How do I know I can trust your firm with my financial data? 

We take data security and confidentiality seriously. Our firm uses encrypted systems, follows strict privacy protocols, and only authorized team members have access to your information. Plus, our reputation is built on trust, accuracy, and long-term client relationships.

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Are you certified, insured, or bonded?

Yes — we’re licensed, insured, and bonded in California, giving you full peace of mind when working with us.

 

Do you have experience in my industry?

Yes, we have extensive experience across a wide range of industries, including property management, construction trades, hairstylists and cosmetologists, MFT counselors, law offices, nonprofits, restaurants, independent truckers, laundromats, landscaping companies, and more. We work with businesses of all shapes and sizes — from independent contractors to teams with 10+ or even 25+ employees — so we're confident we can meet the unique needs of your industry.

 

What specific services do you offer — bookkeeping, payroll, tax filing, CFO-level advice?

We offer a wide variety of services and encourage you to visit our services page. 

 

Do you handle sales tax filings, 1099s, or financial reporting?

While we have knowledge and experience filing quarterly and annual sales tax filings with the CDTFA, we are not offering sales tax services at this time; although, we are happy to assist with any questions you have, such as preparing your sales-tax figures so you know what to pay as either a pre-payment or filing. We do not offer payroll services, so we encourage you to have your payroll provider issue your 1099s or hire low-cost services such as Gusto to file your 1099-NECs or 1099-MISC forms. Financial reporting is one of our many service offerings, so we encourage you to visit our services page. 

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Do you offer catch-up bookkeeping?

Absolutely! It is a must in our industry and while it may be stressful to some, we love it! The thrill of getting you and your business financials all caught up is SUR rewarding! 

 

Do you provide real-time or monthly reporting?

Yes, we provide both real-time and monthly financial reporting, so you always have a clear and up-to-date view of your business's financial health.

 

What accounting software do you use? 

We use QuickBooks Online (QBO) and believe it is the best accounting software for serious businesses because it combines powerful features with flexibility, accessibility, and reliability. With cloud-based access, we have the opportunity to work remotely and allow for real-time collaboration with our clients. QBO also integrates with hundreds of different business applications, delivers customizable reports and bank-grade security with auto back-ups, encryption and secure cloud storage. It is also the #1 industry standard software used by accountants, CPAs and tax professionals. 

 

Do I retain ownership of my financial data and software account?

Absolutely! We want you to be the administrator of your account and have control of your subscription and monthly billing.

 

How do you handle document sharing and data security?

As a fully paperless firm, we use secure, cloud-based platforms for document sharing and storage. All files are encrypted, access-controlled, and backed up regularly to ensure your data remains safe, confidential, and easily accessible when you need it.

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Can you integrate with my current tools (e.g., POS systems, CRMs, payroll services)?

While we have the knowledge and experience to help you integrate QBO with various POS systems and merchant accounts, CRMs, and payroll services, we encourage our clients to work directly with their application provider to ensure seamless integration. If we were to assist in this set-up, this would be a chargeable service; however, if you contact your provider, they will assist you at no additional cost. Please ask a SUR professional if integration is the best thing to do -- depending on activity and the relationship QBO has with the application, it may be wiser to manually input or simply make an adjusted journal entry.

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What does your onboarding process look like?

Like many top accounting firms, our onboarding process involves an initial consultation, custom onboarding checklist, software set-up and access, conduct a health check for existing books, and finally launching service and communication plan. 

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Who will I be working with — will I have a dedicated bookkeeper or a team?

You’ll have a dedicated bookkeeper as your primary point of contact, so you always know who is managing your books. Behind the scenes, your bookkeeper is supported by our SUR team who are responsible for reviewing processes, ensuring financial accuracy, overseeing timeliness, and fulfilling coverage if your bookkeeper is unavailable. This way, you benefit from the personal attention of one professional and the reliability of a full team.

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How often will we communicate and how (email, Zoom, phone, online portal)?

Communication is tailored to your needs and the level of service you choose. Most SUR clients connect with us monthly to review reports and updates, while others prefer more frequent check-ins during busy seasons. Day-to-day, you can reach us by email or phone, and we’re always available to schedule a phone or video call when a conversation is best. Our goal is to keep communication clear, convenient, and on your terms.

 

How do you handle questions or urgent issues?

We make responsiveness a priority. For everyday questions, you can reach us through email or phone, and we’ll get back to you promptly. If something urgent comes up, we’ll address it right away—whether by email or phone—so you can move forward without delays. Our team structure ensures there’s always coverage, so your business is never left waiting for answers.

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How do you price your services — flat monthly fee, hourly, or package-based?

We use a flat monthly pricing model based on the scope of your business and the services you need. This means no surprise hourly bills—just predictable, transparent pricing you can budget for. For businesses with specialized needs, we also offer tailored packages to ensure you get the right level of support without paying for services you don’t use.

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Are there any hidden fees?

No—there are never hidden fees. Our pricing is fully transparent, and you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying for. We customize pricing for specialized needs and keep it simple with flat monthly agreements. Plus, every service comes with a cancel-anytime guarantee and money-back assurance, so you can feel confident that you’re only paying for value you receive.

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How does outsourcing compare to hiring an in-house bookkeeper in cost and value?

Outsourcing typically provides more value at a lower cost than hiring in-house. With an in-house bookkeeper, you’re paying salary, benefits, training, and overhead—even during slower periods. By outsourcing, you gain access to a team of professionals, advanced tools, and built-in quality control for a flat monthly fee. This means you get broader expertise, greater accuracy, and scalable support—without the extra costs and management that come with an employee.

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Can you help me understand my numbers and make better financial decisions?

Absolutely. Our role goes beyond bookkeeping — we translate your financial data into clear insights you can actually use. We’ll provide easy-to-read reports, explain what the numbers mean, and highlight trends or red flags. This gives you the confidence to make smarter decisions about cash flow, growth opportunities, and tax planning. Think of us as your financial partner — keeping your books accurate while helping you move your business forward.

 

Do you offer budgeting, forecasting, or cash flow management?

Yes. At SUR Accounting, we go beyond bookkeeping to help you plan ahead. Through our Quarterly Budget Analysis Service, we review your financials, compare actual results to your budget, and provide insights to stay on track. Our Expense Management Service helps identify savings opportunities and optimize spending. Together, these services give you a clear picture of your cash flow so you can forecast with confidence and make smarter financial decisions.​

 

How do you ensure my books are audit-ready?

At SUR Accounting, we follow best practices for accuracy and compliance, so your books are always prepared for review. Every transaction is recorded systematically, reconciliations are performed regularly, and our team applies multi-level checks to catch errors before they happen. By keeping your books organized, consistent, and transparent, we ensure they are ready for audits, tax filings, or any financial review at any time. 

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Do you work with my CPA or tax preparer?

Yes. While our work is not independently reviewed by a CPA, we have a CPA on staff who can answer client questions and provide guidance as needed. Additionally, our Head of Client Success and Strategy, a Certified Tax Planner (CTP), is available to address tax-related questions. We coordinate closely with your CPA or tax preparer to ensure a seamless flow of information, so your financials are accurate, organized, and ready for tax preparation or filing.

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Can you help me stay compliant with IRS/state regulations and deadlines?

Yes. We know our state and federal tax deadlines that arise monthly, quarterly and annually. From estimated tax payments to sales tax pre-payments to quarterly payroll payments, we are able to assist SUR clients to ensure they are compliant, regulatory, and making timely payments to avoid penalty and interest charges by taxing authorities.