Running a startup is a lot of work. You have to keep everything balanced and moving forward, or else it all comes crashing down. And one of the biggest challenges for you is managing your finances—especially when cash is tight. In situations like these, getting help from best outsourced CPA services for your startup can save the day.
But how do you know if it’s the right fit for you? That’s what we are going to help you with. In this guide, we’ll share 18 of the top-rated outsourced CPA services in the industry. We’ll tell you what makes them special, what services they offer, and how much they cost. We’ll also give you some tips on picking the one that is perfect for your needs.
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⚡ 17 Best Bookkeeping Outsourcing Services (Small Business)
???? 13 Best Outsourced Accounting Firms For Startups
???? 17 Best Finance Recruitment Agencies (Complete List)
18 Best CPA Outsourcing Services At A Glance
Here’s a quick rundown of the 18 best virtual CPA services for startups.
| Company | Best Known For | Rating | More Info |
| 1. Genius | AI-driven accounting efficiency | ★★★★★ | Visit website |
| 2. Paro | On-demand financial experts | ★★★★★ | Visit website |
| 3. TOA Global | Offshore accounting teams | ★★★★★ | Visit website |
| 4. Indinero | All-in-one financial management | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 5. Maxim Liberty | Affordable bookkeeping outsourcing | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 6. Flatworld Solutions | Global accounting scalability | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 7. Unison Globus | US tax specialization | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 8. Sorge CPA & Business Advisors | Tailored business insights | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 9. ScaleNorth | NetSuite-focused accounting solutions | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 10. KMK Ventures | CFO-level financial services | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 11. Insero & Co | Regional accounting expertise | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 12. Marcum | Large-scale financial solutions | ★★★★☆ | Visit website |
| 13. 1-800 Accountant | Small business accounting simplicity | ★★★☆☆ | Visit website |
| 14. Adams Brown | Industry-specific CPA support | ★★★☆☆ | Visit website |
| 15. Outsourced | Flexible virtual accounting services | ★★★☆☆ | Visit website |
| 16. Decimal | Tech-enabled bookkeeping precision | ★★★☆☆ | Visit website |
| 17. Bench | Simplified bookkeeping for startups | ★★★☆☆ | Visit website |
| 18. Kruze Consulting | Startup-focused financial services | ★★★☆☆ | Visit website |
18 Best Outsourced CPA Services For Startups
Alright, so you’ve had a quick look at our top 18 picks for outsourced CPA firms that provide exceptional bookkeeping and accounting services. Now, let’s break down each one in more detail.
1. Genius
Genius isn’t your typical outsourced CPA firm but it provides a better solution for your startup. We use a rigorous vetting process to ensure you’re connected with the top 1% of CPAs and accounting experts. With us, you’ll save 80% compared to hiring U.S.-based accountants. That’s a big deal, especially if you’re trying to stretch every dollar without sacrificing quality.
Genius offers free interviews with CPAs before you commit. You can meet your potential accountant, discuss your goals, and see if it’s a match—all without any upfront cost. Plus, we back our services with a 6-month talent guarantee, so you’re not locked into something that doesn’t work.
- Employees: 25
- Revenue: $1M – $2M
- Year Founded: 2019
- Pricing: 25% of the candidate’s first-year salary
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping specialists, Payroll management experts, Budgeting and forecasting, Accounts receivable experts, Accounts payable handling
2. Paro
Paro provides access to the top 2% of CPAs, financial analysts, and other accounting professionals. The platform connects you to experts with an average of 15 years of experience in Fortune 500 companies and Big 4 firms.
With proprietary AI technology, Paro matches you with talent in over 60 industries and 250 skill sets. They can connect you with CPAs and accountants 20 times faster than traditional recruitment methods.
- 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. TOA Global
TOA Global is one of the largest employers in the accounting industry in the Philippines, supporting over 1,190 clients globally. This ensures that your startup gains access to highly skilled CPAs and bookkeepers who are trained through the Ab² Institute of Accounting.
