An Accounting Team, Without the Overhead

Outsourced accounting services represent a step beyond basic bookkeeping. We start by analyzing the People involved in your accounting function, the Process they go through each month, and the technology and tools (also called Platforms) they use to get the job done.

If any of these areas are underdeveloped, we help implement structure and best practices to create a fully functional accounting operation. In most engagements, Dark Horse serves as the business’s complete outsourced accounting department.

Think of bookkeeping as the foundation, accurately recording your financial transactions, like payments and invoices. It's essential for capturing your financial history. Outsourced accounting services for small business owners builds upon that foundation by managing your ongoing finance operations, including:

• Accounts Payable & Receivable: Paying bills, collecting customer payments, and managing outstanding balances.
• Payroll Processing: Ensuring accurate, timely employee payments and tax compliance.
• Systems Integration: Connecting your accounting platform to other tools for seamless, automated workflows.
• Credit Card & Expense Management: Streamlining tracking through integrations and structured expense reporting.

Dark Horse CPAs act as your virtual accounting department, but with a distinct advantage: we're technology experts. We stay current on the latest accounting software and tools, constantly evaluating the market for the best solutions to fit your needs.

Our strong relationships with leading technology providers give you direct access to their support, ensuring any questions or issues are addressed quickly.

This combined expertise in accounting processes and technology allows us to manage your day-to-day finances and optimize your systems for superior efficiency and financial insights:

• Scalable Expertise: An in-house accountant might have a strong grasp of bookkeeping but may lack expertise in areas like complex tax situations or advanced reporting. With Dark Horse, you tap into a team of CPAs with diverse specializations and experience across various industries. Our support can scale as your business needs evolve.
• Technology Advantage: We serve as your virtual accounting department and technology advisors. We continually evaluate the best accounting software and tools for your specific business, ensuring optimal efficiency and automation. Our close relationships with industry-leading tech providers give you direct access to their expertise and support.
• Cost-Efficiency: When you factor in salary, benefits, software licenses, and the potential for turnover, hiring an in-house accountant can be significantly more expensive. Outsourcing offers a predictable monthly cost and eliminates additional overhead burdens.

Payroll can be a complex, yet necessary, part of business. We offer comprehensive payroll solutions designed to simplify the process and keep your business compliant with ever-changing regulations.

We work closely with Gusto, a top-rated payroll provider known for its user-friendly interface, exceptional support, and proactive compliance monitoring. They offer resources to help you stay informed about regulatory changes that may affect your payroll.

While Gusto is our preferred solution, we also have experience supporting clients using other major payroll providers, such as ADP, Paychex, and others. As experienced accountants, we have access to a wide network of payroll and HR providers, including PEOs.

This enables us to identify the best solution for your business's unique needs, ensuring that your employees are paid accurately and in compliance with all applicable regulations.

You’ll receive standard financial reports each month—Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, and Statement of Cash Flows. These core reports give you a clear view of revenue, expenses, profitability, assets, liabilities, and cash flow.

If you require a more in-depth analysis, that's where we can truly add value! We can customize reports tailored to your business and industry. We're happy to discuss the type of reporting schedule that would best support your decision-making, whether it's monthly or something more frequent.

Our priority isn't just handing you reports, but helping you understand the trends they reveal. We'll partner with you to analyze your financial data, identify areas for improvement, and provide actionable recommendations to help you make strategic adjustments within your business.

Our outsourced accounting services go beyond basic bookkeeping to provide you with deeper insights and support for strategic growth:

• Back-office Essentials: Bank and credit card reconciliations, accounts receivable and payable management, payroll processing, and preparation of core financial statements.
• Tax Readiness: We'll handle your month-end and year-end closing processes, generate accurate financial reports, and ensure your books are ready for tax filing (including necessary 1099s).
• Insightful Guidance: Our CPAs will analyze your data, providing clarity on trends, profitability, and areas for potential improvement.
• Technology Integration: We'll work seamlessly with your existing accounting software or assist you in transitioning to a preferred cloud-based solution.
• Team Coaching & Oversight: We can help coach and guide your internal accounting team, serving as a reliable resource during the close process while training them on accounting processes and technology improvements mutually agreed upon for your business.

We understand that change can be a concern, but rest assured, we specialize in making transitions smooth and successful. Here's our proven approach:

• Collaborative Assessment: We start by thoroughly understanding your current accounting setup, identifying any key processes and potential challenges. Take an Assessment!
• Customized Plan: We'll work with you to design a tailored transition strategy that meets your specific business needs. This ensures minimal disruption to your daily operations.
• Clear Communication: Transparency is key! We maintain open communication throughout the process, providing regular updates and addressing any questions you may have.
• Ongoing Support: Our commitment doesn't end with the transition. You'll have a dedicated team from Dark Horse providing continuous support, ensuring a seamless and successful experience long term.

We've guided countless businesses through similar transitions.

Scalability is a core benefit of outsourced accounting. As your business evolves, we'll adapt our services to continue providing seamless support:

• Flexible Packages: Adjust service levels based on increased transaction volumes or new requirements.
• Specialized Expertise: If needed, we can tap into additional resources within our team, who possess industry-specific or advanced accounting knowledge.
• CFO-Level Guidance: A smooth transition to our Fractional CFO services for strategic financial insights and decision-making support.

Whether you're scaling or restructuring, our outsourced accounting services adapt to your business's evolving needs. We're one of the few white label accounting firms that can support both your backend operations and client-facing service delivery.