Before we work together
Good questions.
Straightforward answers.
Start here for the practical details. If your question depends on your business, let’s talk it through.
01
Getting started
Who do you work with?
Our commercial work is built for specialty subcontractors, including businesses building their contract reporting and businesses with bonding requirements. We start by understanding your work and the support it calls for.
What happens on the first call?
We discuss your business, your current records and the problem you want to solve. If there is a fit, we explain the assessment and what we need to review.
Is the Financial Risk Assessment required?
Yes. It is free and required before either side commits to an engagement. You keep the findings and the plan whether or not we work together.
What access do you need for the assessment?
Read-only access to QuickBooks Online or Xero and Your prior year tax returns. You add us from your side, under Manage Users and Accountants. QuickBooks Online does not allow us to send the invitation, which is the step that most often stalls a start.
02
The engagement
How is the work scoped?
Core provides the bookkeeping foundation. Compliance covers services required by your work. Growth covers elective budgets, forecasts and scenarios. Tax planning implementation, payroll processing, bill pay and collections follow-up are separate add-ons.
Is job costing always included?
No. Job costing is optional and metered. Without it, contract margin against estimate is not included on the Contractor Position Page. We make that choice explicit during scoping.
How does pricing work?
Pricing reflects the agreed services and the work involved. The activity meter is reviewed quarterly using a rolling six-month average and can move in either direction.
When do I receive reporting?
Contractor Position Page: Delivered by the eighth business day, walked on a quarterly call. Other work and responsibilities are defined in your engagement.
03
Working together
Can I keep my CPA?
Yes. We can work around an existing professional relationship. We agree on who handles bookkeeping, reporting, preparation and planning so responsibilities are clear.
Do you perform audits, reviews or compilations?
No. Today CFO is not a CPA firm and does not perform attest services. Those services remain with the appropriate CPA firm.
How long does onboarding take?
The starting point matters. We review the condition of the records, any cleanup and the required handoffs before agreeing on the onboarding plan.
Do I need to be in Houston?
No. Today CFO is based in Houston and works with clients nationwide.