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Bookkeeper Launch review 2024: Is the virtual bookkeeping course legit?

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Bookkeeper Launch is an online course launched in 2015 by Ben Robinson, a certified public accountant, and owner of his own CPA firm.

Robinson reports he has helped more than 8,000 people start their own bookkeeping businesses since 2001.

We recommend Bookkeeper Launch because:

  • A+ BBB rating
  • Track record of helping thousands of people start successful bookkeeping businesses and attract high-paying clients, often earning $100,000+ per year
  • Payment plan option
  • Money-back guarantee

You can get a taste of Bookkeeper Launch with this free bookkeeping course >>

More on Bookkeeper Launch and why we're fans:

What is Bookkeeper Launch?

Bookkeeper Launch is an online bookkeeping course led by Ben Robinson, a certified public accountant and owner of his own CPA firm, through his website, Bookkeepers.com. The course is designed to help people start a virtual bookkeeping business from the ground up.

Bookkeeper Launch teaches: 

  • Modern bookkeeping skills
  • Systems to build an efficient business
  • Marketing strategies to attract clients

Bookkeeper Launch reviews

Bookkeeper Launch reviews from the BBB

Bookkeepers.com, the parent company that offers the Bookkeeper Business Launch course, is accredited with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and has 5 out of 5 stars based on 98 customer reviews:

Better Business Bureau page for Bookkeeper Launch.
Better Business Bureau 5-star review for Bookkeeper Launch.
Better Business Bureau positive review for Bookkeeper Launch.
Positive review for Bookkeeper Launch posted on Better Business Bureau website.

Bookkeeper Launch reviews from Reddit

The number one concern of people looking for feedback about Bookkeeper Launch on Reddit seems to be the course’s $2,999+ price point. But course graduates have jumped in to justify the cost based on the course’s quality and large alumni network. 

Positive Bookkeeper Launch review posted on Reddit.
Positive endorsement of Bookkeeper Launch posted on Reddit.
Positive Reddit comment about Bookkeeper Launch.

This thread offers multiple reviews from people who took the Bookkeeper Launch course with no prior experience in bookkeeping or accounting: 

Bookkeeper Launch reviews from graduates of this course

Erin Bardsley was a newly divorced single mom in Vermont when she enrolled in the Bookkeeper Launch course with no prior bookkeeping experience.

Although the course was a major investment for Bardsley at the time, she now earns $70 per hour as a bookkeeper working on her own schedule. Her roster of clients includes a bakery, yoga studio, and an arts nonprofit, which she landed through word-of-mouth referrals.

Check out our interview for her full Bookkeeper Launch review:

After a tough divorce, Kim Barnes-Edmiston had to restart her life at age 48. She needed a job where she could work from home and support her kids:

swatch

More Bookkeeper Launch success stories here >>

Common complaints about Bookkeeper Launch

There are currently only two complaints listed on Bookkeeper.com’s Better Business Bureau profile and none filed in the last year. 

The only complaints I could find online had to do with the course’s high price point or comments like this one on Reddit about an older version of the course:

Negative Bookkeeper Launch review posted on Reddit.

Bookkeeper Launch course details

The current course includes video lessons, worksheets, templates, quizzes, interviews, role-play scenarios, case studies, and checklists — and a dynamic closed Facebook community only for Bookkeeper Launch clients.

Here is an overview of the curriculum, according to the Bookkeeper Launch syllabus: 

Section 1 – 21st Century Bookkeeping Skills

This is where you learn the technical skills you need to become a bookkeeper. Each skill section is broken down into individual modules like these: 

Skills modules on Bookkeeper Launch course.

In this section, you’ll learn: 

  • How to clearly understand the role of a bookkeeper for businesses today
  • How to create beautiful financial reports that will blow clients' minds (compared to the ugly spreadsheets delivered by most of your competitors)
  • Everything you need to know about:
    • balance sheets
    • income statements
    • statements of cash flows
  • Ben's proven system of “clean up” the books of even the messiest, most chaotic client (and how to brace yourself for clients' ecstatic reactions)
  • How to give your client hope for a better financial future
  • How to stay up-to-date on new bookkeeping technology and rules

Learn more about how to become a bookkeeper in less than a year.

