What are write-up services?

Write-up services are accounting services where a bookkeeper or accountant reconstructs financial records from source documents, bank statements, and other data when the client has not maintained current books. For professional service firms behind on bookkeeping, write-up services bring records current for tax filing or financial analysis.

Key characteristics

• Reconstructs financial records

• Uses source documents

• Catches up on delayed bookkeeping

• Prepares for tax filing

• More expensive than ongoing bookkeeping

• Often, a one-time project

Why it matters for professional service firms

Falling behind on bookkeeping creates tax filing delays and obscures the financial position. Write-up services restore order but cost more than maintaining current books. Professional service firms should maintain regular bookkeeping to avoid needing expensive write-up services.

Real-world example

Rachel had not updated her books for 8 months. Tax deadline approaching with no current financials. Engaged an accountant for write-up services: gathered bank statements, credit card statements, invoices, and receipts. Accountant reconstructed 8 months of transactions, reconciled all accounts, and prepared financials. Cost: $3,200 for catch-up versus $400/month for ongoing bookkeeping. Lesson learned.