Bookkeeper vs accountant - who does what?
Afirmo combines online accounting software with an Afirmo accountant for the returns and services included in the customer's plan.
A traditional accounting firm may provide a customised combination of annual accounts, tax returns, bookkeeping, payroll, management reporting, business advice, restructuring, succession planning and specialist work.
Neither model is automatically better or cheaper for every business.
Compare the complete scope
Ask each provider to confirm:
- the entity types covered;
- the annual income-tax returns included;
- whether personal shareholder, director or partner returns are included;
- the number of GST returns included;
- whether year-end accounts are included;
- whether accounting software is included;
- who keeps the books reconciled;
- payroll scope and employee limits;
- Companies Office work;
- tax-planning and advisory time;
- how complex or one-off work is charged;
- how past returns are charged;
- GST treatment of fees;
- contract length and cancellation terms; and
- who is responsible for supplying complete records.
When Afirmo may suit
Afirmo may suit an owner-operated New Zealand small business that wants predictable plan inclusions, online accounting software and accountant-prepared returns in one service.
When a traditional firm may suit
A traditional firm may suit a business with complex ownership, multiple entities, specialist tax issues, audit or assurance requirements, substantial advisory needs, complex international activity or other work outside Afirmo's standard plans.
Can I use both?
Yes. Afirmo customers can keep an existing accountant. The customer should agree who is responsible for bookkeeping, tax advice, return preparation and filing so work is not duplicated.
Avoid universal savings claims
Do not assume Afirmo will always cost less than half the price of a traditional accountant or produce a fixed annual saving. Traditional firms use different fee structures and service scopes.
A fair price comparison must match the same business structure, return volume, software, bookkeeping, payroll and advisory support.
Frequently asked questions
Is Afirmo always cheaper than a traditional accountant?
No universal saving can be promised. The comparison must cover the same work and service scope.
Can I keep my accountant and still use Afirmo?
Yes. Agree clearly who will keep the records, provide advice, prepare returns and file them.
Which model is best?
There is no universal answer. Match the business's structure, complexity, return requirements, bookkeeping, payroll and advisory needs.