The role of a bookkeeper is one which has great importance - you are responsible for maintaining accurate financial information about the business and storing it properly for use in submitting a tax return or paying the right taxes generally. Therefore, it is important to hold steadfast to a code of ethics, and practice high levels of integrity.
However, how does integrity work within the confines of financial recordkeeping? What should you consider, and how should you act? Let’s talk a little bit about this process, because it does make a substantial difference to how you look at the world.
What Role Does a Bookkeeper Play in Tax and Legal Process?
So, when it comes to the role of a bookkeeper, what can we infer about their responsibilities within an organisation with regards to tax? One of the lesser-discussed duties of a bookkeeper or accountant is to ensure the financial health of a business, and to do so in a very ethical way. Integrity is a core part of how you keep books, report on financial activity and coordinate with the relevant authorities to pay appropriate costs through the fiscal year.
Transparent Financial Reporting
Precision is a cornerstone of successful financial reporting, and without transparent financial reports, it is impossible for a business to be accurate and up-to-date with regard to how they do things. As a bookkeeper, the responsibility for this task will fall to you.
There can often be interpretation when it comes to financial reporting, especially when books haven’t been kept in a clear and concise manner. You need to prioritise this transparent reporting to try and stop this issue.
Clients vs Compliance
As a bookkeeper, you’ll probably find yourself frequently caught between two ideologies - client interests and compliance. You have to remain legally compliant with your bookkeeping responsibility, but you also need to operate in the best interests of your client to ensure a harmonious relationship.
It’s a fine line to walk because it demands a specific level of compromise to ensure your responsibilities are met. For example, you’ll often be expected to handle sensitive information. Therefore, it has to be stored and recorded in such a way that complies with the latest data protection laws but keeps everyone happy. The only way this is achievable is to operate with integrity and professionalism.
Hire a Professional Today
There is no doubt that when it comes to things like this, you will have a lot of responsibility to juggle, so hiring a professional bookkeeper is often the best way to handle things. As a trained expert, they can handle all of the issues relating to integrity and help to shield you from the risk of consequences stemming from an inability to handle your job role. Probookkeeper has plenty of experience and confidence in this area, providing you with all the tools and experience you need to safely say you’re handling things with integrity and freeing you up to focus on other tasks.