Do I Need a Bookkeeper?
Find a trusted bookkeeper or tax preparer for your business
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Ask DINA — Bookkeeping Advisor
Not sure where to start? Tell DINA about your situation.
Tell DINA what's going on — small business books, tax prep, payroll, or catching up on back-bookkeeping — and she'll help you figure out your next step.
This is AI-generated guidance, not professional advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a bookkeeper cost?▾
Freelance bookkeepers: $25–$50/hour. Professional bookkeeping firms: $40–$80/hour. Monthly packages for small businesses: $300–$800/month depending on transaction volume. Payroll add-on: $50–$150/month. Year-end prep: $500–$1,500 one-time. Always ask what's included.
What's the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?▾
Bookkeepers handle daily financial records: data entry, reconciliation, invoicing, payroll. Accountants provide higher-level services: tax strategy, financial statements, CRA audits, business advice. Most small businesses need a bookkeeper year-round and an accountant for tax season.
When should I hire a bookkeeper?▾
Hire a bookkeeper when: you're spending 5+ hours/month on books, you've missed a tax deadline, your records are behind, you're hiring employees (payroll), or your business revenue exceeds $50K. The cost of a bookkeeper is almost always less than the cost of mistakes.
Do bookkeepers need certification?▾
No certification is legally required, but look for CPB (Certified Professional Bookkeeper) from the Canadian Institute of Bookkeeping, or QuickBooks ProAdvisor / Xero Certified. These demonstrate training and competency. Always ask about their experience with businesses like yours.
Can a bookkeeper do my taxes?▾
Bookkeepers can prepare and file simple tax returns (T1, T2, HST/GST). For complex tax situations — corporate restructuring, tax planning, CRA audits, international tax — you need a CPA. Many bookkeepers partner with accountants and can coordinate your year-end seamlessly.