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  • Cash Clarity Method™ | Brett J Federer Accounting

    Controller-grade cash clarity for founders—turn reconciled Odoo data into decision-ready insights without forecasts, fluff, or variance overlays. The Cash Clarity Method™ Controller-grade cash clarity for Odoo clients, built to show how your money actually moved. A separately scoped cash analysis project available exclusively for Odoo clients, designed to provide visibility without forecasts, dashboards, or fluff. Sometimes the numbers look fine — tidy Profit and Loss, sharp dashboards, solid-looking revenue — yet something still feels off. You’re not sure where the money actually went, whether things are getting tighter, or if you’re still on steady ground. GAAP-based financials and most dashboards weren’t designed to show detailed cash movement. They’re great for compliance and storytelling, but not always for clarity — especially for founders running the business, not just reporting on it. If your books are reconciled but decisions still feel uncertain, the issue probably isn’t the numbers — it’s the structure. The Cash Clarity Method™ changes that by turning reconciled books into a cash-based system that shows what actually happened. Built for operators — not just accountants. Not forecasting or advisory. Just clean, controller-grade systems and answers grounded in reality. The Cash Clarity Method ™ can be added at any point once the underlying accounting data is clean and reliable. While most commonly implemented alongside Financial Clarity Package engagements, it may also be added for Controller Lite clients when system quality supports it. Scope The Cash Clarity Method™ is an optional add-on for Odoo clients, built as a separately scoped project using reconciled accounting data, with optional refresh or update work when explicitly agreed. It offers a cash-based lens on operational activity — helping identify spending patterns, vendor shifts, and signs of financial pressure that may be missed in standard reports. When included by scope, updates may be performed using reconciled data from a completed accounting close , the Cash Clarity Method reconstructs actual cash activity using reconciled Odoo data to delivers a point-in-time view of historical cash movement and a trailing cash runway calculation based solely on past activity — all without relying on forecasts, assumptions, or non-cash logic. When scoped, the project deliverables may include the following components: Executive Summary – Highlights key movements and historical patterns in plain English Visuals – Charts historical spending patterns and timing concentrations Formulaic Runway – Trailing Runway – Shows how long cash would last if recent spending patterns continued, based only on historical data (not a forecast). Monthly Splits – Breaks down activity by grouping, vendor, bank, or Analytic Account Account Splits – Categorizes activity by account type with subtotals Drilldown – Enables filtered, transaction-level review for internal validation Pivot Table – Supports flexible, self-serve analysis for advanced users Comparisons Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) are the standardized accounting rules all CPAs and accountants follow. While the Cash Clarity Method™ is a proprietary, internal cash-focused insights system — built from reconciled GAAP books to give founders operational clarity. Core Purpose Generally Accepted Accounting Principles Cash Clarity Method™ Accrual-based performance view ✅ ❌ Identifying vendor/client spend shifts ❌ ✅ Comparison between companies ✅ ❌ Real cash movement visibility ❌ ✅ External compliance & audits ✅ ❌ Month-end cash clarity for operators ❌ ✅ Long-term performance view ✅ ❌ Cash-based operational visibility ❌ ✅ Storytelling for investors/lenders ✅ ❌ Pricing The Cash Clarity Method™ is scoped separately based on data quality, complexity, and desired depth. Pricing is determined at the time of scoping and is not included in standard service packages. If the project is not viable: All work performed is billed. Either party may stop the project at any time, with no obligation beyond payment for work already completed. Universal Disclosures No one loves reading disclosures — but they’re what keep everyone aligned, protected, and clear. Because transparency is core to how I operate, I’ve consolidated nearly all system-wide disclosures here so the rest of this webpage can focus on tab-specific details only. If new disclosures are added directly to the Cash Clarity Method workbook and this webpage is not yet updated, those workbook disclosures take precedence. The Cash Clarity Method is not a substitute for GAAP financial statements or formal attestation services. It provides supplemental, controller-grade insights based on reconciled accounting data. Outputs are based entirely on past reconciled data — no forecasting, no projections, no assumptions. Inputs are provided by the client or their bookkeeper via their Odoo file. I review for material accuracy and post adjustments as needed. Once closed, outputs reflect my best understanding based on the reconciled data available. Two files are used: one internal workbook maintained by me (not shared ), and one client-facing file updated monthly. The structure of both is my intellectual property. Refunds on vendor bills and customer payments are applied using a simplified logic due to system limitations in Odoo. Allocations may not perfectly reflect the original account splits but are restricted to the accounts in the original transaction. This is a standalone Excel-based system built using reconciled accounting data. Any future updates are performed only when explicitly scoped. This is for internal management use only, not for investors, funding, or regulatory decisions. Final responsibility for interpretation and use rests with management. The Cash Clarity Method™ is not included in any standard service package and is provided only when explicitly scoped as a standalone project. Having clarity gives you insights you can build upon. It saves you from guesswork & gives you peace of mind. One system, built for clarity — so you can trust what you see and act without hesitation. Executive Summary When time’s tight and decisions can’t wait — this is where you look first. You don’t always need a deep dive to spot what’s shifting. Sometimes you just need a clear pulse — one that tells you what changed, where the cash went, and whether you’re still on steady ground. That’s what this tab is built