Here they share a Trusted Tip on the difference between a Bookkeeper and an Accountant

Fledgling small-business owners are often told that they should hire a professional to help with the accounting side of their companies. Because both bookkeepers and accountants offer services, understanding which one you need can be puzzling. Katie Bunschoten (pictured), founder and owner of the bookkeeping and consulting firm KHBOffice, helps new businesses get up and running — and shows owners how to keep on top of accounting.

The Intuit Small Business Blog recently asked for her take on bookkeepers vs. accountants and when to hire them. ISBB:

What are the main differences between bookkeepers and accountants?

What training do they need to call themselves one or the other? Bunschoten: The terms “bookkeeper” and “accountant” can be interchanged to a degree, so I’m going to focus on the literal job roles. Many bookkeepers get their start acting as a data-entry clerk or entry-level bookkeeper for a business and grow, through experience and merit, into being a go-to person for the day-to-day financial recording. The term “bookkeeper” is pretty literal: The bookkeeper keeps the books and retains documentation for transactions. An experienced or certified bookkeeper may eventually move into being an accountant (the terminology and rules on what a bookkeeper may do and call themselves may be dictated by state accounting boards). An accountant may also focus on reporting, business analysis and processes, and possibly advice. Many times a bookkeeper and accountant work in tandem, with the bookkeeper operating as a “feet on the ground” professional, promoting a stronger relationship between an accountant and a business owner. Both bookkeepers and accountants can obtain certification, if they choose, through a professional organization such as AIPB (American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers) or the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants), respectively. The terms “bookkeeper” and “accountant” can be used without certification, so it’s important to know what qualifications people have before hiring them.

How do small-business owners figure out which they need?

Many times it depends on the industry and the level of expertise required.Questions we ask our clients in order to structure our services include:

What industry is the company is in? Do they maintain a number of fixed assets or a large amount of inventory? How many employees do they have? The more complex the organization, the more important it is to make sure that the company’s bookkeeper is also supported by a good CPA who can provide advice as and if needed. It’s a great partnership that keeps communication open and data strong. Also, it’s not a bad idea to ask for client references and proof of purchase of E&O insurance, which is available to both bookkeepers and accountants.

How expensive are bookkeepers and accountants?

Bookkeepers are, generally speaking, less expensive than CPAs, which makes them a great choice for a company that needs day-to-day expertise. A good bookkeeper can also act as the “canary in the tunnel,” bringing attention to something that might need higher levels of advice. Pricing depends on geographic location and industry, as well as experience. I would recommend calling around to local accounting or CPA firms, other business owners, or even local business-development centers in order to obtain a referral. A bookkeeper is best found through word of mouth, and many times the you have to look hard because, quite frankly, a good bookkeeper gets busy pretty fast. I also would highly recommend meeting with an accountant or CPA at the onset of a bookkeeper engagement and periodically afterwards. Bookkeepers are a great way to manage expenses, but having the periodic support of a CPA ensures that you have more than one set of eyes on the books. This not only helps to provide more accurate data, but also can act as a deterrent to fraud or theft.

How do you make sure that you hire a qualified bookkeeper or accountant?

Ask for references, and call them. If certified, call the board or organization through which the professional is certified. There are also free screening tests on the marketplace, especially for bookkeepers, who may not always be certified and where the onus is more on experience. A referral means a lot.

What other qualities are important?

Be sure to seek out a bookkeeper and an accountant who can speak to you in plain English. Many financial or accounting professionals struggle with this. Also, never be afraid to stand up and say, “I’m not fully understanding what you are telling me. Can you rephrase?” Accounting can be a lot of gobbledygook and is a language all its own. Professionals can be very good at what they do, but they also need to be able to explain concepts easily. A professional friendly personality, and honesty are also important. You want to be sure that if there is something crucial that needs to be discussed, the discussion is timely — and isn’t put off if it’s unpleasant.

When should you hire a bookkeeper?

The earlier the better. Many owners will try to sort out the information themselves and then have a bumpy ride when it comes time to transition. A good compromise is to consult with an accounting professional when the business is started and then perhaps touch base periodically, such as once a quarter. Ask for a quote or pricing, and fit in some sort of periodic meeting into your budget. Errors tend to continue until caught at year end or the next time a professional sees the books. Books that are set up correctly in the beginning can be a strong tool for measurement and growth. Books measure the pulse of a business, and good bookkeeping expands past basic cash expenses. Additionally, most accountants and bookkeepers are happy to answer a few questions, and they enjoy being able to see a business grow and for clients to be successful. After all, the basement startup today could be their biggest client tomorrow.

Trusted SASKATOON PET Experts for advice on Pets!

 Here is their latest trusted Pet Tip on your Pets aging!

Many believe at the age of 7 pets become seniors, that however can be a myth. Most dogs become senior when they start acting senior which can be shown by the following symptoms: slowing down, becoming stiff, or gaining weight. Sometimes we do not see these signs until our dog is older than the age of 7.

When we notice these signs in our pet, we often think of switching them to a senior diet which is not completely necessary. Some senior diets contain lower calories and joint supplements added diet the food. Instead of changing foods you can start reducing feeding amounts if the dog is gaining weight after all it is just about regulating calories if someone is losing or gaining weight. Take a look at our own lives, Grandpa does not have any special meat prepared for his meals but he may eat smaller portions. If we notice the dog is becoming stiff, sore or is hesitant to do stairs, then adding a joint supplement into the diet is very common. Most people have heard that senior diets have joint supplements in the formula which may help improve their joint mobility but we need to look at the levels of the supplement included. The joint supplement levels are provided in mg/kg which means you have to feed 1kg to get the dose indicated. Many diets have levels of glucosamine around 500mg/kg that would require you to feed 1 kilogram (or 2.2lbs) of food in one day to get the 500 mg dosage. Therefore it is more efficient and beneficial to the pet to supplement a powder into their regular food to give a sufficient dosage which will help your pet with its joint problems.

