[mla1169]

I recently was hired as a p/t bookkeeper for a start up. I have ZERO experience with startups. They have to write a business plan for some potential investors and contacted a few CPA firms for pricing of financial forecasting, and told me the fees were outrageous.

They asked me to give it a shot (eeks) and said to write in an additional fee for myself. So my question is what would a CPA charge so I go sufficiently low enough that I’m not asking what an experienced CPA would ask, but also not lowballing myself.

Thanks in advance!

FAR- 77
AUD -49, 71, 84
REG -56,75!
BEC -75

Massachusetts CPA (non reporting) since 3/12.

[Yvonne570]

I would do my research. Found a link that seemed to be interesting; however, all states are not alike. See if this may help?

https://www.aipb.org/newsletter/bookkeeping_tips/succeed_as_a_freelancer.html

AUD - Passed:)
FAR - Passed:)
REG - Retake TBD
BEC - Missed by 3 points Retake TBD

[Anonymous]

I think you should get paid whatever the going rate is for being contracted to write a business plan. It doesnt matter if your experience is less than that of a CPA, the end product that the company is getting is virtually the same (albeit maybe lower quality, no offense). Its likes getting your car fixed by a mechanic, the reputable place wants $1,000, and the local small shop will do it for $700. Sure my bumper gets fixed, even if it might fall off later.

If a CPA is charging $200 an hr, then charge $150, or maybe even $100. Personally I think if the company is seeking out potential investors, you wouldnt wnat to skimp out on the cost of preparing your business plan,but if they are looking for a lower rate, then charge $100 an hr instead of $200. Thats 50% the market rate for the same service.

[ledgermaven]

@mla – (by the way, your achievment is inspiring!)

Do you know what kind of business plan they want? Is it that issue or one of pricing you need?

Cheers 🙂

[Author]

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