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Outsourced accounting services with controller-level close standards. Built for founders who want the books handled without managing the day-to-day Accounting Execution Package Outsourced accounting services for transactional execution and reporting For founders who are tired of being the accounting system Accounting Execution Package by Brett J. Federer Accounting, APC Most businesses searching for outsourced accounting services are trying to solve the same problem: execution that actually holds. Clean books, consistent processes, and a close that doesn’t fall apart each month. The Accounting Execution Package delivers that execution within a single coordinated structure. Transactional accounting and month-end close operate together so the system runs without founders becoming the accounting function themselves. It is designed for companies across Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, Orange County, and throughout California where operations are already moving faster than the accounting can keep up. Purpose: Designed to replace fragmented execution, eliminate close friction, and give founders their time back without becoming the accounting system themselves. This is often a fit when a company has outgrown ad hoc bookkeeping but is not ready or willing to build an internal accounting function yet. Execution Gaps Accounting owns your time Missed payments Invoice errors Fragmented records Unreconciled accounts Cash uncertainty Lingering history Process breakdowns Close delays Inconsistent treatment System drift 1099 confusion Unreliable Financials Stabilized Outputs Time reclaimed Accounts Payable batched Accounts Receivable batched Complete ledger Bank / Credit Cards Reconciled Monthly cash visibility graphs Historical items addressed Execution issues resolved Close blockers cleared Basic standards documented System integrity maintained 1099s Prepared (not filed) Monthly Soft Close + Quarterly Hard Closes Performed How this works These outsourced accounting services operates within a structured execution cadence rather than real-time interaction. Work is completed asynchronously within client-owned systems and validated through month-end close and reporting. Communication occurs via email, scheduled meetings, and documented requests, rather than via real-time messaging platforms such as Slack or Teams. Communications are handled in a timely manner, based on complexity and execution demands. You shouldn't have to manage accounting on your own. It should keep moving without you having to stay in the weeds. Accounting execution moves forward in the background, without requiring your constant involvement. Accounting Execution Package Structure Transactional Support Accounts Payable Batched Accounts Payable is handled on a batched cadence, typically weekly, to keep intake clean and payments predictable. Bills are routed through a single intake channel and prepared in the Client’s accounting system and designated payment platforms as approval-ready batches. No payments are authorized or released, and all cash outflow approval remains exclusively with the Client. Items rejected due to missing information, approval issues, or payment failures are rolled into the next scheduled batch once corrected; off-cycle handling is not guaranteed and may require additional time. Accounts Receivable Batched Accounts Receivable is handled on a structured, batched cadence, typically twice per month, to keep invoicing consistent and cash inflows predictable. Invoices are prepared and issued from Client-owned systems based solely on Client-approved inputs, with limited off-cycle corrections permitted only for previously approved and issued invoices; sales tax is applied at the invoice level based on the Client’s accounting system configuration or external tax advisor direction, and no pricing decisions, tax determinations, contract interpretation, collections activity, or customer control is assumed by the Firm. Bank and Credit Card Reconciliations Bank and credit card reconciliations are performed on a recurring, batched cadence to confirm transaction completeness and cash-account accuracy. Reconciliations compare system balances to bank and card statements, with discrepancies, duplicates, or missing items surfaced and documented for Client review. Monthly Cash Visibility Graphs Each month, standardized graphs track total cash balance, cash in, and cash out. These views are presented consistently month over month so changes in burn, inflows, or pressure surface early rather than after issues compound. Historical and current-state visibility only, not forward projections. Recurring Services Monthly Accounting Oversight (Preservation) Monthly Close Discipline (Soft Close) Each month, the books move through normal close procedures to maintain a dependable, internally reliable view of financial performance without prematurely locking the period, preserving flexibility while ensuring numbers remain internally consistent, comparable across periods, and reliable for ongoing decisions. Historical items addressed Historical issues identified through normal close procedures that materially affect accuracy or comparability may be addressed to improve the reliability of the books. This does not include comprehensive cleanup, policy redesign, revenue recognition implementation, or retrospective review of all prior activity. Bookkeeper Coordination Accounting standards are applied through normal close procedures, with issues communicated to the bookkeeper for correction or visibility. All company staff report to internal management. Brett J. Federer Accounting does not manage or supervise client personnel. Responsibility for implementation, compliance, and enforcement of these standards remains with client management. Material Variance & Accounting Risk Review Material variances, unusual entries, or compliance risks are flagged directly as they surface, so they don’t get lost in the numbers. Not a standing deliverable, but a safeguard to ensure important issues are surfaced clearly when they arise. Quarterly Close & Internal Financial Package (Validation) Close Finalization (Hard Close) At quarter-end, a hard close is performed with key accounts reconciled, adjustments finalized, and the period locked, producing the definitive internal financial package used for leadership review, board-level discussions, and internal governance. Financial Validation Each quarter, a structured internal validation is performed to confirm periods are fully closed, reconciliations are complete, material variances are identified and understood from an accounting perspective, and reporting remains structurally consistent. The objective is to confirm the financial system continues to operate as designed and produces reliable internal-use financials. Quarterly Financial Package (Internal Use Only) Prepared from client-provided records; not an audit or review or fraud detection. All financials are prepared for internal management use only. If unusual items are identified, they will be communicated promptly. Scope includes: Balance Sheet (2x): Year-to-date as of quarter close; Year-to-date with monthly splits Profit & Loss (2x): Year-to-date as of quarter close; Year-to-date with monthly splits Cash Flow (optional): Provided upon request Upon request, segmented reporting (e.g., by site, project, or service line) may be provided where such structure already exists; this phase does not include the design or rebuilding of reporting structures. Quarterly or quarter-over-quarter comparative views, where they derive directly from existing monthly data, may be generated upon request. Annual Items 1099s prepared (not filed) As part of ongoing Accounts Payable execution, vendor information and payment data are maintained to support Form 1099 preparation. This includes collecting and retaining Forms W-9, compiling reportable vendor listings and payment totals, performing TIN matching, and preparing draft 1099 forms for Client review and approval. Filing, remittance, and final submission are completed by the Client or the Client’s tax advisor, with follow-up support provided to resolve rejections or discrepancies identified during submission. Scope (Applies to All Recurring Services): Services do not include a comprehensive examination or review of all transactions and do not constitute an audit, review, or assurance engagement. Adjustments are performed based on issues identified through normal close procedures and information made available during service delivery. The service is designed to surface material issues as encountered and does not guarantee identification of all errors. Services are performed using professional judgment and sampling inherent in a normal close process, rather than exhaustive verification of all activity. Onboarding Schedule Execution Support begins upon engagement. However, any activities tied to defined deadlines or periodic timing expectations (including monthly, quarterly, or annual cycles) require an initial onboarding and settling period of generally up to one (1) month to establish intake channels, approvals, access, and execution cadence. During this period, execution may be partial, deferred, or aligned to the next applicable execution window. Execution Support does not retroactively process activity or guarantee deadline-based outcomes during the onboarding period unless separately scoped. In the first 30–45 days, the focus is stabilizing execution flow, establishing intake and batching cadence, and removing the most visible close blockers so accounting stops consuming founder time, even before longer-term normalization is complete. In addition, for the first client or two, I’m prioritizing onboarding speed and availability to establish a clean baseline quickly. This engagement is intentionally cancellable early if it’s not a fit, allowing founders to move forward without committing to a long experiment or multi-month lock-in. See if it's not for me section below for terms and conditions. System Requirements The Accounting Execution Package operates within the Client’s existing accounting, banking, and payment systems, including platforms such as QuickBooks, Xero, Odoo, or similar systems, along with connected banking or bill-pay tools. Access is limited to view-only permissions and execution preparation or payment staging within Client-owned systems. The Firm does not approve, release, transmit, or authorize funds and does not assume control over cash or banking activity. No system selection, setup, migration, automation development, or system redesign is included as part of the Accounting Execution Package. Where the Accounting Execution Package Sits Strategic planning Business decisions Board meetings / preparation Management / Leadership Staff management and payroll Forecast creation & ownership KPI calculation and interpretation Controller Level Support Issues surfaced, as appropriate Close structure and cadence Consistent month-end execution Financial reporting integrity Standardization and consistency Ongoing system stability Transactional Support Transaction entry Vendor record maintenance Bank & credit card reconciliations Customer invoicing Vendor bill processing Monthly cash visibility snapshots Statutory & Regulatory Compliance (Third-Party or Client-Managed) Sales Tax Filings* Use Tax Filings Property Tax Filings Income Tax Filings City or Local Tax Filings Annual Filings Nexus Analysis State Registrations Business Licenses *Sales tax filings are handled separately, typically through dedicated compliance software or a tax professional. Execution Guidelines: Direction & Boundaries The Accounting Execution Package is designed to maintain a stable, controller-level accounting environment through a consistent month-end close, supported by structured transactional execution. The focus is on preserving alignment, validating reporting integrity, and keeping financials reliable as the business operates and grows. Existing processes, policies, workflows, and system configuration are maintained. Transactional execution and close activities are performed within established standards. If questions arise that affect the accuracy or consistency of the close, general industry practices may be discussed for management consideration, and records can be aligned once an approach is confirmed. The Accounting Execution Package does not include redesigning processes, drafting new accounting policies, or implementing structural accounting changes. Any broader changes identified are documented and scoped separately at the client’s discretion. Capitalization Policy Exception Where a basic capitalization threshold is required to maintain consistent fixed asset treatment, a standard capitalization approach may be defined and applied. Questions About Accounting Execution and Transactional Support If accounting is running through you instead of running on its own, these questions are for you. 🔹How do I get accounting off my plate as a founder? Accounting stays on a founder's plate when no coordinated structure owns execution end to end. AP, AR, reconciliations, and the close end up requiring constant founder input because no single function owns the full flow. The Accounting Execution Package centralizes that execution so transactions are batched, the close runs on schedule, and accounting moves forward without requiring founder involvement to keep it going. 🔹What is outsourced accounting execution and how is it different from a bookkeeper? A bookkeeper records transactions but typically does not own the full execution flow from AP and AR through reconciliations and close. Outsourced accounting execution owns that entire cycle as a coordinated structure, including batched AP and AR processing, reconciliations, and monthly close, within your existing systems. The Accounting Execution Package is built for founders who need the full execution layer handled without managing it themselves. 