How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Bookkeeper (What You Need to Bring & Expect)
Hiring a professional bookkeeper is a smart move for any business owner looking to save time, reduce tax liability, and improve financial clarity. But before your first meeting, it’s important to come prepared.
Bringing the right documents and having clear expectations will help your bookkeeper understand your business finances quickly and set you up for success. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to bring, what to expect, and how to make the most of your first bookkeeping consultation.
Why Work with a Professional Bookkeeper?
If you’re still managing your books on your own, you may be:
❌ Missing valuable tax deductions
❌ Struggling with cash flow management
❌ Wasting time fixing financial mistakes
❌ At risk for IRS penalties due to errors
A bookkeeping expert helps you organize your finances, ensure accuracy, and keep your business tax-ready year-round. Your first meeting is the perfect time to get on the right track!
What to Bring to Your First Bookkeeping Meeting
To get started, your bookkeeper will need key financial documents that provide a clear picture of your business finances. Here’s a checklist of what to bring:
1. Business & Tax Information
📌 Business entity details (LLC, sole proprietorship, S-corp, etc.)
📌 EIN (Employer Identification Number)
📌 Previous tax returns (last 1–2 years, if available)
Your bookkeeper will use this information to understand your tax situation and recommend tax-saving strategies.
2. Financial Statements & Reports
📌 Profit & Loss (P&L) Statement
📌 Balance Sheet
📌 Cash Flow Statement
These reports provide an overview of your income, expenses, and financial health. If you don’t have them, don’t worry—your bookkeeper can help generate them.
3. Bank & Credit Card Statements
📌 Business checking & savings account statements
📌 Business credit card statements
Your bookkeeper will use these to track income and expenses while identifying ways to optimize cash flow.
4. Expense Records & Receipts
📌 Invoices & receipts for business purchases
📌 Payroll records (if applicable)
📌 Loan statements (business loans, equipment financing, etc.)
Bringing expense records helps your bookkeeper ensure that all deductible expenses are properly accounted for, potentially saving you thousands in taxes.
5. Accounting Software & Login Info (If Using One)
📌 QuickBooks, Xero, or other accounting software credentials
📌 Payroll system login (Gusto, ADP, etc.)
If you’re using accounting software, your bookkeeper will review your records and suggest improvements to streamline your bookkeeping process.
What to Expect in Your First Bookkeeping Meeting
Your first meeting is all about getting to know your business and setting financial goals. Here’s what you can expect:
✅ Financial Review – Your bookkeeper will go over your records to assess accuracy, completeness, and potential issues.
✅ Tax Strategy Discussion – Expect recommendations on how to maximize deductions and reduce tax liability.
✅ Cash Flow & Budgeting Tips – You’ll receive insights into how to improve cash flow management and budgeting.
✅ Bookkeeping System Setup – If you’re not using bookkeeping software, your bookkeeper will help you get started with one that fits your needs.
✅ Next Steps & Action Plan – You’ll leave with a clear plan on how to improve and maintain your business finances moving forward.
How to Make the Most of Your Bookkeeping Consultation
To get the most value out of your meeting, follow these simple tips:
✔ Be honest about your financial challenges. The more your bookkeeper knows, the better they can help.
✔ Ask questions! Don’t hesitate to ask about tax strategies, record-keeping best practices, or anything else related to your finances.
✔ Set clear financial goals. Whether it’s reducing tax liability, improving cash flow, or preparing for growth, define what success looks like for you.
Ready to Take Control of Your Business Finances?
Now that you know what to bring and expect, it’s time to take action! Partner with Gottsberger Group LLC for expert bookkeeping services that save you time, money, and stress.
📞 Schedule your first bookkeeping meeting today and let’s start optimizing your business finances for success!