Accounting Guide
How Much Does a Bookkeeper Cost?
Hourly vs. Flat-Rate Bookkeeping
Bookkeeping services are priced two ways: hourly or flat-rate monthly. Hourly pricing (typically $25–$60/hour) seems cheaper at first glance but becomes unpredictable — your bill varies month to month based on how many transactions you had, whether you had questions, and how efficiently your bookkeeper works.
Flat-rate monthly pricing is predictable. You pay the same amount every month regardless of how many questions you have or how busy the month was. ASU uses flat-rate pricing exclusively because business owners need to be able to plan their costs.
What Affects Your Bookkeeping Price
Transaction Volume
The number of monthly transactions is the primary driver. A business with 50 transactions/month costs less than one with 500.
Number of Accounts
Multiple bank accounts, credit cards, and merchant accounts each add reconciliation work.
Industry Complexity
Restaurants, retail, and construction have more complex bookkeeping needs than service businesses.
Services Included
Basic bookkeeping costs less than full-service (bookkeeping + sales tax + payroll + AP/AR).
Catch-Up Work
If your books are behind, expect a one-time catch-up fee before monthly service begins.
Number of Locations
Multi-location businesses require separate location-level tracking and reporting.
In-House vs. Outsourced — True Cost Comparison
| Cost Factor | Part-Time In-House | ASU Outsourced |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly wages (20 hrs @ $22/hr) | $1,760 | — |
| Payroll taxes (~10%) | $176 | — |
| Benefits / PTO | $200+ | — |
| Software licenses | $50–$150 | Included |
| Training and oversight time | $100+ | — |
| Flat monthly fee | — | $300–$600 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,286+ | $300–$600 |
* Estimates vary by business size and location. Part-time rates based on Louisiana averages.
Bookkeeping Cost — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does outsourced bookkeeping cost per month?
Outsourced bookkeeping for a small business typically costs $200–$800/month, depending on transaction volume, services included, and the complexity of your business. A restaurant or retail business with high transaction volume will cost more than a consultant with 50 transactions per month. ASU charges flat monthly rates — not hourly — so your bill is predictable. Call (504) 838-7140 for a custom quote.
Is it cheaper to do bookkeeping in-house or outsource it?
For most small businesses, outsourcing is significantly cheaper than hiring in-house. A part-time bookkeeper in Louisiana costs $18–$25/hour, plus payroll taxes, benefits, and management time — often $2,000–$3,000/month even at 20 hours/week. Full-service outsourced bookkeeping typically costs $300–$600/month for the same workload. Outsourcing also eliminates the risk of one person controlling your finances without oversight.
What is included in a typical bookkeeping service?
A full-service monthly bookkeeping engagement typically includes: transaction coding and posting, bank and credit card reconciliation, Profit & Loss statement, Balance Sheet, and sales tax filing (if applicable). Some firms also include accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll at additional cost. ASU's standard monthly bookkeeping includes bank reconciliation at no extra charge.
Does bookkeeping pricing include tax preparation?
No — bookkeeping and tax preparation are typically separate services priced separately. Monthly bookkeeping maintains your records throughout the year; tax preparation uses those records to file your annual returns. At ASU, you can bundle both with one firm, which eliminates the translation problem between your bookkeeper and your tax preparer. Ask about bundled pricing when you call.
How does ASU price its bookkeeping services?
ASU uses flat monthly rates based on transaction volume and services needed — not hourly. Flat-rate pricing means you always know your monthly cost, and you're never penalized for asking questions or having a busy month. Pricing is determined at your free consultation based on your specific business. There is no contract required. Call (504) 838-7140 to get a custom quote.