As a startup founder, the last thing you would want to do is put your energy into bookkeeping and accounting. But like they say “can’t live with them, can’t live without them”. So staying on top of your finances is non-negotiable. And that is exactly why you need an accounting and bookkeeping service for startups.
But finding a firm that understands the intricacies of startup accounting is easier said than done. To help you with your search, we have rounded up the 18 best accounting and bookkeeping services that will simplify your startup finances and give you the freedom to focus on success.
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18 Best Online Accounting And Bookkeeping Services For Startups At A Glance
Here’s a curated list of the 18 best accounting services for startups that highlight their specialties and ratings to help you pick the perfect fit.
| Company | Best Known For | Rating | More Info |
| 1. Genius | Automated financial management with AI | ★★★★★ | Visit Website |
| 2. Paro | Strategic business financial planning | ★★★★★ | Visit Website |
| 3. Graphite | Industry-specific accounting expertise | ★★★★★ | Visit Website |
| 4. Bench Accounting | Simplified bookkeeping for entrepreneurs | ★★★★★ | Visit Website |
| 5. Bookkeeper360 | Proactive communication and reliable accounting support | ★★★★★ | Visit Website |
| 6. 1-800 Accountant | Virtual CFO services for entrepreneurs. | ★★★★★ | Visit Website |
| 7. Pilot | Accurate startup financials and compliance | ★★★★☆ | Visit Website |
| 8. Dimvo | Comprehensive tax and CPA solutions | ★★★★☆ | Visit Website |
| 9. Ledger Labs | Result-based accounting for growing businesses | ★★★★☆ | Visit Website |
| 10. Countsy | Data-driven financial insights for startups | ★★★★☆ | Visit Website |
| 11. Quickbooks Live | Tailored accounting for QuickBooks users | ★★★★☆ | Visit Website |
| 12. Upcloud Accounting | E-commerce financial scaling | ★★★★☆ | Visit Website |
| 13. Kruze Consulting | End-to-end accounting for venture-backed startups | ★★★★☆ | Visit Website |
| 14. Bookkeeper.com | Top-tier bookkeeping services at affordable rates | ★★★☆☆ | Visit Website |
| 15. Fully Accountable | Real-time financial reporting | ★★★☆☆ | Visit Website |
| 16. Milestone | Live bookkeeping with integrated software | ★★★☆☆ | Visit Website |
| 17. Escalon Service | Proactive financial guidance and planning | ★★★☆☆ | Visit Website |
| 18. Punch | Long-term accounting team collaboration | ★★★☆☆ | Visit Website |
18 Best Accounting And Bookkeeping Services For Startups
Launching a startup is exciting, but managing the startup bookkeeping can be a headache. Here are 18 top-notch accounting firms for startups to help you streamline your business.
1. Genius
Genius is a leading hunting agency that connects startups with skilled accounting professionals from the Philippines and Latin America. We have a 12-step vetting system that filters through hundreds of candidates to find top-tier talent. For every hire, we assess over 250 applicants, ensuring only the best candidates are selected.
We leverage local university networks and on-the-ground recruiters in countries like the Philippines and Mexico. With a 97% success rate across 500+ placements, Genius has proven its ability to consistently deliver top-tier talent for startups worldwide.
The best part is you can hire experienced accounting professionals for as low as $12K/year. These aren’t entry-level hires but seasoned experts with 5+ years of experience, fluent in English, and aligned with Western work standards.
- Employees: 25
- Revenue: $1M – $2M
- Year Founded: 2019
- Pricing: 25% of the candidate’s first-year salary
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping specialists, Budget management and cash flow experts, Payroll management experts, Tax preparation and compliance specialists, Accounts receivable experts, Accounts payable handling
2. Paro
Paro simplifies bookkeeping for startups by offering fast, AI-driven talent matching. Their expert full-charge bookkeepers handle everything from accounts payable to tax compliance, giving you accurate month-end closes and cash flow monitoring.
