31 Best Online Bookkeeping Jobs to Earn $50K+ a Year

Hey there, fellow number-crunchers and aspiring remote workers! 👋 As someone who’s been in your shoes, constantly refreshing job boards and dreaming of a flexible career, I totally get it. The struggle is real, but so is the opportunity!

We’re living in a digital age where working from home isn’t just a perk – it’s becoming the norm. And if you’ve got a knack for numbers and a love for organization, online bookkeeping might just be your thing for work-life balance.

But where do you start? How do you find legitimate opportunities that won’t leave you feeling like you’re chasing unicorns?

That’s exactly why I’ve put together this guide on the best online bookkeeping jobs that can help you earn a cool $50K or more per year.

I know what you’re thinking: “But isn’t the market saturated? Can I really make a living doing this?” Trust me, every beginner had those same doubts. But here’s the thing: businesses of all sizes need reliable bookkeepers, and many are turning to remote solutions. That’s where you come in!

Ready to explore the exciting possibilities that await you in the world of online bookkeeping? Let’s dive in!

What is Online Bookkeeping?

First, online bookkeeping is nothing fancy, it is essentially the digital version of traditional bookkeeping. It involves managing a company’s financial records, tracking income and expenses, and ensuring everything adds up – all through the power of the internet.

The main difference? You can do it from anywhere with a reliable internet connection. No more stuffy offices or long commutes (you were essentialy working on a desktop in the office all day long)!

But how does it work in practice? Well, you will be armed with a computer and cloud-based accounting software like QuickBooks Online or Xero. These nifty tools allow you to access financial data in real-time, collaborate with clients seamlessly, and even automate some of the more tedious tasks.

It’s like having a virtual assistant for all your number-crunching needs!

Daily Responsibilities of a Bookkeeper

Now, you might be wondering, “What exactly would I be doing all day as an online bookkeeper?” Great question! Let’s break it down in general (tasks in specialized roles will be more focused):

1. Recording sales: You’ll be the keeper of the money trail, ensuring every dollar that comes in is accounted for.
2. Reconciling expenses: Like a financial detective, you’ll match up bank statements with expense reports.
3. Managing payroll: You’ll make sure everyone gets paid on time (and correctly) – making you the office hero!
4. Generating financial reports: You’ll create the documents that help businesses understand their financial health.
5. Accounts payable and receivable: Keeping track of who owes what and to whom.

When starting out as an online bookkeeper, it might feel overwhelming. But once you get into a rhythm, it becomes second nature. Before you know it, you’re whipping up financial statements like a Michelin-star chef of numbers!

One day in the life of a virtual bookkeeper might look something like this: You start your morning by checking emails and addressing any urgent client requests. Then, you might spend a couple of hours reconciling transactions for one client, take a break for lunch, and dedicate your afternoon to preparing monthly financial reports for another. The beauty of it? You can structure your day to fit your lifestyle and energy levels.

In essence online bookkeeping is about helping businesses thrive by keeping their finances in order.

Earning Potential in Online Bookkeeping

Alright, let’s talk about what you’re really here for – the moolah! 💰 After all, we’re not in this just for the love of spreadsheets (though that’s a nice bonus). So, how much can you actually earn as an online bookkeeper?

Entry-Level vs. Experienced

Just like in any profession, your earning potential as an online bookkeeper largely depends on your experience. Think of it as a financial video game – the more levels you clear, the higher your score (or in this case, your paycheck)!

Entry-Level Bookkeepers: If you’re just starting out, don’t worry – everyone begins somewhere! As a newbie, you can expect to earn around $18-$23 per hour. That might not sound like much, but remember, you’re saving on commute costs and work attire. Plus, you can work in your pajamas – priceless!

Experienced Bookkeepers: Now, here’s where things get exciting. With a few years under your belt and some solid skills, you could be looking at $30-$40 per hour. And if you become a bookkeeping guru? Sky’s the limit! Some top-tier bookkeepers charge $60-$100 per hour. Not too shabby for working from your couch, right?

Let’s crunch some numbers (we are talking about bookkeeping after all):

1. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for bookkeepers was $47,440  in 2023.
2. However, according to ZipRecruiter reports As of Aug 21, 2024, the average hourly pay for a Work From Home Bookkeeper in the United States is $24.31 an hour.
3. While ZipRecruiter is seeing hourly wages as high as $35.58 and as low as $12.98.

But wait, these are averages. Many online bookkeepers who run their own businesses or specialize in certain industries can earn significantly more.