for. The Executive Summary tab condenses key insights from across the Cash Clarity Method™ into one readout: estimated runway, month-over-month cash shifts, top vendor movements, and quick-hit commentary on revenue, COGS, and OpEx. Every number is pulled from actual cash activity — not projections, not forecasts — and automatically updates based on the date you select. Every insight is written in clear, plain-English sentences designed for founders — no accounting jargon, no guesswork. You’ll know what changed, what drove it, and how it compares to last month or last year — all at a glance. This isn’t about reporting for reporting’s sake. It’s about giving you a high-signal snapshot of where things stand, so you can spot risks early, see progress faster, and move with confidence. What’s Included Net Cash Change Runway and Operating Cash Outflows Runway estimates both based on trailing cash activity Ending bank balance for the selected period Month-over-month cash movement and change analysis Year-over-year cash comparison and variance Revenue trends vs prior month and prior year Largest shifts in cost of goods sold and operating expenses (account level) Top 3 account level changes (by dollar or percentage) Simple estimated runway extension calculator based on current Net Cash Change Excutive Summary Specific Disclosures Runway estimates are illustrative only, based on trailing actual cash activity, and are not predictive. All figures, including runway calculations, are formula-driven with no manual overrides or professional judgment applied. For methodology, see the Formulaic Runway section. Any reported spikes or drops should be reviewed in full context. The below screenshots are from sample data and not live data. The screenshots below use sample data, not live data. Visuals Sometimes the numbers are technically there — but the picture still doesn’t click. Your reports might list every transaction, sort by vendor, even reconcile to the bank. But when you're trying to spot trends, seasonality, or sudden shifts, reading through raw rows rarely gets you there. It’s like staring at a dense paragraph when what you need is a headline. That’s what the Visuals tab is built for. Not to replace the structure — but to surface what it's already telling you. It’s a visual overlay on clean, controller-grade data, designed to help your brain process it faster. Whether you're looking for month-to-month cash outflows, vendor trends, or which category drained the most this quarter, this tab turns movement into signal. There’s no fluff here — just real, reconciled cash movement mapped across the views founders ask for most. And because it’s all formula-driven off the Historical Data tab, there’s zero guesswork. Just scroll, scan, and spot what matters. What’s Included Ending Bank Balance (15-month trend) Customer Receipts (15-month trend) Cost of Goods Sold (15-month trend) Operational Expenses (15-month trend) Cash Outflows by Category – Last Month Cash Outflows by Category – Quarter to Date Cash Outflows by Category – Year to Date Cash Outflows by Category – 15-Month Total Visuals Specific Disclosures All graphs are automated from reconciled cash data — no manual overrides Trends are illustrative and may shift as historical data is updated Formulaic Runway How long can we keep this up? It’s one of the most important questions a founder can ask — but the hardest to answer when you’re deep in daily operations. Sales are moving, vendors are being paid, the bank balance looks decent — and yet it’s not clear whether the business is stabilizing or slowly bleeding out. That’s where the Formulaic Runway tab comes in. Instead of forecasting, it uses a trailing average (weighted or simple) to estimate how long the current pace of spending and receipts could be sustained — then frames it as: “If nothing changes — how long will the cash last?” While not a forecast, it can help surface directional shifts earlier — especially when reviewed consistently over time. The tab gives you two perspectives: • Operating Cash Outflows Runway: This strips out inflows to stress test how long operations could fund themselves with no new cash coming in. • Net Cash Change Runway: This includes all movement — operational spend, customer receipts, even financing — to show the average months remaining at the current full pace. Both calculations use trailing averages based on selectable timeframes (3, 6, 9, 12, or 15 months). Each average can be set to simple or weighted, depending on user selection. Both are fully formula-driven. And both serve the same goal: Clarity on whether the current pace is sustainable — or quietly accelerating toward a cliff. What’s Included This tab estimates how many months of cash remain based on recent spend trends. It’s meant to give high-level visibility — not predict the future. No assumptions, no modeling — just clean math off real, reconciled cash movement. To do that, it calculates two separate trailing estimates, each showing a different lens on spend pace. Both are based on a trailing weighted or simple averages over a selected period of time and are 100% formula-driven — with no GAAP logic, accrual timing, or manual inputs. Operating Cash Outflows Runway Goal: Estimate how long operations could self-fund if all inflows stopped, based on trailing spend pace. What It Represents: A stress test of true operating spend — ignores all inflows (customer, investor, etc.). What's Included: Weighted or Simple Average of the past [3,6,9,12,15] months of COGS + OpEx + G&A. Net Cash Change Runway Goal: Estimate how many months of cash remain at current trailing inflow/outflow pace. What It Represents: Tracks net movement of total cash — includes all inflows and outflows What's Included: Weighted or Simple Average of the past [3,6,9,12,15] months of total net cash change (COGS, OpEx, Investor funding, customer receipts, etc.). Formulaic Runway Specific Disclosures This report is non-GAAP and based entirely on actual, reconciled cash movement. Results are based on a trailing average (3,6,9,12,15 months). All metrics are 100% formulaic, derived from reconciled past data thus there is n o smoothing, and no manual overrides. No forecasting, no projections, modeling, or assumptions are applied. These metrics are for internal pacing awareness only — not for investor updates, funding models, or formal reporting. All calculations rely on the fully reconciled Historical Data tab. Inaccurate or incomplete bookkeeping will affect results. All weighted percentages are derived automatically