Paro connects startups to top-tier accountants within 72 hours which is 20 times faster than traditional methods. Their strict 6-step vetting process ensures only 2% of candidates make the cut. The firm specializes in tailored support across 60+ industries while providing real-time insights and scalable services to match your growth.
- Employees: 239
- Revenue: $10M – $20M
- Year Founded: 2015
- Pricing: 25% of the candidate’s first-year salary
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping management, Financial planning & analysis, Budget & forecasting, Tax planning
3. Graphite
Graphite offers a dedicated team of expert accountants who understand the unique challenges of startups. Since 2016, they’ve helped hundreds of startups with scalable accounting solutions, including bookkeeping, tax filing, and fractional CFO services. Graphite’s team comprises experienced accountants and controllers specializing in startup finance.
They offer a hands-on, consultative approach, working directly with you to create custom accounting solutions. Their tech stack integration ensures your financial processes are streamlined and compliant.
- Employees: 200
- Revenue: $5M – $7M
- Year Founded: 2016
- Pricing: Starts at $1,250 per month
- Core Service Features: Accrual bookkeeping, Controller services, CFO services
4. Bench Accounting
Bench Accounting is known for simplifying bookkeeping for startups. Having served 35,000+ startups and small businesses, it combines expert one-on-one support with powerful tools for real-time financial insights. Their bookkeeping team ensures you’re never left in the dark while they deliver monthly financial statements, visual reports, and compliance-ready tax services.
Startups save over 10 hours monthly while staying on top of their finances with Bench Accounting. It seamlessly integrates with Shopify and Gusto and offers a free income statement before billing, letting you try their service risk-free and tailored to your needs.
- Employees: 514
- Revenue: $500M – $1B
- Year Founded: 2012
- Pricing: Starts at $249 per month
- Core Service Features: Tax filing, Monthly bookkeeping, Tax resolution, Catch-up bookkeeping
5. Bookkeeper360
Bookkeeper360 has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list multiple times as one of the fastest-growing companies in the US. Beyond these accolades, it has been praised by leading publications like Forbes and NerdWallet.
Every client is assigned a dedicated accountant backed by a full team. This structure ensures that you always have reliable and consistent financial guidance, no matter how complex your needs become. Plus, all team members are full-time, W-2 employees, ensuring accountability and expertise.
- Employees: 50-200
- Revenue: $5M – $10M
- Year Founded: 2012
- Pricing: Starts at $49/month
- Core Service Features: Bank reconciliation, Financial reporting, Expense tracking, Payroll management, Tax management
6. 1-800 Accountant
1-800 Accountant is a renowned startup bookkeeping service that has delivered over 1 million consultations spanning diverse industries. They’ve served 100,000+ startups and small businesses, proving their commitment to tailored solutions. 1-800 Accountant offers QuickBooks, Intuit, Wave, and Sage expertise for seamless integration with your software.
Their proprietary platform supports accrual accounting for precise financial management. With an average of 17 years of experience among their accountants and a 30-day partial refund guarantee, 1-800 Accountant combines innovation and reliability to help startups save time and achieve financial clarity.
- Employees: 600
- Revenue: $50M – $100M
- Year Founded: 1999
- Pricing: Starts at $179 per month
- Core Service Features: Tax consulting, Mobile app access, IRS-compliant payroll, Dedicated accountant for startup business.
7. Pilot
Pilot provides top-tier accounting and bookkeeping solutions built with a deep understanding of early-stage businesses. Being a startup itself, it specializes in supporting VC-backed companies with services tailored to fundraising and SaaS models.
Pilot has a US-based team of 250+ professionals that delivers personalized services, including R&D tax credit savings of up to $500,000. It integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks, Gusto, and Expensify while offering tax filing, R&D credits, and CFO-level guidance.
- Employees: 250+
- Revenue: $15 million
- Year Founded: 2017
- Pricing: Starts at $349 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Monthly financial insights and reporting, Accounts payable and receivable, R&D tax credit optimization
8. Dimov
Dimov combines expertise in tax compliance, financial planning, and accounting services. With over 10,000 successful tax filings and a client retention rate of 98%, Dimov Tax is a reliable choice for startups.
