Top Side Hustles for Accountants in 2024 (With Something special)

Last Tuesday, I bumped into my old college buddy, Sarah, at the coffee shop. She’s been working as an accountant for a big firm for about five years now. As we caught up, she mentioned something that caught my attention.

“I love my job,” Sarah said, stirring her latte, “but lately, I’ve been thinking about doing something on the side. You know, to mix things up a bit and maybe earn some extra cash.”

That got me thinking. How many other accountants out there feel the same way? We often picture accountants buried in spreadsheets and tax forms, but the truth is, many are looking for ways to diversify their skills and income.

Curious, I started asking around. I talked to other accountants, browsed through forums, and even tried out a few side gigs myself. Turns out, Sarah wasn’t alone. A lot of number-crunching professionals are venturing beyond their day jobs, finding creative ways to use their skills. So let’s talk about just that.

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Find the Perfect Side Hustle for You

Why Consider a Side Hustle as an Accountant?

You might be wondering why you’d want to take on extra work when your day job already keeps you busy. Well, there are a few good reasons:

1. Extra Income: Let’s face it, who couldn’t use a little more cash? A side hustle can help pad your bank account, whether you’re saving for a big purchase or just want some extra spending money.
2. Skill Development: Trying something new keeps your mind sharp. You might pick up skills that make you even better at your day job, or discover talents you never knew you had.
3. Flexibility: Unlike your 9-to-5, you’re in control of your side gig. Work when you want, how you want. It’s a nice change of pace from the structured world of corporate accounting.
4. Future Opportunities: Today’s side hustle could be tomorrow’s full-time gig. It’s a low-risk way to test the waters of entrepreneurship or a new career path.
5. Personal Fulfillment: Sometimes, it’s just about doing something you enjoy. If your day job doesn’t fully satisfy your passions, a side hustle can fill that gap.

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Top 20 Side Hustles for Accountants

Let’s dive into some of the most promising side hustles for accountants. We’ll start with the top three:

Tax Preparation Services

This one’s a natural fit for accountants. You’ve got the skills, now it’s just about finding clients.

What it involves: Helping individuals and small businesses prepare and file their tax returns.

Steps to get started:

1. Brush up on the latest tax laws and regulations
2. Decide on your target market (individuals, small businesses, or both)
3. Set up a simple website or social media presence
4. Network with local businesses or promote your services online
5. Consider getting certified as an Enrolled Agent for added credibility

Expectations:

• Busy season will be… well, busy. Expect long hours from January to April.
• Income can vary widely, but experienced preparers can earn $100-$300 per return.
• You’ll need to stay updated on tax laws, which change frequently.

Pro Tip: Start with friends and family to build your confidence and get testimonials.

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One-Person CPA Business

Ready to be your own boss? A one-person CPA business could be your ticket to independence.

What it involves: Offering a range of accounting services to small businesses and individuals, from bookkeeping to financial advisory.

Steps to get started:

1. Ensure you have your CPA license and required certifications
2. Develop a business plan and decide on your service offerings
3. Set up your business structure (LLC, S-Corp, etc.)
4. Create a professional website and marketing materials
5. Network aggressively – join local business groups, attend events
6. Consider investing in professional liability insurance

Expectations:

• It takes time to build a client base. Don’t expect to replace your full-time income immediately.
• You’ll wear many hats – accountant, marketer, salesperson, and more.
• Income potential is high, but so is the responsibility. You’re accountable for everything.

Pro Tip: Start with a niche. Specializing in a specific industry or service can help you stand out in a crowded market.

Virtual Bookkeeping and Accounting

In our digital age, you can crunch numbers from anywhere. Virtual bookkeeping is on the rise, and for good reason.

What it involves: Managing financial records, reconciling accounts, and generating reports for clients remotely.

Steps to get started:

1. Familiarize yourself with popular accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, etc.)
2. Set up a home office with reliable internet and necessary tech
3. Decide on your service packages and pricing
4. Create profiles on freelancing platforms or build your own website
5. Develop a system for securely sharing and storing financial information

Expectations:

• Flexibility is a major perk. Work from anywhere, often on your own schedule.
• You’ll need to be self-motivated and excellent at time management.
• Income can start modest but grow significantly as you build a client base.
• Expect to handle a variety of industries and financial situations.