Section 2 – 21st Century Clients

These modules break down how to find clients and how to get them to work with you. 

Client modules on Bookkeeper Launch course.

In this section, you’ll learn: 

  • The difference between busy vs breakthrough work — and how to use this lesson to make the big bucks
  • Identify your ideal target market
  • Craft sales copy and networking language that connects with your ideal target client
  • How to get inside prospective clients minds to understand what they're REALLY looking for
  • The #1 mistake people make with their business card (this costs them lots of clients)
  • Word-for-word scripts to use at networking events, conferences, on sales calls to build trust, get people to like you, and help you feel professional and confident
  • The secrets to coming across as confident in a professional setting (even if you feel terrified inside)
  • Where to find high-quality clients
  • How to price your services
  • How to send proposals that prospective clients buy
  • How to quickly set up a website by yourself

Section 3 – 21st Century Business Systems

Business Systems modules show you how to do your job efficiently and effectively so you can maintain a better work-life balance. 

Systems modules on Bookkeeper Launch course.

In these modules, you’ll learn: 

  • Quick launch system to launch your business in less than one week — including a checklist to give you the confidence that you have covered everything before you open for business, including:
    • Tax setup
    • A list of licenses and permits required — and how and where to get them
    • Tips on how to set up bank and merchant accounts to avoid mistakes that cost you money and headache
  • How to onboard a client safely and smoothly
  • “The Breakthrough Framework” for getting more done (in less time)
  • Bookkeeper lifestyle hacks to help you get more done in less time, and make more money so you can enjoy your new life.

Power Units

Some units are designated as Power Units, which are designed to bring you to the next level of your business (for example, how to get clients to come to you instead of constantly searching for clients). 

Power units on Bookkeeper Launch course.

In these units, you’ll learn: 

  • Ben's simple follow-up system to make sure no interested prospect ever gets by
  • How to build a bookkeeper business on referrals
  • How to define your niche market and double your profits
  • How to facilitate conversations and turn contacts into profits without extra time or effort
  • How to hone your advising skills for a 21st century client
  • Email Handshake template to have clients lining up to talk to you

Where to find high-paying online bookkeeping jobs

Bookkeeper Launch Resource Library

You also get access to the extensive Bookkeeper Launch “Resource Library,” which includes guides, templates and worksheets you need to start your successful bookkeeping business:

  • A detailed workbook to help you work through all of your bookkeeping practicals.
  • Tested and proven templates for Proposals, Engagement Letters and other key marketing materials so you can be confident in your sales process
  • Results-Oriented Checklists for your key systems to make sure you don't miss any important details
  • Interviews with successful students on how they overcame key challenges in their journey so you don't have to run into the same pitfalls
  • Study hacks to show you the most effective learning methods so you can acquire your new bookkeeping skills as quickly as possible
  • All material library materials are based on what's working NOW for the most active and successful bookkeeper
  • Special software and tool recommendations for a virtual bookkeeping business, so you can be efficient and maximize your free time
  • Quizzes, tests and final exams so you've proven that you know what you're talking about

These are some of the available templates/tools: 

Templates on Bookkeeper Launch course.

Bookkeeper Launch certificate of completion

While there is no actual bookkeeping certification required to run a bookkeeping business, Bookkeeper Launch does issue a certificate of completion, which is both helpful in marketing your new business, as well as giving you the confidence to seek out and book clients.

Also, QuickBooks Online and Xero both offer free certifications. These are not necessary to operate as a bookkeeper but can be helpful in building your skills and worth mentioning in your marketing to potential clients.

Certificate from Bookkeeper Launch course.

Bookkeeper Launch Premiere Private Coaching Group

For a premium fee, the Premiere membership level includes a private coaching group where you will receive a high-touch network of fellow bookkeeping students, as well as coaching from instructors. 

Premiere community for Bookkeeper Launch course.

All members can access the Bookkeeper Launch Family community. 