The company has saved clients an impressive $50 million in taxes, demonstrating its ability to optimize financial strategies while ensuring compliance with complex tax regulations. Their expertise is reinforced by an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and the Federal IRS Enrolled Agent license.
- Employees: 10-50
- Revenue: $5 Million
- Year Founded: 2008
- Pricing: Starts at $300 per month
- Core Service Features: Tax preparation, Bookkeeping consulting services, Payroll management, Tax consulting, Corporate tax compliance
9. Ledger Labs
Ledger Labs specializes in addressing the unique financial challenges startups face. They assist in company setup, tax compliance, 409A valuations, and detailed financial forecasting. With over 2,200 clients and an impressive record of 542,000+ service hours, Ledger Labs has built a reputation for expertise and reliability.
- Employees: 76+
- Revenue: $2M – $3M
- Year Founded: 2014
- Pricing: Starts at $500
- Core Service Features: Accounting and bookkeeping, Data migration, Setup and configurations, Cleanup and process designing, NetSuite admin
Listen to this ????
The United States leads globally in the startup ecosystem, with around 63,703 startups driving innovation.
(Source)
10. Countsy
Countsy‘s team includes seasoned professionals – CFOs, controllers, and HR experts – who work closely with startups to build a strong financial foundation. They help manage critical tasks like cash flow management, GAAP compliance, equity administration, and vendor negotiations.
Countsy’s technology stack provides real-time insights into financial performance through dynamic dashboards, ensuring you can make informed decisions during board meetings or funding rounds.
- Employees: 168
- Revenue: $10M – $20M
- Year Founded: 2017
- Pricing: Starts at $2,000 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Payroll, Tax preparation, Financial reporting, CFO services for startups
11. Quickbooks Live
Quickbooks Live provides a team of highly skilled accountants, each with an average of 10 years of experience. Their service is tailored to keep your books accurate and up-to-date, and they even offer a guarantee that, if an error is made, they’ll correct it at no additional charge.
85% of customers agree that Quickbooks Live gives them peace of mind, knowing their books will be ready for tax time. This assurance comes from the meticulous work of their experts, who reconcile accounts, categorize transactions, and help with reporting.
- Employees: 500+
- Revenue: $12 Billion
- Year Founded: 2019
- Pricing: Starting at $300 per month
- Core Service Features: Expert bookkeeping support, Tax-ready books, Transaction categorization, Bank and credit card reconciliation, Monthly financial reporting
12. Upcloud Accounting
With a team based in Quezon City, Philippines, Upcloud Accounting has developed a strong presence serving clients across the Philippines, the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Serving over 200 clients – 135 local and 83 international – the firm uses cloud-based technology to provide efficient, and cost-effective accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, and tax services.
As an employer of record in the Philippines, Upcloud also offers you a flexible and affordable way to manage your teams while navigating global markets.
- Employees: 26
- Revenue: $1M – $2M
- Year Founded: 2017
- Pricing: Starts at $200 per month
- Core Service Features: Cloud-based bookkeeping, Payroll processing, Tax preparation and filing, Financial reporting, International accounting support
13. Kruze Consulting
Kruze Consulting is a top outsourced accounting firm for startups that delivers high-quality bookkeeping services. Over 800 funded startups rely on Kruze Consulting for expert advice at an affordable cost. Its team has supported startups in raising $15 billion in funding with their trusted guidance and financial expertise.
Kruze Consulting operates from 5 locations globally. They have secured $100 million in tax credits and deliver cost-effective bookkeeping through seamless QuickBooks integration. With Kruze, you will get specialized systems and scalable support for accurate, growth-ready financial management.
- Employees: 100+
- Revenue: $10 million
- Year Founded: 2012
- Pricing: Starts at $600 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Tax filing and planning, Financial reporting, Payroll processing, CFO advisory services
14. Bookkeeper.com
Bookkeeper.com offers an easy and comprehensive solution for startups that want to stay on top of their finances without getting bogged down in the details. It ensures that startups are set up for long-term financial success by advising on best practices. As your business moves from its initial stages to a more established company, its team can adapt your accounting system to meet evolving needs.
