How to Make Money as an Accountant Online

Although you might believe that the finance sector remains fairly traditional over time, many accountants are now starting to set up their businesses online or operate remotely through their own website.

If you are planning to become an online accountant or to open your own business online, this checklist will ensure that you are prepared for the digitization of your sector.

Get an Online Degree? That Won't Be Enough, But...

Even before you open your business or start operating out of your home, you are able to start on your career path through the internet. An online degree can be great for those that are looking to become digital bookkeepers as they will allow you to study remotely and will enable you to immediately start up your own business or start to offer your services to clients once you have completed your degree.

A college degree gives you the same knowledge and skills as a traditional bookkeeping degree, with the advantage of greater flexibility and a greater focus on the use of technology in accountancy. 

However, if you really want to call yourself as an accountant and to be able to give advice to your future clients, a certified qualification is a must. College degree (online or offline) will only give you a credibility as a bookkeeper.

Use Accounting Software

You must use accounting software that your client uses. If they don't use one, you must be able to recommend one to them.

Accounting software such as QuickBooks, Sage, and Xero allows you and your clientele to collaborate on their bookkeeping and data as well as allowing you to access their files, manage payrolls, find and store the data that you need, contact clients easily, and automate time-consuming tasks, such as expense management. 

You can't not use accounting software. Not just one but you should be able to use at least two or three comfortably. Otherwise, how can you spot your client's mistakes easily? You wouldn't be able to, without a bespoke knowledge.

Invest good amount of money ($100+ per month for 3 different accounting apps) and familialize yourself.

The software will allow you to focus on the more intricate tasks of your accounting business or job.

You should also consider going paperless by storing all of your data securely online.

Find Remote Job Opportunities

If you are planning to work for another company, you should seek remote job opportunities, such as that of a bookkeeper or auditor, from some of the top firms in the country. (Obviously, you can only work as an auditor if you have a qualification.) You can do this by using a simple job search service, through networking campaigns, or by contacting top firms directly. 

Set Up Your Own Business

To work as an accountant online, if you are planning to work for yourself, you need to decide whether you want to set up your own business or go freelance. To set up your own business or become self-employed, you need to make sure that you have gained the right experience, that you are insured, and have the correct licenses. You should also consider joining a professional organization to help to guide you when things go wrong. 

Market Your Services Online

If you are planning to go online, the most important action that you should take is to learn how you can market your services online. For instance, every reputable accountant should have a professional website, use good SEO practices, harness email marketing, and create content for a blog. If you are struggling with any of this, you should consider hiring a digital marketing agency whose practices are especially focused on accounting businesses. 

Use Communication Applications

However, the one major aspect that will be different when you become an accountant online is your ability to hold meetings with your clients. Rather than let your communication lapse, you should set up meetings on video conferencing software like Zoom or Skype. These applications can ensure that you can simulate face-to-face contact whenever you need to discuss a tax return or give financial advice.