through built-in formulas. The screenshots below use sample data, not live data. Monthly Splits You know the numbers add up — but sometimes the story still feels incomplete. The totals reconcile, the bank accounts match, and everything appears in order — yet the flow of money doesn’t sit right. It’s not that the data is wrong; it’s that you’re looking at it through a single, fixed angle. Shift the lens, and those same numbers can reveal patterns you couldn’t see before — patterns that make movement clearer and easier to interpret. The Monthly Splits tab gives you that shift. It reshapes reconciled cash activity into a month-by-month breakdown, filtered through whichever view matters most — a specific vendor, a single bank account, or an analytic account in Odoo. The underlying totals never change; what changes is how they’re organized. By presenting the same data in a different structure, trends become easier to follow, outliers stand out faster, and the flow of cash is easier to confirm. The goal isn’t to reinterpret the numbers — it’s to make them easier to see, understand, and act on. What’s Included Totals per split selected, with beginning and ending balances shown for each month A monthly breakdown of reconciled cash activity, based on your selected split: Analytic Account Name (if enabled in your Odoo file) Bank / Credit Card Name Groupings Vendor / Customer Name Monthly Splits Specific Disclosures Analytic Account split may return blank if not configured in Odoo Totals are tied directly to the Historical Data tab to ensure completeness, consistency, and auditability with no overrides. If all company card activity is recorded under a single credit card account in Odoo without separate journal types or GL accounts for each cardholder, individual card names cannot be identified because that detail is not present in the source data. The screenshots below use sample data, not live data. Account Splits This is where structure meets substance. Every insight in the model comes from somewhere — and this tab shows you exactly where. The Account Splits tab is the foundation: a clean, categorized view of actual cash movement, mapped to the chart of accounts you already use. Nothing here is modeled, forecasted, or smoothed. Just real cash activity, sorted into familiar financial structures. Each section organizes cash movement into clear account groups — Receipts, Cost of Goods Sold, Operating Expenses, Balance Sheet activity, and more. You can see both the category totals and the account-level detail beneath them, with figures matching the Historical Data tab exactly. That consistency makes this a dependable reference whenever something looks off. It’s also the go-to when a number in the Visuals, Executive Summary, or Formulaic Runway tabs doesn’t add up. The Account Splits view traces every total back to its original account, so every amount is both visible and verifiable — making it faster to confirm accuracy and make course corrections when needed. What’s Included Monthly cash activity organized by your chart of accounts Category-level groupings (e.g. Receipts, COGS, OpEx, etc.) with full account-level detail beneath each Subtotals by section, aligned to the Historical Data tab Beginning and ending cash balances per month Monthly movement summaries — Net Cash Change and Operating Cash Outflows (see Formulaic Runway section for details) Account Splits Specific Disclosures This tab is not GAAP-compliant and does not follow formal presentation standards, even if some groupings resemble a P&L or cash flow structure Customer receipt logic is determined by account-level posting behavior and may vary in presentation based on how revenue is recorded. Section totals reconcile directly to the Historical Data tab to preserve auditability and consistency The screenshots below use sample data, not live data. Drilldown Self-Explore Historical Details This tab provides a full view of reconciled cash activity at the transaction level, with filters to focus on the details that matter most. Up to eight filter options are available so you can narrow down results to match your specific query. The goal isn’t to interpret the data, but to make it searchable, sortable, and transparent whenever a deeper look is needed. To make analysis easier, the tab includes two identical drilldown tables that function independently. This allows for side-by-side comparisons using different filter sets, so you can review activity across vendors, months, or internal categories without losing your place. Filters can be adjusted at any time, and the underlying data updates automatically to reflect matching entries. What’s Included Two independently controlled drilldown tables for side-by-side analysis Full transaction-level visibility based on reconciled cash activity Direct linkback to categorized data from the monthly close (via Document # column) Live filtering across any combination of fields (Mix & Match): Focus On – limits the view to top/bottom transactions or largest changes by dollar amount (e.g., Top 10, Largest 5 Changes, etc.) Year Month Grouping Account Analytic Account Customer / Vendor Name Bank / Credit Card Name Drilldown Disclosures No additional disclosures apply to this tab beyond the universal disclaimers above. The screenshot below uses sample data, not live data. Pivot This tab exists for power users who want to explore the categorized data freely. It doesn't contain any formulas, commentary, or analysis — just a live pivot table tied to the same monthly transaction set already shown in the primary views. The layout is dynamic. Users can toggle filters or expand/collapse row groupings to customize how they view activity. While the default is grouped by department and account, this structure can be easily modified using standard Excel pivot tools. This is not a required tab for understanding the Cash Clarity Method™ outputs — it’s simply included for those who prefer alternate ways of working with numbers. What’s Included Pivot table built on categorized transaction detail Default structure: Rows grouped by Department and Account Name Values shown as Net Amount (+ Inflows / – Outflows) Ability to: Expand/collapse row groups Reorganize data as you see fit Sort and/or filter as you see fit Export or copy views as needed Pivot Specific Disclosures No additional disclosures apply to this tab beyond the universal disclaimers above. The screenshot below uses sample data, not live data. Build Structure That Frees You. Designed 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

