How much an accountant costs depends on what you need. As a rough guide, expect $20–$60 an hour for a bookkeeper, $150–$400 an hour for a CPA, and $500–$1,200 a month for ongoing bookkeeping through a firm. A straightforward annual tax return runs a few hundred dollars, while fractional CFO support can reach $5,000–$10,000 a month.
Below, we break down what accountants charge by service and by business stage, and how to get the support you need without overpaying.
Accountant cost at a glance
Here's what small businesses typically pay for common accounting services in 2026:
Service | Typical 2026 cost |
|---|---|
Freelance bookkeeper | $20–$60 per hour (about $43 on average) |
Monthly bookkeeping (firm or service) | $500–$1,200 per month |
Personal tax return (Form 1040) | $185–$280, plus about $123 for a Schedule C |
Business tax return | $350–$850 (about $634 average) |
CPA hourly rate | $150–$400 per hour ($200–$500 for tax or audit work) |
Tax planning and strategy | $500–$5,000 per year |
Payroll service (e.g. Gusto) | From $49 per month + $6 per employee |
Fractional CFO | $3,000–$12,000 per month |
In-house accountant (salary) | ~$81,680 per year (median) |
How much does an accountant cost in 2026?
Accountant pricing isn't one-size-fits-all; it depends on a few key factors like location, service type, and experience. Whether you're after monthly bookkeeping, annual tax filing, or high-level financial strategy, here's what will influence the cost of an accountant in 2026:
Location: An accountant based in New York City will naturally cost more than one based in a rural town. Some accountants also offer services remotely, which can have an impact on cost.
Type of service: For example, full-time financial management for a growing business will cost more than hiring someone once a year to file your small business taxes.
Experience level: A seasoned certified public accountant (CPA) generally charges more than a bookkeeper or junior accountant.
One thing that has shifted the market lately: accountants are getting harder to find. The number of people sitting for the CPA exam has fallen about 27% over the past decade (AICPA and NASBA), and more than 90% of finance and accounting leaders report difficulty hiring (Robert Half, 2025). That shortage has put upward pressure on fees, so scoping your needs tightly—and booking early in tax season—matters more than it used to.
Tip: The best way to evaluate accounting costs for your unique needs is to ask potential accountants directly. Check out Relay's accountant and bookkeeper directory to contact multiple accountants and ask the experts questions about your specific situation.
How much does an accountant cost per month?
If you want ongoing support rather than a one-time service, most small businesses pay somewhere between $500 and $1,200 per month for regular bookkeeping through a firm or service. Layering on tax and advisory work raises that: expect roughly $500–$5,000 per year for tax planning on top, and $49+ per month for payroll if you have employees. Businesses that need high-level financial strategy hire a fractional CFO, which runs $3,000–$12,000 per month—most engagements land between $5,000 and $10,000.
A freelance bookkeeper billing hourly ($20–$60) can come in well under a monthly retainer if your transaction volume is low, so match the arrangement to how much activity you actually have.
Types of accounting services and their costs
The cost of hiring an accountant depends on the services you need—and those needs often change as your business grows. Here's a look at the most common accounting tasks businesses need help with at different stages, and how much they may cost.
Note: We always recommend seeking a financial professional's advice when managing your business's money. Relay is here to provide recommendations and general guidelines only. If you need help finding an accountant for your business, check out our guide here.
For businesses just getting started
If you only recently started your business or you're not bringing in much revenue yet, you can likely keep your accounting costs low. Here are a couple of accounting services you may need in the early days of business:
Bookkeeping: If you hire an accountant, they might provide bookkeeping services like recording transactions, reconciling accounts, and preparing simple financial reports. If not, you can also hire a bookkeeper to focus on these tasks. Generally speaking, a freelance bookkeeper costs about $20–$60 per hour (roughly $43 on average, per Upwork data compiled by NerdWallet), while ongoing bookkeeping through a firm or service typically runs $500–$1,200 per month.
Basic tax preparation and filing: For startups, taxes are an essential but relatively straightforward task. According to the 2025 NATP Fee Study, preparers charge about $280 for a personal return (Form 1040) from a CPA—closer to $185–$228 from an enrolled agent or non-credentialed preparer—plus roughly $123 for a Schedule C if you're self-employed. Business returns start higher: about half of firms charge $350–$850, averaging around $634.
It's also worth mentioning that many small business owners use accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero to manage their finances. These platforms are budget-friendly, with subscription fees ranging from about $20 to $115 per month for most small-business plans (Intuit raised QuickBooks Online prices in mid-2025; Xero runs $25–$90 per month), depending on the features you need.
For growing businesses
As your business grows, your financial situation becomes more complex, and the need for accounting support increases. Here are some accounting services you may need and the general costs associated:
Financial statement preparation and analysis: An accountant can prepare and analyze your financial statements on a one-time or ongoing basis. The cost largely depends on the size and complexity of your business, but it's worth the investment—this service will help you stay on top of cash flow, identify financial trends, and make strategic decisions.
