Real Bookkeeping Questions (And Honest Answers)
Ever feel like you have a million little questions about bookkeeping… but no one is really answering them?
Not the big, obvious stuff. The real-life, messy, “wait… what do I do here?” kind of questions. Because honestly… that’s where most of the stress comes from.
So today, I’m walking through a handful of real questions I get—and giving you the honest, practical answers I’d tell a friend. Let’s jump in…
Watch the video here, or keep reading!
Can You Really Become a Bookkeeper Just by Learning Software?
You’ll hear a lot of people say no. And I get it—it can feel discouraging. Because then you start thinking… “When will I ever know enough?”
Here’s the truth… you don’t need to know everything to get started.
When I began, I took a class, knew some things (not everything), and started with one very simple client. Then I learned from that client. Then the next one. Then the next.
That’s how it works. You build confidence by doing the work.
Do You Need QuickBooks Before You Even Have Clients?
Short answer… no.
If you’re using QuickBooks Online Accountant, you can access training, get certified, and practice—all for free. You only start paying when you have clients.
So don’t let that stop you from getting started.
Should You Start General… or Pick a Niche Right Away?
This is one of those questions that feels bigger than it is.
If you already have experience in a specific industry… great. But if not, start general. Get a few clients, pay attention to what you enjoy, and then niche down later.
Do You Need Insurance Right Away?
Okay… this one is tricky.
Best practice? Yes. Real life? It depends.
Insurance (like E&O) can be expensive, so early on you might wait, work with lower-risk clients, and focus on learning. But if you’re planning to grow… it’s something you’ll want sooner rather than later.
Should You Hire a Lawyer for Your Contract?
Another “best practice vs real life” situation.
Ideally… yes. But when you’re just starting, you might not have the budget for that.
So instead, you can use a simple agreement, make expectations clear, and keep communication strong. Because honestly… a contract doesn’t stop someone from suing you—it just helps clarify things if issues come up.
Why Does QuickBooks Call You an “Accountant”?
There’s not a super clear answer… but here’s what matters—don’t let the label slow you down.
Some people use the terms interchangeably, some don’t. It doesn’t change what you actually do.
Can You Really Do Bookkeeping Part-Time?
Yes. 100%.
You can have one client or ten clients and work a few hours a week. I built mine part-time, and honestly… that flexibility is one of the best parts.
What Classes Should You Take to Learn Bookkeeping?
This question usually comes with a little overwhelm…
If you want a simple path, start with free resources (like certification training), then invest in a course if you want structure.
You don’t need every course, every certification, or every possible training. You just need enough to get started… and then keep learning as you go.
Is That Really You on TikTok? And What About Memberships?
Okay… a lighter one 😄
Yes—it’s me. And if you’ve seen my membership option, it’s basically a small monthly subscription with access to resources, discounts on courses, and priority responses. Nothing overwhelming—just extra support if you want it.
How Should Clients Handle Receipts (If You’re Not Tracking Them)?
Let’s talk about receipts…
Honestly, keep it simple. A basic system works—monthly folders or envelopes where you toss receipts by month.
Is it fancy? No. Does it work? Yes. There are apps and tools too, but simple is often more sustainable.
How Many Clients Can You Handle Part-Time?
A good range is 5–10 clients.
But remember… not all clients are equal. Some take 2 hours a month, some take 10+. So it’s less about the number and more about the workload.
Should You Raise Your Prices Over Time?
Short answer… yes.
Because you get faster, you get better, and costs increase. Even if your pricing structure stays similar, your actual rates should grow with you.
How Do You Know If a Client Is Small, Medium, or Large?
This isn’t always obvious at first.
You’ll need to ask questions like how many bank accounts they have, whether they run payroll, and what services they need. Sometimes you won’t know until you actually look at their books.
How Do You Price a Client You Don’t Fully Understand Yet?
This is where a lot of bookkeepers get stuck.
You don’t price it yet. Instead, review their books first, understand the scope, and then give a quote. That protects you from undercharging.
Do You Still File Taxes If You Pay Quarterly?
This one confuses a lot of people.
Yes—quarterly taxes are just estimates. At the end of the year, everything gets reconciled and you either owe more or get money back.
Should You Use ChatGPT in Your Bookkeeping Business?
You don’t have to—but it can be helpful.
Even simple uses like writing emails, cleaning up wording, or drafting content can save you time. If you’re brand new, start small with something like “Make this email more clear and friendly.”
How Do You Connect with Certification Resources?
Pick one and start.
You don’t need to research forever.
How Often Do You Set Up New QuickBooks Files?
Less than you might think. Most clients already have something started, or only need setup once. It’s not a daily task.
What If a Client Has Multiple Businesses?
Each business should be separate. Which also means you’ll typically charge separately.
You don’t have to know everything to start. You don’t have to do everything perfectly. And you definitely don’t need to have every answer before you begin.
You just need to take the next step… and keep going.
Are there other questions you have?
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN VIDEO:
My keyboard: https://amzn.to/4sbvCUT
Video: PAPER-LESS BOOKKEEPING!