  • Bank & Credit Card Import Optimization | Brett J Federer Accounting

    Custom import tools and workflows — designed to streamline uploads, ensure accuracy, and prevent downstream cleanup. Bank & Credit Card Import Optimization Built to take the load off — so your team isn’t buried, and your data isn’t late. Most teams don’t think much about how card and bank data enters the system — until the pressure builds. Reports lag, numbers feel harder to trust, and the process that once worked starts to slow everything down. It’s not broken — just not built to scale. And definitely not built for where you're headed. When this part of the workflow is neglected, review time increases, reporting gets fuzzier, and your bookkeeper ends up silently carrying the weight just to keep things moving. What I build depends on your setup, but it typically includes tailored import templates — structured around your existing software, with no added platforms or code. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s a cleaner, more repeatable way to get detail in without slowing everything else down. In one implementation, the manual data entry workload dropped from 10 business days to 4 — just by reworking how the data flowed. It’s not magic. It’s structure. And the real cost? Every extra day spent on manual entry delays decisions, creates review bottlenecks, and compounds risk as your team scales. This isn’t just about now — it’s about building something clean enough to last. Scope & Pricing These projects are designed to extend the structure already in place. They’re only available once you’re on the monthly cycle, where the foundation is stable. At that point, this project is billed as a fixed add-on at $6,000. If something similar is needed during onboarding, it can be built then — but it’s billed hourly as part of implementation, not as a standalone project. Ongoing maintenance is limited to keeping templates aligned with agreed inputs and workflows, not correcting upstream data issues or reworking imports caused by changes outside the accounting system. This also excludes breakage caused by user modifications, deleted fields, renamed columns, overwritten formulas, or changes to source exports made without coordination. This project improves data intake efficiency and consistency but does not constitute assurance, validation, or certification of transaction accuracy. Reminder: The goal isn’t perfection — it’s a cleaner, more repeatable way to bring in detail without slowing everything down. What's Included, What's Not Included What’s Included Custom bank & credit card import templates If you use multiple systems, I’ll help find the cleanest way to bring in all necessary detail from each one Templates built around your existing software No added platforms to pay for, tools, or coding Mapped to your chart of accounts and current workflows Ongoing template maintenance through 4 monthly closes Built-in structure to split grouped charges or organize untagged data Detailed instructions on how to use the templates Support for dry runs or initial testing (as needed) Training of staff to use the templates (if requested) What’s Not Included Manual cleanup of historical entries or backdated reclassifications Import automation via external tools or third-party platforms Deep vendor or memo standardization across large datasets Custom scripting, API connections, or software development Policy creation (e.g., expense logic, accounting treatments — see separate projects) Ongoing transaction entry, categorization, or review of individual bank or credit card transactions. Multi-entity consolidation logic (beyond mapping each entity’s imports separately) Each entity will be billed individually Build Structure That Frees You. Designed 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

  • Ad-Hoc Retainer | Brett J Federer Accounting

    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. Designed 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

  • Short-Term Accounting Support | Brett J Federer Accounting

    If a key team member leaves or hasn’t been hired yet, I step in short-term to stabilize your financial structure while you find the right long-term fit. Short-Term Accounting Support Because sometimes gaps happen, and structure still needs protecting. Unexpected gaps can threaten momentum more than they should, especially when you are working to build something stable. This is why Temporary Coverage exists: limited, short-term support designed to protect accounting operations during critical transitions. If a required accounting role becomes temporarily unavailable, whether due to departure or delayed hiring, I can step in through the Short-Term Accounting Support Project for up to two months. The purpose is to preserve continuity and stabilize the existing financial structure while a permanent solution is put in place. This support is limited to two activations per client, with a minimum of three months between uses, to preserve system integrity and prevent dependency. Coverage is limited strictly to operational accounting continuity. No staff report to me, and this does not include people management, payroll or payroll processing, operational taxes, collections, customer payment follow-ups, CFO leadership, cross-departmental responsibilities, or broader operational roles. Scope & Pricing When critical gaps threaten accounting stability, this temporary support provides an operational bridge. It keeps financial operations moving until the right hire is in place. This service is designed to stabilize critical accounting operations during staffing gaps, not for full operational rebuilds or expansions. Broader requests may require separate scoping under the Ad-Hoc Retainer Project. Temporary Coverage is offered based on availability and subject to scheduling approval — on a first come, first served basis. $5,000 monthly flat fee (up to 40 hours per month) Designed to preserve continuity of existing accounting workflows during urgent staffing gaps, without expanding scope or assuming long-term responsibility Scope is focused on maintaining core workflows, not expanding systems or taking on strategic or leadership roles Requests expected to exceed 40 hours in a month are scoped separately as flat-fee projects What’s Typically Covered Temporary continuity coverage for an existing accounting role below the CFO level, limited to maintaining current responsibilities Up to two months of short-term support to stabilize accounting operations during an unexpected staffing gap Continuity of existing accounting workflows required to keep the close and core reporting functioning, without expanding scope or redesigning systems This temporary support begins based on whichever occurs first: The final day of your previous staff member’s role The date my services begin (if no staff is in place when we start working together) What’s Not Included This support is designed to keep day-to-day accounting stable during short transition periods. Specialized projects, in-person tasks, or work outside routine continuity may require a different solution. CFO responsibilities, strategic leadership duties, forecasting, or decision-making authority Support for non-accounting roles (for example operations, human resources, or executive roles) Payroll or payroll processing, including coordination with payroll providers Operational tax work of any kind (sales tax, payroll tax, compliance filings, or remittances) Collections, customer payment follow-ups, or customer-facing communications Scenario modeling, financial forecasting, or audit preparation Physical inventory counts or any onsite work (this service is fully remote) Audit or financial review support (requires separate Ad-Hoc Retainer scoping) Non-routine or project-based work (for example process rebuilds or major cleanups) Recurring or ongoing operational staffing beyond the two-month limit Immediate back-to-back usage (minimum three months between activations) Managing, supervising, or overseeing staff, including acting as interim manager Reminder This is a temporary transition project, not an ongoing operational role. If a request reflects recurring staffing needs or execution beyond the timeline outlined above, a different engagement will be required. Build Structure That Frees You. Designed 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

