What Is Outsourced Accounting and How Does It Work?

Get In Touch

Running a business in Scottsdale takes more than a great product or service. It also takes clean books, accurate financial reports, and a clear picture of where your money is going. For many business owners, managing all of that in-house simply is not realistic. That is where outsourced accounting comes in.

Outsourced accounting means hiring an outside firm — like a CPA or accounting practice — to handle your financial functions. Instead of hiring a full-time in-house accountant, you partner with a professional team. They manage your books, prepare your financial statements, and keep your finances organized year-round.

At Concierge Consulting & Accounting in Scottsdale, Arizona, we work with startups, growing companies, and established businesses across Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, and beyond. We believe outsourced accounting should feel like a true partnership — not just a transaction. Let us walk you through what it is, how it works, and whether it is the right fit for your business.

What Is Outsourced Accounting?

Outsourced accounting is the practice of delegating your accounting and bookkeeping functions to an external firm or CPA. Instead of managing finances internally, you hand those responsibilities to a trusted outside professional. They work as an extension of your team — just not in your office.

This arrangement is extremely common among small and mid-sized businesses. Many business owners in the greater Scottsdale area simply do not need — or cannot afford — a full-time accounting department. Outsourcing gives them access to professional expertise without the overhead.

What Functions Can Be Outsourced?

Outsourced accounting can cover a wide range of financial tasks. Here are some of the most common services businesses delegate to an outside firm:

  • Bookkeeping: Recording daily transactions, reconciling accounts, and maintaining accurate financial records
  • Financial statement preparation: Monthly, quarterly, or annual income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports
  • Accounts payable and receivable: Tracking what you owe and what customers owe you
  • Payroll support: Coordinating payroll processing and related recordkeeping
  • Tax preparation and planning: Preparing business tax returns and planning proactively throughout the year
  • CFO-level advisory: Strategic financial guidance for growing businesses

At Concierge Consulting & Accounting, we offer accounting and bookkeeping, tax return preparation, business advisory, attestation, and more. Our team tailors services to what each client actually needs.

How Does Outsourced Accounting Work?

Many business owners wonder what the day-to-day process actually looks like. In practice, it is much smoother than most expect. Modern technology makes collaboration easy — even when your accounting team is not in your building.

Step 1: Onboarding and Setup

First, your outsourced accounting firm gets to know your business. They review your current financial records, chart of accounts, and accounting software. Then, they set up or clean up your bookkeeping system so everything starts on solid footing.

This step is critical. A clean foundation makes everything else easier — from monthly reporting to tax preparation.

Step 2: Ongoing Bookkeeping and Reporting

Next, your accounting team handles routine financial tasks on a regular schedule. They categorize transactions, reconcile bank and credit card accounts, and produce financial reports. You receive clear, timely information about your business finances — without lifting a finger.

Additionally, most firms use cloud-based accounting software like QuickBooks Online or Xero. This means you can view your financials anytime, from anywhere. Your accounting team and your business stay connected in real time.

Step 3: Communication and Review

A good outsourced accounting partner does not just send reports and disappear. They review your numbers with you regularly. They flag potential issues, answer your questions, and help you understand what your financials actually mean for your business.

At Concierge Consulting & Accounting, this is exactly the kind of personalized service we deliver. We believe business owners deserve proactive guidance — not just a stack of numbers at year-end.

Step 4: Tax Preparation and Planning

Because your outsourced accounting firm already knows your books, tax season becomes far less stressful. They have your records organized throughout the year. Therefore, preparing your business tax return is faster, more accurate, and better aligned with your overall financial goals.

Proactive tax planning throughout the year — not just at filing time — can make a meaningful difference for your bottom line. However, every situation is different, and tax laws change. Always work with a licensed CPA to guide your specific decisions.

Why Do Scottsdale Business Owners Choose Outsourced Accounting?

Scottsdale has one of the most vibrant entrepreneurial communities in Arizona. From Paradise Valley to downtown Tempe, business owners here are ambitious, growth-focused, and sharp. They also know their time is valuable. That is one big reason so many choose to outsource their accounting.

It Saves Time

Managing your own books takes hours every week. Those are hours you could spend growing your business, serving clients, or developing your team. Outsourcing frees you from the administrative burden of financial management.

