What is the difference between a Bookkeeper and Accountant?

"About $140 per hour." Simply defined, a Bookkeeper is involved in the tedious systematic recording of the transactions affecting the financial status of a business. Most bookkeeping services charge a flat monthly fee. A good service will communicate well with your Accountant so when tax time rolls around, the Accountant will need to spend as little time as possible on your tax return keeping your Accountant's fee to a minimum. An Accountant takes the information from the Bookkeeper to analyze and consult financial strategies, as well as file taxes, for the business. Accountants hold at least four-year degree (and sometimes a Masters Degree, or Ph.D.) and may further certify themselves by completing any variety of exams to prove their capability (i.e. CPA, CMA, etc.).  more