With 24/7 enterprise-grade security systems, TOA Global ensures that sensitive financial data is handled securely. With them, you can save up to 66% on CPA staffing costs while freeing up your local teams. They also offer a custom management platform for transparency and effective communication between onshore and offshore teams
- Employees: 3,500+
- Revenue: $500M – $1B
- Year Founded: 2013
- Pricing: Starts at $500 per month
- Core Service Features: Small business accounting service, Bookkeeping solutions, Payroll management, Cash flow analysis, Business advisory services
4. Indinero
Indinero provides a comprehensive suite of outsourced accounting and bookkeeping services, including tax management, payroll, and fractional CFO solutions. Whether you’re in the early stages of fundraising or managing complex revenue streams as you scale, their team adapts to your business size and needs.
Your startup can save up to 30% on financial management costs by working with Indinero compared to hiring full-time staff. They cater to technology, eCommerce, and healthcare, addressing challenges unique to each – be it optimizing burn rates for tech startups or handling complex sales tax regulations in eCommerce.
- Employees: 125+
- Revenue: $5M – $10M
- Year Founded: 2009
- Pricing: Starts at $750 per month
- Core Service Features: Tax compliance services, Bookkeeping services, Accounting services, CFO services
5. Maxim Liberty
Maxim Liberty is a renowned outsourced accounting firm for startups that has served clients in all 50 U.S. states and Canada. Their team can handle multiple popular accounting software like QuickBooks, Sage, and Xero.
Maxim Liberty provides a 100% money-back guarantee on the first payment, giving you a risk-free opportunity to assess their services. A major portion of their business comes from white-label partnerships with CPA firms, which highlights their reputation and reliability in the accounting community.
- Employees: 100+
- Revenue: $2.5M – $5M
- Year Founded: 2005
- Pricing: Starts at $60/month
- Core Service Features: Bank reconciliations, Accounts payable/receivable, Payroll handling, Sales tax filing, Financial reporting
6. Flatworld Solutions
Having served more than 18,000 clients globally, Flatworld Solutions is a comprehensive outsourcing partner for startups seeking CPA services. They operate through 10+ global delivery centers and are supported by 9 affiliated group companies.
Flatworld’s services are aligned with international standards like IFRS and GAAP. They use advanced accounting software and AI technologies for process automation and real-time financial insights. You can save up to 60% on costs by leveraging their services. Flatworld also provides personalized support with dedicated project managers and 24/7 customer service.
- Employees: 5,000+
- Revenue: $20M – $25M
- Year Founded: 2002
- Pricing: Starts at $8 per hour
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Tax compliance, Financial reporting, CFO support.
7. Unison Globus
Unison Globus is a standout in outsourced CPA services for startups, with over 350 global clients and a team of 500+ CPAs and accountants. They hold the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Information Security Management certification, which shows their dedication to protecting sensitive financial data.
With 4 delivery centers, their team can help with day-to-day bookkeeping, bank reconciliations, or complex financial reporting. Their services are designed to help small businesses and startups streamline their accounting processes. About 65% of Unison Globus’s business comes from referrals, which speaks to their strong relationships with clients.
- Employees: 500+
- Revenue: $5M – $10M
- Year Founded: 2006
- Pricing: Starts at a markup of 10%-25%
- Core Service Features: Tax services, Accounting and CFO services, Bookkeeping
???? Did You Know?
Businesses can save as much as 60% on operating costs just by outsourcing their bookkeeping.
(Source)
8. Sorge CPA & Business Advisors
Sorge CPA & Business Advisors offer personalized and strategic financial solutions for startups and growing businesses. With more than 900 clients and a network of 6 locations, this firm brings big-firm capabilities with the touch of a highly responsive, client-focused team.
