Accounting system setup
Accounting system setup for new, acquired and growing businesses
Just bought a business, or outgrown the systems you started with? We evaluate what you have, set up accounting that fits how you run the business, and train your team to use it.
- Included in onboarding for monthly clients
- Most small businesses within 4 weeks
- Within 4 weekstypical for a small business
- Up to 12 monthsfor large operations
- Includedin onboarding for monthly clients
- Nationwideremote team, clients across the US
When it’s time
Is your tech stack holding you back?
The right systems give you the speed, agility and visibility to grow revenue, reduce operating costs, improve inventory control and increase profitability.
- After an acquisition
You just bought a business
Accounting set up for the business you just bought, so you run it on clean numbers from day one.
Transaction advisory - Growing
You’ve outgrown your systems
When your system starts limiting growth, it’s time to look at a change or add the right tool.
- Starting fresh
You have a new entity
Set up the books right the first time, with a chart of accounts built for how you’ll report.
What we set up
Accounting, finance and operations, working together
We believe accounting, finance and operational systems should be tightly integrated, so we take a holistic approach to choosing and setting them up.
Evaluation
A review of your current processes and technology to find pain points.
Fit-gap analysis
Your requirements compared with what your system can do.
QuickBooks Online setup
Configured for your business, or a different tool if you’ve outgrown it.
Gusto payroll connection
If you add payroll, Gusto connected to your books from the start.
Chart of accounts cleanup
A clean structure that supports the reports you need.
Team training
Training during and after implementation for a smooth transition.
Process
How we implement your accounting system
- 1
Evaluation
We discuss your current accounting practices and technology, find pain points and learn your goals.
- 2
Scope and price in writing
You get the scope and a quote before we start. Setup is included in onboarding for monthly clients.
- 3
Implementation and training
We configure the new system for your needs and train your team during and after the switch.
- 4
Customization
We get more out of the tools you already have, so the system keeps performing as you grow.
Why Midwest CPA
Accountants and advisors first, not an IT firm
Unlike IT firms, we come at it as accountants and business advisors, so your system meets the technical requirements and supports how you run the business.
Monthly clients
Included in onboarding
Setup is part of onboarding: reviewing your books, connecting QuickBooks Online (and Gusto, if you add payroll), and cleaning up your chart of accounts.
Standalone setup
Quoted by scope
Setting up or moving systems without monthly accounting? We scope the work and quote it in writing.
After the setup
Books kept on the new system
The team that set up your system can keep the books and prepare your returns, and run payroll if you add it.
Related services
Works best alongside
Monthly books
Outsourced bookkeeping and accounting
Books reconciled and closed every month, with reports you can read and act on.
Add-on for monthly clients
Payroll services
Payroll through Gusto and payroll tax filings, with a dedicated payroll specialist. Available to monthly accounting clients.
Launch package or quoted by scope
Fractional CFO
Cash forecasting, budgets and decision support without a full-time CFO.
$800–$6,000 a month
Accounting and tax packages
Compare Starter, Accelerate and Launch, and see what’s in every package.
FAQ
Accounting system setup: frequently asked questions
When is the right time to change accounting systems?
As soon as your accounting system starts limiting your growth, it may be time for a change. It’s also a good idea to check your current systems against your needs at least every 5 to 10 years.
Is QuickBooks Online the best solution?
For many small businesses, yes. QuickBooks Online makes it easy to give users the access they need, build customized reporting, and connect to many other cloud-based tools. But some businesses outgrow it or need to add another tool for their specific needs.
What is a fit-gap analysis?
A fit-gap analysis identifies what your business needs, evaluates what your current system can do, and compares the two to find the gaps. It shows whether the gaps can be closed by customizing what you have or whether you need a new solution.
How long does it take to set up a new accounting system?
It depends on the size and complexity of the business. Most small businesses can implement new systems within 4 weeks, while large operations can take up to 12 months to fully transform their processes.
How much does accounting system setup cost?
For monthly accounting clients, setup is included in onboarding, which is a one-time fee of 1–2 times your monthly rate. Standalone setups are quoted by scope, in writing, before we start. See pricing.
Do you set up payroll too?
Yes, for monthly accounting clients who add payroll. We connect Gusto to QuickBooks Online during onboarding. Payroll is an optional add-on, available only with monthly accounting. Payroll services.