Pro Tip: Offer a free consultation or small project to new clients. It’s a great way to showcase your skills and build trust.

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Freelance CFO Services

Want to play in the big leagues? Freelance CFO services might be your ticket.

What it involves: Providing high-level financial strategy and management to businesses that can’t afford a full-time CFO.

Steps to get started:

1. Build a strong portfolio showcasing your financial leadership experience
2. Network with business owners and entrepreneurs in your area
3. Create a professional website highlighting your services and expertise
4. Develop a pricing structure (hourly, project-based, or retainer)
5. Consider getting additional certifications in financial planning or strategy

Expectations:

• You’ll need significant experience and a strong track record to attract clients
• Work can be project-based or ongoing, offering flexibility
• Potential for high earnings, but with high responsibility
• You’ll need to stay current on industry trends and financial strategies

Pro Tip: Start by offering your services to small businesses or startups. As you build your reputation, you can move up to larger clients.

Teaching and Tutoring

Got knowledge? Share it! Teaching and tutoring can be rewarding both financially and personally.

CPA Exam Tutoring

What it involves: Helping aspiring CPAs prepare for and pass the challenging CPA exam.

Steps to get started:

1. Create a study plan and materials based on the current CPA exam structure
2. Set up an online tutoring platform (Zoom, Skype, or specialized tutoring software)
3. Advertise your services on social media, professional networks, or tutoring websites
4. Consider partnering with local colleges or CPA prep courses

Expectations:

• Demand peaks during exam seasons
• You’ll need to stay updated on exam changes and requirements
• Can be very rewarding as you help others achieve their career goals

Accounting Software Training

What it involves: Teaching individuals or businesses how to use popular accounting software.

Steps to get started:

1. Become an expert in one or more accounting software packages
2. Create training materials and lesson plans
3. Offer both individual and group training sessions
4. Consider getting certified by software providers (e.g., QuickBooks ProAdvisor)

Expectations:

• Continuous learning as software updates and new features are released
• Can be done in-person or online
• Potential for recurring revenue through ongoing support or advanced training

Online Course Creation

What it involves: Developing and selling online courses on accounting topics.

Steps to get started:

1. Choose your niche (e.g., bookkeeping basics, advanced tax strategies)
2. Plan and create your course content (videos, quizzes, assignments)
3. Select an online course platform (Udemy, Teachable, or your own website)
4. Market your course through social media, professional networks, and content marketing

Expectations:

• Upfront time investment to create the course
• Potential for passive income once the course is live
• Need to update content regularly to keep it relevant

Pro Tip: Start with a mini-course or free workshop to gauge interest and get feedback before creating a full-length course.

Financial Consulting

Put your financial acumen to work by helping others navigate their money matters.

Small Business Mentoring

What it involves: Guiding small business owners through financial decisions and strategies.

Steps to get started:

1. Define your areas of expertise (e.g., cash flow management, financial planning)
2. Create a mentoring program structure (session frequency, duration, topics covered)
3. Network with local business associations and chambers of commerce
4. Develop case studies from your accounting career to showcase your expertise

Expectations:

• Build long-term relationships with clients
• Opportunity to make a real difference in small businesses’ success
• May require some emotional intelligence as you’re often dealing with people’s livelihoods

Personal Finance Coaching

What it involves: Helping individuals manage their personal finances, from budgeting to investment planning.

Steps to get started:

1. Consider getting certified as a Financial Coach or Financial Counselor
2. Develop a coaching program or curriculum
3. Set up a system for tracking clients’ progress
4. Market your services through social media, workshops, or local community events

Expectations:

• Combine financial expertise with coaching and motivational skills
• Can be very rewarding as you help people achieve financial goals
• May deal with sensitive personal information and situations

Cryptocurrency Consulting

Riding the crypto wave? Turn your knowledge into a cutting-edge side hustle.

What it involves: Advising individuals or businesses on cryptocurrency investments, taxation, and accounting.