The Secret Sauce: Specialization and Efficiency

Here’s a pro tip: Specializing in a niche industry or becoming an expert in specific software can boost your earning potential. For instance, a bookkeeper specializing in e-commerce businesses using Shopify might command higher rates than a general bookkeeper.

Also, as you become more efficient, you can take on more clients or projects, increasing your overall income. It’s like being a juggler – the more balls you can keep in the air, the more impressive (and lucrative) your act becomes!

These figures are good for estimates but at the end of day, your actual earnings will depend on factors like your skills, experience, location, and how you market yourself. The beauty of online bookkeeping is that you have a lot of control over your earning potential.

Best Online Bookkeeping Jobs

Let’s look at different opportunities available in online bookkeeping jobs. There’s something here for everyone, whether you’re a bookkeeping newbie or a seasoned pro.

Let’s explore the top 11 online bookkeeping jobs that could be your ticket to earning $50K+ a year!

1. Virtual Bookkeeper

Average Salary Range: $35,000 – $60,000

Key Responsibilities: Managing financial records, reconciling accounts, preparing financial statements

Required Skills: Proficiency in accounting software, attention to detail, strong organizational skills

Best Platforms: FlexJobs, Indeed, LinkedIn

As a virtual bookkeeper, you’re like the Swiss Army knife of the financial world – versatile and indispensable. You’ll be the go-to person for all things numbers, working with various clients from the comfort of your home office

2. Accounts Payable Specialist

Average Salary Range: $40,000 – $55,000

Key Responsibilities: Processing invoices, managing vendor relationships, ensuring timely payments

Required Skills: Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, familiarity with AP software

Best Platforms: Upwork, AccountingFly, Robert Half

As an AP specialist, you’ll be tracking down missing invoices and solving payment puzzles faster than Sherlock Holmes!

3. Accounts Receivable Clerk

Average Salary Range: $38,000 – $52,000

Key Responsibilities: Invoicing customers, tracking payments, following up on overdue accounts

Required Skills: Customer service orientation, attention to detail, basic accounting knowledge

Best Platforms: ZipRecruiter, Accountemps, Indeed

Think of this role as being a friendly (but firm) financial reminder. You’ll be the master of the gentle nudge, ensuring that money flows into the business smoothly.

4. Payroll Specialist

Average Salary Range: $45,000 – $65,000

Key Responsibilities: Processing payroll, managing employee benefits, ensuring tax compliance

Required Skills: Knowledge of payroll laws, proficiency in payroll software, strong math skills

Best Platforms: SimplyHired, Glassdoor, Paychex

As a payroll specialist, you’ll be everyone’s favorite person on payday! Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility (and a lot of spreadsheets).

5. QuickBooks ProAdvisor

Average Salary Range: $50,000 – $80,000

Key Responsibilities: Providing QuickBooks consulting, training clients, troubleshooting software issues

Required Skills: QuickBooks certification, teaching ability, problem-solving skills

Best Platforms: Intuit ProAdvisor website, LinkedIn, Freelancer.com

Becoming a QuickBooks ProAdvisor is like getting a black belt in bookkeeping. You’ll be the sensei of financial software, guiding others through the mystical world of QuickBooks.

6. Xero Certified Advisor

Average Salary Range: $45,000 – $75,000

Key Responsibilities: Implementing Xero for clients, providing training, offering ongoing support

Required Skills: Xero certification, cloud accounting expertise, excellent communication

Best Platforms: Xero Advisor Directory, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour

Similar to the QuickBooks ProAdvisor, but for the cool kids who prefer cloud-based solutions. You’ll be riding the wave of the future in accounting tech!

7. Forensic Bookkeeper

Average Salary Range: $60,000 – $100,000

Key Responsibilities: Investigating financial discrepancies, preparing reports for legal proceedings

Required Skills: Advanced accounting knowledge, investigative mindset, attention to detail

Best Platforms: AccountingFly, eFinancialCareers, Accounting.com

If you’ve always wanted to be a detective but also love numbers, this is your dream job. You’ll be the Sherlock Holmes of the financial world, solving monetary mysteries left and right!

8. Non-Profit Bookkeeper

Average Salary Range: $40,000 – $60,000

Key Responsibilities: Managing donations, grant accounting, preparing financial reports for stakeholders

Required Skills: Knowledge of non-profit accounting, grant management experience, passion for social causes

Best Platforms: Idealist, NonProfitJobs, CharityVillage

Want to make a difference while crunching numbers? As a non-profit bookkeeper, you’ll be the financial superhero for organizations changing the world!

