DIY vs Outsourced Bookkeeping: Which One Actually Saves You More?

If you’re trying to decide between doing your own books or hiring help, you’re not alone. It’s one of the first major decisions most founders face after making a little money.

This guide will help you figure out which route makes the most sense—based on your business, not just your budget.

DIY Bookkeeping: The Pros & Cons

“If you’re organized and consistent, DIY can work in the early days. But most people aren’t.”
— Kimi, Co-founder ofSam’s List

Pros:

• Save money upfront

• Learn your numbers and systems

• No need to manage anyone else

Cons:

• Easy to fall behind

• High risk of categorization mistakes

• You’re using founder time on non-revenue tasks

• Stressful during tax season

Outsourced Bookkeeping: The Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Experts handle categorization, reconciliation, reports

• Saves 10–15+ hours/month

• Clean books = better tax prep and faster decisions

• Monthly reporting and check-ins

Cons:

• Monthly cost (usually $300–$1,500)

• Some firms may not be responsive or specialized

“You get what you pay for. Cheap AI bookkeeping can work for simple businesses—but breaks down fast when complexity kicks in.”

When It’s Time to Outsource

Here are the clearest signals that you need to hand off your books:

• You’re making $250K+ in revenue

• You haven’t reconciled in 2+ months

• You’re behind on 1099s or tax prep

• You’ve got contractors, inventory, or multiple bank accounts

• You’re making decisions without financial reports

A Simple Framework

👉Find a bookkeeper who matches your industry + income level

FAQ

Is it worth outsourcing bookkeeping?

Yes—especially if you're earning $250K+ or spending more than 5–10 hours a month trying to stay organized.

What are the risks of DIY bookkeeping?

Missing deductions, inaccurate books, and spending founder time on low-leverage tasks.

Can I switch from DIY to outsourced bookkeeping mid-year?

Absolutely. Most bookkeepers can clean up past months and take over moving forward.

You Might Also Like:

1. Can I Do My Own Bookkeeping?
2. When Should You Hire a Bookkeeper?
3. How Much Does a Bookkeeper Cost?

Author: Kimi, Co-founder of Sam's List

Kimi writes about what she's learning while building Sam's List and shares honest takeaways from her conversations with accountants and financial advisors across the country. None of this is financial advice—just the stuff most people wish someone told them sooner.