  • Complex Account Cleanup | Brett J Federer Accounting

    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. Designed 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

  • Accounting Policy Architecture | Brett J Federer Accounting

    I design custom accounting policies for complex areas like revenue, inventory, and amortization — structured clearly, documented cleanly, and built to last. For complex areas like Revenue Recognition (ASC 606), Inventory Costing, Amortization of specialized assets (e.g., robotics, R&D), internal controls (e.g., P-Card and expense systems), or other technical accounting topics, this project delivers a formally documented accounting policy with tested logic and structured support for internal or external review — built to fit your real operations, not just theory. Phase 1: Policy Testing, Drafting Scope & Pricing These projects are designed to extend the structure already in place. They’re only available once you’re on the monthly cycle, where the foundation is stable. At that point, this project is billed as a fixed add-on at $6,000 per policy. If something similar is needed during onboarding, it can be built then — but it’s billed hourly as part of implementation, not as a standalone project. Policies are structured under GAAP guidance, with materiality considerations appropriate for the client’s operations, as allowed under GAAP's materiality standards. This is a management-owned policy. Final approval and interpretation remain with your internal team or auditor. All work is performed based on the information available at the time of drafting. Policy development is based solely on the information and operational structure provided during drafting. Anticipated or future changes outside of this scope are not incorporated unless explicitly discussed and agreed upon during the time of drafting. Accounting Policy Architecture What’s Included Testing based on a reasonable sample of your actual transactions and workflows to ensure the policy fits real-world scenarios Full population testing or extensive variations may be billed hourly. Testing is performed solely for structural validation and does not constitute full population testing or audit-level assurance. Policy documentation scoped to your GL and workflows. Targeted meetings with management or internal finance to refine the draft. Delivery of a fully tested policy draft that is ready for internal or external sign-off. What’s Not Included Support for external audit or board approval processes after delivery (billed separately — see Phase 2). Policy implementation work (handled separately in Phase 3). Forecasting or scenario modeling related to the policy implementation Ongoing revisions after final delivery unless related to a material correction requested within 30 days. Updates required due to business model changes, new transactions, or operational shifts after draft delivery Concludes Upon Delivery of a fully tested policy draft — prepared through an iterative review process and ready for internal sign-off. Though formal sign-off is not required for Phase 1 to conclude. Material corrections (errors or misinterpretations relative to the agreed scope) are included at no additional cost if requested within 30 days of delivery. In the event formal sign-off is delayed or not obtained, my role concludes upon draft delivery. Note: All policies remain management-owned. My role is to support testing, structure, and implementation based on agreed-upon scope; final approval and interpretation remain the responsibility of your internal team and/or auditor. Phase 2: Audit / Board Support & Adjustments Scope & Pricing These projects are designed to extend the structure already in place. They’re only available once you’re on the monthly cycle, where the foundation is stable. At that point, this project is billed at $200 per hour. If something similar is needed during onboarding, it can be built then — but it’s billed hourly as part of implementation, not as a standalone project. Covers support related to formal external sign-off processes, including presentation prep, audit support, and post-meeting revisions directly tied to the Phase 1 policy draft. This is limited support based on the Phase 1 draft — not a full redrafting or re-scoping engagement. All work is performed based on the information and operational structure available at the time of Phase 1 delivery. Policy development is based solely on the information and operational structure provided during drafting. Anticipated or future changes outside of this scope are not incorporated unless explicitly discussed and agreed upon during the time of drafting. What’s Included Presentation preparation and formatting support related to the Phase 1 policy (if needed). Attendance and hands-on assistance during board meetings, audit calls, or external review discussions related to the Phase 1 policy (upon request). Post-meeting revisions tied directly to the Phase 1 policy draft. What’s Not Included Creation of new or materially different policy drafts beyond Phase 1 scope (requires a new engagement). Retroactive adjustment for business model changes, new transactions, or operational shifts not reflected in Phase 1 drafting. Ongoing support after scoped Phase 2 deliverables are completed, unless separately re-engaged. Forecasting or scenario modeling related to the policy implementation. Updates required due to business model changes, new transactions, or operational shifts after draft delivery. Concludes Upon Completion of requested external support services (e.g., board presentation, audit discussions, post-meeting revisions) related to the Phase 1 policy. If 30 consecutive days pass without material activity toward external sign-off after the last support service was provided, support services will conclude unless a re-engagement is agreed upon. I will make reasonable efforts to provide a courtesy reminder as the 30-day mark approaches. Phase 3: Implementation Scope & Pricing These projects are designed to extend the structure already in place. They’re only available once you’re on the monthly cycle, where the foundation is stable. At that point, this project is billed as a fixed add-on at $3,500 per policy. If something similar is needed during onboarding, it can be built then — but it’s billed hourly as part of implementation, not as a standalone project. Covers the application of the Phase 1 policy draft into your systems, including journal entries, reconciliations, and workbook configuration based on available historical data. Support is limited to the finalized Phase 1 policy — no re-scoping or new policy development is included. All work is performed based on the information and operational structure available at the time of Phase 1 delivery. Policy application is based solely on finalized Phase 1 documentation. Changes to business models, systems, or operational structures after Phase 1 may require a new engagement. What’s Included Journal entries and reconciliations tied to the finalized Phase 1 policy (including any adjustments made during Phase 2, if applicable). Workbook buildout or configuration aligned to the Phase 1 documentation (if applicable). Limited to application of up to 24 months of historical adjustments (if needed). Internal walk-through to explain setup and usage, if requested. Support with system tagging, mappings, or basic logic reconfiguration as needed to apply the finalized Phase 1 policy, if required. Including any adjustments made during Phase 2, if applicable What’s Not Included Creation of new or materially different policies (requires a new engagement). Forecasting, projections, or scenario modeling beyond historical application. Retroactive adjustment for business model changes, new transactions, or operational shifts not reflected in the finalized Phase 1 policy. Ongoing maintenance or future updates to reconciliations, journal entries, or workbooks after delivery. Concludes Upon Completion and posting of all scoped journal entries and reconciliations tied to the finalized Phase 1 policy. Including any adjustments made during Phase 2, if applicable. If 30 consecutive days pass without material client-side activity related to this policy (e.g., data sharing, system access, necessary feedback), support services will conclude unless a re-engagement is agreed upon. Note: All policies remain management-owned. My role is to support testing, structure, and implementation based on agreed-upon scope; final approval and interpretation remain the responsibility of your internal team and/or auditor. Build Structure That Frees You. Designed 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

