23 Legit Side Hustle Ideas for Bookkeepers and Accountants

If you’re a bookkeeper or accountant, you already know how valuable your skills are.

But what if I told you there are numerous ways to leverage those skills for a lucrative side hustle?

Whether you’re looking to earn a little extra cash or want to turn your side gig into a full-time venture, there are plenty of opportunities out there.

Accounting and bookkeeping skills are in high demand, and you don’t need to work at a stuffy corporate job to make good money.

Additionally, let’s be honest, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up and work on something different.

So, I’ve put together this list of 23 legit side hustle ideas for bookkeepers and accountants like you.

Grab your calculator (or don’t) and let’s dive in!

Here’s more: 10 Real Side Hustles You Can Do At Night That Pay $15 – $50 Hourly

1. Freelance Bookkeeping & Accounting Services

If you have a solid understanding of bookkeeping or accounting software, this is an obvious place to start.

Offer your services to small businesses, freelancers, or even individuals who just need help keeping their finances organized.

Why It Works:

• You get to choose your clients.
• You can set your own hours and rates.
• There’s always demand; people hate dealing with their own books (who can blame them?).

Pro tip: Start by creating an online profile on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. It’s a great way to get your foot on the door and land your first few gigs.

2. Virtual CFO Services

Not every business can afford a full-time CFO, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need expert financial guidance.

Virtual CFO services are a hot niche, and you can help small businesses with budgeting, financial forecasting, and strategic planning.

Why It Works:

• You get to work with businesses on a deeper level.
• It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys helping others make big financial decisions.
• High pay potential.

3. Tax Preparation & Consulting

The time when you either shine or hide under your desk.

If you’re well-versed in tax law, why not offer your services to individuals or small businesses who need help navigating the complexities of taxes?

Why It Works:

• Tax prep is always in demand (especially around tax season).
• You get to help people save money (and who doesn’t like that?).
• Potential to charge premium rates for tax-related work.

Bonus: Offer consulting for tax planning throughout the year. That way, you can make money beyond the busy season.

4. Financial Planning & Budgeting Services

If you love helping people and getting their financial lives in order, this side hustle is for you.

You can assist individuals or businesses with budgeting, saving, and setting long-term financial goals.

It’s like being a personal trainer, but for finances!

Why It Works:

• People are always looking to improve their financial habits.
• It’s a highly rewarding job, both financially and emotionally.
• You can complete this work virtually or in person.

FYI: You don’t need to be a certified financial planner (CFP) to give basic advice—just make sure you stay within your expertise.

5. QuickBooks or Xero Consultant

So you’ve mastered QuickBooks or Xero (or maybe both)? Well, guess what?

Small businesses everywhere need help with setup, troubleshooting, and training their staff on these platforms. You could be the hero they didn’t know they needed.

Why It Works:

• You’re helping businesses save time and avoid costly mistakes.
• You don’t have to be a full-time employee to help out.
• You can charge a premium for your specialized knowledge.

6. Bookkeeping for Startups

Startups are a mess of excitement and chaos, and they usually don’t have the budget to hire full-time accountants.

That’s where you come in. Offer your bookkeeping services to help them stay on top of their finances while they scale.

Why It Works:

• You get to be part of something exciting and new.
• Startups are often willing to pay for help to keep things running smoothly.
• Flexible work arrangements.

7. Freelance Payroll Services

Small businesses often require assistance with payroll, particularly during tax season.

Offer a service where you handle payroll, tax filings, and ensure compliance with employment laws.

Why It Works:

• It’s a repetitive task, so once you get into the groove, it’s easy money.
• High demand, especially in small to medium-sized businesses.
• Recurring business, as payroll, is done every month or bi-weekly.

8. Write E-books or Guides on Accounting Topics

Got some solid accounting knowledge you want to share? Writing an e-book or guide could be a great way to make passive income.

You could write about bookkeeping basics, tax tips, or how to use accounting software.

Why It Works:

• Passive income once the book is written.
• You can sell it through your website, Amazon, or other platforms.
• You establish yourself as an authority in your field.

9. Create Online Courses

Ever thought about teaching others?

Creating an online course on bookkeeping or accounting software can bring in some serious cash, especially if you’re teaching a skill that’s in high demand.

Why It Works:

• You can make money from the course without doing much after it’s created.
• High demand for practical, real-world accounting knowledge.
• Platforms like Teachable or Skillshare make it easy to get started.

10. Financial Content Writing

Got a knack for writing? Many websites need content focused on personal finance, business accounting, and taxes.

You can write articles, blog posts, or even guest posts for other sites that pay well for quality content.

Why It Works:

• You get to combine your writing skills with your accounting knowledge.
• Flexible—you can write on your own time.
• Potential to work with some pretty cool websites in the finance space.

Also Check: 7 Easy Side Hustles to Make Money FAST (Beginner Friendly)

11. Consulting for Nonprofits

Nonprofits are often underfunded and understaffed, yet they still require assistance with their financial management.

By offering bookkeeping or accounting consulting services, you can help them stay compliant with laws and manage their budgets more effectively.

Why It Works:

• Nonprofits always need help.
• It’s a rewarding way to utilize your skills for the greater good.
• You can work with multiple organizations and set flexible hours.

12. Auditing Services for Small Businesses

Small businesses often need someone to review their financial records to ensure they’re compliant with laws.

You could offer auditing services for businesses that need an extra set of eyes but don’t want to pay for a large firm’s services.

Why It Works:

• Small businesses often don’t have a full-time auditor.
• Auditing work can be done remotely.
• High hourly rates.