9. E-commerce Bookkeeper

Average Salary Range: $45,000 – $70,000

Key Responsibilities: Managing online sales data, reconciling payment processor accounts, inventory tracking

Required Skills: Familiarity with e-commerce platforms, inventory management knowledge, tech-savviness

Best Platforms: Upwork, Freelancer.com, Shopify Experts

In the fast-paced world of online retail, you’ll be the steady hand keeping everything balanced. It’s like being an air traffic controller, but for money instead of planes!

10. Real Estate Bookkeeper

Average Salary Range: $40,000 – $65,000

Key Responsibilities: Managing property-related expenses, tenant payments, preparing financial reports for property owners

Required Skills: Understanding of real estate accounting, property management software proficiency

Best Platforms: RealEstateJobs.com, SelectLeaders, LinkedIn

As a real estate bookkeeper, you’ll be the financial foundation of the property world.

11. Cryptocurrency Bookkeeper

Average Salary Range: $50,000 – $90,000

Key Responsibilities: Tracking crypto transactions, managing wallets, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations

Required Skills: Understanding of blockchain technology, familiarity with crypto tax laws, adaptability

Best Platforms: Crypto.jobs, AngelList, Reddit crypto job boards

Welcome to the wild west of bookkeeping! If you love staying on the cutting edge and don’t mind a bit of financial rollercoaster, this emerging field could be perfect for you.

That’s quite a list, isn’t it? As you gain experience and specialize, your earning potential can skyrocket. The key is to find the niche that excites you – after all, when you love what you do, it hardly feels like work (even when you’re knee-deep in spreadsheets at 2 AM).

Now that we’ve explored these exciting opportunities, you might be wondering, “How do I land one of these awesome jobs?” Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In the next section, we’ll look into the places to find the best online bookkeeping jobs.

Resources for Finding Online Bookkeeping Jobs

Let’s explore the best websites and job boards that’ll help you land your dream bookkeeping gig!

Specialized Bookkeeping Websites

First the crème de la crème websites specifically designed for accounting and bookkeeping professionals:

1. Bookkeepers.com Bookkeepers.com offers both job opportunities and educational resources. It’s great for beginners and experienced bookkeepers alike, providing courses on starting your own bookkeeping business. This platform is particularly valuable for those looking to enhance their skills while seeking new opportunities.
2. AccountingFly AccountingFly is a specialized job board for accounting and finance professionals. It’s not just a job listing site but a community where you can showcase skills, connect with employers, and get career advice. They offer both remote and on-site positions and provide resources like salary guides and industry news to keep you informed.
3. BIDaWIZ BIDaWIZ is a unique question-and-answer platform connecting clients with financial experts, including bookkeepers. It provides an opportunity to showcase your expertise and potentially find clients. This platform allows you to build your reputation by answering financial questions, which can lead to long-term client relationships.
4. Supporting Strategies Supporting Strategies offers outsourced bookkeeping and operational support services. They hire experienced bookkeepers to work with their clients, providing a steady stream of work. This platform is ideal for those seeking consistent work with a variety of clients without the need to constantly seek new opportunities.
5. Accountemps A Robert Half company, Accountemps specializes in temporary staffing for accounting and finance professionals. They offer a wide range of opportunities from entry-level to executive positions. The temporary nature of many roles makes it excellent for building diverse experience or exploring different industries. It’s particularly beneficial for those seeking to gain experience quickly or preferring the variety of temporary assignments.
6. CPACharge While primarily a payment processing platform for accounting professionals, CPACharge occasionally posts job opportunities for bookkeepers and accountants. The jobs posted here are often from firms already using modern financial technology, providing an opportunity to work with forward-thinking companies embracing digital solutions in the accounting world.
7. Belay Belay provides virtual assistants, bookkeepers, and web specialists to businesses. They hire W2 employees rather than contractors, offering the potential for benefits. This platform is ideal for those seeking more stability in their remote work, with the added advantage of employee benefits.
8. BookMinders BookMinders provides outsourced bookkeeping and financial reporting services. They hire both part-time and full-time bookkeepers, but are limited to certain geographic areas. This platform could be ideal for those seeking local opportunities with flexible work arrangements.
9. KPMG Spark KPMG Spark, the small business arm of the Big Four accounting firm KPMG, frequently hires remote bookkeepers for their cloud-based services. Working here offers valuable experience with a prestigious firm and exposure to diverse client types. The opportunity to associate with a Big Four firm can significantly boost your resume and open doors to future career advancements in the accounting world.
10. CPAMoms Designed for parents who are CPAs or bookkeepers, CPAMoms offers flexible work arrangements. It’s great for those balancing career and family, providing opportunities that accommodate the unique needs of working parents in the accounting field.
11. Paro Network Paro is a network of elite freelance finance professionals. They have a rigorous vetting process, accepting only the top 2% of applicants. This platform is ideal for experienced bookkeepers seeking high-quality clients and premium rates for their services.
12. ClickAccounts ClickAccounts is an outsourcing company providing bookkeeping and accounting services. They occasionally hire remote bookkeepers, offering the opportunity to work with a variety of clients. This platform could be suitable for those seeking diverse experience in different industries.
13. AccountingDepartment.com AccountingDepartment.com offers full-service virtual accounting and bookkeeping to businesses. They hire remote bookkeepers for full-time positions with benefits, providing steady, long-term work opportunities. This is ideal for those seeking the stability of full-time employment with the flexibility of remote work.