Steps to get started:

1. Deepen your knowledge of blockchain technology and major cryptocurrencies
2. Stay updated on cryptocurrency regulations and tax implications
3. Network in cryptocurrency communities and forums
4. Develop a framework for assessing crypto investments and risks
5. Consider getting certified in blockchain or cryptocurrency

Expectations:

• Fast-paced field with constant changes in technology and regulations
• High potential for earnings due to specialized knowledge
• May need to educate clients on basics before diving into complex topics

Pro Tip: Start a blog or YouTube channel about cryptocurrency accounting. It’s a great way to establish yourself as an expert and attract clients.

E-commerce Accounting

In the age of online shopping, e-commerce businesses need accountants too.

What it involves: Managing financial aspects specific to e-commerce businesses, including multi-channel sales, inventory, and cross-border transactions.

Steps to get started:

1. Familiarize yourself with e-commerce platforms (Shopify, Amazon, etc.) and their financial reports
2. Learn about sales tax for online businesses, especially for multi-state sellers
3. Understand inventory management and its impact on financials
4. Get comfortable with data analytics tools for sales and financial forecasting
5. Network with e-commerce business owners or join relevant online communities

Expectations:

• Need to understand both accounting and e-commerce business models
• Potential for recurring revenue through ongoing bookkeeping and advisory services
• May need to work with various currencies and international tax laws

Real Estate Investing

Turn your number-crunching skills into real estate riches.

What it involves: Using your financial expertise to identify, acquire, and manage profitable real estate investments.

Steps to get started:

1. Educate yourself on real estate markets and investment strategies
2. Start with analyzing potential investments for practice
3. Network with real estate agents, property managers, and other investors
4. Consider getting a real estate license for access to more deals
5. Start small, perhaps with a single rental property or a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT)

Expectations:

• Requires significant upfront capital or good credit for financing
• Can provide both ongoing rental income and long-term appreciation
• Time commitment varies based on your involvement in property management
• Need to understand tax implications and benefits of real estate investing

Pro Tip: Use your accounting skills to create detailed financial models for potential investments. This can give you an edge in identifying profitable opportunities.

Amazon FBA Business

Leverage the world’s largest e-commerce platform for your side hustle.

What it involves: Sourcing products, listing them on Amazon, and using their Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service to store and ship items to customers.

Steps to get started:

1. Research profitable products with good margins
2. Find reliable suppliers or manufacturers
3. Create an Amazon seller account and list your products
4. Ship your inventory to Amazon’s fulfillment centers
5. Manage your listings, inventory, and customer service

Expectations:

• Requires initial investment in inventory
• Amazon handles storage, shipping, and customer service, but you pay fees
• Need to continuously monitor sales, adjust prices, and manage inventory
• Potential for scalable, semi-passive income

Pro Tip: Start with a small number of products to learn the ropes before expanding. Your accounting skills will be crucial in tracking costs and profitability.

Affiliate Marketing

Turn your financial know-how into passive income streams.

What it involves: Promoting financial products or services and earning a commission for each sale or lead you generate.

Steps to get started:

1. Choose a niche within finance (e.g., personal finance apps, investing platforms)
2. Build a platform (blog, YouTube channel, or social media presence)
3. Apply to relevant affiliate programs
4. Create valuable content that naturally incorporates affiliate products
5. Track your performance and optimize your strategies

Expectations:

• Takes time to build an audience and see significant income
• Income can be passive once you’ve created content
• Need to maintain integrity and only promote products you believe in
• Requires ongoing content creation and audience engagement

Pro Tip: Focus on building trust with your audience. Your background in accounting gives you credibility – use it to provide genuinely helpful advice alongside your affiliate promotions.

Content Creation

Share your financial wisdom with the world and get paid for it.

Financial Podcast Hosting

What it involves: Creating and hosting a podcast on financial topics.

Steps to get started:

1. Define your podcast’s niche and format
2. Invest in basic recording equipment and editing software
3. Plan and record your first few episodes
4. Choose a podcast hosting platform and submit to major directories
5. Promote your podcast on social media and professional networks

Expectations:

• Requires consistent content creation
• Can take time to build an audience
• Potential for monetization through ads, sponsorships, or premium content
• Great way to build your personal brand and network

YouTube Channel

What it involves: Creating video content on accounting and finance topics.

