How this usually works
A thorough QuickBooks file review starts with a short scoping call and secure access. We then run a diagnostics checklist across the parts of QBO that most often break financial accuracy and Australian compliance.
The typical flow is:
1) Intake and access: Read‑only or Accountant access, plus recent bank statements, last lodged BAS, payroll YTD and prior-year balances.
2) Diagnostics: Bank feed integrity, reconciliation status, duplicate/uncategorised transactions, GST code usage by supplier/customer/item, AR/AP aging accuracy, undeposited funds, payroll categories and STP 2 mapping, super accrual vs paid, lock dates and audit log, inventory and landed cost usage, classes/locations and connected apps.
3) Findings report: Clear list of issues, impact (BAS, payroll, tax or reporting), recommended fixes and priorities.
4) Triage and cleanup: Urgent corrections (e.g., STP 2 categories, BAS-period recs, sales tax overrides), then structured cleanup and process changes.
5) Preventative controls: Lock dates, monthly close checklist, coding rules, user roles and a cadence for reviews.
Need a fast assessment before BAS or payroll finalisation? Request a QuickBooks file review
Australian context to keep in view
- GST/BAS accuracy: Ensure correct GST codes on bank rules, products/services and payroll items. Verify cash vs accrual settings match how you lodge BAS and run trial returns against the BAS centre.
- Payroll and STP 2: Check pay categories, allowances, deductions, LSL, leave entitlements and superannuation set-up. Confirm STP 2 mapping and YTD figures before finalisation to the ATO.
- Super and PAYGW deadlines: Super must be paid by quarterly due dates to claim deductions. PAYGW and IAS/BAS timing must reflect QBO settings and bank reconciliation reality.
- Industry specifics: TPAR for certain contractor-heavy industries, WIP for projects, inventory valuation, multi-currency and class/location reporting can all affect how your file should be configured.
- Evidence trail: Bank rec reports, GST detail reports, payroll activity summary, and the audit log underpin clean lodgements and confident management reporting.
What to compare before you commit
Scope
Confirm the quickbooks file review covers diagnostics, written findings, BAS/payroll checks and specific cleanup tasks—not just “a look around”.
Software fit
Ask about QBO expertise: Intuit ProAdvisor certifications, STP 2 experience, inventory and app integrations. Providers should explain workflows, not just name software.
Turnaround and communication
Agree on review timing, how issues are escalated before BAS or payroll deadlines, and how deliverables are presented and handed over.
Commercial fit
Compare fixed-price vs hourly, inclusions (review only vs review + cleanup), meeting rhythm, and whether you need compliance-only or advisory support.
Best next steps
List your outcomes in order: BAS-ready numbers, payroll accuracy, reliable monthly reporting or preparation for a migration/cleanup.
Export key reports (bank recs, GST detail, AR/AP aging, payroll YTD) and be ready to grant Accountant access. This speeds quoting and shortens turnaround.
If you are still comparing options, move into these related pages to refine the fit, then request help.
Frequently asked questions
What is included in a QuickBooks file review?
A structured QBO health check covering: bank feed integrity and reconciliations; GST/BAS tax codes and reporting method (cash vs accrual); chart of accounts and mapping; AR/AP aging and undeposited funds; payroll set-up and STP 2 compliance (awards, categories, super); opening balances, lock dates and audit log; inventory, classes/locations, connected apps, and duplicate contacts or suspense/clearing accounts.
How long does a QuickBooks file review take?
Most files are reviewed within 1–3 business days after access and documents are received. Urgent BAS or payroll triage can often commence the same day. Cleanup ranges from hours to 1–2 weeks depending on volume and error patterns.
What access or documents do you need?
Provide an Accountant or read-only user in QBO, recent bank statements for each account, last lodged BAS and payment details, payroll YTD and category mapping, prior-year financials/opening balances, and a list of connected apps. Lock dates and user roles are verified during onboarding.
How much does a QuickBooks file review cost?
Typical ranges for Australian small businesses: $350–$950 for a documented health check; $950–$2,500+ if the engagement includes cleanup, BAS catch-up and payroll corrections. Fixed quotes are provided after a quick scoping call and a data peek.