As a result, many business owners report feeling more focused and less overwhelmed once they hand off their accounting to a trusted firm.

It Reduces Costly Errors

Financial mistakes are expensive. Miscategorized expenses, missed reconciliations, and sloppy records can lead to incorrect tax filings and cash flow problems. A professional accounting team catches errors before they become real problems.

Furthermore, accurate books give you a clearer picture of your financial health. You can make smarter decisions when your numbers are right.

It Scales With Your Business

Your accounting needs change as your business grows. Outsourced accounting scales with you. You can add services — like CFO advisory or more detailed reporting — without hiring additional staff.

This flexibility is especially valuable for startups and fast-growing companies in the Mesa and greater Phoenix area. Your accounting support grows right alongside your business.

It Gives You Access to Expertise

When you outsource, you gain access to a team of professionals — not just one person. At Concierge Consulting & Accounting, our team is led by Theresa Valade, CPA, a Forbes Best-in-State CPA. Our clients benefit from deep expertise across accounting, tax, attestation, and business advisory.

Moreover, working with a CPA firm means you have a licensed professional overseeing your financials. That is an important layer of quality and accountability.

Is Outsourced Accounting Right for Your Business?

Outsourced accounting is not one-size-fits-all. However, it tends to be a great fit for businesses in several common situations.

  • You are a startup or early-stage company that does not yet need a full-time accountant
  • You have outgrown DIY bookkeeping but are not ready to hire in-house
  • Your current books are messy and you need a professional cleanup
  • You want better financial reporting and more visibility into your cash flow
  • You are preparing for growth, a loan, or a business transition
  • Tax season consistently feels stressful and disorganized

On the other hand, larger companies with complex, high-volume needs may eventually benefit from a hybrid model — combining an in-house team with outside CPA oversight. A consultation can help you figure out what structure makes the most sense for your situation.

Call us at 480-372-2543 to talk with our team about your accounting needs. We are happy to walk you through your options.

What to Look for in an Outsourced Accounting Partner

Choosing the right firm matters. Not all outsourced accounting services are created equal. Here is what to look for when evaluating a potential partner:

  • CPA oversight: Make sure a licensed CPA is involved — not just a bookkeeper
  • Industry experience: Look for a firm that understands businesses like yours
  • Clear communication: Your accounting team should explain your numbers in plain language
  • Technology: They should use modern, cloud-based tools that give you real-time access
  • Proactive guidance: The best firms do not just record history — they help you plan ahead
  • A personalized approach: You should feel like a valued client, not a number

At Concierge Consulting & Accounting, we built our firm around these exact principles. We serve clients throughout Scottsdale, Phoenix, and across Arizona and the US with a boutique, concierge experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outsourced Accounting

What is the difference between outsourced accounting and bookkeeping?

Bookkeeping focuses on recording and organizing daily financial transactions. Accounting goes a step further — it includes analysis, reporting, tax planning, and strategic financial guidance. Outsourced accounting typically covers both, depending on what your business needs.

How do I share my financial information with an outsourced team?

Most firms use secure, cloud-based accounting platforms. You can share documents digitally, connect bank feeds, and communicate through secure portals. The process is designed to be easy and efficient for business owners.

Will I lose control of my finances if I outsource?

Not at all. In fact, most business owners feel more in control after outsourcing. You get organized, accurate books and regular reports. You always know where your finances stand. Your accounting team supports your decisions — they do not make them for you.

How much does outsourced accounting cost?

Costs vary based on the size of your business, the volume of transactions, and the services you need. Many firms offer tiered packages or custom pricing. Because outsourced accounting replaces the cost of hiring in-house, many businesses find it to be a very cost-effective solution. We recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss pricing based on your specific needs.

Can an outsourced accounting firm help with my taxes?

Yes — and this is one of the biggest advantages. When your accounting firm also handles your tax preparation, your books and your tax filings stay perfectly aligned. At Concierge Consulting & Accounting, we offer both accounting and tax return preparation services. Additionally, we help clients plan proactively throughout the year. Note that tax laws change and every situation is unique, so personalized guidance from a CPA is essential.

Ready to Explore Outsourced Accounting for Your Business?

Managing your finances should not feel like a constant source of stress. With the right outsourced accounting partner, it does not have to. You get clean books, accurate reporting, and a knowledgeable CPA team in your corner — all without the cost of a full-time hire.

