What Do You Need To Look For In A Bookkeeper?

Your accounts are one of the most important functions of your business. The Financial Management Centre have put together a checklist to help you choose the right bookkeeper to help you save money and develop a successful business.

1. Qualified or experienced?
We recommend you find someone who has both qualifications and has experience over several years.

2. Do they have professional membership?
You should find someone that is a member of a professional body as this will ensure they adhere to a professional code of conduct.

3. Are they local?
You should choose a local bookkeeper who will be able to provide you with hands on support.

4. Do they have the ability to provide a consistent service?
If you went into restaurant and were told that the chief is on holiday, you would not be impressed! So why should it be any different when someone is dealing with your accounts?

5. Do they talk in plain English?
They should speak in the language you understand and explain financial matters to you so you can understand all the facts.

6. How do they charge?
By the hour or fixed fee? You should look for a bookkeeper that will set out terms of payment prior to the engagement that meets your expectations.

7. Have they been CRB checked?
Your accounts are highly sensitive and very often they have all your client’s details so it is vital to check they are trustworthy.

8. Do they offer a money back guarantee?
If the accounts are incorrect, what happens?

9. Do they have PI insurance?
In the event that a client suffers financial loss as a result of alleged neglect, error or omission Professional Indemnity Insurance will meet the cost of defending claims and any damages payable.

10. Are they up to date with legalisation?
You should find an experienced bookkeeper who is up to date with what is going on which could save you money in penalties or possible legal action.

We recommend The Financial Management Centre which specialises in bookkeeping for small- to medium-sized businesses. To find out more about their services, please call 0845 862 1423 or visit www.tfmcentre.co.uk.