Frequently Asked Questions

Questions & Answers

  • We have tried to provide you with the most commonly asked questions. Our answers are general, but sometimes a more in depth information and understanding is needed.
  • If this is your situation, call us so that we can discuss the needs and challenges you are facing.

Frequently Asked Questions —

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What is it like to work with you?

Working with Susan

  • Consultation – Let’s meet and see what is causing you those sleepless nights.
  • Discovery – Lots of questions and a peek into your accounting system. We discuss your business, what it looks like now from a financial viewpoint and what do you want it to look like. What are your pain points? What are your dreams and goals? Are you willing to do what is needed to reach those goals? How can we help?
  • Proposal – Once we know what you are looking for we prepare a proposal. This outlines what we will do and what we need from you, how we communicate with each other, software you have and need, and next steps. In most cases a regular monthly fee would be quoted, with additional fees for company set up or prior period entry and/or corrections.
  • Engagement Letter – The engagement letter spells out what we will and won’t do, what we need from you, expectations on both sides, the terms of the engagement, and the fees outlined in the proposal. There is a retainer required with the signed engagement letter.
  • On Boarding – Includes set up and/or review of accounting records with consultation to make sure everything is as you expected. 
If this is a one-time project, it would be finished in a timely manner. If this is an ongoing engagement, periodic review would occur as well as training where needed.
  • Future – We always want our relationships to last a long time so we appreciate any feedback on how we can improve our service.
What do I need to have prepared before meeting with you?
  • Decide what it is you wish to accomplish or what pain point you wish to relieve.
  • If you’re replacing an existing accountant/bookkeeper, we want to know everything that person is doing, plus any additional tasks needed, and why you want to make the change.
  • If someone has a shoebox, or bank statements, items would have to be somewhat categorized so there would be few questions needed.
 For a new business, have everything about the new business available.
What geographical areas do you serve?

With QuickBooks Online and Zoom I can help business owners anywhere in the United States.  If office visits are needed, let’s discuss this.

Do you go to your client's offices?

While I work with most of my clients remotely, I may visit some of my clients on a regular or as needed basis.

How do you charge, by the project or by the hour?

I have an hourly rate range but prefer to charge a fixed price.  This could be for a project or regular monthly services.

Do you prepare and file income tax returns?

While I have some knowledge of preparing income tax returns, I do not prepare them. But I am available to review and correct your accounting records before you present them to your tax preparer.

Is it possible to convert to QuickBooks Online from software other than QuickBooks Desktop?

QuickBooks Desktop converts directly to QuickBooks Online, but there are applications available to convert any software where the information can be exported to excel.

Why are financial statements important?
  • Financial statements, as a accurae, concise picture of the financial condition of a company, help business owners make better business decisions.
  • Financial statements are used by bankers and suppliers to determine advisability of extending credit.
  • Financial statements are used by potential investors and government agencies (IRS, etc).
I have a bookkeeper & CPA, why would I need your services?

Bookkeepers are primarily data entry clerks. CPAs are licensed by their state and charge more. In between are accountants, with more education and experience than a bookkeeper, but lower fees than a CPA.  Having an accountant review what your bookkeeper has done, suggest ways to improve your systems, and show you how to read your financial statements can be a good investment.

What is the difference between a bookkeeper, accountant, and CEP/EA?
  • A bookkeeper is responsible for recording daily financial transactions, including purchases, receipts, sales and payments.
An accountant is responsible for interpreting, classifying, analyzing, reporting and summarizing financial data and has more education and experience than a bookkeeper.
  • A CPA – Certified Public Accountants are licensed by their home state (with education and testing requirements), usually prepare tax returns and handle complex accounting issues.
  • EA – Enrolled Agents have passed an IRS test to submit tax returns and can represent their clients in dealings with the IRS.

What Sets Susan Apart from Others

  • Her ability to see the entire picture quickly and think outside the box
  • Her ability to see how everything fits together
  • Her education, experience, and excellent service
  • Her organized and analytical mind combined with her creativity help her solve complex puzzles
  • She is not afraid to say I don’t know everything, but can find answers
  • She listens to her clients as they discuss their needs and challenges

Our Mission is to Empower You

Determine Your Best Advisory & Financial Services

We are located in Lynnwood, Washington

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