Frequently Asked Questions
Got Questions? You're in the Right Place.
Whether you're just starting out, stuck in the weeds, or scaling something big, chances are you've got questions,and you're not alone.
At Every Penny, we believe in clear answers, judgment-free support, and helping you make sense of the numbers (and the systems behind them).
These are some of the questions we hear most often,from curious leads and longtime clients alike. If you're wondering something we haven’t covered, feel free to reach out directly.
Getting Started
When should I hire a bookkeeper?
The decision to hire a professional bookkeeper is usually triggered by a business owner’s experience of working late into the night, only to find that they’re still not keeping up with their bookkeeping duties. By this point, their books are usually out of order and whether they know it or not, they are often costing themselves money by paying more in taxes than they actually need to. Hiring a bookkeeper will help you to maximize the clarity of your company’s books so you have complete awareness of your income and expenses.
Do I need a bookkeeper and a CPA?
To the untrained eye, bookkeepers and accountants may seem pretty much the same. They both record and maintain financial records for businesses. The truth, however, goes much deeper and is much more nuanced than a simple explanation would have you believe. In order to fully appreciate and understand what bookkeepers and accountants can do for your business, you first have to understand the duties of each job.
While there are some tax preparers who will also do your day-to-day bookkeeping for you, it is generally considered a best practice to separate duties between a bookkeeper and a tax preparer, because the job of a bookkeeper is much different than what is required of the tax preparer.
While it may be advantageous to have everything in one place, from the standpoint of only having one person to work with, there are far greater disadvantages to having one person handle both your bookkeeping and tax needs. The tax preparer is generally not an expert in bookkeeping, as they are spending most of their time on tax returns throughout the year, focusing mainly on the rules and regulations regarding tax law. Further, they normally charge more for bookkeeping services, while their efficiency is geared towards tax returns.
On the other hand, the bookkeeper is typically more detailed in nature, and provides timely reports throughout the year that will help the business owner understand how their business is doing, so they can grow their company and increase profitability.
By leveraging the skills of both professionals, you will have two people working on your account who are each experts in their field, providing you the best bookkeeping and tax services possible. Having two experts in your corner creates a system of checks and balances for your accounting records.
If I outsource my bookkeeping will I still have control over my business?
Yes, you will – your bookkeeper is there to provide you with assistance, and to keep up with the financial details of your operation, leaving you to spend time working on and growing your business. All decisions about the business remain with you.
Bookkeeping Basics
Does my business need its own bank account?
Yes, your business should have its own bank account and all purchases should be kept separate. Why? Well if you mix your business with personal: (1) you won’t have a clear picture of how your business is doing, and (2) if you are ever audited, it could expose your personal finances as well.
Can I use my personal credit card for business purchases so I can earn points?
No. If you have a card that you like to use to earn points, open one in your business name. You’ll still earn points, but without co-mingling purchases. This is just as important for credit cards as it is for bank accounts. Bonus: Points you earn are not considered income.
What bookkeeping software do you use?
We primarily use QuickBooks Online and Gusto (for payroll). Both are efficient, cloud-based, and easy to collaborate on.
Strategy & Services
What are the core services your bookkeeping business provides?
We offer monthly or quarterly bookkeeping, payroll, business coaching, and Fractional CFO services,to name a few. You can read more about these on our Services Page.
Do you offer tax preparation?
No,we don’t prepare taxes, but we’ll work closely with your CPA to make sure they have everything they need, organized and ready to go.
Do you offer consulting or coaching?
Yes! In addition to ongoing services, we offer consulting calls and strategic coaching to help you feel confident about your business finances.
What kind of businesses do you work with?
We primarily support service-based businesses earning under $3 million annually. Most of our clients are small business owners or startups.
Do you serve local clients only?
No , we’re fully remote and work with clients across the country!
Policies, Experience & Approach
How long have you been in business?
Lourene has over 30 years of financial experience and launched her own business over 6 years ago. That real-world experience informs everything we do.
How would you describe your approach?
Judgment-free, personalized, and rooted in clear communication. We’re especially mindful of neurodivergent clients and those who feel overwhelmed by their books.
How do you help clients reduce stress around finances?
We ask the right questions, explain what the numbers mean, and keep you involved,without making you do the heavy lifting.
How do you ensure accuracy and compliance?
We stay in close contact with your CPA and follow industry best practices. Our systems are designed to be clean, consistent, and audit-ready.
How do you handle complex or messy financial situations?
With honesty, empathy, and zero judgment. We’ll walk you through it and work together to clean things up.
Personal Touch & Client Experience
What makes your bookkeeping service different?
We treat clients like family. Your success is our success. We’re committed to making finances feel less scary and more empowering.
How do you communicate with clients?
Through regular reports, emails, and one-on-one meetings,whatever helps you feel informed and supported.
How do clients usually feel after working with you?
Relieved, confident, and in control. Most say they feel much less stressed around tax time,and more in charge of their finances overall.
What’s the biggest transformation you help clients achieve?
Clean, clear records and financial reports that actually make sense,so you can make better decisions and save money on taxes.
What’s your long-term goal for the business?
To take the fear out of finances and help clients feel more confident and capable with their money.