Steps to get started:

1. Define your channel’s focus (e.g., tax tips, accounting basics)
2. Invest in video recording and editing equipment
3. Plan and create your first few videos
4. Optimize your videos for search and engage with your audience
5. Consistently upload new content

Expectations:

• Steep learning curve if you’re new to video production
• Takes time to grow subscribers and views
• Can monetize through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing
• Builds your authority in the finance space

Blogging

What it involves: Writing articles on financial topics for your own blog.

Steps to get started:

1. Choose a blogging platform and set up your site
2. Define your blog’s niche and target audience
3. Create a content calendar and start writing posts
4. Learn about SEO to help your content rank in search engines
5. Promote your blog on social media and in professional circles

Expectations:

• Requires consistent content creation
• Takes time to build traffic and earn income
• Can monetize through ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing
• Great way to showcase your expertise and attract clients for other services

Selling Digital Products

Turn your knowledge into downloadable gold.

eBooks on Accounting and Tax Topics

What it involves: Writing and selling digital books on specific accounting or tax subjects.

Steps to get started:

1. Choose a topic you’re knowledgeable and passionate about
2. Outline and write your eBook
3. Design a cover and format your eBook
4. Choose platforms to sell your eBook (Amazon Kindle, your own website)
5. Market your eBook through your professional network and social media

Expectations:

• Upfront time investment to create the eBook
• Potential for passive income once published
• Need to update content periodically to keep it relevant
• Can serve as a lead magnet for your other services

Spreadsheet Templates

What it involves: Creating and selling pre-made spreadsheets for budgeting, financial analysis, or tax preparation.

Steps to get started:

1. Identify common financial tasks that could be streamlined with a template
2. Create user-friendly, professional-looking spreadsheets
3. Write clear instructions for using the templates
4. Set up a platform to sell your templates (Etsy, your own website)
5. Create tutorial videos to showcase your templates’ features

Expectations:

• Leverage your existing spreadsheet skills
• Low ongoing time commitment once templates are created
• May need to provide some customer support
• Can create a suite of templates for different needs

Printables

What it involves: Designing and selling downloadable financial planning tools, budget worksheets, or tax checklists.

Steps to get started:

1. Brainstorm useful financial printables (e.g., debt payoff trackers, savings goal charts)
2. Design attractive and functional printables
3. Create product listings with clear descriptions and images
4. Choose a platform to sell your printables (Etsy, Gumroad, your own site)
5. Promote your printables on social media and financial planning communities

Expectations:

• Requires some design skills or willingness to learn
• Low ongoing time commitment once printables are created
• Potential for passive income
• Can create seasonal printables (e.g., tax season checklists) for timely sales boosts

Freelance Financial Writing

Put your financial knowledge into words and get paid for it.

What it involves: Writing articles, blog posts, or reports on financial topics for various clients or publications.

Steps to get started:

1. Build a portfolio of writing samples
2. Create profiles on freelancing platforms or pitch directly to financial publications
3. Network with content managers and editors in the finance industry
4. Stay updated on financial news and trends
5. Develop a system for managing multiple writing projects

Expectations:

• Income can vary widely based on clients and volume of work
• Flexibility to work from anywhere
• Need to meet deadlines and potentially handle revisions
• Opportunity to learn about diverse financial topics

Pro Tip: Specialize in a particular area of finance to position yourself as an expert and command higher rates.

Mobile Notary Services

Take your official stamp on the road.

What it involves: Traveling to clients to witness and authenticate the signing of important documents.

Steps to get started:

1. Complete your state’s notary public application process
2. Purchase necessary supplies (stamp, journal, etc.)
3. Consider becoming a Notary Signing Agent for loan document signings
4. Set up a scheduling system and determine your service area
5. Market your services to local businesses, real estate agents, and law firms

Expectations:

• Flexible schedule, but may include evenings and weekends
• Need reliable transportation
• Income varies based on your availability and local demand
• Opportunity to network and potentially gain clients for other services

Online Market Research and Surveys

Turn your analytical skills into quick cash.

What it involves: Participating in online surveys, focus groups, or user testing sessions, often related to financial products or services.

