How much does a bookkeeper cost in the US?
The VouchQuote team ·
This guide is for United States. Also available for:United KingdomIndia
Bookkeeping for a US small business usually costs between $300 and $1,000 a month. A sole proprietor with few transactions pays the least; a business with payroll, inventory and sales tax in several states pays more.
Typical price ranges in the US
- Basic monthly bookkeeping: $300 to $800 a month
- With sales tax filings: $500 to $1,500 a month
- Payroll: $40 to $150 a month plus $5 to $12 per employee
- Catch-up bookkeeping: $300 to $2,500
Figures are typical ranges in US dollars for independent freelancers and small agencies in the United States, before any sales tax. They are our own estimates, not quotes.
What pushes the price up
The number of transactions and accounts, payroll, inventory, sales tax in more than one state, and how far behind the books are.
What a bookkeeper handles in the US
Monthly reconciliation in QuickBooks or Xero, sales tax filings where your state requires them, and 1099 forms for contractors in January. Income tax returns are normally prepared by a CPA or an enrolled agent, for a separate fee.
How to compare quotes fairly
Tell every bookkeeper your number of monthly transactions, bank accounts and employees. Those three numbers decide the price. On VouchQuote every quote follows the same structure and at most three professionals reply, so you can compare them side by side. Quotes on VouchQuote are shown in US dollars.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Which software do you use, and will I have access?
- Are tax returns and payroll included or extra?
- How often will I get reports?
- Who do I call when I have a question?
Quick answers
How much do bookkeepers charge per hour?
Typically $30 to $75 an hour for freelancers, and more for firms.
Do I need a bookkeeper and a CPA?
Often both. The bookkeeper keeps the records through the year and the CPA files the tax return and advises.
Is online bookkeeping cheaper?
Usually, starting at about $200 to $400 a month, with less personal contact.
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Prices are typical ranges in United States, in US dollars, for independent freelancers and small agencies, before sales tax. How we work out price ranges.