Understanding the difference between bookkeeping and accounting is empowering as a business owner, but it’s also important to understand the kinds of credentials accountants and bookkeepers have in order to determine how or when to use each. Read on for a look at what the roles of bookkeeper and accountant entail.

Role of A Bookkeeper

Bookkeeping is the process of recording daily transactions in a consistent way, and is a key component to building a financially successful business.

Bookkeeping is comprised of:

Recording financial transactions
Posting debits and credits
Producing invoices
Maintaining and balancing subsidiaries, general ledgers, and historical accounts
Maintaining a General Ledger
Completing payroll
$50 per hour

Role of An Accountant

Accounting is a high-level process that uses financial information compiled by a bookkeeper or business owner and produces financial models using that information.The process of accounting is more subjective than bookkeeping, which is largely transactional.

Accounting is comprised of:

Preparing adjusting entries (recording expenses that have occurred but aren’t yet recorded in the bookkeeping process)
Preparing company financial statements
Analyzing costs of operations
Completing income tax returns
Aiding the business owner in understanding the impact of financial decisions and tax planning
$80-100 per hour

The Bottom Line

Organized financial records and properly balanced finances produced by the bookkeeper, coupled with smart financial strategy and accurate tax filing by the accountant, contribute directly to the long-term success of every business. Some business owners learn to manage their finances on their own, while others opt to hire a professional so that they can focus on the parts of their business that they really love. Whichever option you choose, investing—whether it be time or money—into your business financials will only help your business grow.

Over 30 Years Experience

Manual Accounting

Wave Accounting

Quickbooks Desktop

Quickbooks Online

Sage