  • Rebuilds & Policies Projects | Brett J Federer Accounting

    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. Designed 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

  • Accounting Enhancement Projects | Brett J Federer Accounting

    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. Designed 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 Hourly Accounting Support

    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 controller-level accounting support without a fixed monthly structure For companies that prefer hourly flexibility or do not fit a standard retainer package Hourly Accounting Support Hourly Accounting Support provides flexible controller-level accounting support for companies that prefer hourly engagement or do not fit a standard retainer structure. Work is performed within the existing accounting environment using the same close and reporting standards applied across all services. This offering is designed for companies that want experienced accounting support while maintaining greater control over scope, timing, and engagement structure. Services do not include CFO responsibilities, tax services, staff management, or operational decision-making. Common Concerns Accounting owns your time Missed payments Invoice errors Unreconciled accounts Cash uncertainty Close delays 1099 confusion Unreliable financials Available Outcomes Time reclaimed Accounts Payable batched Accounts Receivable stabilized Accounts reconciled Cash position understood Close blockers cleared 1099s prepared (not filed) More reliable financials 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 begins once access, scope, and priorities are confirmed. Work is performed based on current needs rather than a fixed onboarding structure, with setup or intake work handled within the hourly engagement as needed. There is no required onboarding period, long term commitment, or ongoing retainer requirement. Engagements can be paused or concluded as needs change. System Requirements Hourly Accounting Support operates within the Client’s existing accounting and banking systems rather than replacing them. Existing platforms and workflows remain in place while recurring execution and close activity stabilize around them. The Firm does not assume control over cash movement, banking authority, or operational management. QuickBooks Xero Odoo Sage and similar accounting systems 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 General ledger maintenance 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. Direction & Boundaries Transactional execution and close activity follow established standards. Process redesign, policy restructuring, or structural accounting changes are not included and are scoped separately when needed. If questions arise during the close, general industry practices may be discussed for management consideration before records are aligned. Capitalization Policy Exception A basic capitalization threshold may be established where required for consistent fixed asset treatment. 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 catch up on overdue bookkeeping? 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 is no retainer or long-term commitment. Work is billed based on time incurred, with a minimum monthly support level applied. 🔹 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 Monthly support minimum: $350 Schedule a Call 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. Designed 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 Scaling Businesses