Payroll services: When you start hiring employees, managing payroll becomes an important responsibility. You can either hire an accountant to help (with costs varying largely across accountants) or use payroll services like Gusto or ADP. Gusto starts at $49 per month plus $6 per employee; ADP is quote-only. Higher-tier plans with benefits and HR support run $80–$180 per month plus a per-employee fee.
Tax planning and strategy: As your business grows, ongoing tax planning becomes more important to maximize your tax savings and ensure that you remain compliant with tax laws. This service generally costs between $500 to $5,000 per year, depending on the complexity of your tax situation.
For established businesses with more complex needs
Larger businesses or those with more complex financial structures may require full-service accounting. Here's what you need to know about these potential accounting costs:
Full-service accounting and CFO services: Hiring a fractional Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or a full-service accounting firm for strategic financial planning generally costs $3,000 to $12,000 per month, with most engagements landing between $5,000 and $10,000 (per Pilot's 2025 pricing guide). This is ideal for businesses that need long-term projections, growth strategies, and high-level financial advice.
In-house accounting hire: At a certain point, it might make sense for your business to hire an accountant full-time. The median salary for accountants and auditors is $81,680 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), though small-business and entry-level roles often run closer to $68,000—and pay varies widely by location and experience.
Audit preparation and support: If your business is audited by the IRS, you'll need the expertise of a CPA or another tax professional. The cost will depend, again, on that individual's location and experience—and the complexity of your financial records—but you can expect hourly rates of $200 to $500, reaching as high as $800 for the most experienced tax accountants.
Is it worth it to pay for accounting for a small business?
Many small business owners wonder if hiring an accountant is worth the investment. The answer is usually yes. Accounting services offer value far beyond just balancing your books, often helping you save both time and money in the long run.
Here are a few benefits of paying for small business accounting services:
Saves time: Trying to handle your own bookkeeping can take up valuable time that could be spent doing other tasks to grow your business. By outsourcing to a professional accountant, you'll free up time to focus on what you do best—running your business.
Reduces errors: Financial mistakes can be costly. Professional accountants are trained to spot potential issues before they become serious problems. They can also help ensure that you comply with tax laws, so you don't face any surprises come tax season.
Strategic insights: An experienced accountant, especially a CPA, can provide valuable financial advice and insights into your business's cash flow, helping you make better business decisions. This guidance can be crucial for long-term growth.
Facilitates growth: As your business grows, financial management becomes more complex. An accountant can help you scale your financial operations, making sure that your accounting methods evolve with your business and stay compliant with important tax regulations in your industry.
Improves cash flow management: Many small business owners struggle with managing their cash flow effectively, which can lead to unexpected complications with finances. Accountants help you keep track of your finances and better plan for upcoming expenses, giving you peace of mind.
However, it's important to avoid overpaying for services you don't actually need. If you're in the early stages of running your business, you might only need basic bookkeeping services or tax preparation, rather than a full-service accounting package. Aligning your accounting fees to your business needs is the best way to get the right support without overspending.
Ready to find an accountant for your business? Check out Relay's accountant and bookkeeper directory to contact qualified accountants near you.
How to choose the right accounting service for your budget
Choosing the right accounting services doesn't need to be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice for your business needs:
Start small: If your business is new, you may only need basic bookkeeping services and accounting software. As your business grows, you can always add more complex services.
Consider outsourcing: Subcontracting a bookkeeper for day-to-day tasks while using a CPA for specialized services like tax returns and financial strategy can effectively balance cost and value.
Look for free consultations: Many accountants offer a free consultation, giving you a chance to discuss their services, fee structure, and certifications before making a decision.
Ready to add an accountant to your 2026 budget?
The bottom line is that accounting is a smart investment for small business owners looking to grow their business, maintain compliance, and more effectively manage their finances.
While the average cost of an accountant in 2026 can vary based on factors like location and specialization, it's important to choose an option that aligns with your business needs. Whether you choose a professional accountant or CPA, or choose to rely on accounting software for day-to-day management, the right financial support can make a big difference in your success.
To find an accountant today and start reaching your financial goals, check out Relay's accountant and bookkeeper directory.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an accountant cost per hour?
A freelance bookkeeper typically charges $20–$60 per hour, while a CPA charges $150–$400 per hour for general work and $200–$500 per hour for tax or audit work. The most experienced tax accountants can bill up to $800 per hour.
How much does an accountant cost per year for a small business?
It ranges widely by need. A newer business using accounting software plus an annual tax return might spend a few hundred to about $1,500 a year. Ongoing bookkeeping and tax support commonly runs $6,000–$15,000 a year, and full-service or fractional-CFO support can exceed $60,000 a year.
Is a CPA more expensive than a bookkeeper?
Yes. A bookkeeper generally charges $20–$60 per hour for recording and reconciling transactions, while a CPA charges $150–$400 per hour for higher-level tax, audit, and advisory work. Many small businesses use a bookkeeper for day-to-day tasks and a CPA for specialized work to balance cost and expertise.
Can I do my own small business accounting?
You can, especially early on. Accounting software costs about $20–$115 per month and handles bookkeeping, invoicing, and basic reports. As your finances get more complex—payroll, multi-state taxes, growth planning—a professional usually pays for itself in time saved and errors avoided.
