers Fencing and Swimming Pools, Radiance by Roxanne
- Pilot
- 5.0 stars on Google (2 reviews)
- Top clients: Sundaily, Maev, Online Stampede, Alvea
- Graphite
- 5.0 stars on Google (11 reviews)
- Top clients: Caraway, Confiant, Rasa, Mondoo
- Hiline
- 5.0 stars on Google (6 reviews)
- Top clients: Avidon Health, Jahnel Group, Early Childhood Alliance Onondaga, Verse Gaming
- SLC Bookkeeping
- 5.0 stars on Google (102 reviews)
- Top clients: Archtype Development, Mountain Yoga Sandy, Tsunami Restaurant & Sushi Bar
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