The team at Sorge CPA goes beyond basic accounting services; they specialize in business consulting, outsourced accounting, tax planning, and risk management, ensuring that you have all the resources to manage growth, handle challenges, and streamline operations.
- Employees: 40+
- Revenue: $5M – $25M
- Year Founded: 1990
- Pricing: Starts at $500 per month
- Core Service Features: Tax management, Financial planning, Business consulting, Accounting and Bookkeeping
9. ScaleNorth
ScaleNorth uses its expertise in NetSuite and advanced technology solutions to provide tailored outsourced CPA and accounting services to startups. The firm’s team is highly skilled, with over 650 NetSuite certifications across its staff, and 65% of the team are CPAs.
ScaleNorth processes more than $10 million in transactions daily and manages $2.5 billion in annual revenue transactions for its clients. They help startups close their books in as little as 2 days. The firm also provides custom dashboards and reports to help make data-driven decisions faster
- Employees: 270+
- Revenue: $38+ million
- Year Founded: 2018
- Pricing: Starts at $50 per hour
- Core Service Features: Accounting support, Bookkeeping, Financial reporting, Controller services
10. KMK Ventures
KMK Ventures is one of the leading bookkeeping and accounting services for startups. It is ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certified, adhering to the highest standards in information security management. Unlike other firms, KMK provides dedicated staff for building long-term relationships with its clients.
The firm has built a strong reputation with over 200 current clients. They also maintain a high employee retention rate of 90%, which shows a positive work culture and a consistent quality of service. With a 99% client satisfaction rate, KMK Ventures has proven that its approach works.
- Employees: 875+
- Revenue: $20M – $30M
- Year Founded: 2008
- Pricing: Starts at $15 per hour
- Core Service Features: Outsourced accounting, Tax preparation, Audit support, Business advisory services, Payroll management, Financial planning & analysis
11. Insero & Co
Based in Rochester, Insero & Co provides outsourced CPA services for startups at various growth stages. Their team works closely with startups to identify specific challenges and provides services ranging from day-to-day bookkeeping and outsourced accounting to strategic tax planning and financial advisory.
Insero has been consistently ranked among the Best Companies to Work For in New York and the Best Accounting Firms to Work For. The firm was also recognized nationally, ranking #216 in Inside Public Accounting’s Top 500 list, which underscores its impact on the industry. Also, the firm recently received the Best HR Teams Award 2024.
- Employees: 138
- Revenue: $28 million
- Year Founded: 1973
- Pricing: Lacks pricing transparency
- Core Service Features: Accounting and business advisory services, including Audit, Tax, Accounting, and Consulting
12. Marcum
With over 70 years of experience, Marcum has established itself as one of the top 15 accounting and advisory firms in the U.S. Startups working with Marcum benefit from a dedicated team of over 3,650 industry-savvy professionals. Marcum’s offerings are customized to meet the specific needs of each client.
Marcum’s reputation is second to none: 96% of their clients report high-quality, error-free work, while 98% find their professionals to be reliable and responsive. Beyond the numbers, startups value Marcum’s forward-thinking approach, especially in critical areas like forecasting and budgeting.
- Employees: 3,650+
- Revenue: $1.3 billion
- Year Founded: 1951
- Pricing: Starts at $50 per hour
- Core Service Features: Tax, Assurance, and Advisory services
13. 1-800 Accountant
1-800 Accountant has delivered over 1 million consultations, showcasing their expertise across diverse industries. Their CPAs bring an average of 17 years of experience, ensuring reliable and professional guidance.
Additionally, 1-800 Accountant has served 100,000+ startups and small businesses which emphasizes their proven track record. You can also benefit from a 30-day partial refund guarantee if you are not happy with their services.
- Employees: 600
- Revenue: $50M – $100M
- Year Founded: 1999
- Pricing: Starts at $179 per month
- Core Service Features: Dedicated accountant for startup business, Tax consulting, IRS-compliant payroll, Mobile app access
14. Adams Brown
Adams Brown is a trusted partner for startups looking for outsourced accounting and financial expertise. With over 16,000 clients across all 50 states, Adams Brown can handle the diverse challenges startups face. They have specialized teams spanning 7 key industries, including agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, and construction.
