"My bookkeeper handles everything financial."
I hear this all the time. And while bookkeepers are essential, there's a reason we call it the accounting cycle - different roles handle different parts of your financial picture.
Think of it this way:
Your bookkeeper keeps the day-to-day moving:
⇒Recording transactions
⇒Processing payroll
⇒Managing bills and invoices
⇒Reconciling accounts
Your accountant turns those numbers into insights:
⇒Financial reporting
⇒Cash flow management
⇒Budgeting
⇒Analysis
Your tax preparer ensures compliance:
⇒Tax planning
⇒Required filings
⇒Estimated payments
⇒Tax consulting
Your CFO shapes your financial future:
⇒Strategic planning
⇒Risk management
⇒Financial forecasting
⇒Performance monitoring
Each role is critical, but they serve different purposes.
Understanding these differences isn't just about titles. It's about making sure you have the right financial support to reach your goals.
Curious about the different accounting roles out there? We created a simple grid explaining the different roles. I’ll add a link to it in the comments.