What is a Bookkeeper?
In medicine, patients often ask, “What’s the difference between a nurse and a doctor?” In business, people ask a similar question: “What’s the difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant?”
As a nurse-turned-bookkeeper, I see the roles clearly—and I’m here to explain what a bookkeeper is and why they are so important.
They are like the financial record-keepers, making sure every penny is accounted for. The unsung heroes who ensure your business’s financial health.
What a Bookkeeper Does
-Maintaining Ledgers ensuring all transactions are recorded properly
- Records daily financial transactions (income, expenses, invoices, payments)
- Keeps accounts organized and up-to-date
- Reconciles bank and credit card statements
-Payroll Processing (employee salaries and wages)
- Prepares financial reports s(P&L, Balance Statement) so you can see the “pulse” of your business at any time
Bookkeeper vs Accountant (CPA)
- Bookkeeper: Maintains accurate, timely records
- Accountant/CPA: Analyzes records, prepares tax filings, and gives higher-level financial advice - Together, they’re a team—but without clean books, the CPA can’t do their job well
Why Businesses Need a Bookkeeper
Just like patients rely on vital signs, businesses rely on accurate books. Without them, decisions get riskier, stress levels rise, and growth slows down. A bookkeeper keeps things running smoothly, so your CPA and your business can thrive. With out organized, accurate bookkeeping you could not have:
-An Accurate Financial Picture
-Informed Decision-Making
-Compliance with Regulations
-Time Savings
-Peace of Mind
Final Thoughts
My goal as your bookkeeper is more than balancing numbers—it’s about building trust, tailoring support to your unique business, and setting the stage for long-term success.
Want to learn more? Follow Claire’s Bookkeeping Tips with a Clinical Twist each week on LinkedIn, and for help with your books contact Lisa at BrizBookkeepers.com.