Adams Brown ranked #11 on the Fastest Growing Firms list and its expertise goes beyond traditional CPA services. Their approach is highly personalized, helping startups streamline operations, maintain compliance, and build strong financial foundations.
- Employees: 300+
- Revenue: $48.5 million
- Year Founded: 1945
- Pricing: Starts at $1,000 per month
- Core Service Features: Tax services, Audit and attestation services, Outsourced accounting solutions, Wealth management
15. Outsourced
Outsourced is a highly regarded provider of outsourced CPA services for startups. They hire only the top 5% of professionals and provide cost-effective solutions that can help your startup save up to 75% compared to hiring locally.
The company is ISO 27001:2013 certified, which shows its commitment to robust data security practices. Their impressive track record includes serving over 250 clients and maintaining a 98% staff retention rate.
- Employees: 1,000+
- Revenue: $500M – $1B
- Year Founded: 2012
- Pricing: Starts at $1,500 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Payroll, Tax Filing and Compliance, Financial Reporting
16. Decimal
Decimal provides cost-effective, scalable solutions for startups by managing everything from bookkeeping to financial reporting. They offer a team-based model rather than a single point of contact. So instead of relying on one individual, you can access a comprehensive team of experts with specialized knowledge in bookkeeping, tax services, payroll, and invoicing.
Decimal creates a customized accounting plan that aligns with your startup’s unique needs, making it easier to scale as your business grows. All of this is available for a fixed monthly price, ensuring that there are no hidden costs or surprise fees, which is a big advantage over hourly billing.
- Employees: 100+
- Revenue: $5M – $10M
- Year Founded: 2020
- Pricing: Starts at $3,000 per month
- Core Service Features: Bookkeeping, Tax services, Financial reporting
17. Bench
Bench streamlines bookkeeping tasks for startups by combining advanced software with a dedicated team of bookkeepers. The firm’s focus on startups and small businesses is evident in the personalized support they offer. Bench pairs each client with a dedicated resource, making sure that their accounting needs are always met.
This personal touch is one of the reasons why the firm has been trusted by over 35,000 businesses across the U.S., with funding totaling $113 million to date. Bench’s innovative approach has also led to successful partnerships with major platforms like Shopify, Gusto, and FreshBooks, improving their service offers even further.
- Employees: 514
- Revenue: $500M – $1B
- Year Founded: 2012
- Pricing: Starts at $249 per month
- Core Service Features: Monthly bookkeeping, Catch up bookkeeping, Tax filing, Tax resolution
18. Kruze Consulting
Kruze Consulting is one of the best outsourced accounting services for early-stage startups that have secured VC funding. They have helped over 800 most successful and well-funded startups that have raised more than $15 billion in funding. Their team of experts, with an average of 11 years of experience, is ready to scale alongside your business
With a team that operates from 5 locations, Kruze Consulting offers a comprehensive range of services, securing over $100 million in tax credits. They’ve built specialized systems that integrate seamlessly with QuickBooks to provide highly accurate and cost-effective bookkeeping.
- Employees: 100+
- Revenue: $10 million
- Year Founded: 2012
- Pricing: Starts at $600 per month
- Core Service Features: Accounting, Tax services, CFO services, Financial strategy consulting, Bookkeeping for startups
???? It’s true!
37% of small businesses choose to outsource both their accounting and IT services.
(Source)
Top 5 Benefits Of Hiring Outsourced CPA For Startups
Here are the top 5 benefits of hiring virtual CPA services for your startup, and trust me, they’re more than just crunching numbers:
I. You’ll Save Big on Costs
Hiring a full-time in-house accountant can get pricey fast. An outsourced CPA means you’re only paying for the services you need, when you need them. No more expensive salaries, benefits, or overhead costs eating up your budget.
