Bookkeeping business

[SimplyMum]

Ok- where to start. I've thought of a name, now to register it. Than can I just start? Or am I better off organising insurance before hand?

[WorkingClassMum]

You need to be registered with the ATO to be a BAS provider

[SimplyMum]

Ok- will look into that. Does it cost anything for registration?

[InBetween]

You need to be registered with the ATO to be a BAS provider

Only if you are a not member of a recognised professional association or do not work under the direction of a tax agent.

A lot of bookies opt to work under the direction of a tax agent and so are exempt from registration.


I've thought of a name, now to register it. Than can I just start? Or am I better off organising insurance before hand?

There's a lot more than insurance and business name registration to consider and have in place prior to opening up shop. You aren't required to do so but operating without insurance is akin to holding a knife to your throat, especially if you are a sole trader.You are recommended to obtain professional indemnity and public liability insurance prior to commencing.

Your Cert IV in Financial Services (Bookkeeping) course would have covered all this, surely?

[SimplyMum]

Your Cert IV in Financial Services (Bookkeeping) course would have covered all this, surely?

It probably did, but 1- it was so long ago (well, it feels like it was) and 2. the regulations have changed reg Bookkeeping since than. For 1. I know you need to have a Cert IV in Financial Services to do bookkeeping. I have it, but I didn't do it intending to do bookkeeping- just merely as a stepping stone to the accounting degree. :)

So, since then- I have designed a logo, made a FB page. Am applying for the BAS registration tomorrow and insurance next week. I have an ABN- just need to apply to change the name (long story) so have that form being sent out as we speak.

We are on our way! :D

(P.S. Thanks so much for your help. :))

[SimplyMum]

Ok- so went to register with the TPB and realised I needed a business name certificate- so off to the Fair Trade and I am now the official owner of a Business name! :) Next week is PI Insurance. :) I feel I am really starting to make progress.

Than to get some clients on the books. I will be sending my FB page out for all to like/share but I can't imagine this will get me a whole lot of clients so first step I want to take is contacting local accounting firms. I have stationary coming so will type up a letter on letter head to send out. I'm a bit unsure of how to go about introducing myself and what to write up in the letter...any tips?

[SimplyMum]

PI Insurance DONE! Now to register with TPB and then to get some clients going. Any tips on getting clients?

[Elijahs Mum]

Depends how much time and money you want to spend! A few ideas;
- send letters /faxes introducing yourself with a brochure to all local businesses
- follow up with a phone call or visit
- local newspaper adds
- letter box drop
- community notice board
- Facebook ( get it out there you have a business (
- family and friends ( ask who knows anyone that's needs a book keeper )

[SimplyMum]

Thanks Elijah's Mum.

I feel I am on track and doing the right things.

I have a FB page (check marketplace under "Present Value Bookkeeping"). Working on getting more 'likes'
I have advertisements on Gumtree
I have flyers to hand out around town in the next few weeks
And I plan to do up a flyer for the local community board/s.

I'm also thinking of sending out introduction letters to local accounting firms but am unsure on how to word it.