Steps to get started:

1. Sign up for reputable market research platforms (e.g., Respondent, UserTesting, Testbirds)
2. Create detailed profiles highlighting your financial expertise
3. Check regularly for relevant surveys or studies
4. Be prompt and thorough in your responses
5. Keep track of your earnings for tax purposes

Expectations:

• Flexible, can be done in your spare time
• Payment varies widely, from a few dollars to hundreds per study
• Some opportunities may require video calls or in-person sessions
• Not consistent income, but can be a nice bonus

Pro Tip: Look for finance-specific research opportunities where your professional background can qualify you for higher-paying studies.

Forensic Accounting Services

Put on your detective hat and follow the money trail.

What it involves: Investigating financial discrepancies, often in legal contexts such as fraud cases or divorces.

Steps to get started:

1. Gain relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Fraud Examiner)
2. Build a network with law firms and insurance companies
3. Create a professional website showcasing your forensic accounting services
4. Develop a systematic approach to financial investigations
5. Stay updated on relevant laws and regulations

Expectations:

• Can be high-pressure with court deadlines
• Requires attention to detail and strong analytical skills
• Potential for high earnings due to specialized nature
• May involve testifying in court as an expert witness

Pro Tip: Start by offering your services to small law firms or as a subcontractor for larger forensic accounting firms to gain experience.

Business Valuation

Help business owners understand what their company is really worth.

What it involves: Analyzing a company’s financial and operational data to determine its fair market value.

Steps to get started:

1. Consider getting a valuation credential (e.g., CVA, ABV)
2. Study various valuation methods and industry benchmarks
3. Develop a process for gathering and analyzing company data
4. Network with business brokers, M&A advisors, and attorneys
5. Create report templates and valuation models

Expectations:

• Requires in-depth understanding of financial statements and business operations
• Each valuation can be time-intensive
• Potential for high fees, especially for complex valuations
• May need to defend your valuations to clients or in legal settings

Credit Card Rewards Optimization

Turn your financial savvy into travel perks and cash back.

What it involves: Strategically using credit cards to maximize rewards, then helping others do the same.

Steps to get started:

1. Research and understand various credit card reward programs
2. Develop strategies for maximizing points and cash back
3. Create a system for tracking rewards and optimizing spending
4. Start a blog or YouTube channel to share your strategies
5. Consider offering one-on-one consulting for personalized optimization plans

Expectations:

• Requires excellent credit score management
• Need to stay updated on credit card offers and program changes
• Can lead to significant personal savings on travel and purchases
• Potential to monetize through affiliate marketing or consulting

Pro Tip: Always emphasize responsible credit use. Your accounting background gives you credibility in discussing the financial implications of credit card strategies.

Growing and Selling Specialty Products (e.g., Mushrooms)

Combine your green thumb with your financial acumen.

What it involves: Cultivating and selling specialty products, using mushrooms as an example due to their growing market demand.

Steps to get started:

1. Research cultivation techniques and market demand for your chosen product
2. Set up a small-scale growing operation, following all legal requirements
3. Develop relationships with local restaurants, farmers markets, or online marketplaces
4. Create a business plan and tracking system for expenses and revenue
5. Consider obtaining organic certification for higher market value

Expectations:

• Requires consistent time and effort for cultivation
• Initial investment in equipment and supplies
• Income can be seasonal or dependent on harvest cycles
• Opportunity to scale from a side hustle to a full business

Pro Tip: Use your accounting skills to meticulously track costs and optimize your pricing strategy. This can give you an edge in a competitive market.

Each of these side hustles offers a unique way to leverage your accounting skills and explore new areas of interest. Whether you’re looking for a creative outlet, a way to diversify your income, or a potential new career path, there’s likely an option here that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.

How AI Can Help You in Your Side Hustle Journey

We’ve covered a lot of ground with these side hustles, but here’s the kicker: AI can supercharge your efforts, turning 4-hour tasks into 2-hour breezes. Let’s dive into how AI can optimize your side hustle game.

1. Content Creation and Writing

Whether you’re blogging, creating courses, or writing ebooks, AI can be your secret weapon.