II. You Get Expertise Without the Headache
Accounting isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, especially when you’re running a startup. A CPA brings years of specialized experience to the table—expertise in taxes, audits, and compliance issues that you’d probably rather avoid. They know the ins and outs of the tax world, so you don’t have to learn it the hard way.
III. Your Time is Better Spent Elsewhere
Your time is precious, and it’s better spent focusing on growing your business than stressing over financial statements. Outsourcing your accounting lets you put your energy where it matters: scaling your product, attracting customers, and hitting those growth targets. Leave the number crunching to the pros.
IV. You Stay Agile & Scalable
As your startup grows, so does your need for accounting support. Hiring an in-house team means adding headcount and training them up. With an outsourced CPA, you get flexibility. You can scale up or down depending on where your business is at, ensuring you always have the right support without overspending.
V. You’ll Have a Trusted Advisor in Your Corner
Your CPA isn’t just a number-cruncher—they can also be a strategic advisor who helps you make smart financial decisions. Whether you’re choosing the best tax structure, navigating funding options, or planning your financial future, they’re there to guide you.
How To Pick The Best Outsource CPA For Your Startup
Choosing the right outsourced CPA firm for your startup is more than just finding someone who can do your taxes. Here’s how to pick the perfect one, step by step:
Step 1: Figure Out What You Really Need (Don’t Just Ask for Tax Help!)
Before you start dialing up firms, take a moment to think about what you actually need. Are you looking for someone to do your taxes, or do you need full-on bookkeeping, financial planning, and business advice? Some CPA firms specialize in specific areas—make sure you get one that offers the services you truly need for your startup’s growth.
Step 2: Check If They Speak the Startup Language
CPAs who have worked with big corporations may not understand the unique challenges of startups. Look for a firm that knows how to scale with you and is familiar with startup funding, equity, and all the other intricacies you’ll face.
Have a conversation with them and see if they “get” what it’s like to build a business from the ground up. If they use jargon that you can’t follow, keep looking.
Step 3 Check Their Reputation
Google reviews and testimonials are fine, but go deeper. Talk to other startup founders or business owners in your network. Ask for recommendations from people who have been where you are and who understand your pain points. Real, firsthand experiences are more valuable than any marketing material a CPA firm can send you.
Step 4: Confirm Their Responsiveness
Your startup moves fast, so you need a CPA firm that keeps up. Ask them how quickly they respond to emails or calls, especially when you’re in a crunch. Set expectations about timelines upfront. You don’t want to be stuck waiting for answers when a tax deadline is looming or a business opportunity comes up that requires quick financial advice.
Now that’s interesting ????
31% of small business owners spend between $1,000 to $5,000 on accounting or bookkeeping.
(Source)
Step 5: Understand the Pricing Model
Startup budgets are tight, so you need to know exactly what you’re getting and how much it’s going to cost. Ask about their pricing structure: Are they hourly? Do they offer flat rates? Are there any hidden fees for extra services or emergency calls? Get all the details upfront, so there’s no sticker shock down the road.
Step 6: Evaluate Their Tech Stack
A good CPA firm should be using modern accounting tools that are easy to integrate with the software you already use. Ask them about the platforms they work with—QuickBooks, Xero, or something else. The last thing you need is a tech disconnect that makes managing your finances harder, not easier.
Step 7: Test Them Out
Before you sign any long-term contracts, start with a smaller project. Maybe have them handle your taxes for one quarter or review your financials. This gives you a chance to see how they operate and whether they’re the right fit. If they knock it out of the park, you’ll know you’ve found a solid partner. If not, it’s a lot easier to walk away without a long-term commitment.
