How Much Should You Pay for Bookkeeping in the Philippines?
TL;DR (Summary Box)
Bookkeeping costs in the Philippines typically range from ₱3,000 to ₱15,000 per month, depending on business size, transaction volume, and service scope. Outsourcing is often more cost-efficient and compliant than hiring in-house, especially for startups and SMEs.
Summary Answer
If you’re wondering how much you should pay for bookkeeping in the Philippines, the short answer is: it depends on your business needs. Small businesses with basic bookkeeping requirements may only pay ₱3,000 to ₱6,000 monthly, while companies with higher transaction volumes or compliance needs might spend ₱10,000 to ₱15,000+ per month.
The key is to find a provider who offers transparent pricing, customizable packages, and value-added support—like tax compliance or payroll assistance—to ensure your finances stay accurate and stress-free.
Why Bookkeeping Matters More Than You Think
Many entrepreneurs treat bookkeeping as an afterthought—until tax season hits or cash flow problems arise. Bookkeeping isn’t just about recording numbers; it’s about understanding your business’s financial health.
Accurate bookkeeping helps you:
- Track income and expenses efficiently
- File taxes correctly and on time
- Avoid penalties from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)
- Make smarter financial decisions for growth
Whether you run a small retail shop or a growing tech startup, a reliable bookkeeping system keeps your business compliant and confident.
Average Bookkeeping Rates in the Philippines
Bookkeeping rates in the Philippines can vary widely. Here’s a breakdown of average costs based on business type and setup:
| Business Type | Estimated Monthly Rate | Notes |
| Freelance or Home-Based Business | ₱2,500 – ₱5,000 | Basic transaction recording only |
| Small Retail or Service Business | ₱5,000 – ₱8,000 | Includes financial reporting and BIR filing |
| Growing SME or Corporation | ₱8,000 – ₱15,000 | More transactions, full reporting, tax support |
| Outsourced Accounting Firm | ₱10,000+ | Professional team with compliance assurance |
💡 Pro Tip: Always confirm what’s included in the quote—some providers exclude government filing or tax preparation from the base rate.
Factors That Affect Bookkeeping Costs
Several elements determine how much you’ll pay for bookkeeping services in the Philippines:
1. Transaction Volume
The more transactions your business processes, the more time it takes to manage them—raising the overall cost.
2. Business Complexity
Corporations and VAT-registered entities usually pay higher fees due to additional BIR filings and documentation requirements.
3. Service Frequency
Monthly reporting costs more than quarterly or annual updates but provides real-time financial visibility.
4. Scope of Services
Bookkeeping packages may include:
- General ledger maintenance
- Financial statement preparation
- Bank reconciliation
- Payroll management
- BIR compliance and reporting
5. Software Used
Providers using accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, or Wave often charge higher but offer better accuracy and faster turnaround.
Outsource Payroll vs. In-House Bookkeeping: Which Is Cheaper?
When deciding between in-house and outsourced bookkeeping, consider both direct costs and hidden expenses.
In-House Bookkeeping Costs
- Salary of a bookkeeper: ₱20,000–₱35,000 per month
- Benefits and SSS/PhilHealth/Pag-IBIG contributions
- Software licenses and training
- Replacement costs for turnover or absence
Outsourced Bookkeeping Costs
- Starts at ₱3,000–₱15,000 per month
- No HR or admin overhead
- Scalable as your business grows
- Access to a team of experts, not just one person
✅ Verdict: Outsourcing is usually more affordable and efficient—especially for SMEs that need professional-grade reports without hiring full-time staff.
Common Bookkeeping Packages in the Philippines
Here’s what you’ll often find in bookkeeping packages for small businesses:
- Recording of sales and expenses
- Financial statement preparation (balance sheet, income statement)
- Monthly or quarterly BIR filing (2550M, 2551Q, 1701Q, etc.)