🔹How do I know if I need outsourced accounting execution or a controller? Execution and controller-level oversight solve different problems. If transactions are not being processed, invoices are not going out, reconciliations are falling behind, and the close is consuming founder time, that is an execution problem. If the system is running but results are inconsistent or hard to trust, that is an oversight problem. The Accounting Execution Package addresses the first scenario. Controller Lite addresses the second through controller-level monthly close. 🔹How much does outsourced accounting cost for a small business? Outsourced accounting execution is typically structured as a monthly retainer. The Accounting Execution Package starts at $4,800 per month and is designed for companies that need their full transactional accounting and close handled as one coordinated function rather than managing fragmented vendors or internal staff. 🔹What happens when a small business has no bookkeeper in place? Without a bookkeeper or internal accounting resource, transactional work stalls, reconciliations fall behind, and the close becomes the founder's problem by default. The Accounting Execution Package is designed for that situation, stepping in to own AP, AR, reconciliations, and close execution within your existing systems so the accounting function runs without requiring you to build an internal team first, or addressing deeper structural issues through a full accounting system rebuild. 🔹Why does accounts payable feel chaotic even when bills are being paid? AP chaos typically shows up when intake is unstructured, bills arrive through multiple channels, and payments are approved on an ad hoc basis rather than a defined cadence. Even when payments go out on time, the lack of batching and process creates uncertainty. The Accounting Execution Package owns AP on a structured weekly cadence so intake is clean, batches are predictable, and cash outflow stays visible without last-minute scrambling. 🔹How do I get invoices sent consistently without managing it myself? Inconsistent invoicing typically occurs when AR has no defined cadence and depends on founder memory or ad hoc requests. The Accounting Execution Package owns AR on a structured batched cadence, preparing and issuing invoices from your existing systems based on your approved inputs so cash inflows stay predictable without requiring you to manage the process directly. 🔹Why does the month-end close keep getting delayed? Close delays typically show up when AP, AR, and reconciliations are not completed in a coordinated flow, creating blockers that compound by the time close begins. Without a coordinated execution structure, each piece creates a blocker for the next. The Accounting Execution Package ties AP, AR, reconciliations, and close into one coordinated cycle so blockers are cleared before they delay the close and prevent a consistent monthly close process. 🔹What is included in outsourced accounts payable and accounts receivable services? Outsourced AP includes bill intake, coding, and preparation of approval-ready payment batches on a weekly cadence. Outsourced AR includes invoice preparation and issuance on a twice-monthly cadence based on client-approved inputs. Neither service includes payment authorization, collections, or pricing decisions, which remain with the client. The Accounting Execution Package owns both within your existing systems as part of a coordinated monthly execution cycle, or supported through flexible hourly accounting support when full execution ownership is not yet needed. 🔹How do small businesses handle 1099 preparation without a full accounting team? 1099 preparation typically becomes a problem when vendor records, W-9 collection, and payment tracking are not maintained consistently throughout the year. The Accounting Execution Package owns vendor information and payment data as part of ongoing AP execution, so 1099 preparation is a natural output of the process rather than a year-end scramble. Pricing & Terms I believe in clean numbers — and clean pricing. Recurring Services Retainer Starting at $4,800 / Month Overage + $150 / Hour Early 2026 Founding Client(s) Pricing Available for new clients onboarding in Q1 2026. Available for new Accounting Execution Package clients onboarding in Q1 2026. $2,400 total introductory reduction applied across the first two full-value monthly invoices. Applies to the fixed monthly retainer only. Promotional discounts do not reduce the monthly retainer threshold used to determine overage billing. Applied as $1,500 off the first full calendar month invoice and $900 off the second calendar month invoice. Applies regardless of workload, complexity, or onboarding pace. Hourly overages remain billed at standard rates. Introductory pricing ends automatically after the second full-value invoice. Cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotional pricing. This pricing is available for new clients who sign on during Q1 2026. All services, scope, and deliverables remain unchanged. This is simply a thank-you for committing early. 🔹 How it works: The not-so-‘Fine Print’ This section exists to remove surprises, not to bury terms. Additional terms may be outlined in your Engagement Agreement, which governs in the event of any conflict. Read This 🔹 Billing Mechanics Invoicing & Timing Payment is due within fifteen (15) days. Services may be paused for non-payment. Fixed-scope packages are billed in advance at the start of each calendar month for the month ahead. If services begin mid-month, the initial invoice is prorated based on the calendar start date. All subsequent full months are billed at the standard monthly rate. Hourly overages incurred are billed on the following month’s invoice. Service Scope The Accounting Execution Package provides structured transactional execution and controller-level accounting support within the defined monthly scope. Services are designed to operate within an existing accounting environment and do not include system rebuilds, historical cleanup, policy design, or separately scoped project work unless explicitly agreed. Third-Party Costs & Access Service fees cover professional services only and do not include third-party software subscriptions. Client-facing accounting platforms are licensed and paid for directly by the Client, with access provided through advisor roles or client-created credentials. 🔹 Hourly Overages What this is Hourly overages apply when work extends beyond the steady monthly cadence within the existing package scope. Requests that extend beyond straightforward clarification and require additional analysis or investigation Additional time required to complete month-end close due to complexity or other factors that extend the close How it works Overage time is tracked in 30-minute increments, rounded up, summarized, and billed the following month Requests are handled within normal business capacity and prioritized alongside recurring client commitments Work outside the existing scope is addressed separately Not included State or federal compliance, including sales tax, property tax, annual filings, or income tax work CFO-level services such as forecasting, budgeting, scenario modeling, or investor reporting Bank access beyond view-only or execution preparation Staff management, supervision, training, or enforcement 🔹 Communication & Support How communication works Communication is integrated into each retainer engagement as part of the structured workflow. This includes clarification of work performed and communication necessary to support the close process and maintain consistency within the scope of the package. What’s included Questions or discussion points addressed within the existing workflow are incorporated into the engagement. This includes straightforward clarification and context related to work already being performed. Communication channels Communication occurs via email and scheduled meetings. Slack, Microsoft Teams, text messaging, and other real-time platforms are not used for ongoing support. Response timing Responses are provided in a timely manner based on complexity and current execution demands. When overages apply Requests that require additional analysis, research, or work beyond the structured workflow are addressed as hourly overages. See Hourly Overages section above for details. 🔹 Annual Rate Adjustment Rates increase 5% every 12 months to account for inflation and ongoing system upkeep. The sign-up month is treated as Month 0, regardless of sign-on date. The 12-month cycle begins with the first full calendar month of service. Rate adjustments are automatic and predictable. Services may be canceled at any time if no longer a fit. Reference Only 🔹 Client Responsibility Clients are expected to provide timely cooperation and access to records. If information is withheld or access is restricted, services may be paused. Persistent delays or unresponsiveness may result in paused service or early termination. 🔹 If It’s Not for You If it's not for me Either Party Either party may cancel services at any time. First 30 Days of the Engagement (Initial Fit Period) The full monthly rate is billed for the month in which cancellation occurs, regardless of cancellation date, and is not prorated, with any previously applied promotional reductions remaining in effect. Hourly overages incurred prior to the effective date of cancellation are billed on the final invoice. The final invoice is issued immediately upon written notice of termination and is due under standard payment terms. Post 30 Days After Engagement The full monthly rate is billed for the month in which cancellation occurs, regardless of cancellation date, and is not prorated, with any previously applied promotional reductions remaining in effect. A termination fee equal to one additional month of service is charged, separate from the final month’s billing. Hourly overages incurred prior to the effective date of cancellation are billed on the final invoice. The final invoice is issued immediately upon written notice of termination and is due under standard payment terms. Financial Clarity, One Post at a Time 1 2 3 Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Book a Call

Fractional controller services for growing businesses where the accounting structure no longer holds up and needs stabilization, not just maintenance. Financial Clarity Package Fractional controller services to stabilize broken accounting systems Stabilize and rebuild the accounting system for long-term reliability Financial Clarity Package by Brett J. Federer Accounting, APC The Financial Clarity Package delivers fractional controller services for companies in Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, Orange County, and throughout California whose accounting systems are no longer holding up under growth, even while bookkeeping and tools continue to generate reports that feel complete but no longer feel reliable. At this stage, the issue is not effort or access to data. It is unresolved accounting friction that quietly undermines trust in the numbers. This package replaces reactive fixes with a durable accounting structure built to hold up under growth. Once the system is stable, monthly closes keep numbers current and quarterly closes finalize them with the consistency and discipline leadership and boards expect. Operating assumption: A dedicated bookkeeper is required and may be full-time, part-time, fractional, outsourced, or contract-based. What Quietly Breaks What Replaces It Ad Hoc Workflows Delayed Close Unreliable History Inconsistent Numbers Founder Dependency Financial Clarity Package Codified Accounting Systems Predictable Close Defensible History Structurally Reliable System Independence How the Structure Is Built The Financial Clarity Package begins with a one-time stabilization phase where fractional controller services focus on rebuilding the accounting system at its foundation. This work is intentional, sequenced, and finite, replacing reactive fixes with a structure that holds under growth. You’re the expert at what you do. Let me keep the financials stable so you can keep building. Behind every clean report is one consistent system — built to scale with you, not slow you down. Financial Clarity Package Structure Implementation & Onboarding (Typically 6-12 Months) One-Time Stabilization (Foundation Build) Implementation & System Build This phase stabilizes and restructures the accounting system to support reliable monthly and quarterly reporting. Reconciliations are untangled, close mechanics are defined, and workflows are rebuilt so results hold consistently. The goal is a system that behaves predictably as the business grows. Close Architecture & Reporting Cadence The close process is rebuilt with clear structure, timing, and review points. Dependencies and handoffs are defined so monthly and quarterly closes run consistently and without last-minute pressure. This establishes a cadence leadership can trust. System-Level Scope (Accounting) Scope is limited to financial structure and reporting integrity. Excludes IT development, system coding, and operational process design. Scope includes, but not limited to: Reconciliations & Corrections: Material balance issues as identified System Stabilization: Account mappings, configurations, and automation Accounting Infrastructure: Policy and internal controls Reporting Alignment: Reporting structure and close outputs standardized ERP Stabilization: Accounting-side remediation post-conversion Issue Intake & Prioritization Framework During Implementation, clients are encouraged to surface known issues, gaps, and pain points early. Issues are logged, grouped, and prioritized within the implementation roadmap. Not all issues are addressed immediately. Sequencing is determined based on system integrity, risk, and dependency order. Bookkeeper Coordination & Standards Alignment Accounting standards and classifications identified during the close are communicated to the bookkeeper for visibility or alignment with the reporting structure. All company staff report to internal management. Brett J. Federer Accounting does not manage or supervise client personnel. Responsibility for implementation, compliance, and enforcement of these standards remains with client management. These standards apply throughout implementation and ongoing support. Transition Readiness & Risk Reduction As the system stabilizes, recurring risks and fragile areas are identified and reduced through structural design. Access is intentionally reduced toward the end of implementation to confirm the structure holds under normal operating conditions. This is a high-touch phase with elevated access during setup, followed by a transition into structured ongoing support once the system is stable. During implementation, management is strongly encouraged to surface known issues, gaps, and priorities so they can be evaluated and intentionally sequenced into the build. This ensures the structure reflects real operating needs from the start, rather than relying on open-ended discovery later. Recurring Services Monthly Accounting Oversight (Preservation) Monthly Close Discipline (Soft Close) Each month, the books move through normal close procedures to maintain a dependable, internally reliable view of financial performance without prematurely locking the period, preserving flexibility while ensuring numbers remain internally consistent, comparable across periods, and reliable for ongoing decisions. Cash Visibility Graphs Each month, standardized graphs track total cash balance, cash in, and cash out. These views are presented consistently month over month so changes in burn, inflows, or pressure surface early rather than after issues compound. Historical and current-state visibility only, not forward projections. System Hygiene The close structure, reporting logic, and cadence established during implementation are preserved as the business grows. Minor bookkeeping items identified during the close are communicated to the bookkeeper for visibility, with recurring patterns escalated to management as appropriate. Material Variance & Accounting Risk Review Material variances, unusual entries, or compliance risks are flagged directly as they surface, so they don’t get lost in the numbers. Not a standing deliverable, but a safeguard to ensure important issues are surfaced clearly when they arise. Quarterly Close & Internal Financial Package (Validation) Close Finalization (Hard Close) At quarter-end, a hard close is performed with key accounts reconciled, adjustments finalized, and the period locked, producing the definitive internal financial package used for leadership review, internal governance, and informed decision-making. Financial Validation Each quarter, a structured internal validation is performed to confirm periods are fully closed, reconciliations are complete, material variances are identified and understood from an accounting perspective, and reporting remains structurally consistent. The objective is to confirm the financial system continues to operate as designed and produces reliable internal-use financials. Quarterly Financial Package (Internal Use Only) Prepared from client-provided records; not an audit or review or fraud detection. All financials are prepared for internal management use only. If unusual items are identified, they will be communicated promptly. Scope includes: Balance Sheet (2x): Year-to-date as of quarter close; Year-to-date with monthly splits Profit & Loss (2x): Year-to-date as of quarter close; Year-to-date with monthly splits Cash Flow (optional): Provided upon request Upon request, segmented reporting (e.g., by site, project, or service line) may be provided where such structure already exists; this phase does not include the design or rebuilding of reporting structures. Quarterly or quarter-over-quarter comparative views, where they derive directly from existing monthly data, may be generated upon request. Scope (Applies to All Recurring Services): The Financial Clarity Package operates within a structured implementation and month-end close cadence rather than real-time or on-call interaction. Work is completed asynchronously within client-owned systems and validated through the close and defined implementation milestones. This phase focuses on building, correcting, or stabilizing accounting structure, with standards, policies, and foundational issues addressed as needed to establish a durable accounting system. Communication occurs through email, scheduled meetings, and documented requests, rather than real-time messaging platforms such as Slack or Teams. Requests are handled based on implementation priorities and close-cycle requirements. Services do not include a comprehensive examination or review of all transactions and do not constitute an audit, review, or assurance engagement. Adjustments are performed based on issues identified through normal close procedures and information made available during service delivery. The service is designed to surface material issues as encountered but does not guarantee identification of all errors. Work is performed using professional judgment and sampling inherent in a normal month-end close process, rather than exhaustive verification of all activity. Onboarding Schedule If onboarding begins late in a quarter, a built-in grace period allows time to stabilize systems and reconciliations. In these cases, the first full quarterly close begins the following quarter. From there, reporting cadence aligns naturally so leadership receives consistent first-half and second-half visibility each year. System Requirements The Financial Clarity Package requires an accounting system capable of supporting structured workflows, consistent closes, and scalable reporting. QuickBooks is generally not a good fit for this level of structure, and companies operating on QuickBooks may be better served by Controller Lite or a platform transition before engaging in the Financial Clarity Package. Where the Financial Clarity Package Sits Strategic planning Business decisions Board meetings / preparation Management / Leadership Staff management and payroll Forecast creation & ownership KPI calculation and interpretation Controller Level Support Policies and internal controls Close structure and cadence Month-end close execution Financial reporting integrity Standardization and consistency System stability and efficiency Transactional Support (Bookkeeper) * Bookkeeper may be full-time, part-time, fractional, outsourced, or contract-based. Transaction entry Vendor record maintenance Bank & credit card reconciliations Customer invoicing Vendor bill processing Weekly cash visibility snapshots Statutory & Regulatory Compliance (Third-Party or Client-Managed) Sales Tax Filings Use Tax Filings Property Tax Filings Income Tax Filings City or Local Tax Filings Annual Filings Nexus Analysis State Registrations Business Licenses Change Guidelines: Process, Policy, Procedures, Client Ownership Management Decision Internal Implementation & Training Internal Enforcement Brett J. Federer Accounting Identify Accounting Requirements Draft & Recommend Changes Financial structure only works when ownership is clear. The framework above defines how changes to accounting processes, policies, and procedures are handled, and where responsibility intentionally sits. During implementation, issues and priorities may be surfaced by management or identified through system review. Within that context, Brett J. Federer Accounting evaluates accounting requirements, determines how accounting data flows through the system, and designs system-based solutions that fit the overall structure, while management retains decision-making authority and responsibility for adoption. As part of this work, Brett J. Federer Accounting may configure accounting-system controls and parameters that govern how information enters and flows through the accounting system. This can include setting required versus optional data fields, approval sequencing, monetary thresholds for additional approvals, submission cutoffs, and timing rules that determine when transactions are considered accounting-ready for a given period. These configurations establish how and when transactions are recognized in accounting once approvals occur. Responsibility for obtaining approvals, meeting internal deadlines, and enforcing compliance with those requirements remains with management. The Financial Clarity Package’s role is to support the accounting function by identifying requirements, risks, and gaps; evaluating appropriate approaches; and drafting formal accounting policies where required. This may include detailed analysis of contracts, transactions, and historical activity when accounting standards demand it, as well as preparing historical adjustments once a policy is approved, applying professional judgment based on materiality, cost-benefit considerations, and available information rather than assumptions of absolute precision or guaranteed outcomes. As part of this work, Brett J. Federer Accounting may participate in meetings with the client’s external audit team to discuss technical accounting matters. Such meetings are coordinated by the client and limited to technical accounting support within the defined scope. Participation in board meetings or governance forums is outside scope unless separately agreed. Management retains full ownership over decisions. Whether a recommendation is accepted, deferred, or declined remains entirely the client’s call. When management elects to proceed, work is performed within the approved policy framework. If business circumstances change over time, previously adopted policies may require reassessment or revision, which is handled as a separately scoped engagement based on the facts and requirements at that time. Implementation, training, and enforcement of internal behavior remain client-owned. Brett J. Federer Accounting does not manage personnel, monitor compliance behavior, or act as an escalation point for non-adherence. Its role is to design sound accounting frameworks, document them clearly, and apply approved policies accurately within the accounting system. Questions About Accounting System Rebuilds and Financial Clarity If your accounting foundation is in place but the close feels harder to trust than it should, these questions are for you. 🔹How do I know if my accounting system needs to be rebuilt or just cleaned up? Cleanup addresses isolated errors that can be corrected without changing how the system works. A rebuild addresses the structure that produced those errors in the first place. The clearest signal is repetition. If the same problems keep resurfacing after corrections, the system itself is the issue. The Financial Clarity Package is designed for that scenario, replacing reactive fixes with a structure built to hold as the business grows. 🔹What actually happens during an accounting system rebuild? Implementation begins with stabilizing the foundation. This includes untangling reconciliations, defining close mechanics, rebuilding workflows, and establishing reporting structure. Known issues are surfaced early, prioritized, and addressed in sequence based on system integrity and dependency order. The goal is a system that behaves predictably across close cycles without requiring structural intervention. Once stable, the engagement transitions into ongoing controller-level close support. 🔹How long does it take to rebuild an accounting system? A full accounting system rebuild typically takes six to twelve months depending on the complexity of the existing structure and the volume of issues that need to be resolved. The Financial Clarity Package is structured around that timeline, with a minimum six-month implementation term followed by a transition into recurring support once the system operates consistently on its own. 🔹Is QuickBooks or Odoo the right platform for a growing business? QuickBooks works well at early stages but tends to show structural limitations as close complexity and reporting requirements increase. Odoo is a common destination for growing businesses, but an ERP migration does not automatically resolve accounting structure problems. The accounting side still needs to be stabilized before clean execution can follow. The Financial Clarity Package addresses that layer regardless of platform and can work alongside or after an ERP transition where the accounting structure was not fully resolved. 🔹What types of companies hire the Financial Clarity Package? The Financial Clarity Package is designed for growth-stage businesses where the accounting system is no longer holding up under scale. This typically includes companies with increasing transaction volume, expanding operations, or more complex reporting needs where financial results require ongoing correction, reconciliation, or explanation to be trusted. It is most commonly used by companies that already have a bookkeeper but need the underlying accounting structure rebuilt so results become consistent and reliable. 🔹When is the right time to engage a controller-level accounting service? The right time is when financial reporting stops being dependable. This often shows up as delayed closes, numbers that require explanation before they can be used, or recurring issues that corrections do not resolve. At that point, the need is no longer additional bookkeeping. It is a structured accounting system with defined close mechanics and reporting consistency. That is the role of controller-level support. For a broader breakdown of when businesses hire controller-level accounting support, see our Controller Services page. 