Free document template
Set the boundaries of a bookkeeping engagement
A bookkeeping engagement needs clear boundaries around the records supplied and the work returned. Bank reconciliation, transaction classification and unresolved items are different responsibilities from tax advice or an assurance opinion. This download-only outline helps you take a defined service scope to your attorney. It does not appoint a tax professional, and Microtra does not create contracts.
This is a sample, not legal advice. Have a qualified attorney in your state review any contract before you use it.
Inside the downloadable sample
- Entities, accounts and service period
- Deliverables and excluded services
- Source records and client decisions
- Access and information handling
- Review and corrections
- Billing and scope changes
- Ending the engagement and acceptance
The PDF and editable DOCX contain the sample clauses and blank agreement fields. Microtra does not generate contracts.
How to use the template.
- Inventory the accounts, missing periods and expected reports with the prospective client before filling factual fields.
- Separate historical cleanup from recurring work and identify decisions that require the client or their accountant.
- Have a qualified attorney in your state review the service limits, data handling and handover terms.
- Complete the reviewed scope and use your own acceptance process; keep access credentials out of the agreement.
Useful answers.
Can this include tax return preparation?
The sample does not engage anyone to prepare a return. Discuss any additional regulated or professional service with a qualified practitioner and have the scope reviewed before adding it.
What if the client supplies records after the closing deadline?
Describe the effect on the proposed schedule and the process for reopening completed periods. Your attorney should draft suitable change and billing language for that situation.
Should a software password go into the contract?
No. State the agreed access method without recording credentials in the document. Handle access through an appropriate secure process and include its removal in the handover discussion.
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