13. Business Valuation Services

This one might require a bit more experience.

But if you’re experienced in valuing businesses (think mergers and acquisitions), you can offer business valuation services to small companies looking to sell or get investment.

Why It Works:

• High demand from small business owners and investors.
• It’s a highly specialized service that allows you to charge premium rates.
• Great for long-term, high-paying side gigs.

Read More: 6 Best AI Side Hustles to Earn $500+ Per Day (2025)

14. Sell Financial Templates and Tools

If you’re good at creating spreadsheets or financial templates (you know, the kind that make life a little easier), why not sell them?

People love easy-to-use templates for tasks such as budgeting, tax preparation, or financial tracking.

Why It Works:

• Passive income once the templates are made.
• You can sell on platforms like Etsy or your own website.
• It’s a perfect side hustle for anyone who enjoys creating helpful tools.

15. Bookkeeping for Real Estate Agents

Real estate agents deal with tons of paperwork, commissions, and expenses.

You can offer bookkeeping services that help them stay organized and focused on closing deals rather than worrying about their financials.

Why It Works:

• Real estate agents are often busy and need help managing their finances.
• The real estate industry is booming, meaning steady demand.
• You can specialize and market yourself as the “go-to” for real estate professionals.

16. Part-Time CFO for Startups

Similar to offering virtual CFO services, but this side hustle targets the growing startup scene.

Many startups require strategic financial advice, but they’re not yet ready to hire a full-time professional.

Why It Works:

• High earning potential, especially if you can help startups scale.
• Flexible work hours and remote options.
• Startups are often willing to pay for quality financial expertise.

Here’s More: 6 REALISTIC Side Hustles That Make $100+ Per Day (2025)

17. Financial Coaching

You don’t need to be a certified financial planner to offer financial coaching.

You can help people manage their finances more effectively, plan for the future, and achieve their financial objectives. It’s like being a financial personal trainer!

Why It Works:

• Financial advice is something most people need.
• You can offer coaching on your own schedule.
• It’s personally rewarding and can lead to recurring business.

18. Freelance Billing Services

Small businesses often need help managing invoices and billing clients.

You can offer a service that helps companies get paid faster and stay on top of their accounts receivable.

Why It Works:

• Many businesses prefer to outsource billing rather than handle it in-house.
• You can offer this service regularly.
• High demand from small and medium-sized enterprises.

19. Accounts Payable & Receivable Management

Similar to freelance billing services, but more comprehensive in scope. You’ll handle both accounts payable and receivable, ensuring businesses stay on top of their cash flow.

Why It Works:

• Many small businesses require assistance in managing their accounts payable and accounts receivable.
• It’s an ongoing service that can bring in steady income.
• You can work remotely and set your own rates.

Also Check: 15 Easiest Side Hustles for the Average Person in 2025

20. Create a Financial Blog or YouTube Channel

If you enjoy writing or speaking about finances, creating a blog or YouTube channel could be a great way to share your knowledge.

Once you have built an audience, you can monetize it through ads, affiliate marketing, or selling products.

Why It Works:

• Creative outlet to share your knowledge and build your brand.
• Long-term potential for passive income.
• You can share accounting tips, financial advice, or even just tell fun finance stories.

21. Offer Debt Management Services

Debt management can be a stressful topic, but many people need help.

If you’re good at creating plans to help individuals or businesses reduce their debt and improve credit, this could be a side hustle that’s both lucrative and rewarding.

Why It Works:

• You help people achieve financial freedom.
• You can charge for customized debt management plans.
• The financial coaching market is growing.

Read More: 17 Best Side Hustle Ideas At Home To Make Extra Money

22. Fraud Prevention Consulting

Fraud is a significant issue for businesses, particularly smaller ones that lack proper internal controls.

You can offer fraud prevention consulting to help businesses identify weaknesses and implement strategies to prevent fraud.

Why It Works:

• Fraud prevention is crucial for every business.
• High-paying side hustle with lots of potential.
• It’s a niche that few accountants focus on.

23. Grant Writing for Nonprofits

If you have experience with nonprofit accounting, you can offer grant writing services.

Many nonprofits struggle to secure funding and could benefit from your help in drafting compelling proposals to potential donors.

Why It Works:

• It combines your financial expertise with your writing skills.
• High demand from nonprofits looking for funding.
• It’s a meaningful way to make a difference.

Why These Side Hustles are Perfect for Bookkeepers and Accountants

• Leverage Your Expertise: Utilize your financial skills in areas like bookkeeping, consulting, and tax preparation.
• Flexible Schedule: Most side hustles allow you to set your own hours and work remotely, providing a convenient option for those seeking a flexible work arrangement.
• High Earning Potential: Many of these services, especially those specializing in specific areas, can command premium rates.
• Diverse Opportunities: From working with startups to creating content, there’s a side hustle for every interest.
• Steady Demand: Businesses and individuals consistently require financial expertise, ensuring a constant stream of opportunities.
• Work-Life Balance: Side hustles offer flexibility, making it easier to balance with a full-time job.
• Build Your Brand: You can establish yourself as an authority in a niche area (e.g., virtual CFO, tax prep).

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to work with startups, assist with taxes, or create online courses, there’s no shortage of opportunities to turn your skills into extra cash.

So, which one will you choose? The world of side hustles is your oyster!

Remember: The best side hustle is the one that excites you and fits your lifestyle.

And hey, even if you don’t want to quit your day job, these side gigs can give you a nice boost (and maybe a little more freedom in your life).

Go ahead. Take the plunge and start hustling!