🔹Why are my accounting records wrong even though we have a bookkeeper? A bookkeeper maintains transactions but does not typically own the close process or the structure behind it. When the accounting system was never designed to produce consistent results at scale, errors accumulate not because of effort but because there is nothing holding the system to a standard. Correcting individual entries without addressing that structure means the same problems continue to resurface, particularly when accounting support is handled on an hourly accounting basis without a defined system structure. The Financial Clarity Package rebuilds the foundation so the system produces reliable results rather than requiring ongoing correction. 🔹What should I do if my financial statements do not match my bank accounts? A mismatch between financial statements and bank accounts usually points to reconciliations that were skipped, partially completed, or never properly closed across periods. This is a structural problem, not just a math error. The Financial Clarity Package addresses these gaps during implementation by untangling existing reconciliations and rebuilding the close process so results are internally consistent and defensible going forward. 🔹Why do my numbers keep changing after the books are supposed to be closed? Numbers that shift after closing usually indicate the period was never fully locked or that post-close adjustments are being made without a structured review process. Over time this makes period-over-period comparisons unreliable and erodes confidence in reporting. The Financial Clarity Package establishes a close architecture with defined review points and a hard close at quarter end so periods stay locked and results stay stable. 🔹What does it cost to rebuild an accounting system for a small business? Accounting system rebuilds are structured as a monthly implementation retainer rather than a fixed project fee, which keeps costs predictable and tied to actual progress. The Financial Clarity Package implementation starts at $5,500 per month with a minimum six-month term, reflecting the time required to stabilize the system, establish a consistent close, and transition into ongoing support. 🔹What is the difference between a controller and an accountant for a growing business? An accountant typically focuses on compliance, tax preparation, and historical reporting. A controller focuses on the system that produces financial information: the close process, reporting structure, and internal controls that determine whether numbers are reliable in the first place. A bookkeeper maintains the day-to-day records beneath both. For growing businesses, the gap that shows up most often is at the controller level, where financial reporting starts requiring constant correction or explanation rather than functioning as a dependable management tool. 🔹How do I choose the right controller-level support for a growing business? The right fit is not defined by where the engagement comes from, but by what the role actually owns. If the work centers on maintaining existing tasks, the underlying issues tend to persist. If it centers on close mechanics, reporting consistency, and system structure, the numbers begin to hold on their own. For growing businesses, that distinction shows up quickly. One approach keeps things moving. The other builds a system where results stay reliable without constant intervention. The difference is visible in how the close runs, how reports are produced, and whether leadership can rely on the numbers without second-guessing them. For a broader view of how controller-level support fits within the full accounting structure, see the Services Overview . Pricing & Terms I believe in clean numbers — and clean pricing. Implementation (Typically 6-12 Months) Retainer Starting at $5,500 / Month Overage + $150 / Hour Recurring Services Retainer Starting at $2,400 / Month Overage + $150 / Hour To honor the upfront investment in the Financial Clarity Package, future scoped projects are discounted 20%. Early 2026 Founding Client(s) Pricing Available for new clients onboarding in Q1 2026. For Financial Clarity Package clients who begin implementation between January 1 and March 31, 2026. 10% reduction to all implementation charges Implementation: 10% off all implementation charges for the full implementation phase Applies to the implementation retainer and any hourly overage Applies regardless of workload, complexity, or onboarding pace Discount ends automatically upon transition to recurring services No discounts apply to ongoing monthly services Can not be combined with any other discount This pricing is available for new clients who initiate implementation during Q1 2026. All services, scope, and deliverables remain unchanged. This is simply a thank-you for committing early. 🔹 How it works: The not-so-‘Fine Print’ This section exists to remove surprises, not to bury terms. Additional terms may be outlined in your Engagement Agreement, which governs in the event of any conflict. Read This 🔹 Transition to Recurring Cadence Following implementation, there is a 30-day transition period before the recurring cadence fully takes over. During this time, services are billed at the recurring rate, with focused attention on confirming that system configurations, workflows, and reporting continue to operate as designed. This transition is intended to ensure continuity between implementation and ongoing service, not to extend implementation scope or introduce new accounting policies or process redesign. If additional work outside the defined scope is identified during this period, it is addressed through a separately scoped engagement. 🔹 Hourly Overages What this is Hourly overages apply when work extends beyond the steady monthly cadence within the existing package scope. Requests that extend beyond straightforward clarification and require additional analysis or investigation Additional time required to complete month-end close due to complexity or other factors that extend the close How it works Overage time is tracked in 30-minute increments, rounded up, summarized, and billed the following month Requests are handled within normal business capacity and prioritized alongside recurring client commitments Work outside the existing scope is addressed separately Not included State or federal compliance, including sales tax, property tax, annual filings, or income tax work CFO-level services such as forecasting, budgeting, scenario modeling, or investor reporting Bank access beyond view-only or execution preparation Staff management, supervision, training, or enforcement 🔹 Communication & Support How communication works Communication is integrated into each retainer engagement as part of the structured workflow. This includes clarification of work performed and communication necessary to support the close process and maintain consistency within the scope of the package. What’s included Questions or discussion points addressed within the existing workflow are incorporated into the engagement. This includes straightforward clarification and context related to work already being performed. Communication channels Communication occurs via email and scheduled meetings. Slack, Microsoft Teams, text messaging, and other real-time platforms are not used for ongoing support. Response timing Responses are provided in a timely manner based on complexity and current execution demands. When overages apply Requests that require additional analysis, research, or work beyond the structured workflow are addressed as hourly overages. See Hourly Overages section above for details. 🔹 Bookkeeper Disruption & Continuity If your bookkeeper leaves, changes, or performance drops and your books become unreliable, your monthly package temporarily adjusts to 150%. This adjustment applies during disruption and ends once workflows are stable. Clients will be notified when triggered. Short-Term Accounting Support may be elected instead when no accounting staff is in place. See details under Short-Term Accounting Support here → Reference Only 🔹 Onboarding Billing Standards The monthly implementation retainer is billed as a fixed fee and is not itemized by hours. Hourly overage is based on tracked time when workload exceeds the scope supported by the retainer in a given month. During implementation, only hourly overage is summarized on invoices. Time during implementation is tracked in 30-minute increments, rounded up. Time is summarized at a high level (e.g., policy setup, workflow testing, documentation) to keep invoices clear and predictable. To avoid billing surprises, no more than 10 billable hours per client per day apply during the implementation phase. 🔹 Billing Mechanics Invoicing & Timing Payment is due within fifteen (15) days. Services may be paused for non-payment. Implementation & Onboarding retainers and fixed-scope recurring packages are billed in advance as monthly invoices, beginning upon engagement start and thereafter at the start of each calendar month. When Implementation & Onboarding begins mid-month, the initial implementation invoice is prorated based on the calendar start date. All subsequent implementation months and all recurring services are billed at the full monthly rate. Any Implementation & Onboarding hourly overages or Recurring Services Overage Hours incurred are billed on the following month’s invoice. Implementation Term The Implementation & Onboarding phase is structured as a minimum six (6) month term and culminates in a transition to fixed-scope recurring services. This reflects the time required to stabilize systems, establish a consistent close, and complete the transition. Onboarding is temporary by design but subject to the minimum term outlined above. Extensions beyond the 6–12 month goal are determined at my discretion based on scope and progress. Implementation concludes when the system operates predictably across multiple close cycles without structural intervention. Scope & Third-Party Costs Services cover professional accounting services only and do not include third-party software subscriptions.Client-facing accounting platforms are licensed and paid for directly by the client, with access provided through advisor roles or client-created credentials. 🔹 Annual Rate Adjustment Rates increase 5% every 12 months to account for inflation and ongoing system upkeep. The sign-up month is treated as Month 0, regardless of sign-on date. The 12-month cycle begins with the first full calendar month of service. Rate adjustments are automatic and predictable. Services may be canceled at any time if no longer a fit. 🔹 Client Responsibility Clients are expected to provide timely cooperation and access to records. Delays may extend onboarding. If information is withheld or access is restricted, services may be paused. Persistent delays or unresponsiveness may result in paused service or early termination. 🔹 If It’s Not for You Either Party Either party may cancel services at any time. First 30 Days of the Engagement (Initial Fit Period) The full monthly rate is billed for the month in which cancellation occurs, regardless of cancellation date, and is not prorated, with any previously applied promotional reductions remaining in effect. Hourly overages incurred prior to the effective date of cancellation are billed on the final invoice. The final invoice is issued immediately upon written notice of termination and is due under standard payment terms. Post 30 Days After Engagement The full monthly rate is billed for the month in which cancellation occurs, regardless of cancellation date, and is not prorated, with any previously applied promotional reductions remaining in effect. A termination fee equal to one additional month of service is charged, separate from the final month’s billing. Hourly overages incurred prior to the effective date of cancellation are billed on the final invoice. The final invoice is issued immediately upon written notice of termination and is due under standard payment terms. Hospitality Implementation Pilot For Hospitality Founders While hospitality looks simple from the outside. Inside, it is one of the hardest environments to manage cash flow, labor, and vendor pressure at the same time. Revenue can be strong while margins quietly weaken. That makes financial structure essential, not optional. Hospitality is not yet my primary specialization. It is an industry I am intentionally stepping into because it demands exactly the kind of financial systems, discipline, and structure I focus on building. I work best with founders who care about clarity, operational control, and creating financial systems that allow the business to grow without chaos. To support founders aligned with that direction, I offer: 10% off all implementation charges for select hospitality operators, including: • Boutique hotels or inns • Luxury vacation rentals • Design forward short term rentals • Founder led retreat properties • Experience based lodging concepts • Early stage or growth hospitality brands • Vineyard estates or destination wine properties • Intimate or design led wedding venues • Wellness-forward concepts that blend lodging with experience I am intentionally taking on only a small number of hospitality clients while I continue building hands on expertise in this industry. This discount reflects my investment in learning the operational realities of hospitality while maintaining the same controller-grade standards. The structure, rigor, and expectations remain the same. This offer does not apply to landlords, short term rental arbitrage groups, restaurants, or capital heavy real estate portfolios. All services, scope, and deliverables remain unchanged. This discount may not be combined with Early Client Pricing. This hospitality discount applies to the Financial Clarity Package implementation phase only and ends automatically upon transition to recurring services. Financial Clarity, One Post at a Time 1 2 3 Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Book a Call

