If you’re looking for a remote job that offers flexibility, decent pay, and an opportunity to build a sustainable career from home, becoming an online bookkeeper with Bench could be a great option. Bench is one of the largest bookkeeping services in the United States, providing professional financial support to small businesses. This blog post will provide an in-depth look at what it means to work as an online bookkeeper at Bench, the skills required, and how to get started.

Link to Apply: Join Bench

1. What is Bench?

Bench is a leading online bookkeeping service that helps small businesses manage their financial records, providing them with monthly financial statements and tax-ready books. Founded in 2012, Bench has grown rapidly, gaining a reputation for offering reliable, user-friendly bookkeeping services tailored to small business needs.

How Bench Works:

• For Clients: Bench offers dedicated bookkeeping teams to handle their financial records, provide regular financial statements, and keep them prepared for tax season. It uses a mix of proprietary software and human expertise to deliver high-quality services.
• For Bookkeepers: Bench offers remote bookkeepers the opportunity to work from anywhere, helping clients maintain their books and deliver accurate, timely financial reports.

2. What Does an Online Bookkeeper Do at Bench?

As an online bookkeeper at Bench, you will be responsible for several tasks that help small businesses stay on top of their financial records. These tasks include:

• Data Entry and Categorization: Bookkeepers input financial transactions into Bench’s system, categorizing expenses and income accurately to ensure the financial statements reflect the business’s activities.
• Monthly Reconciliations: Each month, bookkeepers review client accounts to ensure that all transactions are accounted for and match the bank and credit card statements.
• Client Communication: Bookkeepers regularly interact with clients via Bench’s messaging platform, responding to their questions, providing updates, and addressing any discrepancies.
• Financial Reporting: Bookkeepers prepare and review monthly financial statements to provide clients with a clear view of their financial position.
• Tax Preparation Support: Bookkeepers help clients get ready for tax season by ensuring their books are in order and coordinating with Bench’s tax team if necessary.

3. The Benefits of Working as a Bookkeeper at Bench

Working as an online bookkeeper for Bench offers a range of benefits, making it an appealing option for those seeking remote employment:

• Remote Work Flexibility: Bench bookkeepers have the freedom to work from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility makes it ideal for those who need a work-life balance or have commitments that require them to stay at home.
• Comprehensive Training: Bench provides extensive training for all new bookkeepers, so even if you lack extensive bookkeeping experience, the company will equip you with the skills you need.
• Stable Income: Bench offers its bookkeepers a steady paycheck rather than a fluctuating gig income. This provides financial stability and security that is often missing from other freelance bookkeeping positions.
• Growth Opportunities: Bench promotes from within and offers bookkeepers opportunities to move up in the company. This could include advancing to more senior bookkeeping roles or transitioning into management positions.

4. How Much Can You Earn as an Online Bookkeeper at Bench?

Earnings at Bench can vary depending on experience, role, and performance. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• Base Salary: Bench offers competitive pay for its bookkeepers, with an average starting salary ranging from $16 to $22 per hour, depending on experience and location. Experienced bookkeepers and those in more senior roles may earn more.
• Performance Bonuses: Bench also offers performance-based incentives. Bookkeepers who consistently meet or exceed their goals, such as maintaining client satisfaction or handling more clients, may be eligible for bonuses.
• Benefits Package: Bench provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and wellness programs, which add significant value to the total compensation package.

5. Skills and Qualifications Needed to Work at Bench

To be a successful online bookkeeper at Bench, there are specific skills and qualifications you need:

• Basic Accounting Knowledge: You should have a fundamental understanding of accounting principles, including the ability to categorize transactions and prepare financial statements. A background in finance, accounting, or a related field is beneficial.
• Attention to Detail: Accuracy is critical in bookkeeping, so you should be meticulous and detail-oriented. Errors in financial data can lead to significant problems for clients.
• Strong Communication Skills: Since bookkeepers frequently communicate with clients, clear and professional communication skills are essential.
• Tech Savvy: Bench uses a proprietary software platform to manage bookkeeping tasks, so you should be comfortable using technology and willing to learn new systems.
• Time Management: Bookkeepers at Bench handle multiple clients and must manage their time effectively to meet deadlines and maintain high-quality service.

6. The Application Process: How to Get Started with Bench

Getting started as an online bookkeeper with Bench involves a few straightforward steps:

Step 1: Visit the Careers Page

Head to Bench’s Careers Page to find current openings for bookkeeping positions. Review the job descriptions and requirements to ensure you are a good fit.

Step 2: Submit an Application

Complete the online application form, which includes providing your resume, a cover letter, and answering a few questions about your experience and interest in bookkeeping.

Step 3: Initial Screening

If your application is shortlisted, you will be contacted for an initial screening call. This call will typically involve a recruiter asking questions about your experience, availability, and motivations.

Step 4: Skills Assessment

Candidates who pass the initial screening may be required to complete a skills assessment to evaluate their bookkeeping knowledge, attention to detail, and ability to use Bench’s software.

Step 5: Final Interview

The final step is an interview with a member of the Bench team. This interview may focus on your cultural fit, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle client communication.

7. Tips for Succeeding as a Bookkeeper at Bench

If you are hired as a bookkeeper at Bench, here are some tips to help you succeed:

• Leverage the Training: Take full advantage of Bench’s training resources to familiarize yourself with their systems and processes.
• Build Strong Client Relationships: Good communication and responsiveness are key to maintaining client satisfaction and retention.
• Stay Organized: Use tools and systems to manage your time and client workload effectively. Staying organized will help you meet deadlines and maintain high-quality service.
• Embrace Feedback: Be open to feedback from supervisors and clients, and use it as an opportunity to improve and grow in your role.

8. Pros of Working as an Online Bookkeeper at Bench

Working at Bench comes with many advantages:

• Remote Flexibility: You can work from anywhere, offering a great work-life balance.
• Training Opportunities: Bench provides comprehensive training, making it easier for newcomers to break into the field of bookkeeping.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for promotion and growth within the company.
• Supportive Community: Bench fosters a supportive environment where bookkeepers can collaborate, share knowledge, and grow together.

9. Cons of Working as an Online Bookkeeper at Bench

While there are many benefits, there are also some challenges to consider:

• Steep Learning Curve: The onboarding process involves extensive training, and it may take time to become fully proficient in Bench’s systems.
• Repetitive Tasks: Bookkeeping can be repetitive and may not suit those who prefer a dynamic or varied work environment.
• Client Management: Some clients may be challenging to deal with, requiring patience and good communication skills.

10. Real Experiences: What Bookkeepers are Saying About Bench

Here’s what some current and former bookkeepers have to say about working at Bench:

• Positive Feedback: Many bookkeepers praise Bench for its supportive work environment, thorough training, and remote flexibility. They appreciate the opportunity to grow and develop new skills while working from home.
• Constructive Criticism: Some bookkeepers note that the workload can be demanding during busy periods, and the learning curve for new hires can be steep.
• Overall Sentiment: The general consensus is that Bench is a great place to work if you are looking for a remote bookkeeping position with growth potential and support from a dedicated team.

11. Conclusion: Is Working as a Bookkeeper at Bench Right for You?

Deciding whether Bench is the right company for you depends on your personal goals and circumstances:

• Who It’s Good For: Bench is a great fit for individuals who have a passion for bookkeeping, enjoy working from home, and are looking for a stable job with growth potential.
• Who It May Not Suit: If you prefer a highly dynamic work environment with lots of variety or if you are not comfortable with repetitive tasks, Bench might not be the best fit.

Link to Apply: Join Bench