Inside My Real Work-From-Home Bookkeeping Day
Ever feel like you’re the only one trying to balance bookkeeping work while managing a home? You’re not alone.
I’ve been there—logging into QuickBooks while making mac and cheese, squeezing in client calls between school pickups, and figuring out how to categorize those random Amazon charges (again). That’s why I love sharing these “day in the life” posts. They’re a peek into the real rhythm of working from home as a bookkeeper—and yes, it can be both structured and flexible.
Morning Kicks Off with Checks and Coffee
So, here’s where my Monday started: three reimbursement forms. One of my clients doesn’t issue debit cards to employees, so they submit paper reimbursement forms with receipts attached. It’s old-school—but it works.
Since I’m a check signer on this client’s account, I just tallied up the expenses and cut three checks:
$145
$600-ish for a field trip
$40-something miscellaneous
Nothing too wild. Took less than 10 minutes.
Next stop—QuickBooks. I logged the checks so when they’re cashed, I can match them in the bank feed. This helps keep things clean and ensures the client sees what's still outstanding.
Coffee Shop Meetings > Zoom
At 9 a.m., I met up with Krista—who works for me and is also a friend. We grabbed coffee and chatted marketing for my business. Yes, I have YouTube and all the content stuff... but even if you’re just starting, hiring a part-time helper for marketing or admin can be a total game-changer.
Even a few hours a week can free you up to do the stuff you enjoy—whether that’s the actual bookkeeping, connecting with clients, or building systems.
If that sounds premature, trust me... the time to hire comes sooner than you think. I have a video about hiring a virtual assistant as a bookkeeper if you want to explore that idea more.
Midday = Tech + Training
Once I got home, I tuned into a saved training about security for bookkeeping businesses. It was hosted in the Bookkeeper Launch Facebook group—which is super active, if you're part of it. (If not, I highly recommend this program, here is a Review of Bookkeeper Launch and my affiliate link to their free classes).
He covered password safety and hinted at topics like VPNs and secure systems—stuff we all should think about, even if it’s not the most exciting part of the job.
The QuickBooks Grind (With a Side of Podcast)
By early afternoon, I dove into more QuickBooks data entry—logging checks for another client using (yep) literal paper stubs. Every client is different, and this one still runs on paper. It’s not ideal, but it’s manageable.
This kind of work is a bit mindless, so I’ll often listen to a podcast or finish a training video while I work. Multi-tasking can be a win when the task doesn’t require full mental effort.
And if you’re wondering—yes, I still can’t resize the check image window in QuickBooks. Why is that? If you know, please DM me... because it’s driving me nuts.
Afternoon Wind-Down
Around 1:30 p.m., I wrapped up my check entry and took a break to clean up around the house before my kids came back from their “Grandma Day.” They hit up the science museum in Portland—which meant a solid chunk of quiet work time for me.
What a Typical Monday Looks Like
Not every day is the same, but this is the general vibe:
9 to noon – client work, check entries, emails
Lunch break + errands
Afternoon – admin tasks, learning time, or lighter bookkeeping
And yes, I do wear actual clothes most days (but let’s be real—it’s leggings and a sweater 90% of the time).
Whether you're just starting or deep in the bookkeeping game, I hope this post reminds you:
Every bookkeeper works a little differently. Your day doesn’t have to look like mine.
Flexibility is a huge perk—use it to your advantage.
Systems matter. Even if it’s a paper-heavy client, your workflow makes all the difference.
And hey, if you're curious what an entire month looks like, check out this monthly checklist post.