An outsourced controller keeps your monthly close steady and your financial reporting reliable without rebuilding your accounting system. Controller Lite Package For businesses with an accounting foundation that already works Maintain clarity through an outsourced controller and a steady close Controller Lite Package by Brett J. Federer Accounting, APC The Controller Lite Package supports growth-stage businesses that need an outsourced controller providing oversight oversight in Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, Orange County, and throughout California, delivering clearer, more reliable financial reporting without rebuilding their accounting systems. It focuses on stabilizing close discipline, improving consistency, reducing financial risk, and increasing visibility within the structure already in place. Because the system is preserved rather than redesigned, many companies continue operating within Controller Lite long term, using it to maintain a steady close and dependable internal reporting unless structural issues later require a rebuild. Unlike the Financial Clarity Package, Controller Lite operates within an existing accounting setup rather than redesigning it. Because the system is not being rebuilt, the service is platform flexible and can be delivered across a wide range of accounting software platforms, including QuickBooks. The goal is simple: an outsourced controller adds a consistent oversight layer that supports reliable financials within their current structure, so decisions are based on checked numbers rather than assumptions. Issues are surfaced as part of the normal close process, without rebuilding the accounting system. Operating assumption: A dedicated bookkeeper is required and may be full-time, part-time, fractional, outsourced, or contract-based. What You Have What You Gain Irregular Close Rythem Reactive Monthly Closes Implicit Assumptions Inconsistent Numbers Consistent Treatment Steady Cadence Calm Close + = Explicit Assumptions Internally Reliable Numbers Controller Lite Package Judgment applied How Stability Is Maintained Controller Lite preserves the existing accounting structure by applying consistent close discipline, documented assumptions, and structured issue escalation, with an outsourced controller providing that oversight layer. Known limitations are tracked, recurring risks are surfaced as they arise, and material issues are communicated without rebuilding systems or redesigning workflows. You’ve built a foundation that supports the business. With a steady close, I'll keep the numbers steady. Operating within a consistent close and clearly understood assumptions that keep the month-to-month predictable. Controller Lite Package Structure Existing Accounting Foundation (Inherited Structure) The Controller Lite Package assumes an existing accounting environment that is already structurally sound. This package does not include rebuilding systems, rewriting policies, redesigning workflows, or remediating historical accounting. Instead, it operates within the current accounting structure to preserve consistency and reliability. Typical conditions include: An established chart of accounts and reporting structure A defined monthly close process and cadence A bookkeeper or internal resource performing transactional work No requirement for structural accounting changes or historical rebuilds (Though, can be scoped separately). This foundation is maintained, not altered. Recurring Services Monthly Accounting Oversight (Preservation) Monthly Close Discipline (Soft Close) Each month, the books move through normal close procedures to maintain a dependable, internally reliable view of financial performance without prematurely locking the period, preserving flexibility while ensuring numbers remain internally consistent, comparable across periods, and reliable for ongoing decisions. Cash Visibility Graphs Each month, standardized graphs track total cash balance, cash in, and cash out. These views are presented consistently month over month so changes in burn, inflows, or pressure surface early rather than after issues compound. Historical and current-state visibility only, not forward projections. Bookkeeper Coordination Accounting standards are applied through normal close procedures, with issues communicated to the bookkeeper for correction or visibility. All company staff report to internal management. Brett J. Federer Accounting does not manage or supervise client personnel. Responsibility for implementation, compliance, and enforcement of these standards remains with client management. Material Variance & Accounting Risk Review Material variances, unusual entries, or compliance risks are flagged directly as they surface, so they don’t get lost in the numbers. Not a standing deliverable, but a safeguard to ensure important issues are surfaced clearly when they arise. Quarterly Close & Internal Financial Package (Validation) Close Finalization (Hard Close) At quarter-end, a hard close is performed with key accounts reconciled, adjustments finalized, and the period locked, producing the definitive internal financial package used for leadership review, internal governance, and informed decision-making. Financial Validation Each quarter, a structured internal validation is performed to confirm periods are fully closed, reconciliations are complete, material variances are identified and understood from an accounting perspective, and reporting remains structurally consistent. The objective is to confirm the financial system continues to operate as designed and produces reliable internal-use financials. Quarterly Financial Package (Internal Use Only) Prepared from client-provided records; not an audit or review or fraud detection. All financials are prepared for internal management use only. If unusual items are identified, they will be communicated promptly. Scope includes: Balance Sheet (2x): Year-to-date as of quarter close; Year-to-date with monthly splits Profit & Loss (2x): Year-to-date as of quarter close; Year-to-date with monthly splits Cash Flow (optional): Provided upon request Upon request, segmented reporting (e.g., by site, project, or service line) may be provided where such structure already exists; this phase does not include the design or rebuilding of reporting structures. Quarterly or quarter-over-quarter comparative views, where they derive directly from existing monthly data, may be generated upon request. Scope (Applies to All Recurring Services): The Controller Lite Package operates within a structured month-end close cadence rather than real-time or on-call interaction. Work is completed asynchronously within client-owned systems and validated through the monthly and quarterly close process. This service is designed to preserve and validate an already functional accounting environment, keeping reporting consistent, reliable, and aligned as the business operates and grows. Communication occurs through email, scheduled meetings, and documented requests, rather than real-time messaging platforms such as Slack or Teams. Requests are handled in alignment with the close cycle and reporting priorities. Services do not include a comprehensive examination or review of all transactions and do not constitute an audit, review, or assurance engagement. Adjustments are performed based on issues identified through normal close procedures and information made available during service delivery. The service is designed to surface material issues as encountered but does not guarantee identification of all errors. Work is performed using professional judgment and sampling inherent in a normal month-end close process, rather than exhaustive verification of all activity. If onboarding begins late in a quarter, a built-in grace period allows time to stabilize systems and reconciliations. In these cases, the first full quarterly close begins the following quarter. From there, reporting cadence aligns naturally so leadership receives consistent first-half and second-half visibility each year. Onboarding Schedule System Requirements Controller Lite is platform-flexible and operates within the company’s existing accounting system, including QuickBooks. Because the system is already in place, the focus is on improving reporting discipline and close consistency inside the current platform rather than redesigning the underlying structure. Where the Controller Lite Package Sits Strategic planning Business decisions Board meetings / preparation Management / Leadership Staff management and payroll Forecast creation & ownership KPI calculation and interpretation Controller Level Support Issues surfaced, as appropriate Close structure and cadence Consistent month-end execution Financial reporting integrity Monthly cash graphs (3 views) Ongoing system stability * Bookkeeper may be full-time, part-time, fractional, outsourced, or contract-based. Transactional Support (Bookkeeper) Transaction entry Vendor record maintenance Bank & credit card reconciliations Customer invoicing Vendor bill processing Weekly cash visibility snapshots Statutory & Regulatory Compliance (Third-Party or Client-Managed) Sales Tax Filings Use Tax Filings Property Tax Filings Income Tax Filings City or Local Tax Filings Annual Filings Nexus Analysis State Registrations Business Licenses Change Guidelines: Process, Policy, Procedures, The Controller Lite Package is designed to maintain a stable, controller-level accounting environment through a consistent month-end close. The focus is on preserving alignment, validating reporting integrity, and keeping financials reliable as the business operates and grows. Existing processes, policies, and workflows are maintained. If questions arise that affect the accuracy or consistency of the close, general industry practices may be discussed for management consideration, and records can be aligned once an approach is confirmed. The Controller Lite Package does not include redesigning processes, drafting new accounting policies, or implementing structural accounting changes. Any broader changes are identified, documented, and scoped separately at the client’s discretion. Capitalization Policy Exception Where a basic capitalization threshold is required to maintain consistent fixed asset treatment, a standard capitalization approach may be defined and applied. Questions About Close Consistency and Outsourced Controller Support If your close is running but the numbers are harder to trust than they should be, start here. 🔹How do I get my monthly close to run consistently? A consistent close comes from structure, not effort. When timing, review sequencing, and assumptions are applied the same way every period, the close stops depending on who is available or how complex the month was. The Controller Lite package builds that cadence into your existing accounting environment so the close runs reliably without restarting each cycle. 🔹Why do my financial reports look different every month? Differences in reporting usually trace back to inconsistent classification, timing, or review standards rather than changes in the business itself. When those standards are not applied uniformly, results become hard to compare. The Controller Lite package stabilizes how the numbers are produced so reports are consistent across periods. 🔹Do I need a controller if my accounting already works? If your accounting system functions but results require extra effort to trust or explain, the gap is usually not the system itself but the consistency of the close. The Controller Lite package adds structured oversight to an already working system so results stay reliable as the business grows. 🔹How do I know if I need ongoing oversight instead of a one-time cleanup? If your accounting is generally functional but results feel inconsistent or require repeated review, the issue is usually ongoing structure rather than historical errors. A cleanup addresses past problems, while deeper structural issues may require a full rebuild of the accounting system. The Controller Lite package focuses on keeping the system stable going forward so issues do not continue to resurface. 🔹How much does an outsourced controller cost per month? Outsourced controller services are structured as a monthly retainer and cost significantly less than hiring a full-time controller. The Controller Lite package starts at $2,400 per month and is designed for growth-stage businesses that need consistent close oversight without the cost of building an internal accounting team. 🔹How do small businesses manage accounting without a full-time controller? Most growth-stage businesses handle this through an outsourced controller, a monthly engagement that delivers close oversight and reporting consistency without the cost of a full-time hire. Controller Lite is structured this way, operating within your existing accounting system on a consistent monthly cadence so the close runs reliably without adding internal headcount, or shifting into an hourly engagement when a retainer is not the right fit. 🔹When does a business outgrow its current accounting setup? The signal is usually not a single breaking point but a gradual increase in effort. The close takes longer, reports require more explanation, and confidence in the numbers starts to slip even when nothing is obviously wrong. That pattern typically means the accounting system needs consistent oversight to hold at the current level of activity rather than a full rebuild. Pricing & Terms I believe in clean numbers — and clean pricing. Recurring Services Retainer Starting at $2,400 / Month Overage + $150 / Hour Early 2026 Founding Client(s) Pricing Available for new clients onboarding in Q1 2026. For Controller Lite clients who sign on between January 1 and March 31, 2026. 