5 Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing An Online CPA For Startup
Here are some more mistakes to avoid when selecting CPA online services for your startup—ones that can truly derail your business if you’re not careful:
i. Hiring Based on Price Alone
Sure, saving money is important, but going for the cheapest CPA firm might cost you more in the long run. If they’re cutting corners to keep prices low, you could end up with poor service, missed tax deductions, or worse—costly mistakes that hurt your business.
How to Avoid It:
Look for value, not just a low price. Consider the firm’s expertise, the range of services they offer, and whether they understand your startup’s specific needs. It’s worth investing a little more in a CPA firm that will help your business grow without the headaches.
ii. Ignoring Communication Style & Availability
Nothing’s worse than a CPA who goes MIA when you need them the most. If a firm isn’t responsive or clear in its communication, you’ll find yourself stuck in a loop of frustration, especially when urgent questions pop up.
How to Avoid It:
Set clear expectations for how often you’ll communicate and ask about their response times upfront. Make sure their working hours and response methods align with your startup’s fast-paced nature. If they’re always available and communicate clearly, you’re in good hands.
iii. Not Asking About Their Handling of Tax Complexity
Tax laws are a headache, and they change all the time. If your CPA firm isn’t on top of tax nuances, you could end up paying more than you need to. Worse, you might miss tax credits or deductions that are crucial for your profits.
How to Avoid It:
When interviewing firms, ask them about their approach to handling complex tax situations—like startups, R&D credits, and tax breaks for small businesses. A good CPA firm should be able to explain how they stay up-to-date and help you maximize your savings.
iv. Not Understanding Their Workflow & Processes
If you don’t fully understand how a CPA firm works, you’re setting yourself up for confusion. They may have slow or clunky processes that delay your filings, and that could leave you in a bind when deadlines approach.
How to Overcome It:
Get a clear rundown of their workflow and processes before you sign anything. Ask about how they manage deadlines, how often they check in with clients, and how they keep you in the loop. A well-organized firm will give you peace of mind and help you stay on track.
v. Ignoring the Importance of Financial Strategy
A lot of CPAs focus only on the numbers, but a good outsourced CPA firm will offer strategic advice that helps you make smarter decisions. If they’re not thinking beyond the numbers, you’re missing out on valuable growth opportunities.
How to Overcome It:
When you’re choosing a CPA firm, ask how they helped startups with strategic financial planning. They should be able to talk about things like cash flow management, budgeting, and financial forecasting. A firm that thinks strategically can help you grow your business smarter, not just faster.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that the right CPA partnership can turn your startup around. But the opposite is equally true – picking the wrong CPA firm can seriously hurt your business. So when finding the best outsourced CPA services for your startup, don’t just settle for anything. Take your time, do your homework, and be picky. After all, this is someone you’re trusting with your future.
If you’re looking to hire top-tier CPA accountants without breaking the bank, Genius is the best option. We specialize in connecting businesses with highly skilled professionals in accounting and finance. With a focus on quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, we can help you build a world-class remote team that drives your business forward. Contact us now to start hiring.
FAQs
How much do outsourced CPA services typically cost for startups?
Outsourced CPA services for startups can range from $500 to $5,000+ per month, depending on the complexity of services needed. Basic bookkeeping and tax filing are on the lower end, while comprehensive financial planning and advisory services are more expensive.
Are outsourced CPA firms secure for handling sensitive financial data?
Yes, reputable outsourced CPA firms implement strict security protocols, including encryption and secure cloud storage, to protect sensitive financial data. It’s essential to verify the firm’s security practices before entrusting them with your information.
Can outsourcing CPA services help startups with fundraising?
Yes, outsourced CPAs can assist startups with fundraising by preparing financial statements, forecasting, and creating business plans that attract investors. They can also provide advice on structuring deals and managing capital.
What tasks can be outsourced to a CPA firm?
Startups can outsource tasks like bookkeeping, tax preparation, payroll management, financial reporting, cash flow analysis, budgeting, and strategic financial planning. CPAs can also help with audits and compliance.
