By: Jennifer Brazer
Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.
Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen
Who Can Benefit From Virtual Bookkeeping?
Every dollar counts—every minute matters. I’ve lived by this mantra since founding Complete Controller more than 15 years ago. Whether you’re a freelancer chasing your next project or a small business owner navigating the complexities of growth, managing your finances can feel like being stuck in a maze with no clear exit. But trust me, there’s a better way—virtual bookkeeping.
Virtual bookkeeping has revolutionized financial management, offering flexibility, affordability, and robust tools that simplify even the most daunting financial tasks. So, is it right for you? Read on—we’re about to transform the way you see bookkeeping.
What Is Virtual Bookkeeping?
Virtual bookkeeping is financial management brought into the 21st century. By using cloud-based accounting tools and outsourcing tasks to remote professionals, you can have your records organized and accessible at all times without hiring a full-time in-house bookkeeper.
Here’s how it works:
- Your records are maintained in secure, cloud-based software.
- You partner with a remote professional—whether a virtual bookkeeper or virtual CFO—who tackles everything from day-to-day bookkeeping to preparing tax-ready financial statements.
- You gain 24/7 access to your financial data from anywhere in the world.
As someone who has dedicated their career to advancing financial literacy and building efficient systems for businesses, I can confidently say this system is the backbone of cost-effective and stress-free bookkeeping solutions.
Why Virtual Bookkeeping Is in Demand
The world is shifting towards virtual everything, and bookkeeping is no exception. According to IBISWorld’s research, the virtual bookkeeping market is predicted to grow by 15% annually from 2020 to 2025. Why? Because it works. Businesses and freelancers alike demand solutions that are scalable, secure, and efficient. Early adopters of cloud-based solutions in the 2000s paved the way for this revolution, proving the model’s incredible benefits.
Benefits for Freelancers
Flexibility to support your hustle
Freelancers don’t live by the 9-to-5 clock. When your schedule is unpredictable, virtual bookkeeping’s 24/7 features are a game changer. You can log in from your favorite coffee shop or send invoices at midnight—it’s that simple.
Affordable solutions tailored for you
Hiring an in-house accountant doesn’t make sense for most freelancers, but virtual bookkeeping does. According to a study by the Freelancers Union, freelancers who adopt virtual bookkeeping save an average of $1,000 per year on accounting costs—money you can reinvest into your business.
Expert guidance without breaking the bank
Irregular income can make managing cash flow a nightmare. That’s where an expert virtual bookkeeper steps in. They bring their skills (and even love) for numbers, giving you clear insight and keeping you prepared for tax season.
I’ve seen countless freelancers regain control of their time and finances—often realizing they could focus more on their craft instead of cluttered spreadsheets.
Benefits for Small Businesses
Scalable services that grow with your business
Growth is exciting—and messy. Virtual bookkeeping offers scalable bookkeeping solutions. Whether you’re juggling new accounts or more detailed reporting needs, virtual services keep up with your pace while shedding admin overload.
Advanced tools without excessive costs
Small businesses already fight to squeeze the most from every dollar. Virtual bookkeeping gives you access to premium software and reporting tools without requiring high upfront costs—no more settling for outdated systems.
Freeing up your time to focus on growth
Let’s face it—sorting through stacks of receipts or reconciling bank accounts isn’t what fuels your passion. When you outsource bookkeeping, you get back critical hours to innovate, strategize, and even, dare I say, take a vacation.
Don’t just take my word for it—look at GreenLeaf Landscaping. By hiring a virtual bookkeeper, they slashed admin costs by 30% and increased revenues by 25%. The savings funded effective marketing campaigns that propelled their business to the next level.
How Virtual Bookkeeping Simplifies Your Finances
Managing finances doesn’t have to feel like a second job. Here’s how virtual bookkeeping simplifies the chaos:
Automation handles the tedious tasks
Nobody wants to deal with manual data entry. Automated systems manage essential tasks like invoicing, expense categorization, and bank reconciliations.
Real-time insights at your fingertips
Gone are the days of waiting for monthly reports. With everything hosted securely in the cloud, you can see your financial picture in moments.
Ironclad compliance and security
Safeguarding sensitive data is non-negotiable. Partnering with services built on top-notch financial compliance and security ensures peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Service
When selecting a virtual bookkeeping service, keep these tips in mind:
- Credentials Matter: Always choose a team with certified and experienced bookkeepers.
- Seek Reviews and Testimonials: Ensure their reliability is backed by happy clients.
- Look for Custom Solutions: No two businesses are alike. Find a service offering tailored support.
Pro tip: Complete Controller has a proven track record of delivering excellence in bookkeeping across a variety of industries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While virtual bookkeeping offers tons of benefits, there are a few missteps you need to sidestep:
- Skipping Security Protections: Your books contain sensitive data. Prioritize working with a provider who employs advanced security and encryption protocols.
- Irregular Communication: Keep the lines of communication consistent with your bookkeeper to stay on the same page.
- Underutilizing Tools: Take the time to learn your bookkeeping software so you can maximize its potential.
Conclusion
Virtual bookkeeping is more than a method to manage your finances—it’s a strategic advantage. It frees up your time, trims unnecessary costs, and keeps you laser-focused on what really matters: growing your business and pursuing your passion.
As someone who has built their career helping businesses thrive, I can assure you—it’s time to ditch old-school approaches. Ready to hire a virtual bookkeeper and take control of your financial future? The experts at Complete Controller are here to help.
FAQ
What is virtual bookkeeping?
Virtual bookkeeping uses cloud-based platforms and professional services to handle your financial tasks remotely.
Is it good for freelancers?
Absolutely. Freelancers save time and an average of $1,000 annually by shifting to these services, making them a perfect fit.
Why choose it for small businesses?
Small businesses enjoy scalable services, advanced financial tools, and significant reductions in admin work.
How can I keep my financial data safe?
Partner with providers who prioritize encryption, two-factor authentication, and strict compliance protocols.
What makes Complete Controller the best of the best?
Our team focuses on providing personalized, expert-level care tailored to your unique needs—because no business is one-size-fits-all.
Sources
- Accounting Today. (2020). “Cloud Accounting: A Brief History”. www.accountingtoday.com
- Complete Controller. (2020). “Case Study: GreenLeaf Landscaping”. https://www.completecontroller.com/case-study-greenleaf-landscaping
- Freelancers Union. (2020). “The State of Freelancing in America”. www.freelancersunion.org
- Harvard Business Review. (2020). “The Internet and Business”. www.hbr.org
- IBISWorld. (2020). “Virtual Bookkeeping in the US”. www.ibisworld.com
- ShopiFy. (2020). “The Benefits of Virtual Bookkeeping for E-commerce Businesses”. www.shopify.com
- Small Business Administration. (2020). “Cloud Computing for Small Businesses”. www.sba.gov
- StoryChief.io. “Improve SEO in Under 10 Minutes”. https://storychief.io/blog/how-to-improve-seo
- SingleGrain.com. “16 Effective SEO Techniques”. https://www.singlegrain.com/seo/effective-seo-techniques-that-work/
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