10% reduction to all fixed monthly charges for the first three full months of service Monthly Charges: 10% off the fixed monthly package costs Applies regardless of workload, complexity, or onboarding pace Discount ends automatically upon issuance of the third monthly invoice Overage Hours remain optional and governed by standard terms (not discounted) Cannot be combined with any other discounts This pricing is available for new clients who sign on during Q1 2026. All services, scope, and deliverables remain unchanged. This is simply a thank-you for committing early. 🔹 How it works: The not-so-‘Fine Print’ This section exists to remove surprises, not to bury terms. Additional terms may be outlined in your Engagement Agreement, which governs in the event of any conflict. Read This 🔹 Hourly Overages What this is Hourly overages apply when work extends beyond the steady monthly cadence within the existing package scope. Requests that extend beyond straightforward clarification and require additional analysis or investigation Additional time required to complete month-end close due to complexity or other factors that extend the close How it works Overage time is tracked in 30-minute increments, rounded up, summarized, and billed the following month Requests are handled within normal business capacity and prioritized alongside recurring client commitments Work outside the existing scope is addressed separately Not included State or federal compliance, including sales tax, property tax, annual filings, or income tax work CFO-level services such as forecasting, budgeting, scenario modeling, or investor reporting Bank access beyond view-only or execution preparation Staff management, supervision, training, or enforcement 🔹 Communication & Support How communication works Communication is integrated into each retainer engagement as part of the structured workflow. This includes clarification of work performed and communication necessary to support the close process and maintain consistency within the scope of the package. What’s included Questions or discussion points addressed within the existing workflow are incorporated into the engagement. This includes straightforward clarification and context related to work already being performed. Communication channels Communication occurs via email and scheduled meetings. Slack, Microsoft Teams, text messaging, and other real-time platforms are not used for ongoing support. Response timing Responses are provided in a timely manner based on complexity and current execution demands. When overages apply Requests that require additional analysis, research, or work beyond the structured workflow are addressed as hourly overages. See Hourly Overages section above for details. 🔹 Bookkeeper Disruption & Continuity If your bookkeeper leaves, changes, or performance drops and your books become unreliable, your monthly package temporarily adjusts to 150%. This adjustment applies during disruption and ends once workflows are stable. Clients will be notified when triggered. Short-Term Accounting Support may be elected instead when no accounting staff is in place. See details under Short-Term Accounting Support here → Reference Only 🔹 Billing Mechanics Invoicing & Timing Payment is due within fifteen (15) days. Services may be paused for non-payment. Fixed-scope monthly packages are billed in advance at the start of each calendar month for the month ahead. If services begin mid-month, the initial invoice is prorated based on the calendar start date. All subsequent months are billed at the full monthly rate. Overage Hours incurred are billed on the following month’s invoice. Service Scope Controller Lite covers ongoing professional accounting support within the defined monthly scope. Services are structured to support an existing accounting environment and do not include system rebuilds, historical cleanup, policy design, or separately scoped project work unless explicitly agreed. Third-Party Costs & Access Service fees cover professional services only and do not include third-party software subscriptions. Client-facing accounting platforms are licensed and paid for directly by the client, with access provided through advisor roles or client-created credentials. 🔹 Annual Rate Adjustment Rates increase 5% every 12 months to account for inflation and ongoing system upkeep. The sign-up month is treated as Month 0, regardless of sign-on date. The 12-month cycle begins with the first full calendar month of service. Rate adjustments are automatic and predictable. Services may be canceled at any time if no longer a fit. Clients are expected to provide timely cooperation and access to records. If information is withheld or access is restricted, services may be paused. Persistent delays or unresponsiveness may result in paused service or early termination. 🔹 Client Responsibility Either Party Either party may cancel services at any time. First 30 Days of the Engagement (Initial Fit Period) The full monthly rate is billed for the month in which cancellation occurs, regardless of cancellation date, and is not prorated, with any previously applied promotional reductions remaining in effect. Hourly overages incurred prior to the effective date of cancellation are billed on the final invoice. The final invoice is issued immediately upon written notice of termination and is due under standard payment terms. Post 30 Days After Engagement The full monthly rate is billed for the month in which cancellation occurs, regardless of cancellation date, and is not prorated, with any previously applied promotional reductions remaining in effect. A termination fee equal to one additional month of service is charged, separate from the final month’s billing. Hourly overages incurred prior to the effective date of cancellation are billed on the final invoice. The final invoice is issued immediately upon written notice of termination and is due under standard payment terms. 🔹 If It’s Not for You Financial Clarity, One Post at a Time 1 2 3 Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Book a Call

Outsourced controller services for growing businesses. Clean monthly closes, reliable financial reporting, and controller-level structure that holds as you grow Ready For Structure? Structure now. Freedom later. Outsourced Controller Services for Growing Businesses Accounting may already exist. Strategy may already exist. What is often missing is the controller layer that makes both reliable. Outsourced controller services for growing businesses across California operate as a financial layer between bookkeeping and CFO-level strategy. This layer is commonly used by startups and scaling companies in Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, and Orange County, where operations are accelerating and the financial foundation needs to keep pace. Whether leadership is founder-led or CFO-led, it ensures execution and structure are handled consistently without pulling strategic leadership into operational accounting. The Financial Layer Between Bookkeeping and CFO Most businesses don’t struggle because they lack data. They struggle because nothing fully connects. Reports exist, but they don’t create certainty. Information is available, but it doesn’t consistently guide decisions. When accounting is present but execution and structure aren’t maintained with discipline, the instability almost always sits in the layer in between. This is often where businesses are dealing with messy or unreliable accounting, or struggling to maintain a consistent month-end close process. That’s where this work begins. Not with more reports, and not with theory, but by establishing or reinforcing the systems that make financial information dependable. The close becomes something you trust. Reporting becomes something you actually rely on. Decisions move from reaction to intention. Compliance functions such as payroll processing, sales tax filings, or annual state requirements may remain with your existing providers. The focus here is the structural layer above them — the close discipline, reporting integrity, and financial backbone that allows leadership to operate with confidence. Support can operate on a steady monthly cadence or flex as needed, depending on fit. Because stability now is what makes freedom possible later. You've earned your money by building something real. It should not be lost to financial friction , you should be able to keep it. A steady structure changes how accounting feels, regardless of how it’s billed. Yes, you read that right. Controller-Level Accounting Services All services are built around the same controller-level month-end close, with additional scope layered above or below based on the package or selected scope. Hourly Accounting Support Flexible support when a package isn’t the right fit Flexible Hourly Based Package Hourly accounting support for clients who want flexibility, targeted help, or whose needs don’t align with a packaged structure. View Hourly Accounting Support Details Accounting Execution Package Operational execution plus monthly closes Transactional accounting handled alongside month-end close and reporting, within a single, steady operating cadence that minimizes ongoing founder involvement. View Accounting Execution Pacakge Details Financial Clarity Package Build and Stabilize the System plus monthly closes A high-touch setup phase that establishes durable financial structure, followed by the same calm, predictable oversight going forward. View Financial Clarity Details Controller Lite Package Maintain the System through Monthly Closes Ongoing controller-level oversight to keep reporting consistent and reliable over time. Monthly closes preserve alignment as the business grows. View Controller Lite Package Details Want to talk through how this structure would work inside your business? Click the trees below. Because clarity, like a forest, is built one strong root at a time. Accounting Should Not Own You It Controls You It Supports You Fragile Records Financial Blindspots Unreliable Numbers Tribal Knowledge Founder Overload Where financial structure becomes lasting stability. Reliable Financials Clear Financial Context Compounding Stability Decision Confidence Lower Stress AI Where It Works. Humans Where It Counts Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made financial processes faster, but speed alone isn’t enough. Clean, trustworthy numbers still require human oversight. The smartest companies aren’t choosing between AI and expertise. They’re blending both—using automation for efficiency, and people for oversight and judgment. 🔹 AI generates data, humans ensure it’s reliable. 🔹 AI streamlines execution, expertise ensures structure. 🔹 Automation saves time, structure ensures stability Financial blind spots happen when numbers are left unchecked. That’s why AI should assist, not replace expert oversight. At Brett J. Federer Accounting, AI is used to streamline workflows when it improves clarity, efficiency, or accuracy. Every report and structure remains grounded in human judgment and experience. Because smart finance isn’t just about numbers. It’s about structure that grows from sapling to forest. I only work with a few companies at a time because clarity dies with chaos. Clarity scales best when focus is protected, so each client receives deliberate attention and lasting clarity when the fit is right. A Steady Way of Working Monthly retainer based services are designed to maintain a stable accounting system and a predictable cadence, so financial work continues moving forward without requiring constant attention. The goal is for accounting to run quietly in the background, rather than pulling attention away from the business. Work follows a consistent rhythm focused on accuracy, continuity, and clear reporting, which reduces the need for frequent back-and-forth or last-minute decisions. When the underlying structure stays consistent, the numbers stay reliable and easier to trust. This approach gives leadership time back by removing accounting from daily decision fatigue while preserving visibility and control. When something falls outside the normal rhythm, it’s identified early and addressed intentionally rather than reactively. General Support Projects Rebuilds & Policies Projects Accounting Enhancement Projects No pressure. No surprises. Just structure that lasts. Like routine maintenance, I make quiet improvements. Each adjustment keeps the system running smoothly; it's easy as pie. How refinements are handled (Click to expand) During recurring services, corrective accounting adjustments may be made when clearly required, based on information available during the normal close process, to preserve accuracy and close reliability within the existing system structure. Clients may also bring forward additional items for review. When requests align with the current structure and require minor refinement, they may be addressed within the normal cadence. Larger changes such as system redesigns, workflow shifts, or new automations are handled as separately scoped work unless part of an active implementation phase. These adjustments do not expand the defined service scope or create ongoing obligations beyond the applicable service package. Professional Testimonials I had the privilege of working closely with Brett in his role as Controller, and his contributions were instrumental to both our financial and operational success. What set Brett apart was not only his command of accounting and finance, but also his ability to design systems and processes that improved efficiency across the entire company. From an operations perspective, his impact was profound. He led the successful upgrade of our ERP system after years without updates, resolving complex data migration and process issues. He developed tools that gave leadership clear, real-time visibility into expenses and cash flow, including per-customer, per-warehouse expense tracking and a highly reliable forecast model. His automation work reduced our monthly close process from nearly two weeks to just a couple of days, enabling timely, accurate reporting and freeing up valuable resources. Brett also implemented practical, enforceable policies — from per diem and travel to sales tax and employee expenses — that made compliance simpler while improving accuracy and accountability. Each initiative he undertook was approached with a strong balance of financial rigor and operational practicality, and the results consistently exceeded expectations. Most importantly, Brett carried himself with professionalism and high standards, holding his department accountable while partnering effectively with operations and leadership. He leaves behind a stronger, more disciplined, and more efficient organization, and his contributions will continue to benefit us well into the future. I recommend Brett wholeheartedly to any company seeking a financial leader who can deliver not only accurate numbers, but also sustainable, well-designed operational improvements Dan Parks , PhD Chief Operating Officer / Founder Common Questions About Outsourced Controller Services 🔹What is the difference between a controller and a bookkeeper? A bookkeeper keeps your records up to date. A controller makes sure those records actually produce numbers you can rely on. If your transactions are being recorded but the close is slow, reports need explanation, or the numbers feel inconsistent, the issue isn’t bookkeeping. It’s the structure behind it. That gap is where controller-level support sits. The accounting services overview places it alongside bookkeeping and CFO-level work. Controller services focus on fixing that layer so your close runs consistently and your reporting holds as the business grows. 