Free Excel template
Bookkeeping client onboarding checklist
Bring a new bookkeeping client into a repeatable process, from agreeing the work to reviewing the first close. Use the Excel checklist to keep owners and open requests visible.
A starting point for your team
Keep the work moving.
Start with a ready-made list, then adapt it to the client, engagement and way your firm works.
- Inside
- 27 starting tasks
- Track
- Client, target start, owner, due date, status, reviewer and notes
- Format
- Excel workbook · .xlsx
- 01Agree scope, fees and engagement terms
- 02Arrange accounting and bank access
- 03Collect prior records and statements
- 04Review the first close and client handoff
What does the onboarding checklist cover?
The editable workbook has 27 starting tasks for a bookkeeping engagement. It covers the handoffs between accepting a client, receiving information, setting up systems and completing the first close.
- Engagement: services, exclusions, billing and contacts
- Access: accounting software, bank and other relevant systems
- Records: prior financials, statements and open balances
- Setup and first close: rules, opening balances, reconciliations and handoff
How to onboard a bookkeeping client
Copy the starter rows for each client. Enter a client reference and target start, assign owners and due dates, and adapt the list to the agreed services. Mark tasks that do not apply N/A.
Track items awaiting the client separately from work your team is doing. Record the reviewer and next action, and use the filter to focus on one client or status. When adding rows, expand the Excel table if it does not grow automatically.
Set up secure access and a clean handoff
Ask clients to grant individual access through the relevant system and follow your firm’s access practices. Keep passwords, tax IDs, account numbers and source documents in approved systems rather than the checklist.
Before recurring work begins, agree on the client’s reporting cadence, who resolves questions, and which balances and periods still need cleanup.
Frequently asked questions
Is this bookkeeping onboarding template free?
Yes. The Excel checklist is free to download and adapt, with no signup required.
Can I use the checklist for several clients?
Yes. Copy the task rows for each client, enter a client reference on each row, and filter the table by client or status.
Does the checklist collect client documents?
No. It tracks requests and ownership. Store documents and credentials in the secure systems your firm already uses.
Beyond the spreadsheet
Which workflow should be easier to repeat?
Bring your use case. We’ll explore the scope and fit together.