- Bank reconciliation and petty cash tracking
- Audit preparation and year-end assistance
Some providers also offer:
- Payroll management
- Tax filing and remittance support
- Business registration and renewal assistance
These added services can make your operations smoother and help you stay fully compliant.
Why Bookkeeping Is Worth the Cost
Outsourcing bookkeeping is an investment, not an expense. Here’s why:
- Avoid penalties: Late or incorrect BIR filings can lead to fines.
- Save time: Focus on business growth instead of paperwork.
- Stay compliant: Bookkeepers know the latest tax updates and regulations.
- Better decisions: Regular financial reports help you plan for cash flow, expansion, or cost-cutting.
For startups and SMEs, professional bookkeeping ensures peace of mind and financial clarity from day one.
DIY Bookkeeping vs. Hiring a Professional
If you’re using Excel or bookkeeping software, you might think you can do it yourself. But here’s a quick comparison:
| Aspect | DIY Bookkeeping | Professional Bookkeeper |
| Cost | Cheaper upfront | Higher initial fee |
| Accuracy | Risk of errors | Professionally verified |
| Time | Time-consuming | Time-saving |
| Compliance | May miss BIR updates | Always up-to-date |
| Value | Basic reports | Actionable insights |
👉 Bottom line: DIY bookkeeping works for freelancers, but if you’re running an SME or managing payroll, a professional bookkeeper is the safer and smarter choice.
How to Find Affordable Bookkeeping Services in the Philippines
When searching for bookkeeping support, look for:
- Transparent pricing – avoid vague quotes
- Customizable packages – pay only for what you need
- Proven experience – especially with BIR compliance
- Clear communication – quick response times and regular updates
- Secure systems – ensure your financial data is protected
Bookkeeping for Startups and SMEs: Budget-Friendly Options
Many service providers now offer startup packages designed to support early-stage businesses, which may include:
- Basic bookkeeping and tax filing
- Payroll setup
- Financial reporting for investors or banks
These are often available for ₱3,000–₱6,000 monthly, allowing entrepreneurs to stay compliant without breaking their budget.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much does bookkeeping cost in the Philippines?
Rates typically range from ₱3,000 to ₱15,000 per month, depending on your business size, transaction volume, and services included.
Q2. What factors affect bookkeeping rates in the Philippines?
Costs depend on transaction volume, type of business, frequency of reports, and whether tax or payroll support is included.
Q3. Is it cheaper to hire a freelance bookkeeper or outsource to a firm?
Freelancers are cheaper, but outsourcing to a firm provides more reliability, compliance assurance, and scalability.
Q4. Are bookkeeping services affordable for startups and SMEs?
Yes. Many firms offer affordable bookkeeping packages tailored for small businesses and startups.
Q5. What’s included in typical bookkeeping services in the Philippines?
Recording transactions, bank reconciliation, financial statements, and BIR filing are standard inclusions.
Q6. How often should I pay for bookkeeping services?
Most businesses opt for monthly or quarterly billing, depending on reporting needs.
Q7. Can bookkeeping services help with tax compliance?
Yes. Professional bookkeepers ensure accurate tax filing and prevent costly BIR penalties.
Q8. Why do bookkeeping costs vary among providers?
Differences stem from expertise, software tools used, and whether extra services like payroll or tax assistance are included.
Q9. How can I find affordable bookkeeping services in the Philippines?
Look for transparent pricing, customized plans, and providers with proven BIR compliance experience.
Q10. Is bookkeeping worth the cost for small businesses?
Absolutely. It saves you time, ensures compliance, and helps you understand your business finances clearly.
Key Takeaway
Whether you’re a freelancer, startup, or established SME, bookkeeping is non-negotiable for your business success.
While costs vary, outsourcing your bookkeeping ensures:
✅ Fewer errors
✅ Better compliance
✅ More time for growth
When you find the right bookkeeping partner, you don’t just get cleaner books—you get peace of mind and a clearer path to scaling your business.