🔹How are controller services different from a CFO? A CFO uses your numbers to guide decisions, capital strategy, and long-term direction. Controller services make sure those numbers can actually be trusted in the first place. If reporting is inconsistent, the close takes too long, or results require explanation before they can be used, the issue isn’t strategic. It’s structural. Controller services focus on stabilizing the financial system so decisions are built on numbers that hold under pressure. 🔹What is an outsourced controller? An outsourced controller brings the same financial oversight as an in-house controller, but without the need to hire and build the role internally. The focus is on making sure your financial system is reliable, your close runs consistently, and your reporting reflects what is actually happening as the business grows. If the close feels unpredictable, reports take too long to finalize, or the numbers require explanation before they can be used, the issue is usually not capacity. It is structure. Outsourced controller services focus on stabilizing that layer so the system runs consistently and leadership can rely on the numbers without second-guessing them. 🔹When should a business hire a controller? Most businesses don’t hire a controller because they hit a milestone. They reach a point where the financial side of the business stops feeling clear. The numbers exist, but simple questions take longer to answer and confidence in those answers starts to slip. If what used to be straightforward now needs explanation or reconciliation, the issue usually isn’t staffing. It’s structural. The system was never designed to hold at the current level of complexity, which is where controller-level accounting becomes necessary. Controller support focuses on fixing that structure so the system holds as the business grows. 🔹Do I need controller services if I already have a bookkeeper? Having a bookkeeper in place usually means the day-to-day work is being handled, but it doesn’t mean the financial system behind it is keeping up as the business grows. Transactions can be recorded correctly and accounts can be up to date, while the structure underneath still struggles to produce consistent, reliable results month after month. If the close feels inconsistent, reporting takes time to finalize, or answers require explanation before they can be trusted, the issue isn’t the bookkeeper. It’s the layer above it. Controller services focus on bringing discipline to the close and creating a stable financial structure so your numbers hold as the business grows and leadership can rely on them without second-guessing. 🔹What does working with a controller look like month to month? Working with a controller month to month is less about adding more activity and more about bringing structure to what’s already happening. The focus is on running a consistent monthly close cadence , reviewing the numbers through a disciplined process, and making sure reporting reflects what’s actually happening in the business. Over time, that creates a steady rhythm where the close runs on schedule, questions get answered without rework, and the financial side of the business becomes predictable rather than something that has to be managed around. 🔹Why are these services structured as a monthly retainer? The work is structured as a monthly retainer because the value comes from consistency, not isolated hours. The focus is on running a reliable monthly close structure , maintaining reporting integrity, and keeping the financial system stable as the business evolves. That requires ongoing attention and a steady cadence rather than intermittent support. When work is handled hourly, it tends to become reactive, with issues addressed after they surface and the overall structure drifting over time. A retainer model keeps the work proactive so the close, reporting, and system oversight happen on a consistent cadence that prevents problems from compounding. When flexibility is needed or the structure is still being defined, hourly accounting support can be a better fit, but as the system matures, the retainer structure is what allows that stability to hold. Financial Clarity, One Post at a Time 1 2 3 4 5 Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Learn More

Hourly accounting support with controller-level standards for targeted help without a retainer. Close work, reporting, and select tasks handled with discipline. Hourly Accounting Support Flexible accounting support anchored to controller-level close standards For clients who prefer hourly support or don’t require a standard retainer package Hourly Accounting Support by Brett J. Federer Accounting Hourly Accounting Support provides flexible accounting execution and controller-level judgment for companies in Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, and throughout California on an as-needed basis. Work is billed hourly and performed within existing systems, supporting day-to-day accounting tasks, cleanup, analysis, and close-related work without committing to an ongoing retainer. This option is designed for situations where accounting needs do not require a standard retainer package, or where an hourly engagement is simply the preferred way to work. Services are delivered with the same professional standards, documentation discipline, and system awareness applied across all offerings. Work is performed based on client direction and approval and does not include CFO services, tax services, staff management, or operational decision-making. Purpose: Designed to provide flexible access to controller-level accounting support without forcing a retainer structure. This option is often appropriate when work does not warrant a standard retainer package or when clients prefer to engage on an hourly basis while maintaining professional boundaries and execution quality. Common Concerns Accounting owns your time Missed payments Invoice errors Fragmented records Unreconciled accounts Cash uncertainty Lingering history Process breakdowns Close delays Inconsistent treatment System drift 1099 confusion Unreliable Financials Available Outcomes Time reclaimed Accounts Payable batched Accounts Receivable batched Complete ledger Bank / Credit Cards Reconciled Cash visibility graphs (3) Historical items addressed Execution issues resolved Close blockers cleared Basic standards documented System integrity maintained 1099s Prepared (not filed) Monthly Soft Close + Quarterly Hard Closes Performed How this works Hourly Accounting Support operates within a structured execution cadence rather than real-time interaction. Work is completed asynchronously within client-owned systems, based on client direction and documented requests. Services are performed within an existing accounting environment and follow a prioritized, first-come, first-served workflow based on current capacity. Companies that later require consistent monthly oversight may transition into the Controller Lite Package , while companies requiring deeper accounting system stabilization may be better served by the Financial Clarity Package. You should be able to get support that fits where you are right now. While still getting help without narrowing your options. The work moves forward quietly in the background, focused on what’s actually needed, without closing doors. Getting Started Hourly Accounting Support can begin once access, scope, and priorities are confirmed. Work is initiated based on current needs rather than a fixed onboarding sequence. When setup or intake is required (for example, access to systems or documentation), that time is handled within the hourly engagement. There is no required onboarding period or long-term commitment. Engagements may be paused or concluded at any time if needs change or the fit is no longer appropriate. If this option isn’t the right fit, please see the If it’s not for you section below for details. System Requirements Hourly Accounting Support operates within the Client’s existing accounting, banking, and payment systems, including platforms such as QuickBooks, Xero, Odoo, or similar systems, along with connected banking or bill-pay tools. Access is limited to view-only permissions and execution preparation or payment staging within Client-owned systems. The Firm does not approve, release, transmit, or authorize funds and does not assume control over cash or banking activity. No system selection, setup, migration, automation development, or system redesign is included as part of Hourly Accounting Support. Where the Hourly Accounting Support Can Sit Management / Leadership Strategic planning Business decisions Board meetings / preparation Staff management and payroll Forecast creation & ownership KPI calculation and interpretation Controller Level Support Issues surfaced, as appropriate Close structure and cadence Consistent month-end execution Financial reporting integrity Standardization and consistency Ongoing system stability Transactional Support Transaction entry Vendor record maintenance Bank & credit card reconciliations Customer invoicing Vendor bill processing Cash visibility snapshots Statutory & Regulatory Compliance (Third-Party or Client-Managed) Sales Tax Filings* Use Tax Filings Property Tax Filings Nexus Analysis State Registrations Business Licenses Income Tax Filings City or Local Tax Filings Annual Filings *Sales tax filings are handled separately, typically through dedicated compliance software or a tax professional. Execution Guidelines: Direction & Boundaries Hourly Accounting Support is designed to provide flexible, controller-anchored accounting support within the client’s existing accounting environment. Work is performed on a request-driven basis, scoped and prioritized by the client, while remaining aligned with controller-level close standards and reporting integrity. Existing processes, policies, workflows, and system configuration are maintained unless otherwise directed. Work is performed based on client-scoped requests and documented direction. Where questions arise that affect accuracy or consistency, general industry practices may be discussed for management consideration, and records may be aligned once an approach is confirmed. Hourly Accounting Support does not include redesigning processes, drafting new accounting policies, or implementing structural accounting changes unless explicitly scoped and agreed in advance. Any broader changes identified are documented and may be addressed through separate scoping at the client’s discretion. Capitalization Policy Exception Where a basic capitalization threshold is required to maintain consistent fixed asset treatment, a standard capitalization approach may be defined and applied. Questions About Hourly Accounting Support and Flexible Engagement If you need accounting support without committing to a retainer, this is typically where flexible controller-level support fits between one-time cleanup and fully structured monthly accounting. 🔹When does hourly accounting support make more sense than a monthly retainer? Hourly support makes sense when accounting needs are inconsistent, project-based, or not yet defined enough to justify a fixed monthly commitment. It also fits situations where a retainer package is the eventual goal but the business is not ready for that structure yet. This is typically the stage before transitioning into a monthly close cadence through a controller-level package such as the Controller Lite package. Hourly Accounting Support is designed for exactly that range, providing controller-level execution without requiring an ongoing engagement. 🔹How does hourly accounting billing work for small businesses? Hourly accounting support is billed based on time actually incurred rather than a fixed monthly fee. Time is tracked in 30-minute increments, invoiced monthly, and due within 15 days. There is no retainer, no minimum commitment, and no long-term lock-in. This is the role Hourly Accounting Support is designed to fill: professional accounting execution for clients who pay for what they need without committing to a structure that does not fit their current situation. 🔹Can I get accounting help without signing a long-term contract? Yes. Hourly Accounting Support has no required term, no minimum commitment, and no long-term contract. Engagements can be paused or concluded at any time if needs change or the fit is no longer right. This structure is designed for businesses that need professional accounting support without narrowing their options or locking into a package before they are ready. 