How to Start a Virtual Bookkeeping Career with No Experience

If you’re looking to work from home, enjoy flexible hours, and dive into a stable career path, learning how to become a virtual bookkeeper with no experience might be your perfect opportunity. Bookkeeping is an essential function for businesses of all sizes—and the rise of cloud accounting software has opened the door for beginners to start virtual careers without traditional degrees or certifications.

What is Virtual Bookkeeping?

Virtual bookkeeping is the process of managing a business’s financial records remotely using accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, or FreshBooks. Bookkeepers help with tasks like data entry, reconciling accounts, generating reports, and invoicing. Many small businesses prefer hiring part-time or freelance virtual bookkeepers, making this a growing remote work trend in 2025.

In fact, as highlighted in our remote job opportunities feature, virtual finance roles are among the top-recommended jobs for beginners.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Virtual Bookkeeper with No Experience

1. Understand the Role and Its Responsibilities

Before diving in, take time to understand what a bookkeeper does. While no prior experience is required, you should be comfortable with numbers, organized, and detail-oriented. Basic duties include:

• Recording financial transactions
• Managing receipts and invoices
• Bank reconciliation
• Expense tracking
• Preparing financial reports

2. Learn Bookkeeping Basics

Start by taking free or affordable courses online. Websites like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and even YouTube offer beginner-friendly lessons on accounting principles. You can also check platforms like edX for courses from institutions like Harvard or Wharton.

Some topics to master:

• Debits and credits
• Chart of accounts
• Cash vs. accrual accounting
• Profit and loss statements

3. Choose Your Accounting Software

Most virtual bookkeepers use cloud-based software. The most common include:

• QuickBooks Online: The industry standard for small business bookkeeping.
• Xero: Popular in international markets with a user-friendly dashboard.
• Wave: A free alternative for freelancers and solopreneurs.

Consider signing up for free trials and exploring demo accounts to get hands-on practice.

4. Build a Simple Portfolio

Even with no real clients, you can create a sample portfolio by:

• Mocking up reports using fictional businesses
• Taking screenshots of your course certificates
• Summarizing what you’ve learned and practiced

Use this to show potential clients or employers that you’re proactive and committed to learning.

5. Find Entry-Level Virtual Bookkeeping Jobs

Many platforms offer freelance or beginner remote accounting gigs:

• Upwork
• Fiverr
• Freelancer
• Remote.co
• Indeed and LinkedIn Jobs

Search for listings that say “no experience required” or “junior bookkeeper.”

Also, see our guide on how to find freelance work for more ideas on building a remote career.

How to Stand Out as a Beginner

• Get Certified: Consider beginner certifications like QuickBooks ProAdvisor or Bookkeeper Launch’s free trial course.
• Niche Down: Focus on a specific industry like ecommerce, coaches, or creatives.
• Offer Free Trials: This builds trust and lets clients evaluate your service.
• Join Communities: Facebook groups, Reddit forums, and LinkedIn groups are great for networking and getting referrals.

Is Bookkeeping Right for You?

Bookkeeping is ideal if you’re self-motivated, organized, and enjoy working independently. It doesn’t require formal education and can be learned quickly. Plus, the demand for remote financial services is growing—especially among small businesses that need flexible, part-time help.

How Much Can You Earn?

Entry-level virtual bookkeepers typically earn between $15–$25/hour. With experience and a steady client base, this can rise to $50/hour or more. Monthly retainers are common, and many virtual bookkeepers build full-time businesses offering tiered service packages.

Now that you know how to become a virtual bookkeeper with no experience, it’s time to start your journey. Learn the basics, practice with tools, build a portfolio, and apply for freelance roles. With consistency and dedication, you can grow from a beginner to a professional—on your own schedule, from the comfort of home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a degree to be a virtual bookkeeper?

No, you can start with self-paced online learning and build experience over time.

Which software should I start with?

QuickBooks Online is the most widely used and great for beginners.

Can I work from anywhere?

Yes, as a virtual bookkeeper, you can work from anywhere with a stable internet connection.

How long does it take to become job-ready?

With focused learning, you can become job-ready in 1–3 months.

Is bookkeeping still in demand in 2025?

Absolutely. With more businesses moving online, the demand for virtual bookkeeping continues to rise.