How to start a bookkeeping business in 2024

Pros and cons of Bookkeeper Launch

Bookkeeper Launch pros

  • Nearly every review for Bookkeeper Launch is positive. Its provider, Bookkeepers.com, is accredited with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and 5 out of 5 stars based on 98 customer reviews. The site has had no complaints filed with the BBB in the last year. 
  • Ben Robinson is a great teacher. He breaks everything down in engaging and easy-to-follow video lessons that you can take at your own pace. For each video, you can turn on captions, listen to an audio file or read the transcription if you prefer. There is also a tool to take notes while you listen.
  • The course sequence is designed to help you start your business quickly. For example, Robinson asks you to choose a working business name in the first set of video lessons and to start prospecting for clients even before you’ve learned all of your technical bookkeeping skills. These tactics are designed to push you into action one step at a time so by the end of the course, you feel confident and ready to serve your clients.  
  • Each module lists how long it will take, so you can plan your training schedule accordingly.  
  • You can access templates/tools for marketing to prospective clients and actually conducting your business, including a pricing calculator.
  • Unit quizzes and tests test your retention and progress.
  • You get unlimited lifetime course access, so you can go back for a refresher whenever you need to. The course index lists all lessons by topic so you can easily find a specific part of the course.
  • You have access to a support team of Bookkeeper Launch graduates/current bookkeepers who also hold twice weekly live Q&As. 
  • The course isn’t just about learning bookkeeping skills — it’s about mindset, creating a work-life balance, and establishing yourself as a successful business owner from a 360-degree view. 

Bookkeeper Launch cons

  • The course’s starting $2,999 price point may be steep for some. But numerous reviews say the investment is well worth it. You can see for yourself if it is a fit by taking their free bookkeeping course.
  • The 64 modules take a suggested 90 days to complete, so if you’re not 100% sold on starting a bookkeeping business, you may want to dabble in some shorter and less expensive training to start. Check out this post for a list of bookkeeping courses at various lengths and price points.
  • Robinson asks you to take aggressive steps like searching for clients before you’ve finished the course. If you’re a perfectionist who doesn’t like to do anything until you’re 100% confident and ready, this course might not be for you.  

FAQs about Bookkeeper Launch

Is Bookkeeper Launch accredited?

Bookkeepers.com, the site that offers Bookkeeper Launch, is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Bookkeeper Launch has not been vetted by any bookkeeping accreditation agencies. However, you don’t need an accredited degree or certification to run a bookkeeping business.

Who is Bookkeeper Launch for?

The typical Bookkeeper Launch client is drawn to these benefits of owning a bookkeeping business:

  • You want to boost your income (the average Bookkeeper Launch client reports earning $60 per hour).
  • You want to work part-time and/or remotely from home — or anywhere in the world!
  • You would enjoy helping other businesses and entrepreneurs grow and thrive
  • You don’t need a fancy degree to get started
  • You don't need a lot of money or time to invest in launching a new business.

How much does Bookkeeper Launch cost?

Bookkeeper Launch Pro costs $2,999 (one-time payment).

The Pro program also has a payment plan of 12 payments of $299.

Pay in full, and save $589 on the pro plan.

Bookkeeper Launch Premiere costs $3499 (one-time payment).

Premiere includes everything in Pro, plus:

  • 8 LIVE group coaching sessions giving you more preparation and accountability in a small class setting
  • Led by course creator Ben Robison
  • Unlimited open mic sessions

The Premiere program also has a payment plan of 12 payments of $349.

Pay in full, and save $689 on the premiere plan.

Ben Robinson, the founder (who you will meet in all the sales and course videos, and is immensely likable) is so confident that this course works, that he offers a 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee.

“If you aren’t completely satisfied with the program (for any reason whatsoever) you can request a full refund within the 30-day refund period,” said Ben Robinson, Bookkeeper Launch founder.

Check out Bookkeeper Launch now >>

Bookkeeper Launch Team costs $4,999 (one-time payment)

For those who already have a bookkeeper business and are ready to scale up. Bookkeeper Launch Team costs $499 monthly (for 12 monthly payments so long as the student continues to pay). Or save $989 when you pay in full.

