Top 5 Bookkeeping Books You Need to Read Today

1. Bookkeeping and Accounts

If you're looking to get a handle on your small business finances, "Bookkeeping and Accounts" is a must-read. This book is perfect for beginners and covers everything from setting up an accounting system to handling real-world bookkeeping problems. It's a comprehensive guide that simplifies complex financial concepts.

You'll learn how to:

Design a bookkeeping system
Track day-to-day business operations
Keep journals for active accounts
Handle cash entries and develop internal controls
Calculate and pay employee withholding taxes
Depreciate assets
Prove out your books at year's end
Prepare tax returns and set up for a new year

This book also includes blank working papers and spreadsheets to help you practice what you've learned. It's like having a personal tutor for your best small business bookkeeping needs.

Whether you're a small business owner or just someone looking to understand bookkeeping better, this book will make the process less intimidating and more manageable.

2. How to Start a Lucrative Virtual Bookkeeping Business

If you've ever dreamed of starting your own virtual bookkeeping business but felt unsure about getting clients or even where to begin, you're not alone. Many independent bookkeepers have faced the same doubts. This book is designed to help you overcome those hurdles and get your business off the ground.

Here are some key takeaways from the book:

10 simple steps to start and run your virtual bookkeeping business.
Over 30 ways to find new clients, including what-not-to-do.
Scripts to turn your existing clients (or boss) into virtual bookkeeping clients.
Tips on branding and marketing your new business on a tight budget.
Multiple ways to get your clients to pay.
How to recognize the warning signs of a deadbeat client.

This bookkeeper has a virtual assistant who works for her 10 hours a month at $20 an hour, which comes out to about $200 a month. One benefit to hiring a virtual assistant is that it frees up your time to focus on growing your business.

Whether you're an aspiring bookkeeper or an experienced one looking to transition to a virtual setup, this book offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you succeed.

3. Bookkeeping for Dummies

If you're new to bookkeeping, Bookkeeping for Dummies by Lita Epstein is a fantastic place to start. This book simplifies complex bookkeeping concepts, making it easy for anyone to understand. It's perfect for business owners who want to manage their own finances and save money.

You'll learn how to:

Set up ledgers and journals
Record transactions accurately
Produce balance sheets and year-end reports
Manage taxes effectively

One of the best features of this book is its practical exercises. These exercises help you review what you've just learned, making it a great choice for those who like to learn by doing. Combining this book with the Bookkeeping Workbook for Dummies can be especially beneficial.

Dive into essential strategies, simplify complex concepts, and gain financial clarity for business success.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to get a solid grasp on bookkeeping. It's one of the top 10 bookkeeping books every accountant should read.

4. The E-Myth Bookkeeper

The E-Myth Bookkeeper by Michael E. Gerber, Roberts Debbie, and Peter Cook is a must-read for anyone looking to build a successful bookkeeping business. This book dives deep into the myths surrounding starting a business and how technical skills, expectations, and common assumptions can become obstacles. It provides a detailed roadmap from the early stages of entrepreneurship to achieving a mature business perspective.

One of the standout features of this book is its focus on the processes involved in building a bookkeeping empire. It emphasizes the importance on finding the right bookkeeper, avoiding common record-keeping mistakes, and ensuring compliance with tax laws. This makes it an invaluable resource for both new and experienced bookkeepers.

Learn how to start a bookkeeping business without hassle
Understand the journey from entrepreneurial infancy to maturity
Avoid common pitfalls and ensure tax compliance

This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to build a bookkeeping empire. It gives great detail on the processes involved.

5. Bookkeeping Essentials

If you're looking to master accounting best practices, "Bookkeeping Essentials" is a must-read. This book is a powerful companion for anyone navigating the ever-changing world of today's accountant and bookkeeper. It provides practical solutions for potential issues you may encounter, making it a great resource for those who already have the bookkeeping basics nailed down.

Key Features

Perform a wide variety of financial transactions
Use key concepts and skills with real-world bookkeeping problems
Design a bookkeeping system
Track day-to-day business operations
Keep journals for active accounts
Use blank working papers and spreadsheets
Handle cash entries and develop internal controls
Calculate and pay employee withholding taxes
Depreciate assets
Prove out your books at year's end
Prepare tax returns and set up for a new year

Bookkeeping Essentials is not just a book; it's a toolkit for success in the bookkeeping world. Whether you're dealing with small business services or larger financial operations, this book has got you covered.

This book may not be the best for those without prior knowledge about bookkeeping, but it’s a great resource for those who already have the basics down and just need guidance in turning their ideas into a successful bookkeeping business.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! These five bookkeeping books are absolute must-reads if you want to get a solid grip on managing finances. Whether you're just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, these books have got you covered. Remember, the key to mastering bookkeeping is continuous learning and practice. So grab a book, dive in, and start your journey to becoming a bookkeeping pro today!