To start a bookkeeping side business, first build solid QuickBooks skills, then decide which services you will offer, set up your business basics, and find a few first clients through people you already know. Start small and grow carefully. Our QuickBooks Bookkeeping Essentials class gives you the core skills in 12 hours, on weeknights or Saturdays, online or in person.
Step 1: Build skills before you sell
Clients trust you with their money records, so competence comes first. You should be comfortable with company setup, customers and vendors, invoices, bills, payments, bank reconciliation and reports like the profit and loss and balance sheet. Practice full months for sample businesses until the routine is second nature.
Step 2: Decide what you will offer
Keep your first menu simple and clear. For example:
- Monthly transaction entry and categorizing
- Bank and credit card reconciliation
- Invoicing and bill entry
- Monthly reports for the owner
- Cleanup of messy books, once you have experience
Be clear about what you do not do. If you are not trained in tax preparation or payroll, say so and refer those needs to qualified professionals.
Step 3: Set up your business basics
- Check local business license and registration requirements for your city and county.
- Open a separate bank account for your business.
- Use a written agreement for every client that lists services, schedule and fees.
- Protect client data with strong passwords and secure file sharing.
- Ask a qualified professional about insurance and tax obligations for your situation.
Our free Start Your Business Workshop can help you think through these steps. Sign up on the enroll page.
Step 4: Find your first clients
Most new bookkeepers find early clients through relationships, not ads. Let friends, family, former coworkers, churches and local business groups know what you do. Small businesses that are just starting, like home services, food vendors and solo consultants, often need help getting organized. A short, friendly introduction and a clear offer go a long way.
Strong communication helps you win and keep clients. Our free Public Speaking Lab can build your confidence; see the programs page.
Step 5: Grow carefully
Take on a few clients, deliver on time, and ask for referrals. Keep learning as you go. Strong Excel skills help with reports and client questions; see our Excel & Office class. When it launches, QuickBooks Certified User exam prep, part of our Industry Certifications starting in 2027 with certified partner instructors, can add a credential to your name. Join the interest list on our enroll page.
Class details
- Class: QuickBooks Bookkeeping Essentials, 12 hours total.
- Evening cohort: Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:00 to 9:00 PM Pacific, November 30 to December 9, 2026.
- Saturday cohort: January 23 and 30, 2027, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM Pacific.
- Format: in person at 255 N. D Street, Suite #200-XXVII, San Bernardino, CA 92401, or live online from anywhere in the U.S.
- Price: $297.
- What you get: hands-on practice with company setup, customers and vendors, invoices, bills, payments, bank reconciliation, the profit and loss statement, the balance sheet and other reports.
How to enroll
- Apply online. It takes about 2 minutes.
- Pay with the QuickBooks Bookkeeping Essentials pay link or see every option on the tuition page.
- We confirm your seat within 2 business days.
Not sure yet? Join our free Info Session & Orientation, online every Monday from 5:00 to 5:45 PM Pacific. Register on the enroll page to get the link.
FAQ
Can I run a bookkeeping business part-time?
Many people start part-time on evenings and weekends with a few clients. Be realistic about how many clients you can serve well.
Is 12 hours of training enough to start a business?
The class gives you a solid foundation in core QuickBooks tasks. Plan to keep practicing and to gain experience before taking on complex clients.
When are the classes?
Evenings, Mondays and Wednesdays 6 to 9 PM Pacific, November 30 to December 9, 2026, or two Saturdays, January 23 and 30, 2027, 9 AM to 3 PM Pacific.
Questions? Call or text (909) 454-7076.