AI-Powered Writing Assistant: Use tools like GPT-3 based assistants to:

• Generate outlines for your content
• Expand on key points
• Proofread and suggest improvements

Prompt Example: “Create an outline for a blog post titled ’10 Tax Saving Strategies for Small Businesses in 2024′”

Automation Tip: Set up a workflow where AI generates a first draft, you review and edit, and then AI does a final polish.

2. Data Analysis and Reporting

For side hustles involving financial analysis or reporting, AI can dramatically speed up your process.

AI-Driven Data Analysis: Utilize machine learning models to:

• Identify trends in financial data
• Predict future financial outcomes
• Generate automated financial reports

Prompt Example: “Analyze this CSV file of monthly expenses and income. Identify top 3 areas for potential cost-cutting and project savings over the next 6 months.”

Automation Guide:

1. Use Python with libraries like pandas and sklearn for data processing
2. Create a script that automatically imports new data
3. Train a model to categorize expenses and flag anomalies
4. Generate a report with visualizations using matplotlib

3. Customer Service and Chatbots

For consulting or service-based side hustles, AI can handle initial client interactions.

AI Chatbot: Implement a chatbot on your website to:

• Answer FAQs
• Schedule appointments
• Provide basic financial advice

Prompt Example: “Create a decision tree for a chatbot that helps users determine if they need to file a 1040, 1040A, or 1040EZ form.”

Automation Tip: Integrate your chatbot with your calendar and CRM system for seamless client management.

4. Social Media Management

AI can help maintain your online presence without eating up your time.

AI Social Media Assistant: Use AI tools to:

• Generate post ideas
• Create engaging captions
• Suggest optimal posting times

Prompt Example: “Generate 5 LinkedIn post ideas for a CPA specializing in small business taxes, including relevant hashtags.”

Automation Guide:

1. Use a tool like Buffer or Hootsuite for scheduling
2. Integrate with an AI tool for content generation
3. Set up a weekly routine where AI suggests content, you approve, and it’s automatically scheduled

5. Financial Modeling and Forecasting

For side hustles in financial consulting or CFO services, AI can enhance your predictive capabilities.

AI-Enhanced Financial Models: Leverage machine learning to:

• Improve accuracy of financial forecasts
• Identify key variables affecting financial outcomes
• Generate scenario analyses

Prompt Example: “Create a Python script that uses historical data to forecast revenue for the next 12 months, accounting for seasonality and trend.”

Automation Tip: Develop a system where clients input their latest financial data, and AI automatically updates forecasts and generates a summary report.

6. Tax Preparation Assistance

For tax-related side hustles, AI can streamline the preparation process.

AI Tax Assistant: Use AI to:

• Classify expenses automatically
• Identify potential deductions
• Flag potential audit triggers

Prompt Example: “Develop a checklist of questions to ask a small business owner to identify all possible tax deductions.”

Automation Guide:

1. Create an AI-powered questionnaire for clients
2. Use natural language processing to extract relevant information from client documents
3. Automatically populate tax forms based on extracted data
4. Generate a summary report of potential areas for tax savings

7. Market Research and Trend Analysis

For side hustles involving investing or business consulting, AI can keep you ahead of market trends.

AI Market Analyzer: Employ AI to:

• Monitor news and social media for relevant trends
• Analyze sentiment around specific industries or companies
• Identify emerging market opportunities

Prompt Example: “Monitor financial news sources and social media for the past week. Identify the top 3 trending topics in personal finance and summarize key points.”

Automation Tip: Set up a daily or weekly automated report that summarizes key market trends and sends it directly to your inbox.

6 Steps to Start Your Side Hustle as an Accountant

So you’re thinking about starting a side hustle? Smart move. Let’s walk through how to get your accounting side gig off the ground.

Find Your Sweet Spot

First things first: figure out what you’re going to offer. You don’t want to be a jack of all trades and master of none. Think about what you’re good at, what you enjoy, and what people need. Maybe you’re a whiz at small business taxes, or perhaps you’ve got a knack for explaining finance to non-finance folks. Whatever it is, that’s your sweet spot.

Sketch Out Your Game Plan

I know, I know. As an accountant, the idea of writing a business plan might make you want to take a nap. But hear me out. You don’t need a 50-page document. Just grab a piece of paper and jot down the basics:

• Who are you helping?
• What exactly are you offering them?
• How much will you charge?
• How will people find out about you?

