In this episode of The Bookkeepers’ Podcast, we tackle one of the most common challenges in the bookkeeping world: clean up jobs. Jo and Zoe dive into the practical steps bookkeepers should take when dealing with a client who’s fallen behind, whether it’s a few months of missed entries or a year-long backlog.

They discuss how to set boundaries, determine whether to take on a clean up job at all, and how to price the work fairly—without undervaluing your time. With actionable advice on due diligence, onboarding, process improvement, and client communication, this episode is packed with insights to help you approach backlog work with clarity and confidence.

What constitutes a bookkeeping clean up job and how to scope it

How to assess the quality of existing records and validate balances

Why you should start from the oldest month and work forward

Tips on onboarding clients and setting clear expectations

How to position yourself as a strategic advisor (not an employee)

A structured method to price clean up work using alignment fees

How to talk to clients about value, not just cost

Why you should insist on paperwork and documentation

Best practices for managing your time and maintaining high standards

-----------------------------------------------

About us

We're Jo and Zoe and we help bookkeepers find clients, make more money and build profitable businesses they love. Find out about working with us in The Bookkeepers' Collective, at: 6figurebookkeeper.com/collective

-----------------------------------------------

About our Sponsor

This episode of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is sponsored by Xero. Get 90% off your first 6 months by visiting: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/6figurebookkeeper

-----------------------------------------------

Promotion

This video contains paid promotion.

-----------------------------------------------

Disclaimer

The information contained in The Bookkeepers' Podcast is provided for information purposes only. The contents of The Bookkeepers' Podcast is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast. The 6 Figure Bookkeeper Ltd disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of the Bookkeepers' Podcast.