Concierge Consulting & Accounting is a trusted, boutique CPA firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona. We serve business owners throughout the greater Phoenix area — including Paradise Valley, Tempe, Mesa, and beyond — as well as clients across Arizona and the US. Our team is here to deliver a different kind of accounting experience: personal, proactive, and built around your goals.

To learn more or get started, contact Concierge Consulting & Accounting to schedule a consultation. We would love to learn about your business and show you what a concierge approach to accounting can do for you.

Concierge Consulting & Accounting
9903 E. Bell Road, Suite 110, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Phone: 480-372-2543
Email: Theresa@conciergeacct.com

Article created by Atomic Social Workspace.

Please call or email us for more information and questions.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Jocelyn Sihathep (Jo1)

Office Manager

We have a Sun Devil in the house! We are honored to add to our team, Jo. She is a graduate of Arizona State University (Fear the Fork) and is looking to broaden her knowledge and understanding of business and accounting.

She is the engine of our fine-tuned machine. Her “can do” attitude, commitment to customer service and outstanding organization skills allows us to focus on what matters most, our clients. She is amazing with technology and strives for excellence. She embraces the entrepreneurial spirit and is a great asset to our team.

Jocelyn Weatherley (Jo2)

Accountant

Jo was previously an accountant for a $60M company and their 13 subsidiaries. She is in charge of our accounting and bookkeeping department and serves our clients on their time schedule. Whether it is weekly, monthly or quarterly she helps provide reliable, useful and accurate information to our clients on their terms.

Jo performs full accrual accounting and is responsible for reconciling all accounts, journal entries, month end closing procedures and preparation of internal financial statements and analytics. She also assists in the preparation of sales and payroll tax returns. She holds a wide range of knowledge, from QuickBooks to travel (she spent most of her life in the UK), she’s your girl. She is excited to join the CCA team and ready to conquer tax season head on!

Dixie Cary

CPA and Tax Manager

Dixie is a Minnesota CPA and experienced accountant. She has over 25 years of accounting in both audit and tax, but her passion is tax. After years in the cold, she decided to leave the mid west and find a new home in Sunny Arizona. We are so happy that Dixie has joined our team.

Dixie leads and manages our entire tax department. She assists and leads a team through our busiest times while delivering quality, complete and accurate tax services for our clients. She is proficient in preparation, planning, and education of federal and state income taxes for individuals, businesses, estates, trusts, and exempt organizations.

Theresa Elaine Valade

CPA and Managing Partner

Theresa Elaine Valade, CPA, is a highly accomplished Arizona-licensed Certified Public Accountant and founder of Concierge Consulting and Accounting, PLLC. Recognized by Forbes as one of the Top 10 CPAs in the state, she brings over 27 years of expertise in audits, reviews, compilations, tax strategy, business consulting, and fraud investigations, with specialized experience in nonprofits, real estate, hospitality, and financial services. A former Arthur Andersen auditor and tax partner at Moffitt & Company, Theresa has led high-profile engagements, including one of Arizona’s largest fraud investigations and IRS training audits, and frequently represents clients in mergers, acquisitions, and complex tax matters. Her firm consistently earns the highest peer review ratings, and she is a sought-after public speaker on tax reform, fraud prevention, and business operations. Committed to client success, Theresa combines technical excellence with a relationship-focused approach, guiding businesses and individuals through every stage of growth and transition.

Her areas of specialization are business consulting and advisory, audits, income tax planning and preparation, and IRS audit representation. Her industries of specialization are nonprofits, real estate, hospitality, franchises, mortgage banking and brokering, title insurance, escrow, health, and beauty.

Theresa’s also had the honor of being named 2020 CPA firm of the year for her commitment and service to her clients during the challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Putting passion and personalization at the forefront Theresa has led her firm to excellence by not only providing measurable results for clients but making them feel well taken care of during times of great uncertainty.

Theresa is also a member of the prestigious, Arizona Society of CPAs, ASCPA, 100% Membership Club. It is an honor to be part of this club that exhibit’s a high level of commitment to the Arizona Society of CPAs. We are privileged to be able to convey to our clients, staff, and colleagues of Theresa’s significant commitment to the CPA profession. She is also a member of the American Institute of certified public accountants.