Home business owners cannot usually afford an accountant to handle all of their financial records. Some business owners don't want to do their own books. And there are some that just do not have the time.
They may hire a bookkeeper to handle their business income and expenses, deposits and statements, payroll and billing, and quarterly and yearly reports.
Bookkeepers should be detailed, thorough, dependable and accurate. They need to have accounting and spreadsheet knowledge. Honesty and integrity are essential attributes.
Your customers can include online businesses as well as small local businesses around your town.
Bookkeepers can make anywhere from $20 to $50 an hour. Of course, the more you do for your customer, the more you can charge. Some bookkeepers charge a flat monthly fee for their services. This fee could be $200 to $800 depending on their responsibilities.
Many community colleges and online distance learning centers offer accounting courses. Check your local colleges for classes.
American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers opened in 1987 to recognize bookkeeping as a profession. They offer continuing education to bookkeepers. Along with keeping current with federal and state laws and procedures, the AIPB provides a free JobsSite.
National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers
BOOKS
How to Start a Successful Home-Based Freelance Bookkeeping and Tax Preparation Business