- Employees: 50
- Revenue: $10M – $15M
- Year Founded: 1987
- Pricing: Starts at $285 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping automation, Financial reporting, Tax filing support, payroll management, QuickBooks/Xero/FreshBooks integration
15. Fully Accountable
Fully Accountable is known for its focus on the digital and eCommerce industries. With over 250 clients and recognition on the Inc. 5000 list, the firm has proven expertise in managing the unique accounting needs of startups.
Fully Accountable provides real-time financial insights through a custom enterprise software called “YBO,” which lets you track key metrics and make data-driven decisions. You can opt for a fully integrated virtual accounting staff or select a la carte services, ensuring that you pay only for what you need.
- Employees: 36
- Revenue: $2.5M – $5M
- Year Founded: 2014
- Pricing: Starts at $2,500 per hire
- Core Service Features: Outsourced CFO services, Real-time financial reporting, Tax planning and preparation, Financial strategy consulting
16. Milestone
Milestone is known for guiding businesses through financial complexities and has helped clients secure over $250 million in growth capital. Their team excels in aligning accounting practices with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), helping you navigate capitalization and amortization rules effectively.
- Employees: 50
- Revenue: $10M – $50M
- Year Founded: 2008
- Pricing: Starts at $300 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Cash flow forecasting, Monthly accounting, Outsourced CFO, Operational support
17. Escalon Service
Escalon Services is serving over 5,000 clients across more than 40 countries, including notable brands like Allbirds, Indiegogo, and Crunchbase. Their team will help you establish robust financial systems and offer strategic guidance to support fundraising and expansion goals. You will receive a dedicated team that adapts to your business needs.
- Employees: 440
- Revenue: $14 Million
- Year Founded: 2006
- Pricing: Starts at $295 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Financial reporting, Tax management, Processing, Fractional CFO services
18. Punch
Punch offers expertise in corporate and fund accounting and has completed over 2,400 financial reviews for 149 clients. They have helped save clients an average of $34,500 annually through optimized financial management. Their strong ties to the startup ecosystem are evident in their VC Partner Program, which connects clients with investors.
- Employees: 49
- Revenue: $10M – $25M
- Year Founded: 2017
- Pricing: Starts at $1,500 per month
- Core Service Features: Accounts payable and receivable, Cash flow management, Payroll services, Tax return preparation, Financial reporting
???? Here’s an interesting fact!
Tax compliance ranks among the toughest hurdles for startups.
(Source)
10 Key Features To Look For In An Accounting And Bookkeeping Service For Startups
Finding business startup accounting and bookkeeping services with these 10 features can help you avoid financial headaches as you grow.
I. Scalability
Why is scalability so important? Because your startup is going to grow. You don’t want to end up stuck with accounting services that can’t keep up. When your sales increase or you bring on more team members, your financial needs will shift. A scalable service will grow with you, meaning you don’t have to go through the hassle of finding a new provider every time you level up.
How to Check:
Ask the provider how they handle growth. Can they easily adjust to bigger transactions? What happens if you need more complex reports or services? If they can’t quickly scale, look for someone who can.
II. Customizable Financial Dashboards
You need a clear picture of your financials, but you want to see the information that matters to you. Maybe it is cash flow, maybe it is your profit margins. Whatever it is, you should be able to customize your dashboard so you are not digging through irrelevant data.
How to Check:
When you are looking at services, ask about their dashboard options. Can you tweak them to highlight what you care about? Request a trial period to play around with it yourself. If it is a pain to customize, it is probably not the right fit.
III. Real-Time Financial Reporting
When something big happens in your business, you need to know right away. Waiting until the end of the month to check your financials can cause you to miss out on important insights. Real-time reporting means you are seeing up-to-date data, so you can act fast and make decisions based on what’s actually happening.
