Independent Bookkeepers vs Bench (and Others) for Small Businesses
The recent and unexpected shutdown of Bench Accounting has left thousands of small business owners scrambling to access their essential financial records. Bench’s abrupt closure (TechCrunch article) revealed the vulnerabilities of relying on large, impersonal bookkeeping services. It left a lot of clients wondering what to do. But as the of writing of this, it looks like Bench will live on. Despite news of Bench’s acquisition (TechCrunch article), the event has many questioning the reliability of such platforms.
If you’re one of the many business owners left with a sour taste in your mouth, here’s why this could be the perfect opportunity to rethink your bookkeeping strategy.
Challenges of Using Services Like Bench or Kick
While services like Bench and Kick promise simplicity and automation, they often fall short in key areas:
Limited Customization
Their standardized processes often don’t address the unique nuances of your business. Your financial records are treated as part of a one-size-fits-all system, which can lead to missed details or misaligned reports.
Inconsistent Support
Access to dedicated professionals can be hit-or-miss. Without a consistent point of contact who knows your business well, resolving issues and answering questions can become a frustrating ordeal.
Data Accessibility Concerns
The Bench shutdown highlights a critical issue: what happens to your financial data when a service suddenly stops operating? Many clients found themselves locked out of their accounting and tax records, creating chaos during tax season and year-end reporting. Even if you can get your data you’re still stuck having to find someone else to help you make sense of it.
Why Choose an Independent Bookkeeper?
Switching to an independent bookkeeper who uses tried and tested solutions like QuickBooks Online (QBO) offers numerous benefits over relying on a large-scale service.
Personalized Service
At We Got Your Books, we take the time to understand your business and tailor our services to your specific needs. Whether you’re a solopreneur or managing a small team, we adapt to your workflows and preferences.
Dedicated Support
We’re more than just a service provider—we’re your partner. You’ll work with a dedicated professional who knows your business inside and out, providing consistent and reliable support.
Secure and Continuous Access to Your Data
Using QuickBooks Online ensures that you always have access to your financial records, safeguarded by industry-leading security protocols. You’ll never have to worry about losing your data due to a provider’s sudden shutdown. You can also grant access to your tax-prepare and others if need be.
What We Help You With
As Quickbooks ProAdvisors, We Got Your Books specializes in:
Monthly Categorization & Reconciliation: Keep your books accurate and up-to-date.
Financial Statements: Prepare and provide insights into your balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements to give you a clear picture of your business’s financial health.
Accounts Receivable & Payable Management: Streamline cash flow with efficient invoice and bill management.
Payroll Processing: Ensure your team is paid on time with precise payroll management.
Sales Tax Compliance: Avoid penalties with accurate calculation and timely filing.
Our goal is to keep you update on the financial heath of your business, while you take care of the rest.
The Path Forward
The challenges with Bench and similar companies underscore the importance of working with a bookkeeper who prioritizes your business' unique needs and ensures secure, uninterrupted access to your financial data. Transitioning to an independent bookkeeper can provide the personalized, reliable support your business deserves. Ready to take control of your finances?
Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you achieve financial clarity and peace of mind.