General Job Boards

14. Indeed Indeed is one of the largest job boards globally, offering a wide variety of bookkeeping jobs, both remote and on-site. Use specific keywords like “remote bookkeeper” for best results. The sheer volume of listings makes Indeed a must-check resource in your job search.
15. FlexJobs FlexJobs is dedicated to remote, flexible, and part-time work opportunities. They have a specific category for bookkeeping jobs and screen all listings to ensure legitimacy. While it requires a subscription, the quality of listings often justifies the cost.
16. LinkedIn LinkedIn is a professional networking site with a robust job board. It allows easy application with your profile and is great for networking and finding industry connections. Your professional network can often lead to job opportunities not advertised elsewhere.
17. Glassdoor Glassdoor offers job listings along with company reviews and salary information. It’s useful for researching potential employers and provides insights into company culture and interview processes. This additional information can be invaluable in your job search and interview preparation.
18. Remote.co Remote.co is dedicated to remote work opportunities across various fields, including a section specifically for bookkeeping and accounting jobs. They also provide resources and articles about remote work, helping you navigate the world of virtual employment.
19. ZipRecruiter ZipRecruiter uses AI to match you with relevant job postings and sends your profile to employers with open positions. It’s good for both active and passive job seekers, potentially connecting you with opportunities you might not have found on your own.
20. SimplyHired SimplyHired is a general job board with a user-friendly interface. It aggregates job listings from various sources and offers salary estimations for positions. This can be helpful in understanding the market rate for your skills and experience.
21. Craigslist While it requires caution and thorough vetting of opportunities, Craigslist can be a good source for local bookkeeping jobs. It’s best for finding small business or individual clients, potentially leading to long-term relationships.
22. Dice Dice is a job board focused on technology roles. For bookkeepers with strong tech skills or those interested in working for software companies, Dice can be a valuable resource.
23. eFinancialCareers This site specializes in finance jobs across various industries. It’s a great place to find bookkeeping positions in sectors like banking, asset management, and fintech.
24. Remote.co As the name suggests, Remote.co is all about remote work opportunities. They have a dedicated section for accounting and finance jobs, making it easy to find relevant listings.
25. Idealist Idealist focuses on jobs in the non-profit sector. If you’re interested in using your bookkeeping skills for social good, this is an excellent place to look for opportunities.
26. AngelList AngelList specializes in startup jobs. If you’re interested in working with innovative, fast-paced companies, this platform can connect you with exciting bookkeeping opportunities in the startup world.

Freelance Platforms

27. Upwork Upwork is a popular freelancing platform for various professionals, offering both short-term and long-term bookkeeping gigs. It requires creating a profile and bidding on jobs. While competition can be fierce, it’s possible to build a strong client base through positive reviews and completed projects.
28. Fiverr Fiverr allows you to offer specific, packaged bookkeeping services. It’s good for beginners to build a portfolio and emphasizes clear, defined offerings. Success on Fiverr often comes from creating unique, niche services that stand out from the crowd.
29. People Per Hour This UK-based freelancing platform is gaining global popularity. It offers various bookkeeping projects, from one-off tasks to ongoing work. The platform allows you to showcase your skills and past work, helping you attract clients that match your expertise.
30. Guru Guru is a freelancing platform with a variety of bookkeeping opportunities. It allows you to showcase skills and past work to attract clients and offers various payment protection options. This platform can be particularly good for those looking to build long-term relationships with clients.
31. We Work Remotely We Work Remotely is another platform focused on remote jobs across various industries. They have a specific category for finance and legal jobs, which often includes bookkeeping positions.

