Have questions about working with Elevate Accounting, LLC? - Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our services, pricing, and process. Click any question to expand and learn more.
Q: What types of businesses do you work with?
A: Elevate Accounting, LLC specializes in bookkeeping and accounting services for service-based professionals — including consultants, financial advisors, therapists, massage therapists, engineers, IT professionals, marketers, contractors, pet care salons, pet groomers, rental property owners, and other small and mid-size service businesses.
Q: Do you work with startups or brand-new businesses?
A: I work best with businesses that are up and running and ready to implement or actively use an accounting system such as QuickBooks Online. If your business is still in the early idea stage or has very few transactions, you may not need ongoing bookkeeping yet. My minimum monthly engagement starts at $250 per month, which is a good fit once your activity level requires more consistent bookkeeping.
Q: What can I expect during the 30-minute consultation?
A: During our consultation, we’ll discuss your business setup, current bookkeeping process, and any challenges you’re facing. I’ll explain how I work, what information I’ll need from you, and outline possible next steps. This is also a great time for you to ask questions about how we’d collaborate.
Q: What’s a Diagnostic Assessment, and do I need one?
A: A Diagnostic Assessment is a review of your existing books to gauge their current status and identify areas that may need cleanup. I often perform an informal assessment for my own understanding before quoting services. If you’d like a formal assessment with a written report, that can be provided for a one-time fee.
Q: How is pricing structured?
A: My goal is to move toward a value-based pricing model — transparent, predictable, and aligned with your needs. For now, I use a combination of:
Flat fees for specific filings (payroll reports, sales tax returns, 1099s)
Hourly billing when the scope is uncertain (often for the first three months)
After that period, we can transition to a fixed monthly rate that fits your ongoing needs.
Q: Do you charge hourly or monthly?
A: I prefer fixed monthly pricing for ongoing work, but I may start with an hourly rate for the first few months to gauge workload accurately.
Q: Do you offer tax preparation?
A: We don’t prepare taxes, but we ensure your books are tax-ready and can coordinate directly with your tax preparer for a smooth transition.
Q: How often will we communicate?
A: You’ll receive monthly updates and reports, and I’ll reach out with any questions or clarifications. Bookkeeping is a collaborative process - while I take the accounting work off your plate, I’ll occasionally need your input to identify unfamiliar transactions or provide documentation.
Q: Can I call or text you on weekends or after hours?
A: I value work-life balance and do not take client calls or texts on weekends. You’re welcome to leave a voicemail or send an email anytime, and I’ll get back to you during regular business hours.
Q: What documents or access will you need from me?
A: Typically, I’ll request:
Access to your QuickBooks Online account as accountant user
Read-only access to business bank and credit card accounts
Copies of recent financial reports or tax returns
Access to payroll systems, if applicable
Any supporting documents related to revenue, expenses, or tax filings
Q: Which accounting software do you use?
A: We use QuickBooks Online (QBO) for all bookkeeping and reporting. If you’re not already using QBO, we can help you set up your account or convert from another platform.
Q: How do I share documents or grant you access to my accounts?
A: We use Financial Cents - a secure, encrypted tools to exchange information - where you can upload files or respond to requests safely.
Q: What if my books are behind or messy?
A: No worries — that’s exactly what we’re here for. We’ll start with a Diagnostic Assessment to determine the scope of cleanup, then bring your books up to date so you can move forward confidently.
Q: What if I have other questions?
A: Please emails us or give us a call, and we will happily answer any other questions you may have.