Team includes:

  • Everything in Pro and Premiere, plus:
  • In-bound marketing and sales processes
  • Access to a community of elite bookkeepers to share ideas and strategies
  • 2 Knowledge Licenses for your team members (Bookkeeper Launch Skills)

Bookkeeper Launch offers a 30% military discount for active-duty members, retired service members, and spouses. To prove their eligibility, the individual must supply a copy of their orders (active) or DD214 (retired). 

How long does it take to finish Bookkeeper Launch?

The Bookkeeper Launch System includes 64 hours of coursework. The suggested pacing is about 90 days (the course provides a recommended timeline for each unit). 

More Bookkeepers.com courses/products

While Bookkeeper Launch is parent company Bookkeepers.com's core, flagship product, the company also offers a suite of supplemental courses to help bookkeepers scale their businesses. These programs are meant to be taken alongside, not in place of, Bookkeeper Launch.

If you haven't already, get started with Bookkeeper Launch's free course >>

Marketing Machine

  • Cost: $2,995
  • Course designed to help bookkeepers improve and automate their marketing processes and scale their business

Build a 6-Figure Bookkeeping Business

  • Cost: $497
  • Course to make your bookkeeping business highly profitable using technology and best practices

Bookkeeper Lab Annual/Monthly

  • Cost: $370.00/year or $37/month
  • Advanced community for bookkeeping professionals that includes resources to help you grow your business, two times per month live office hours, and a private support community. Annual members also get the Cybersecurity course ($97) for free.

Outstanding Processes & People

  • Cost: $2,995
  • Learn how to document your bookkeeping processes so you can train and hire people to do the work you don't want to do

Pricing & Packaging

  • Cost: $998
  • Course to increase your current prices to maximize profitability and get prospective clients to work with you

New Client Onboarding

  • Cost: $497
  • Course to streamline your process for bringing on new clients quickly

Cybersecurity for Bookkeepers

  • Cost: $97
  • Course to protect yourself and your clients from cyber criminals, including tips for working with passwords and login info, protecting identifying client information, and securing all of your devices without spending a lot of time and money

Advisory Services

  • Cost: $2,995
  • Course teaches you how to become a trusted advisor for your clients and how to market yourself as more than a bookkeeper

TaxBiz Membership

  • Cost: $2,995
  • Membership to become a tax professional and start your own tax preparation business, including one-year access to QuickBooks Online and listing on TaxPreparers.com

Bottom line: Is Bookkeeper Launch good?

Yes, Bookkeeper Launch is a legit course to help you start a bookkeeping business from scratch. Bookkeeper Launch has helped thousands of people start successful bookkeeping businesses and attract high-paying clients, often earning $100,000+ per year. 

Bookkeeper Launch is accredited with the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ BBB rating, payment plan, and money-back guarantee.

Other work-at-home ideas:

How to become a coder (high paying and you can work from home)

How to become a proofreader and work from anywhere

What is Bookkeeper Launch?

Bookkeeper Launch is an online course launched by Ben Robinson, a certified public accountant, and owner of his own CPA firm. It is designed to help people start a virtual bookkeeping business from the ground up.

Is Bookkeeper Launch accredited?

Bookkeepers.com, the site that offers Bookkeeper Launch, is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Who is Bookkeeper Launch for?

The typical Bookkeeper Launch client is drawn to these benefits of owning a bookkeeping business: you want to boost your income, work part-time, and you don't have lot of time or money to invest in a degree or a business.

How much does Bookkeeper Launch cost?

Bookkeeper Launch starts at $2,499.

How long does it take to finish Bookkeeper Launch?

The Bookkeeper Launch System includes 64 hours of coursework. The suggested pacing is about 90 days (the course provides a recommended timeline for each unit).

Is Bookkeeper Launch good?

Yes, Bookkeeper Launch is a legit course to help you start a bookkeeping business from scratch. Bookkeeper Launch has helped thousands of people start successful bookkeeping businesses and attract high-paying clients, often earning $100,000+ per year.

2 Comments

I currently work at a CPA firm and no one here suggests/likes QBO. They all agree the desktop version is better. Do you know if Bookkeeper Launch is strictly for QBO or do they offer training for either?

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