    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 The Financial Clarity Package provides fractional controller services for companies whose accounting systems are no longer holding up under growth, even though bookkeeping and reporting still technically exist. At this stage, the issue usually is not effort or access to data, but growing uncertainty around whether the numbers are still reliable enough to trust. This package replaces reactive accounting friction with durable accounting structure designed to hold up as the business grows. Once stabilized, monthly closes keep reporting current while quarterly closes reinforce consistency, discipline, and long term reliability. 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 Codified Accounting Systems Financial Clarity Package Predictable Close Defensible History Structurally Reliable System Independence 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 Before work begins, access is established and the engagement is structured so the first close runs cleanly. This phase typically spans six to twelve months depending on system condition, with issues, gaps, and priorities surfaced early and addressed in sequence based on system integrity, risk, and dependency. The goal is a system that produces consistent results across reconciliations and reporting without requiring structural fixes as the business grows. The work stays focused on accounting structure and reporting integrity rather than system development, coding, operational process design, or management of staff. Recurring Services Once the system is stable, the monthly close operates as a structured, repeatable process, with books closed, cash tracked, and material variances surfaced as they appear. At quarter-end, the period is validated, adjustments are finalized, and the quarterly financial package is produced for leadership review and internal governance. A system that runs predictably and produces financials that hold under scrutiny is the measure of whether the foundation was built correctly. Onboarding Onboarding Orientation before anything moves. Before work begins, access is established, expectations are aligned, and the engagement is structured so the first close runs cleanly. What happens in this phase: Accounting system access is established Banking and financial accounts are connected Historical activity is surfaced and organized Revenue structure, billing, and contractor relationships are clarified Communication cadence and response expectations are defined If onboarding begins late in a quarter, the first full quarterly close begins the following quarter so the reporting cadence starts cleanly. What this phase is not: No restructuring or corrective work takes place yet. This phase exists to ensure the system is stable before changes begin. Establish a Reliable Baseline Address the Primary Constraint Expand Stability Across the System Monthly Execution Quarterly Validation & Financials Onboarding Establish a Reliable Baseline Establish a Reliable Baseline Stop the drift. Make the numbers hold. The accounting system is stabilized so financials stop shifting between periods and begin to hold under normal use. Reconciliations are untangled, the close structure is rebuilt, and the system is configured to produce consistent, internally reliable results. What happens in this phase: Reconciliations are untangled and material balance issues are corrected The close process is rebuilt with clear structure, timing, and review points Account mappings, configurations, and automation are standardized The system is stabilized so results remain consistent from period to period What this phase is not: Not optimization or refinement work Not a complete resolution of every issue Not a perfect system. The objective is reliability rather than precision. Everything that follows depends on what is established here. Address the Primary Constraint Expand Stability Across the System Monthly Execution Quarterly Validation & Financials Onboarding Establish a Reliable Baseline Address the Primary Constraint Address the Primary Constraint Remove the point of failure. Once the system is stable, focus shifts to the constraint preventing it from operating as designed. This phase isolates the issue and resolves it directly rather than dispersing effort across the system. What happens in this phase: The primary constraint is identified and isolated A targeted correction is defined and sequenced into the system Material variances and risks tied to the root cause are evaluated Resolution is measured against outcome, not activity What this phase is not: Not a broad cleanup Not fixing everything simultaneously Not revisiting what was established in the baseline phase Removing the constraint changes how the entire system behaves. Expand Stability Across the System Monthly Execution Quarterly Validation & Financials Onboarding Establish a Reliable Baseline Address the Primary Constraint Expand Stability Across the System Expand Stability Across the System Scale the structure. Make it hold. With the constraint resolved, the focus shifts to consistency. The standards, controls, and close structure established earlier are extended across the full accounting system so stability becomes the default. What happens in this phase: Accounting infrastructure is formalized through policies, controls, and standards Reporting structure and close outputs are standardized across periods ERP and system configurations are aligned to the established structure Bookkeeper coordination and classification standards are documented and communicated System hygiene is maintained and fragile areas are surfaced early Transition readiness is confirmed so the system holds under normal conditions What this phase is not: Not initial fixes or corrections Not a restart of baseline work Not advisory or strategic planning The system holds everywhere, not just in one place. Monthly Execution Quarterly Validation & Financials Onboarding Establish a Reliable Baseline Address the Primary Constraint Expand Stability Across the System Monthly Execution Monthly Execution It runs. With the system stable, the monthly close operates as a disciplined, repeatable process. Each month produces a consistent, internally reliable view of performance without intervention or correction. What happens in this phase: The books move through a structured monthly soft close Material items and risks are surfaced as they appear What this phase is not: Not rebuilding, corrective work, or major system changes Not a deliverable phase, no financial statements are issued The period is not locked, preserving flexibility until quarterly validation No comprehensive cleanup, policy redesign, or retrospective review of all prior activity Consistent. Predictable. No surprises. Quarterly Validation & Financials Onboarding Establish a Reliable Baseline Address the Primary Constraint Expand Stability Across the System Monthly Execution Quarterly Validation & Financials Quarterly Validation & Financials Confirm it holds. Produce Financials. At quarter-end, the system is validated, financials are finalized, and numbers move from internally reliable to usable for leadership and governance. What happens in this phase: Key accounts are reconciled and adjustments are finalized A structured validation confirms the period is fully closed Material variances are identified, understood, and documented The quarterly financial package is produced for internal use, including: Balance Sheet (year-to-date; year-to-date by month) Profit & Loss (year-to-date; year-to-date by month) Cash Flow, segment reporting, and year-to-date by quarter (available on request) What this phase is not: Not an audit, review, or assurance engagement Not real-time or on-call involvement Not forward-looking advisory work The numbers hold. The period is closed. Ongoing Communication Communication is handled through structured updates and scheduled touchpoints, not real-time