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CFO vs. Accountant vs. QuickBooks Expert: Who Does Your Small Business Really Need?

Apr 10, 2025 7:16:51 PM Kathy Dise QuickBooks, Small Business, Financial Management, Bookkeeping, Profitability, small business bookkeeping, Quickbooks Bookkeepers, Online Bookkeeping Services, Cleveland Bookkeeping, Bookkeeping Companies, QuickBooks Bookkeeping Company, Non-profit Bookkeeping, Non-Profit Accounting, CFO, Accountant or QBO Expert

Decoding Your Financial Dream Team: CFO, Accountant, or QBO Expert?
1:45

CFO, Accountant, QBO Expert

Navigating the world of accounting can be tricky, especially when deciding between a CFO, an accountant, or a QuickBooks Online (QBO) expert. Each brings unique skills to the table, but which one is right for your business? Let's break it down. 

Chief Financial Officer (CFO): A CFO provides strategic financial planning and helps manage risks and fundraising. 

Accountant: An accountant ensures tax compliance, maintains financial records, and assists with budgeting. 

QuickBooks Online (QBO) Expert: A QBO expert optimizes QuickBooks setup, generates financial reports, and streamlines accounting processes. 

 

Skill

CFO 

Accountant 

QBO Expert

Understand QBO

 

 

X

Provide Clean Financial Information 

 

 

X 

Help you with strategy (when to hire, how to reach your goals 

X 

 

 

Tax planning a prep 

 

X 

 

Help you arrange financing 

X 

 

 

Budgeting 

X 

 

X 

Cash forecasting 

X 

 

X 

Compliance 

X 

X 

 

Generate efficient processes

X 

 

X 

Business Structure 

X 

 

 

 Weigh Costs vs. Benefits 

As a business owner, it's crucial to weigh the costs versus benefits of each option. Consider the cost-effectiveness of hiring a CFO, accountant, or QBO expert. Check out this blog for more on that topic.

Assess Your Needs 

Think about your current needs and future goals. You may need one, or all three, depending on your business direction. Evaluate what is most crucial for your business at the moment. 

Conclusion 

In summary, if you need strategic guidance and financial planning, a CFO is your go-to. For tax planning and compliance, an accountant is essential. And for mastering QuickBooks Online, a QBO expert is invaluable. 

Need help deciding? Contact us today and let us guide you to the right choice for your business. Your financial success is just a call away!

Kathy Dise

Written by Kathy Dise

Kathy has over 30 years experience helping small businesses succeed. As a commercial lender, commercialization expert and now as a QuickBooks diamond level advisor, Kathy understands the challenges small business owners face. Her experience helps business owners quickly accomplish their financial goals. As the owner of BudgetEase, Kathy works with clients to develop a plan to efficiently process 1,000s of small transactions so owners can make informed decisions. She lives in Shaker Heights, OH with her husband Ralph and enjoys golf, curling and walking in Cleveland’s fabulous Metro Parks.