How to Check:
Ask the service how quickly they update your financial data. Do they offer instant updates, or do you have to wait a few days? Request a live demo to see how quickly information is updated. If it’s not real-time, it’s a dealbreaker.
IV. Tax Compliance & Filing Support
Tax issues can quickly become a nightmare if you are not careful. You’ll want an accounting service provider that not only keeps you compliant with tax laws but also helps with filing taxes at the end of the year. This can save you time and headaches, and ensure you are not hit with any penalties.
How to Check:
Ask the provider if they offer tax compliance services and how they handle tax filings. Are they up-to-date on the latest tax laws? Will they help you with filing your taxes when the time comes? If they don’t provide tax support or seem unclear about it, you might want to keep looking.
V. Payroll Management
If you have employees, contractors, or freelancers, managing payroll correctly is a must. If you mess it up, you are looking at penalties, employee dissatisfaction, and a whole lot of headaches. A solid accounting and bookkeeping firm should handle payroll, make sure your taxes are in order, and that everyone gets paid on time – no drama.
How to Check:
Check if they offer full payroll services. Will they handle all the calculations – taxes, deductions, benefits, everything? Ask about their experience with different types of employees – full-time, part-time, and contractors. Payroll can get tricky with freelancers or remote workers. Get a sample of their payroll reporting and see if it is clear and easy to understand.
VI. Industry-Specific Expertise
Every industry has its quirks when it comes to finances. For example, the way you handle taxes in retail is different from how it is done in tech. A firm with industry-specific expertise will help you stay compliant with tax rules and offer advice that actually makes sense for your business.
How to Check:
Verify if they worked with startups in your industry. If you’re in tech, retail, or any other field with unique financial needs, they should be familiar with it. Ask for references or examples of similar businesses they have worked with. They should talk to you in detail about the challenges you face. If they don’t seem familiar with industry-specific issues, it is a red flag.
VII. Data Security & Privacy
Your financial information is sensitive. If it is not protected properly, you are opening your business up to potential breaches and problems. You need a firm that takes your data security seriously and ensures that all your financial info stays confidential.
How to Check:
Check what security measures do they have in place. Do they use encryption? How do they back up your data? Make sure they are compliant with relevant data protection laws – especially if you are dealing with sensitive customer information (like in healthcare or finance). It is okay to ask for documentation or certifications that prove they follow strict security protocols.
VIII. Transparent Pricing & Flexible Packages
You don’t want to be surprised by hidden fees or stuck with a package that doesn’t fit your growing business. You should know exactly what you are paying for, and you should be able to adjust as your business grows.
How to Check:
Pay attention to how they price their services. Do they charge by the hour, or do they offer a monthly or annual package? Get a full breakdown of costs, including any additional fees for things like tax filings or extra reports. Ask if they offer packages that can grow with your business.
IX. Dedicated Account Manager
As a startup, you don’t have time to explain your business over and over. A dedicated account manager will get to know you, your goals, and your financials. They are your go-to person whenever you need help or have questions. Having one person who’s always in the loop means faster responses and better service, which can save you a lot of time and stress.
How to Check:
Confirm if you will have someone who handles your account personally. How familiar are they with startups? Reach out to them before signing up. See how fast they respond and how helpful they are.
X. 24/7 Customer Support
Things happen – sometimes after hours – and you don’t want to wait until business hours to get answers. Having 24/7 support means you can always get help, no matter when issues come up. Whether it is a last-minute tax question or something urgent with payroll, you need access to support whenever you need it.
How to Check:
Check if they offer round-the-clock support. Test them out. Send an email or make a call outside of regular hours to see if they respond. Ask what types of issues they can help with at odd hours – sometimes it is just basic questions, but it is worth knowing.
5 Common Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing An Accounting And Bookkeeping Company For Startups
The right startup accounting services can keep your finances on track and your stress levels low, but the wrong choice? It could cause missed deadlines, costly errors, and unnecessary headaches. Let’s save you from all that. Here are 5 common mistakes startups make when picking an accounting service and how you can steer clear of them.
