If you’re searching for a job that can provide you with a flexible lifestyle, becoming a bookkeeper from home might be the perfect career choice for you. This article will provide you with the background information you need to get started.
In the following sections, you’ll learn about the benefits of a virtual bookkeeping job and how to become a bookkeeper from the comfort of your own home.
Whether you have experience in the field or not, this guide will give you the tools you need to succeed as a bookkeeper.
Key Takeaways
- Learning how to become a bookkeeper from home can provide you with a lifestyle-friendly job.
- This article will provide you with information on the benefits of a virtual bookkeeping job and how to become a bookkeeper from home.
- Whether you have experience in the field or not, this guide will give you the tools you need to succeed as a bookkeeper.
How to Become a Bookkeeper with No Experience
The Perks of a Virtual Bookkeeping Job
If you want to learn how to become a bookkeeper, you might want to consider a virtual bookkeeping job. Telecommuting is a popular work arrangement where you work outside of an office. You can work from home or any public location closer to your home. Telecommuting is similar to remote bookkeeping jobs because both work arrangements offer more freedom when it comes to working hours and where you do your work. As a virtual bookkeeper, you have the unique freedom to choose who to work with. You’ll be the one to source out your clients, and you can carefully select the ones you can serve best. However, you must also be self-motivated, organized, and good with time management. These are key traits you must possess and master to succeed in your virtual bookkeeping job.
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How to Become a Bookkeeper from Home
If you want to become a bookkeeper from home, you need to invest in your work tools. You’re essentially training to become a virtual bookkeeper, which means you’ll be working remotely as a third-party service provider to businesses. It’s only fitting that your first investments are a good computer and a reliable internet connection. These are the two work tools you’ll use the most, so they must be up to the task. It’s also good to invest in a mobile or landline phone service as they are your means to reach customers and colleagues. You can use your personal mobile and landline while you’re still setting up your business, but eventually, you’ll have to separate your business communications.
Step 1: Invest in Your Work Tools
Deciding to learn how to become a bookkeeper means you should also be willing to invest in this career path. You’re essentially training to become a virtual bookkeeper, which means you’ll be working remotely — most likely as a third-party service provider to businesses. It’s only fitting that your first investments are a good computer and a reliable internet connection. These are the two work tools you’ll use the most, so they must be up to the task. It’s also good to invest in a mobile or landline phone service as they are your means to reach customers and colleagues. You can use your personal mobile and landline while you’re still setting up your business, but eventually, you’ll have to separate your business communications.
Step 2: Get Basic Bookkeeping Training
If you have no previous experience in the accounting industry, you need to pick your bookkeeping courses wisely. They should cover all the essentials you need to learn to be a competent and capable bookkeeper. A good bookkeeping training program will teach you bookkeeping skills that business owners are more than willing to pay for. Specifically, the bookkeeping skills taught need to show how to record financial transactions, keep financial records, prepare financial reports, use the right kind of bookkeeping software, and record accounts receivable and accounts payable. With Bookkeeper Launch, not only will you learn the technical side of online bookkeeping, but you’ll also get guidance on how to start your own bookkeeping business.
Step 3: Learn How to Use Accounting Software
Aside from learning the essential concepts and how-to’s of bookkeeping, you also need to familiarize yourself with accounting software. You can study the basics through online tutorials or get hands-on training from professional bookkeepers. Accounting software know-how can make you an even more valuable asset to clients. Software tools help streamline the bookkeeping process, which means you can do your job efficiently. Accounting software like QuickBooks also helps keep startup costs at a minimum. When you pick an online accounting program, you should take into consideration both your clients’ and your personal financial management. Remember that you’ll also use it to manage your own finances.
Step 4: Launch Your Bookkeeping Business
After learning how to become a bookkeeper and equipping yourself with business know-how, it’s time to launch your bookkeeping business. Or, you can choose to become a freelance bookkeeper. Acquire a tax identification number, apply for licenses and business permits as needed, and select a structure for your business (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.). Aside from formalizing your bookkeeping business, you also need to market your services. There are several ways to do this: networking, word of mouth, creating a website, creating a LinkedIn profile, and handing out business cards. Look for potential clients on career websites that cater to remote bookkeeping jobs. Freelance marketplace websites also exist where you can find short- and long-term projects you can apply for.
Step 5: Negotiate a Reasonable Rate
When you’re starting out as a bookkeeper, it’s important to negotiate a reasonable rate. You can research the average rate for bookkeeping services in your area to give you an idea of what to charge. However,
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are required to become a bookkeeper?
To become a bookkeeper, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some employers may prefer or require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Additionally, having experience with accounting software and strong math and organizational skills is essential.
How can you start a career in bookkeeping without a degree?
While having a degree can be helpful, it is not always required to start a career in bookkeeping. You can gain experience and skills through on-the-job training, internships, or taking courses in bookkeeping or accounting. Additionally, obtaining a certification, such as the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation, can demonstrate your expertise and make you a more competitive candidate for job opportunities.
What skills do you need to become a successful bookkeeper?
To become a successful bookkeeper, you need to have strong math and organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently. Additionally, having excellent communication skills, proficiency in accounting software, and knowledge of tax laws and regulations can be beneficial.
Is bookkeeper certification necessary to pursue a career in bookkeeping?
While certification is not always required, obtaining a certification can demonstrate your expertise and make you a more competitive candidate for job opportunities. Additionally, some employers may prefer or require certification for certain positions. The Certified Bookkeeper (CB) designation is a widely recognized certification for bookkeepers.
What is the average salary of a bookkeeper?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks was $42,410 as of May 2022. However, salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry.
Are bookkeeping courses like QuickBooks worth taking for aspiring bookkeepers?
Yes, taking courses in bookkeeping software such as QuickBooks can be highly beneficial for aspiring bookkeepers. QuickBooks is a widely used accounting software and having proficiency in it can make you a more competitive candidate for job opportunities. Additionally, taking courses in other software programs or accounting principles can also be helpful in developing your skills and expertise as a bookkeeper.
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