Do You Need a Bookkeeper or an Accountant? Understanding the Difference for BC Small Business Owners
As a small business owner, you know you need help with your finances—but who do you actually call: a bookkeeper or an accountant? While both roles are essential to running a healthy business, they serve different (yet complementary) purposes. Understanding the distinction can save you time, money, and prevent major financial headaches.
The Roles of Bookkeepers vs. Accountants: What’s the Difference?
To help you decide who to hire first—or whether you need both—let’s break down the core responsibilities of each role:
1. What Does a Bookkeeper Do?
A bookkeeper handles your day-to-day financial tracking. Think of them as the person who keeps your financial house in order, consistently and proactively.
Key responsibilities of a bookkeeper include:
Tracking income and expenses
Organizing receipts and invoices
Reconciling bank and credit card statements
Preparing financial reports
Assisting with payroll and GST/HST tracking
Maintaining clear, up-to-date records for your accountant
Bookkeepers are the ongoing support team that ensures your books are clean, compliant, and ready for tax season or growth decisions.
2. What Does an Accountant Do?
An accountant takes a more analytical and advisory role. They usually come in during key financial milestones: tax time, incorporation, business structuring, or large financial planning decisions.
Key responsibilities of an accountant include:
Preparing and filing corporate or personal tax returns
Offering tax planning and compliance advice
Managing audits or CRA inquiries
Providing financial forecasts and insights
While your bookkeeper builds and maintains the financial records, your accountant interprets them to guide high-level strategy.
3. When to Hire a Bookkeeper vs. an Accountant
Startups & Early-Stage Businesses: Hire a bookkeeper early to set up strong financial systems.
Established Businesses: Maintain a bookkeeper year-round and check in with your accountant during tax season or major changes.
Scaling Companies: Use both consistently to ensure you’re not missing opportunities or risks.
4. How Bookkeepers and Accountants Work Together
Your bookkeeper and accountant work best as a team. When your bookkeeper maintains accurate records, your accountant can provide better insights and tax-saving strategies. At Stand Sure Solutions, we collaborate with your accountant to ensure a seamless, efficient year-end process.
5. Why Bookkeeping Support Is Key to Small Business Success
Still not sure who you need first? Bookkeepers handle the ongoing financial health of your business. Accountants step in for strategic planning and compliance. Both are essential—but starting with the right bookkeeper sets the foundation for success.
At Stand Sure Solutions, we offer online bookkeeping services for BC-based businesses who want clarity, organization, and peace of mind.
Whether you're a solopreneur just starting out or a growing team expanding across the province, we help you:
Set up effective systems
Stay compliant year-round
Understand your numbers in plain English
Find the right financial support for in your business.
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Ready to take control of your business’s finances? Let us help. Contact us today to learn more about how our bookkeeping services can be tailored to your specific business needs.
Let’s build a stronger foundation for your business, together.
