In-House vs. Outsourced Bookkeeping: Which Is Right for Your Business?
As your business grows, bookkeeping can quickly eat into your time. The big question is: should you hire an in-house bookkeeper or outsource bookkeeping to a professional service? This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and costs of each so you can make the best choice for your business.
💡 Many Wichita and nationwide small businesses ultimately choose outsourced bookkeeping with Delightful Digits for tax-ready, industry-specific support at a predictable flat rate.
Quick Comparison: In-House vs. Outsourced Bookkeeping
| Factor | In-House Bookkeeper | Outsourced Bookkeeping |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $40–$70k/yr + benefits, payroll, training | $250–$600/month flat rate |
| Flexibility | Fixed hours, limited coverage | Scalable, flexible packages |
| Expertise | Depends on hire — may lack tax/industry skills | Team or specialist with niche expertise |
| Tools | Must purchase/manage software | Often included, already set up |
| Tax Readiness | Varies — not always CPA-ready | Books maintained tax-ready year-round |
| Control | Direct oversight, on-site presence | Virtual or local partner with regular reporting |
Pros & Cons of In-House Bookkeeping
Pros:
- Lower cost with predictable monthly rates
- Access to industry-specific expertise (restaurants, trades, law, nonprofits, etc.)
- Tax-ready books year-round
- Scales up as your business grows
- No payroll, benefits, or training headaches
Cons:
- No full-time on-site presence (communication is virtual or scheduled)
- Varies by provider — need to choose carefully
Why Many Businesses Choose Outsourced Bookkeeping
For most small businesses, outsourcing strikes the right balance of affordability, expertise, and flexibility. Instead of paying a full salary, you get a dedicated partner who keeps your books CPA-ready while giving you time back to run your business. With Delightful Digits, you’ll also benefit from local Wichita expertise, flat-rate pricing, and tax-savvy support from an Enrolled Agent bookkeeper.
👉 Schedule a free consultation to see if outsourced bookkeeping is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to outsource bookkeeping?
Yes. Hiring in-house often costs $40,000–$70,000 per year plus benefits. Outsourced bookkeeping usually starts around $250/month, making it much more affordable for small businesses.
When does it make sense to hire in-house?
If your business has very high transaction volume or needs daily, on-site support, an in-house bookkeeper may be a better fit. Most small businesses, however, save time and money by outsourcing.
What’s included with outsourced bookkeeping?
Outsourced bookkeeping with Delightful Digits includes reconciliations, monthly reports, tax-ready books, and optional add-ons like payroll coordination, sales tax, and bill pay. We also collaborate with your CPA to ensure your books are accurate year-round.
Still comparing? See our other guides: CPA vs Bookkeeper • Bench vs Delightful Digits • QBO Live Alternatives