QuickBooks Online vs. Hiring a Bookkeeper: What’s Right for Your Business?
If you’re trying to decide between using QuickBooks Online yourself or hiring a professional bookkeeper, you’re in the right place. This guide will compare both options so you can confidently choose what fits your small business in 2025.
QuickBooks Online: Pros & Cons
QuickBooks Online (QBO) is a cloud-based accounting software popular among small business owners. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and packed with features.
Pros:- Access anywhere with internet
- Integrates with banks and apps
- Affordable monthly pricing
- Helpful for basic invoicing and tracking
- Steep learning curve for non-bookkeepers
- Easy to make costly mistakes if used incorrectly
- No one to hold accountable for errors
- Support can be inconsistent
Quick Tip:
Most business owners start off using QBO themselves, but as things grow, they need help cleaning up or keeping up. That’s where a bookkeeper comes in.
Hiring a Bookkeeper: Pros & Cons
A bookkeeper keeps your records accurate, reconciles your accounts, and provides reports so you know where your business stands financially.
Pros:- Saves you time and mental stress
- Reduces tax-time panic and errors
- Gives you accurate monthly financials
- Often includes personalized help and advice
- Monthly cost is higher than doing it yourself
- You need to vet and trust the person or service
Cost Comparison
- QuickBooks Online: $30–$85/month depending on the plan
- Bookkeeper (Flat Rate): $200–$600/month depending on volume and complexity
Takeaway: QBO is cheaper, but DIY bookkeeping can cost you more in missed deductions, tax penalties, or lost time. A good bookkeeper pays for themselves in clarity, confidence, and time saved.
Which Should You Choose?
If your business is just starting and you have time to learn, QBO might work for now. But if your time is better spent growing the business — or your books are already falling behind — it’s time to hire help.
LangBookkeeping LLC offers both setup and ongoing remote bookkeeping packages for small businesses across the U.S. Contact us today for a free quote.
Helpful Links
FAQ: QuickBooks vs. Bookkeeper
Can I use QuickBooks without a bookkeeper?
Yes, but it depends on how comfortable you are with accounting. Mistakes can add up quickly without oversight.
When should I stop doing my own bookkeeping?
If you’re spending more than a few hours per month on your books or you’re unsure about accuracy, it’s time to hire help.
Can a bookkeeper help with QuickBooks Online?
Yes — most modern bookkeepers (including us) work inside QuickBooks Online. We can even help clean up messy QBO files.
What if my books are already a mess?
No problem. We offer Catch-Up Bookkeeping Services to get you back on track fast.