Pilot vs 1-800-Accountant

Continued from above...

Another advantage of online bookkeeping services is that they offer real-time data tracking and reporting. This means that businesses can monitor their financial performance as it happens - and quickly identify any issues or opportunities for growth. Online bookkeeping services can also automate certain tasks, such as reconciling bank statements, generating financial reports, and tracking expenses. All this can save businesses valuable time and resources.

Online bookkeeping services can also be more cost-effective than traditional bookkeeping methods. They eliminate the need for businesses to invest in expensive accounting software or hire in-house accountants, since all the necessary tools and expertise are available online. This can be particularly beneficial for small businesses and startups with limited budgets.

While almost all of the companies in our review offer a variety of bookkeeping, tax, back-office, and advisory solutions, the extent to which those are included in base plans - or priced as premium services - is going to depend on the specializations of the provider you choose. With such a diversity of offerings, it can be difficult to parse the good from the bad. The best on our list is what we think is best for most, not for everyone. As such, identify your specific needs while reviewing our list, and you'll be sure to find the ideal fit from our top-rated services.

Before you jump right into our top bookkeeping providers, here are some important tips to keep in mind:

• Cash vs. accrual accounting: accrual accounting records all revenue and expenses based on when invoices and bills are received, and is much more accurate. Cash accounting is much simpler, and only tracks when money changes hands. Most small businesses are well served by cash accounting; however, that may not be the case for you. Keep this in mind when you notice the price differences between cash and accrual accounting.
• Type of service: Is it a single bookkeeper working with you one-on-one, or does a team manage your books? Do they offer proprietary software services, if so, do they integrate with your current software? Are they CPA certified? Whatever their services offer, just remember that - even though they may often sound similar - the type and quality of service varies greatly across our list.
• Cost: Full costs are rarely upfront. Oftentimes, the actual costs of any bookkeeping or accounting service are hidden behind a phone call or consultation. Compare the prices of competitors-and what you're willing to spend - before you make that call.

At Top Consumer Reviews, we've done the work of comparing (and even interrogating) our listed bookkeeping services - and analyzing their user reviews - to make sure that whatever your needs, you'll find the right range of cost, service, and support for your small business.