messaging platforms such as Slack or Teams. Requests are handled within the established cadence and priorities of the close. System Requirements The Financial Clarity Package evaluates the Client's existing accounting structure, workflows, and reporting environment before structural changes are implemented. Existing systems may remain in place, be stabilized, or be restructured depending on operational findings during implementation. QuickBooks may not be appropriate for more complex implementation environments. Odoo Sage Xero and similar operational accounting systems 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 General ledger maintenance 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, Financial structure only works when ownership is clear. This framework defines how accounting changes are evaluated, approved, and carried through the system, including how system controls and decision boundaries are structured so responsibility remains clear at every stage. Within that structure, Brett J. Federer Accounting, APC may support technical accounting discussions with external auditors when relevant and within the defined scope. Broader participation, such as board or governance involvement, remains outside scope unless separately agreed. If business circumstances change, previously adopted policies may require reassessment, which is handled as a separately scoped engagement. All work reflects professional judgment applied to available information, incorporating materiality and cost-benefit considerations. Client Ownership Management Decision Internal Implementation & Training Enforce Internally Brett J. Federer Accounting Identify Requirements Design & Recommend Changes Click a box above to learn more. Identify Requirements When a change is needed, whether surfaced by management or identified through system review, Brett J. Federer Accounting evaluates the accounting requirements involved. This includes understanding how transactions flow through the system, identifying gaps or risks, and defining what a workable, compliant structure looks like. This phase focuses on: Evaluating transaction flow and system behavior Identifying gaps, inconsistencies, or risk areas Defining requirements before any changes are made Where necessary, this may include reviewing contracts, transactions, and historical activity to determine appropriate accounting treatment based on available information and professional judgment. Analysis is based on available information and professional judgment, not a guarantee of a specific outcome. Design & Recommend Changes Once requirements are understood, a recommendation is prepared. This may take the form of a formal accounting policy, system configuration guidance, or documentation of the appropriate accounting treatment. Depending on the situation, this may include: Policy drafting or clarification System configuration recommendations Accounting treatment guidance Historical adjustment proposals where appropriate Recommendations may include defining system-level controls such as approval sequencing, required fields, monetary thresholds, and timing rules that determine when transactions are considered accounting-ready. All recommendations are advisory. Management retains full authority to accept, modify, or decline them. Management Decision Every recommendation requires a management decision before any work proceeds under that framework. This step is intentional and ensures authority remains internal. At this stage: Management decides whether to adopt, defer, or decline No structural changes are implemented without approval Direction is set before execution begins Work is performed only within the framework that management approves. This keeps ownership where it belongs and avoids unapproved changes being applied to the system. Internal Implementation & Training Once a decision is made, responsibility shifts to the client to implement and operationalize the change internally. This includes communicating updates and ensuring teams understand the new structure. This typically involves: Communicating decisions across the organization Training staff on updated processes Operating in line with the approved framework Brett J. Federer Accounting may apply approved configurations within the accounting system, including controls and structural elements, but does not manage personnel or oversee internal rollout. Responsibility for execution, internal deadlines, and adoption remains with management. Enforce Internally Ongoing compliance with adopted policies remains a management responsibility. The structure is designed to hold, but it must be followed internally to remain effective. This includes: Maintaining adherence to defined processes Meeting internal deadlines and approval requirements Reinforcing consistency over time System-level controls may support enforcement, but they do not replace internal accountability. Brett J. Federer Accounting does not monitor employee behavior, enforce compliance, or act as an escalation point. Its role is to design and apply the framework within the accounting system, while enforcement remains internal. 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 books wrong even with 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. 🔹Why don’t my financial statements match my bank account? 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 change after closing the books? 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%. Implementation Incentive Available for new clients onboarding in Q2 2026. For Financial Clarity Package engagements beginning between April 1 and June 30, 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 Q2 2026. All services, scope, and deliverables remain unchanged. This is simply a thank-you for committing early. 🔹 How it works: Schedule a Call 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. Pricing Alignment Pricing reflects the structure and complexity of your accounting environment at the time of onboarding. If that structure evolves over time, pricing may adjust to remain aligned with the level of support required. 🔹 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 Hospitality may look simple from the outside, but internally it is one of the hardest environments to maintain consistent margins, cash flow visibility, labor control, and operational coordination at the same time. Revenue can remain strong while financial structure quietly weakens underneath it. The Hospitality Implementation Pilot is designed for founders who want stronger financial systems, clearer operational visibility, and accounting structure that can continue holding up as the business grows. I have a personal interest in hospitality and am intentionally expanding into the industry because it aligns naturally with the systems, structure, and operational clarity my work is built around. To support a small number of hospitality operators aligned with that direction, the Financial Clarity Package currently includes: 10% off implementation charges for select hospitality businesses, including: Boutique hotels and inns Luxury vacation rentals Design forward short term rental concepts Retreat and experience based lodging properties Vineyard estates and destination wine properties Design led wedding venues and wellness hospitality concepts If you are unsure whether your business qualifies, we can talk through it together. All services, scope, deliverables, and controller level standards remain unchanged. This hospitality pricing applies only to the Financial Clarity Package implementation phase and ends automatically upon transition into recurring services. This offer does not apply to landlords, short term rental arbitrage groups, restaurants, or capital heavy real estate portfolios. Financial Clarity, One Post at a Time 1 2 3 Build Structure That Frees You. Designed 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

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