We suggest adding in one of the many supplements that we carry which are pure and natural products. We carry joint supplements that have been scientifically proven to support the regeneration of damaged joint cartilage and joint fluid. A lot of the time, you only need to add in about an 1/8th of a teaspoon for the pet to get the recommended dosage, which is more cost effective, and allows the pet to start feeling better faster. Normally the cost of adding the supplement in separately only costs around $3-5 a month.

Neon Colors to add to your Decor!

Sleeker and more modern than when they first made their debut back in the early 80's, hot pops of colour combined with reflective metals are making a strong comeback both on the runway and in home decor. Whether starting by adding brightly coloured accessories or painting a wall with a dynamic shade, there are plenty of solutions to integrate neon colours in every room in your home.

Kitchen

Neon in the kitchen is HOT! Here, bold colour feels fresh and modern in combination with elegant metal appliances. Integrate neon to your decor by painting a few walls or by adding bright coloured tablecloths, utensils or lamps. Opt for blue to create a clean and refreshing decor.

Bathroom

Adopt this new trend in the bathroom with paint on walls, furniture and even the bathtub! In the case of a sink or a bathtub, use a paint specifically designed for this purpose, resistant to moisture and heat. Consider adding green, which besides being refreshing, readily passes through all seasons.

Living Room

The neon pink fits perfectly with white, black, gray and even indigo furniture. Incorporate a touch of neon in your living room with a bright pink carpet or with some cushions on your couch. You can even go for neon furniture that will create a dynamic atmosphere in the room.

Bedroom

Add vibrant colours to your bedroom. Consider painting a few key elements such as your bed or the doorframes. You can also integrate neon colours with accessories such as cushions, rugs, vases or bright light fixtures. Think of yellow, lime or orange to add dynamism.

Original article - Rona Mag -http://www.ronamag.ca/news/its-worth-it-neon-colours-add-your-decor

Things to Consider Before Tackling a Deck Project in your yard

Building a deck is an easy way to create a usable, comfortable outdoor living space for you and your family. Wether you are dining and cooking in the fresh air, sunbathing in your lounger or resting in the shade of a Summer awning enjoying the seet smells of Summer, a deck project delivers enormous value and enjoyment practically all year round.Add a  fire pit and you can even enjoy time on yourdeck long into Fall. Enjoy Winter by brushing a path way to your hot tub on the deck and cool off like Scandinavians by using the snow. Lets face it, Summer just isn’t the same without fun on a backyard deck. Be cautious however, as building a deck the right way is important.

Here we share a few tips on making the most of that deck ( and avoiding the pit falls too!!)

1) Traffic on the deck

You deck is really an outside area of your home . Consider where it directs you into the backyard, and we always think it's a great idea to design your deck with stairs and even railings ( for safety!) , but do go for a open feel that doesn't block that lovely view or the access routes in your yard. A multi level deck looks amazing and really creates al fresco 'mini-rooms', that can be used for different purposes....ensure you think carefully about the size of the areas required so it is really useable space.

2) Think about maintenance

Composite and vinyl deck products are fashionable right now – and there are  many great reasons for this. If you had a deck that didn't require staining or additional protection then the appeal is very easy to see! Composite deck products do JUST that, although they do cost sometimes double your common treated wood. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and termites, but over time it will fade to an ugly gray if not treated and stained on an annual or bi annual basis ( dependant on weather and traffic flow). Treated lumber is chemically altered to resist rotting and pest damage, and doesn't need to be further treated unless you want a different look/ color. Whichever material you choose, be sure that it compliments that rest of the house and yard area, and that you consider how much TIME you have to maintain it!  

3) Do you want shade?

You should plan to have at least one area of shade on the deck, for you and your guests to escape the hot Sun we get in Saskatchewan Summertime. Wether you decide on a roof over a portion of the deck, or perhaps a motorised or manually retractable awning be sure to make it big enough for a few poeple to sit under comfortably. Another option is a gazebo which you can hang with fabric and netting, keeping those pesky bugs out when you want to enjoy the warm evenings on your deck without getting bitten to death...they also serve as great dining areas!   

4) Building codes really DO matter

Always apply for a building permit when building a deck is very important, or you may end up having to tear it down !!The permiot process will ensure that the construction of your deck follows the local building codes,   which are meant to protect your family. You certainly don't want the issue of whether a building permit was attained or not to come up when you are selling your home or obtaining house insurance, so be safe and start your deck project right. Ask your Trusted contractor ( if you are using one) for advice and they should be able to help out!

 Trusted Cleaning Tip!

Here’s a quick and easy way to get rid of fruit flies!

What you need

• Pesky fruit flies

• Container (like a glass)

• Balsamic vinegar

• 2 sheets of plastic wrap

• Paring knife

1) Fill a container 1/8 of the way full with balsamic vinegar. Cover the container with taut plastic wrap.

2) Take your paring knife and pierce 4 small holes on the top of the plastic wrap.

3) Leave it out overnight.

4) Take off the old plastic wrap the next day since they may have laid eggs on it. Replace it with a new sheet of plastic wrap and pierce 4 small holes again

5) Repeat for 2-3 days. If you notice a few are flying out, put a second layer of plastic wrap or make sure your holes aren’t too big. Make sure you put your fly catcher in an area you think it’ll be most effective.