How to Make Sure Your Bookkeeper Has Everything They Need to Do Their Job (Part 2)

(continued from June 13, 2013)

Organization

Being organized goes beyond simply putting all your paperwork in one place to be processed. It means separating trade credit from credit card and cash purchases, having bank and credit card statements ready for each month, and making sure that there are clear explanations for each transaction. Matching receipts for credit card charges, debit card purchases, deposits, withdrawals, and transfers to statements is essential for the accuracy and completness of your books and records.

Have all of your blank government returns available and *be aware of your due dates*. Know all of the due dates are for your income tax, GST/HST, payroll source deductions, WSIB/WCB, EHT and tax instalments. Mark them on the calendar, including what periods the returns must include.

Appreciation

Your bookkeeper is a person, just like everyone else. He or she deserves acknowledgement for a job well done, even if it is a simple “thank you” at the end of an appointment, or on return of your documents. At the Holidays, don’t forget your bookkeeping service either! You might send cards or gifts to valued clients, suppliers who have shown excellence in their service, make sure your bookkeeper gets a little love too. An excellent way to show your appreciation is to *make sure you are ready for them to do their work by having all your documents ready when needed*. But the best way to show your appreciation is to pay their bill promptly. After all, your bookkeeper makes sure your business runs smoothly by making sure your clients are invoiced and your *other* bills are paid on time!