Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a bookkeeper, or can I just do it myself?
Plenty of small business owners manage their own books successfully, at least in the early stages. But there’s a point where the time cost, the compliance risk, or the sheer mental load of keeping on top of it stops making sense. If you’re spending Sunday nights on your books, missing BAS deadlines, or not really sure if your numbers are right, it’s probably time to get some help. We’re happy to have a no-pressure chat about where you’re at.
How do I get started with BeeFree Accounts?
The easiest way is to book a free initial chat. We’ll talk through your business, what you’re currently doing with your books, and what you actually need. From there, we’ll outline what we can do and give you a clear quote. No obligation, no hard sell.
What information do you need from me to get started?
At a minimum, access to your accounting software (or your records if you’re not using any), your most recent BAS lodgement, and a rough outline of your business structure and transactions. We’ll walk you through exactly what we need once we know more about your situation.
I’m a complete mess with my books. Is that okay?
Absolutely. Catch-up bookkeeping is one of the most common things we do. Whether you’re six months behind or three years behind, we can get things sorted. We’re not here to judge, we’re here to fix it.
What’s the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?
A bookkeeper handles the day-to-day recording and reconciliation of your financial transactions, keeping your records current, managing payroll, lodging your BAS, and making sure everything is in order. An accountant typically comes in at a higher level: tax returns, financial planning, and strategic advice. Most small businesses need both, and good bookkeeping makes your accountant’s job faster and cheaper.
Do you do tax returns?
At BeeFree Accounts yes we do prepare returns for Individuals, Companies, Trusts, Not For Profit Organisations and Sole Traders. Our end of year returns are lodged under BeeFree Tax by qualified tax agents.
Can you work with my existing accountant?
Yes, and we do this regularly. We prepare your books and reports in whatever format your accountant needs, and we’re happy to liaise with them directly if that’s useful. A lot of accountants prefer working with clients who already have a bookkeeper keeping things clean throughout the year.
Do you only work with businesses using Xero?
Xero is our preferred platform and we’re a Xero Gold Business Partner, but we also work with MYOB and QuickBooks. If you’re not using accounting software at all, we can help you get set up with the right option for your business.
Can you help me set up my business from scratch?
Yes. If you’re just starting out, we can help you think through your business structure, register for GST and other obligations, get your accounting software set up properly, and make sure your bookkeeping is right from day one. It’s much easier to start clean than to fix things later.
How much does it cost?
We don’t publish fixed pricing because every business is genuinely different. A sole trader with straightforward transactions has very different needs to a business with staff, complex payroll and monthly IAS obligations. We assess each client individually and give you a clear, honest quote based on the actual work involved. Get in touch and we’ll give you a figure.
Do you charge by the hour or a fixed fee?
We offer both, depending on the type of work. Ongoing monthly bookkeeping is typically a fixed monthly fee. Ad hoc or one-off work is usually quoted upfront so you know what you’re up for before we start. We don’t like surprises any more than you do.
Are there any setup fees or lock-in contracts?
No lock-in contracts. We believe if we’re doing a good job, you’ll want to keep working with us. Setup fees depend on the complexity of getting your books into shape, we’ll be upfront about this from the start.
I’ve never used Xero before. Is it hard to learn?
It’s one of the more user-friendly accounting platforms out there, and we’ll make sure you’re set up and trained before we leave you to it. Most of our clients who were initially nervous about it feel comfortable within a few weeks of using it regularly.
My Xero is a mess, can you fix it?
Yes. Xero clean-ups are something we do regularly. Whether it’s a chart of accounts that’s gotten out of hand, a bank feed that’s never been properly reconciled, or duplicate records everywhere, we can get it sorted.
Can you connect my bank account to Xero?
Yes. Bank feed setup is part of our Xero setup service. Once connected, your transactions flow in automatically, which makes reconciliation much faster and more reliable.
I use MYOB / QuickBooks, can you still help?
Yes. We hold certifications in both MYOB and QuickBooks and can work with either. If it ever makes sense to migrate to Xero, we can help with that too, but there’s no pressure to switch.
What is a BAS and when do I need to lodge one?
A Business Activity Statement (BAS) is a form you lodge with the Australian Taxation Office to report and pay your GST, PAYG withholding, and other tax obligations. Most small businesses lodge quarterly, though some lodge monthly. If you’re registered for GST, you’ll need to lodge a BAS. As a registered BAS Agent, Mandy can prepare and lodge these on your behalf.
What’s the difference between a BAS and an IAS?
A BAS (Business Activity Statement) covers GST and is typically lodged quarterly. An IAS (Instalment Activity Statement) is used to report and pay PAYG withholding on a monthly basis, usually required if you have employees and withhold tax from their wages. Some businesses need to lodge both.
What happens if I miss a BAS deadline?
The ATO can apply a Failure to Lodge penalty, which accumulates over time. If you’ve missed a deadline, the best thing to do is lodge as soon as possible and, if needed, contact the ATO to discuss your options. As a registered BAS Agent, we can help you get back on track and deal with the ATO on your behalf.
Can you help if I’m behind on my BAS?
Yes. Catching up on overdue BAS lodgements is something we handle regularly. We’ll prepare the outstanding statements, lodge them with the ATO, and help you set up a process to stay on top of future deadlines.
What is Single Touch Payroll (STP) and do I need it?
Single Touch Payroll is a government requirement that means businesses must report payroll information, wages, tax withheld and superannuation, to the ATO each time they run payroll, directly from their payroll software. It applies to all employers, regardless of size. If you have employees, you need it. We manage the whole process.
Do you work with businesses outside Brisbane?
Yes, we work with businesses all across Australia. Everything we do is handled remotely, so your location doesn’t matter. We use Xero, email, phone and video calls to keep things running smoothly. If you’re based in Brisbane and would prefer to meet in person initially, that’s also fine.
How do we communicate once we’re working together?
However suits you best. Most of our clients communicate via email and phone. We’re responsive and you won’t be waiting days for a reply. If something’s urgent, call us directly.
How long does it take to get my books sorted?
It depends on how far behind things are and how complex your business is. For straightforward catch-up work, we can usually get you up to date within a few weeks. Ongoing monthly bookkeeping is delivered on a consistent schedule that we agree on upfront.
What if I want to stop using your services?
No lock-in contracts, so you’re free to move on at any time. We’ll make sure your records are in order and easy to hand over. We’d rather earn your business every month than hold you to a contract.
Still have questions?
If something’s not covered here, we’re happy to have a chat. There’s no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your books.
Ready to get your books sorted?
Or call 0411 358 122 | mandy@beefreeaccounts.com.au