A. Failing To Understand Your Business Needs
A lot of startups mess up by not really thinking through what kind of accounting or bookkeeping help they actually need. You might be tempted to go with the first firm you find, or just pick the cheapest option.
But every business is different, and your needs change as you grow. If you don’t know what you need, you could end up wasting money on services that don’t actually help you.
How to Avoid:
Take a minute to think about where you are right now and where you want to be in the next year or so. Do you need help with taxes, payroll, financial reports, or maybe planning for growth? Knowing what you really need will help you find the right accountant or startup bookkeeper who can support your business the right way.
B. Choosing Price Over Value
Money is tight when you are starting out, and you want to save wherever you can. But picking accounting services just because they are cheap can come back to bite you. Sure, you wll save a little upfront, but you might not get the right level of service. Maybe the company you hired doesn’t know enough about your industry or doesn’t have the experience to handle things as you grow.
How to Avoid:
Instead of just looking for the lowest price, focus on getting good value. Look at what they bring to the table. Do they understand startups? Can they help you with things beyond just entering numbers? If you invest a bit more in someone who knows what they are doing, it can save you headaches and money in the long run.
C. Failing to Review Contracts & Terms
One big mistake startups make is not carefully reading through the contracts and terms when choosing accounting or bookkeeping services. You might think everything looks good at first glance, but there could be hidden fees or unclear terms that might cause issues later.
How to Avoid:
Always take the time to read the entire contract. If something doesn’t make sense, ask questions. Pay close attention to the payment structure, cancellation terms, and whether the services offered actually match what was promised. If you are unsure about any part of it, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Make sure you are comfortable with everything before you sign.
D. Neglecting To Communicate Clear Expectations
Another mistake startups make is not setting clear expectations with their accounting and bookkeeping service providers. You might assume the accountant knows exactly what you need, but unless you clearly communicate your goals and expectations, things can get missed or misunderstood. This can cause frustration or mistakes that could hurt your business.
How to Avoid:
From day one, be upfront about what you want. Do you need monthly financial reports? Help with taxes? Advice on budgeting? Let them know exactly what kind of service you are expecting and how often you will need it. Being clear about your needs and setting up regular check-ins will help you avoid confusion and keep things running smoothly.
E. Relying On Reviews Alone Without Personal Research
It is easy to get caught up in reading reviews when choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your startup. While reviews can give you some insight, relying on them alone can be a mistake. Reviews are written by people with different experiences, and they might not reflect what your specific needs are.
How to Avoid:
Don’t just depend on reviews. Do your own research – ask for referrals from other entrepreneurs or startups you trust. Have a conversation with the firm, and see if they really understand your business and can meet your specific needs. A good accountant or bookkeeper will take the time to understand your startup’s goals and challenges.
Conclusion
Picking the right accounting and bookkeeping service for startups is about finding a partner that helps you grow smarter. Focus on what your business truly needs. Whatever your priorities, choose a service that scales with your growth. Your finances are the backbone of your startup – don’t settle for less than the best fit.
At Genius, we specialize in connecting startups with top offshore accounting and bookkeeping talent, while saving up to 80% on hiring costs. Genius isn’t just about outsourcing – it is about building a reliable team that grows with your business. Explore Genius to complement your accounting strategy and power your startup’s success.
FAQs
How much do accounting and bookkeeping services cost for startups?
Accounting and bookkeeping services for startups typically cost $500 to $5,000 per month, depending on your business size, transaction volume, and the level of service needed. Some firms offer flat rates, while others charge hourly.
Can online accounting services handle tax filing for startups?
Yes, most online accounting services can handle tax filing for startups. They ensure compliance with tax laws, identify deductions, and file on your behalf.
How to choose between in-house accounting vs outsourcing?
Choose in-house accounting if you need full-time, on-site support. Outsource if you want cost-effective expertise without hiring full-time staff, especially for startups with limited budgets.
Can accounting services help with fundraising and investor reporting?
Yes, accounting services can assist with preparing financial statements, forecasts, and detailed reports to meet investor and fundraising requirements. They ensure accurate and professional presentations.