🔹How do I clean up accounting records that have fallen behind? Accounting cleanup typically involves reconciling accounts that have fallen out of sync, correcting misclassified transactions, and addressing historical gaps that are affecting current reporting. Hourly Accounting Support includes cleanup and catch-up work within existing systems, handled based on client-directed priorities without requiring a long-term retainer commitment. When issues are structural rather than isolated, a full accounting system rebuild through the Financial Clarity Package may be more appropriate. 🔹What is accounting catch-up work and how long does it take? Accounting catch-up addresses periods where transactions were not fully processed, reconciliations were skipped, or the close was never completed. The time required depends on how far back the gap goes and how complex the activity was during that period. This is where Hourly Accounting Support is typically used: clearing the backlog on a scoped, client-directed basis without disrupting current operations. 🔹How much does hourly accounting support cost? Hourly accounting support is billed at a fixed hourly rate rather than a monthly retainer. Hourly Accounting Support is billed at $175 per hour, tracked in 30-minute increments, and invoiced monthly based on time actually incurred. There are no minimums, no retainer fees, and no charges beyond the work performed. 🔹 What is the difference between hourly accounting support and a bookkeeper? A bookkeeper typically handles ongoing transaction entry and basic recordkeeping on a recurring basis. Hourly accounting support applies controller-level judgment to a broader range of tasks including reconciliations, close assistance, cleanup, and reporting without the ongoing commitment of a retainer. When ongoing execution ownership is needed, this typically transitions into an outsourced accounting execution layer, such as the Accounting Execution Package. If your accounting needs are inconsistent, undefined, or project-based, this usually indicates that flexibility matters more than structure at this stage. Hourly Accounting Support is designed for that exact situation, providing controller-level support without requiring a long-term commitment. Pricing & Terms I believe in clean numbers — and clean pricing. Services + $175 / Hour The not-so-‘Fine Print’ This section exists to remove surprises, not to bury terms. Additional terms may be outlined in your Engagement Agreement, which governs in the event of any conflict. Read This 🔹 Billing Mechanics Invoicing & Timing Invoices are issued monthly based on time incurred. Time is tracked in 30-minute increments, rounded up. Payment is due within fifteen (15) days. Services may be paused for non-payment. Hourly rates are fixed and not adjusted based on internal staffing or task allocation. Service Scope Hourly Accounting Support provides controller-level accounting execution and transactional support within the Client’s existing systems. Services are designed to operate within an existing accounting environment and do not include system rebuilds, historical cleanup, policy design, or separately scoped project work unless explicitly agreed. Requests are handled on a first-come, first-served basis within normal business capacity. Third-Party Costs & Access Service fees cover professional services only and do not include third-party software subscriptions. Client-facing accounting platforms are licensed and paid for directly by the Client, with access provided through advisor roles or client-created credentials. 🔹 Communication & Support What you're paying for Communication is part of the service. In professional services, the value delivered is judgment, not just the final output, and the time required to think through and respond to requests is part of the work performed. What's included Services include task execution, along with the time required to review, think through, and respond to requests. How communication is handled Written communication, including email, follow-ups, and clarification of accounting matters, is treated as part of the service and billed based on time incurred, consistent with the hourly nature of the engagement. Communication channels Communication occurs via email and scheduled meetings. Slack, Microsoft Teams, text messaging, and other real-time platforms are not used for ongoing support. Response timing Responses are provided in a timely manner based on complexity and current execution demands. Looking for something more integrated? Clients who prefer routine communication included within a structured retainer engagement may be better suited for the Controller Lite Package, Accounting Execution Package, or Financial Clarity Package. 🔹 Out of Scope State or federal compliance, including sales tax, property tax, annual filings, or income tax work CFO-level services such as forecasting, budgeting, scenario modeling, or investor reporting Bank access beyond view-only or execution preparation Staff management, supervision, training, or enforcement 🔹 Hourly Rate Updates Hourly rates may be adjusted periodically to reflect changes in scope, complexity, or market conditions. Any rate changes will be communicated in advance and apply only to future work. Reference Only 🔹 Client Responsibility Clients are expected to provide timely cooperation and reasonable access to records and systems. If information is withheld or access is restricted, services may be paused. Ongoing delays or unresponsiveness may result in paused service or early termination. 🔹 If It’s Not for You If it's not for me Hourly engagements are intended to be flexible. Clients may discontinue services at any time. When possible, advance notice is appreciated to allow for orderly wind-down. All work performed through the effective date of termination is billed in full and due under standard payment terms. Invoices are not prorated, and any previously applied promotional pricing remains in effect through the final invoice. Any reasonable time required to prepare final deliverables, return client records, and complete an orderly disengagement is billable at standard hourly rates. A final invoice reflecting all work performed, including disengagement activities, is issued upon completion of the handoff. Financial Clarity, One Post at a Time 1 2 3 Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Book a Call

Need help outside the monthly scope? This optional retainer covers ad-hoc support — billed hourly, clearly scoped, and only when needed. Because not every system fix fits in a box This project exists to support one-off needs that extend the structure already in place — not to replace staff or take on ongoing operations. It offers flexible access to controller-level support without requiring a new engagement for every request. Scope & Pricing This project is only available once you’re on the monthly cycle, where the foundation is stable. At that point, it’s billed separately at the rates shown here. If a similar cleanup is required during onboarding, it will be addressed then — billed hourly as part of implementation, not as a standalone project. Work performed under this retainer does not constitute audit, review, or assurance services. If a request drifts into any of the above areas, it requires a separate engagement or referral. $1,000/month retainer for 5 hours Hours are scoped in advance and tracked internally Unused hours do not roll over from month to month Requests estimated over 5 hours are scoped separately as flat-fee projects Ad-Hoc Retainer What’s Typically Covered Formatting or refining internal reporting for board-readiness (non-GAAP) Adding a custom metric or graph to monthly insights One-off support during bookkeeper transitions (not training or management) Reviewing a vendor or platform transition Other one-off requests aligned with controller-level responsibilities What’s Not Included CFO-level services, including strategic planning, capital strategy, investor support, or board-level advisory Forecasting or scenario modeling, including creating, revising, maintaining, or interpreting forecasts Tax services, including income tax planning, preparation, filings, credits, or correspondence with tax authorities Payroll processing or payroll administration, including compliance, filings, or payroll system management Staff management, supervision, training, task delegation, or performance management Day-to-day transaction processing or bookkeeping Consolidated financial reporting or entity-level rollups Interim or embedded controller duties, including acting as internal management or decision-maker Any recurring operations ownership or staffing backfill Any onsite work (this service is 100% remote) Anything that is already covered in a different Project or service Projects That Require Separate Scoping Insurance renewal packages, responses, or Request For Information (RFIs) Note: I do not advise on coverage levels, policy terms, or insurance decisions — and I do not sign off on any policies. Multi-entity control framework builds Internal audit prep or controls testing templates Rebuilding approval logic or paperless workflows Other one-off requests aligned with controller-level responsibilities that are estimated to be over 5 hours per month. Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Learn More

Targeted accounting enhancements for stable systems, including cash visibility and bank and credit card import optimization, scoped to improve reliability without changing day-to-day workflows. Accounting Enhancement Projects These projects are structured additions to the core accounting system, designed to extend capability without changing the foundation. Each project is clearly defined, scoped in advance, and built to produce a specific outcome, separate from ongoing monthly work. Start Now Bank & Credit Card Import Optimization When imports become reliable, not reactive. Start Now The Cash Clarity Method™ When cash movement becomes visible, not inferred. Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Learn More

Flexible, project-based accounting services — including ad-hoc retainers, short-term accounting support, and monthly historical forecast syncing to keep your financials accurate and current. General Support Projects These projects are structured additions to the core accounting system, designed to extend capability without changing the foundation. Each project is clearly defined, scoped in advance, and built to produce a specific outcome, separate from ongoing monthly work. Start Now Ad-Hoc Retainer Flexible by design. Structured by default. Start Now Short-Term Accounting Support Bridging gaps without losing structure. Start Now Sync Historicals Into Your Forecast Historical forecast kept current monthly. Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Learn More

Restore accuracy and stability to your books with targeted accounting projects — including general ledger cleanup, complex account reconciliation, and accounting policy architecture designed for lasting compliance and clarity. Rebuilds & Policies Projects These projects are structured additions to the core accounting system, designed to extend capability without changing the foundation. Each project is clearly defined, scoped in advance, and built to produce a specific outcome, separate from ongoing monthly work. Start Now General Ledger Cleanup Turning messy books into stable ground. Start Now Complex Account Cleanup Aligning records with approved policies. Start Now Accounting Policy Architecture Where logic becomes structure that lasts. Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Learn More

Clean up your books without the chaos. I handle complex account rework with precision, calm, and structure — so you can move forward with clean data. Complex Account Cleanup When structure already exists — but the history doesn’t reflect it. This project applies an already-approved policy to a complex account t hat was never brought into alignment. It doesn’t create the logic — it applies it. If the policy’s finalized and the data is intact, the account can be cleaned and tied out historically. By restoring structure historically, it locks in the foundation for stable ascent beyond the clouds. Examples include deferred revenue cleanups, inventory corrections, or applying ASC 606 compliance when historical records weren’t properly aligned. Scope & Pricing This project is only available once you’re on the monthly cycle, where the foundation is stable. At that point, it’s billed separately at the rates shown here. If a similar cleanup is required during onboarding, it will be addressed then — billed hourly as part of implementation, not as a standalone project. $150 per historical month scoped, per account Only available when a formal, documented policy already exists Inventory and other high-volume areas may require additional scoping What’s Included Historical cleanup of a single complex account per scope (as defined during scoping). Entries aligned to approved policy via adjustments or reclassifications Optional summary workbook or tie-out Meetings as required What’s Not Included No policy drafting, testing, or documentation No scenario modeling or audit prep No systems redesign or process changes No reporting, forecasting, or downstream analytics This work does not constitute audit, review, or assurance services and relies on the accuracy of existing underlying records. Build Structure That Frees You. I’ve designed this system for founders who want clean, consistent financials and the confidence to make decisions without second-guessing. ——— If that’s what you’re building toward, I’m here. Phone (805) 410-8647 Email Brett@BrettJFedererAccounting.com Connect LinkedIn Learn More