Bookkeeping vs accounting
Learn how bookkeeping and accounting differ, what each role does, and when to hire which for your business.
Published Friday 24 July 2026
Handy resources
Advisor directory
You can search for experts in our advisor directory
When you should hire a bookkeeper
Find out all the things bookkeepers can do for your business
Xero dashboard
See your key information on the business dashboard
Disclaimer
This glossary is for small business owners. The definitions are written with their requirements in mind. More detailed definitions can be found in accounting textbooks or from an accounting professional. Xero does not provide accounting, tax, business or legal advice.