Bookkeeping
What does a bookkeeper do, and how is that different from an accountant?
What a bookkeeper takes care of for you, when you need an accountant and how to choose what suits you.
· 4 min read · By the Boekhoudvriend team
A bookkeeper processes your records, takes care of your VAT (btw) returns and prepares your annual accounts and tax returns. An accountant (AA or RA) may also issue an audit opinion, which is mainly needed for larger companies or when a bank or grant provider asks for one.
What a bookkeeper does for you
- Processing invoices, receipts and bank transactions
- Filing VAT returns and, where applicable, the EC sales list (opgaaf ICP)
- Preparing the annual accounts and filing them where required
- Taking care of your income tax or corporate income tax return
- Thinking along about deductions, investments and your structure
When do you need an accountant?
Medium-sized and large companies are legally required to have their annual accounts audited. For most freelancers, general partnerships (VOFs) and small BVs that is not necessary, and compiled annual accounts are sufficient. If a bank asks for an opinion, we look together at what is needed.
Is bookkeeper a protected title?
No, anyone can call themselves a bookkeeper. So pay attention to experience, specialisation and how the firm works. At Boekhoudvriend you work with a dedicated team of bookkeepers and tax advisers, with smart automation for the routine work.
Common questions about choosing an accountant
Terms in this article