By exploring these diverse platforms, you’ll have access to a wide range of bookkeeping opportunities. Remember to tailor your approach for each site to maximize your chances of success!

Tips for Effectively Using These Platforms

Now that you know where to look, here are some tips to maximize your job hunting success:

1. Tailor your profile/resume for each platform: Highlight different skills depending on the site’s focus.
2. Set up job alerts: Don’t waste time checking sites manually. Let the jobs come to you!
3. Be one of the first to apply: According to a study by TalentWorks, applying within the first 96 hours increases your chances of getting an interview by up to 8x!
4. Use specific keywords: Instead of just “bookkeeper,” try “QuickBooks expert” or “e-commerce bookkeeper” to find more targeted roles.
5. Showcase your remote work skills: Highlight your ability to work independently and your proficiency with online collaboration tools.
6. Don’t ignore the “About Us” pages: Sometimes companies advertise openings on their own websites before posting to job boards.

Finding the perfect online bookkeeping job is a bit like finding the right key for a lock – it might take a few tries, but when you find the right fit, everything clicks into place!

Top Tips to Find Virtual Bookkeeping Jobs

Here are some game-changing tips that’ll help you land those coveted virtual bookkeeping gigs and sharpen the skills you need to succeed.

Network Like a Pro

Remember that time you struck up a conversation with a stranger at a coffee shop and ended up with a job lead? Well, networking in the virtual world isn’t much different! Join online accounting communities, participate in webinars, and don’t be shy about reaching out to fellow bookkeepers. You never know, your next big client might be just a DM away!

Find Your Niche and Own It

Ever heard the saying “jack of all trades, master of none”? Well, in the virtual bookkeeping world, it pays to be a master of one! Maybe you’re a whiz with e-commerce businesses or have a knack for handling nonprofit finances. Whatever it is, find your specialty and flaunt it. Trust me, clients love a bookkeeper who speaks their language!

Become a Social Media Savant

If you’re not on LinkedIn, do you even exist? (Just kidding… sort of.) But seriously, a strong social media presence can work wonders. Share your expertise, post about your services, and don’t forget to engage with others. It’s like a virtual networking event, minus the awkward small talk! So, time to dust off those Twitter and Reddit accounts! Engaging on social platforms isn’t just for influencers anymore. Share your bookkeeping wisdom, answer questions, and showcase your personality. Who knows? Your witty response to a bookkeeping meme might just land you your next client!

Build an Email List (Yes, Really!)

I know, I know, email lists sound so 2005. But hear me out! Creating an email list is like having a direct line to potential clients. Share tips, industry updates, and maybe throw in a dad joke or two. It’s all about staying top-of-mind when someone needs a bookkeeper.

Essential Skills for Bookkeepers

Now, let’s talk about the skills that’ll make you successful in virtual bookkeeping:

1. Organization: If your idea of organization is a pile of receipts labeled “important stuff,” we might need to work on this one. 😉
2. Communication: You need to explain debits and credits without putting people to sleep. It’s an art!
3. Attention to Detail: Because no one ever said, “Oh, that decimal point wasn’t important.”
4. Tech Savviness: Embrace the cloud, my friend. It’s where all the cool bookkeepers hang out.
5. Time Management: Juggling multiple clients? You’ll need to be a master of time (and maybe coffee).

Want to level up these skills? Check out courses on platforms like Coursera or edX. And don’t forget about certifications – they’re like gold stars for grown-ups!

Don’t be overwhelmed by all this stuff. Keep in mind that Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a thriving virtual bookkeeping career. But with these tips and skills in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to becoming the virtual bookkeeper everyone wants to hire.

Final Thoughts

To end this article, I just want say, every financial expert started exactly where you are now. They all had that moment of “Can I really do this?” Even the most successful bookkeepers had to reconcile their first account, send their first invoice, and yes, make their first mistake (don’t worry, it’s all part of the learning process).

Whether you’re feeling inspired to update your LinkedIn profile or ready to dive into a QuickBooks course, the important thing is to take that first step.

Why not start by exploring some of the job boards we mentioned or enrolling in a bookkeeping course?

The world of virtual bookkeeping is waiting for you. All you need to do is take that first step. So, what are you waiting for? Your spreadsheets are calling! 📊✨

P.S. If you found this article helpful, why not share it with a friend who’s been talking about starting a new career? Who knows, you might just inspire them for a new career!