Think of it as a financial forecast for your side hustle. You wouldn’t let a client run their business without one, right?

Make It Official (Or Not)

Here’s where your accountant brain can really shine. You need to decide if you want to set up a formal business entity. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. An LLC might give you some nice liability protection, but it also comes with more paperwork. A sole proprietorship is simpler, but it doesn’t separate your personal and business assets. Weigh the pros and cons, and if you’re stuck, it might be worth chatting with a legal pro.

Get Your Ducks in a Row

Depending on what services you’re offering, you might need some specific certifications or licenses. Take a look at what your state requires. And while you’re at it, think about any extra certifications that might make you stand out. Just remember, these things often take time, so start the ball rolling early.

Set Up Shop

You don’t need a corner office to start your side hustle, but you do need some basics. Carve out a space in your home where you can work without distractions. Invest in good accounting software – you know better than anyone how important that is. And don’t forget about a professional-looking website. These days, if you’re not online, you might as well be invisible.

Spread the Word

Time to let people know you’re open for business. Start with the folks you know – your professional network is gold here. Polish up your LinkedIn profile and maybe join some online forums where your potential clients hang out. And here’s a thought: why not share some of your knowledge for free? Write a blog post about common tax mistakes or make a quick video explaining a tricky accounting concept. It’s a great way to show off your expertise and draw people in.

The hardest part of starting a side hustle? Actually starting. Don’t get caught up in making everything perfect. Get the basics in place and start putting yourself out there. 

Marketing and Promoting Your Side Hustle

Getting the word out doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

1. Leverage Your Network
   • Inform colleagues and professional contacts about your services
   • Join local business groups or chambers of commerce
2. Online Presence
   • Create a professional website showcasing your services and expertise
   • Maintain active, professional social media profiles (especially LinkedIn)
3. Content Marketing
   • Start a blog sharing accounting tips and insights
   • Create short video tutorials on common accounting issues
4. Paid Advertising
   • Experiment with targeted LinkedIn or Google ads
   • Consider local SEO to appear in “accountant near me” searches
5. Partnerships
   • Collaborate with complementary businesses (e.g., financial advisors, lawyers)
   • Offer to guest post on relevant blogs or speak at local events

Remember: Consistency is key in marketing. It’s better to choose one or two channels and do them well than to spread yourself too thin.

FAQs

Are side hustles legal for accountants to pursue?

Generally, yes. However, there are a few considerations:

• Check your employment contract for any restrictions
• Ensure you’re not using company resources or time for your side hustle
• Be mindful of potential conflicts of interest
• Follow all relevant professional standards and ethical guidelines

How much time do you need to commit to side hustles as an accountant?

It varies widely depending on your goals and the type of side hustle. Start with a few hours a week and adjust based on demand and your capacity. Many successful side hustlers commit 10-15 hours per week, but it’s possible to start with less.

What are some common mistakes that accountants make when pursuing a side hustle?

1. Underpricing their services
2. Neglecting to set clear boundaries with clients
3. Trying to do everything themselves instead of outsourcing or automating
4. Not staying updated on tax laws and regulations
5. Failing to market consistently

How much can I realistically make as an accountant with a side hustle?

Earnings can vary dramatically based on your services, time commitment, and market. Some accountants make a few hundred dollars a month, while others turn their side hustle into a six-figure business. A realistic starting goal might be $500-$1000 per month, increasing as you gain experience and clients.

Is the income from a side hustle considered taxable income?

Yes, income from a side hustle is taxable. You’ll need to report this income on your tax return, typically using Schedule C if you’re operating as a sole proprietor. Don’t forget about self-employment taxes, which cover Social Security and Medicare contributions for self-employed individuals.

Pro Tip: Keep meticulous records of all income and expenses related to your side hustle. This will make tax time much easier and ensure you’re claiming all eligible deductions.

Remember, starting a side hustle is an exciting journey. It’s okay to start small and grow gradually. The key is to provide value, stay organized, and never stop learning. With your accounting background, you’re already ahead of the game in understanding the financial aspects of running a business. Now it’s time to put that knowledge to work for yourself!