Tools, Tips + Resources

Tools of the Trade

Books That Changed My Life

Tools of the Trade

“The best investment is in the tools of one’s own trade.” – Benjamin Franklin

Investing in the best tools will save you a ton of money, an incredible amount of time, and (not for nothing) can cut down on stress.

Whether you are a one-person show, or you have an army of employees, good tools help you to automate and achieve maximum efficiency (and if you know me inefficiency is my kryptonite).

I promise I only recommend tools and services I have used myself!

Fine print: Some of the links below are affiliate links which means I may get a commission if you purchase. Bonus for you? Some of them may give you a discount and who doesn’t love saving a little money?

Year.li

Service: 1099 & Tax Form Filing

I know how stressful 1099 time can be for bookkeepers, so PUH-LEASE do yourself a favor and find tools that make life so much easier, like Year.li. This is a filing program that does the heavy lifting of filing federal and state 1099s, 1095s, and W-2s for you.

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Gusto

Service: Payroll Services

Gusto is great for bringing payroll into the 21st century. I use it to pay employees and contractors, keep client data organized, and stay compliant. As you grow your practice, this is must-have for managing payroll and receiving backend HR support.

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Financial Cents

Service: Workflows & Project Management

Financial Cents is great for tracking client work, getting client responses faster, and organizing everything with one easy-to-use practice management software that your team will love.

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Transaction Pro

Service: App for QBO Mass Uploading or Deletions

Automation is a LIFESAVER when it comes to keeping client data organized and accurate. Transaction Pro is an awesome QuickBooks integration that helps you import, export, and delete data quickly.

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QuickBooks Online

Service: QBO

Of course, I can’t forget to mention the holy grail of bookkeeping: QuickBooks Online. Get ultra-organized, connect bank accounts, sync accounts, the list of benefits goes on and on.

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Harvest

Service: Time Tracking Software

If you charge by the hour, or work with contractors who do, Harvest is an easy-to-use time tracking tool. It even includes an integrated invoice generator and automatic payment reminders.

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Teamwork

Service: Project Management Software

I’ll admit it — I got a lotta big ideas, but sometimes I need help getting organized. Teamwork lets my team see all our projects, tasks, and to-dos in one easy spot. Honestly, it’s my go-to for all things project planning and task management.

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CorpNet

Service: Business Filing Services

Starting a business is… yeah, kinda scary. But CorpNet provides the tools and guidance needed to start your business while staying compliant. They’ll help you with everyyyything from selecting a business structure to keeping tax deadlines top-of-mind.

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MoneyThumb

Service: Financial File Conversion

Have stubborn PDF files that you need to convert to a CSV or into QBO? MoneyThumb is a gift from the GODS! Absolutely brilliant product that saves you time, money and a whole lot of stress!

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Lucidchart

Service: Process Mapping Tool

I don’t know about you, but sometimes trying to write my ideas down just doesn’t get the message across. So I use Lucidchart, a tool that can help me diagram my thoughts, visualize the process, and get my team in sync. It’s an effective and intuitive way to really bring your ideas to life.

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