Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about working with PBJ Strategic Accounting. Can't find your answer? Just ask us directly.
Getting Started
How do I get started with PBJ Strategic Accounting?
The easiest way is to reach out through our Contact page, call us at 904-708-2411, or email bferguson@pbjsa.com. From there we'll schedule a free consultation to discuss your business and figure out which services are the right fit.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes - we offer a complimentary discovery call to learn about your business, answer your questions, and help you find the right package. No pressure, no commitment. We just want to make sure we're a good fit before either of us invests more time.
What do I need to bring to my first meeting?
Just come as you are. It helps to have a general sense of your current bookkeeping situation (even if the honest answer is "I have no idea"), a rough picture of your business size, and any specific concerns or goals. We'll take it from there and figure out what you need.
How quickly can you get started once I sign on?
Typically within one to two weeks of getting started. Onboarding is straightforward - we'll set up secure access to your accounts, review your existing books, and hit the ground running. If you need a quicker turnaround, let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate.
Our Services
What services do you offer?
We offer seven core services: Bookkeeping, Fractional CFO Services, QuickBooks Clean-Up, Cash Flow Management, Budgeting & Forecasting, Financial Reporting, and Tax Planning & Compliance. Visit our Services page for a full breakdown of what's included in each.
Do you handle tax filing?
We offer tax planning and compliance support - helping you stay organized, prepared year-round, and reducing your tax liability through good bookkeeping habits. We typically work alongside your CPA or tax preparer rather than replacing them, making sure your books are clean and ready when it's time to file.
What is a Fractional CFO and do I need one?
A Fractional CFO gives you high-level financial strategy and decision-making support without the cost of a full-time executive hire. If you're scaling quickly, struggling with cash flow decisions, preparing for a big investment, or just need a strategic financial partner - this service delivers CFO-level thinking at a fraction of the price. It's a great fit for growth-stage small businesses that need more than basic bookkeeping but aren't ready for a full-time finance team.
My QuickBooks is a complete mess. Can you fix it?
Absolutely - QuickBooks clean-up is one of our specialties. We go through your records from the beginning, reconcile accounts, fix miscategorizations, remove duplicates, and restore your books to a state where you can actually trust the numbers. Whether it's three months of chaos or three years, we've seen it all and know how to sort it out.
Pricing & Payment
Do you accept insurance?
No - PBJ Strategic Accounting is a cash-pay firm. We don't bill through insurance or third-party intermediaries. This keeps our pricing transparent and our relationship simple: you always know exactly what you're paying and why, with no surprise claims or billing surprises.
How much do your services cost?
Pricing depends on the size of your business and the services you need. We offer clearly defined packages designed to fit different stages of growth - you can see the full breakdown on our Pricing page. If you're not sure which package fits, a free consultation will help us point you in the right direction.
Are there any hidden fees or surprise charges?
Never. We believe in transparent, upfront pricing. Before we begin any work, you'll know exactly what's included in your package and what any additional services would cost. No surprises at billing - that's a promise.
What's the right package for a solo business owner or freelancer?
Our Starter package is designed for smaller operations - it covers the bookkeeping essentials without overcomplicating things or charging for services you don't need yet. As your business grows, moving to a higher tier is straightforward. We'll never push you into more than makes sense for where you are right now.
Working Together
Do I have to come into your office in person?
Not at all. We work with clients both in-person and fully remotely. Most day-to-day communication happens by phone and email, with virtual meetings when needed. Our office in Fleming Island is always available if you prefer face-to-face, but it's completely optional.
What accounting software do you use?
We primarily work with QuickBooks Online, which is the industry standard for small business accounting. It's cloud-based, secure, and makes collaboration straightforward. If you're currently on a different platform, mention it during your consultation and we'll discuss whether it makes sense to stay or migrate.
How often will I hear from you?
As often as makes sense for your package and your preferences. At minimum, you'll receive monthly financial reports and updates so you always know where your business stands. Many clients prefer more frequent check-ins - we're flexible and happy to work around your communication style.
Can you work alongside my existing CPA or tax preparer?
Yes - and we actively encourage it. We often serve as the day-to-day bookkeeping partner while your CPA focuses on annual tax strategy and filing. By keeping your books clean and organized throughout the year, we make your CPA's job easier - which usually means a lower bill from them too. It's a team effort that works well for everyone.
Location & Hours
Where are you located?
Our office is at 1845 Town Center Blvd. Suite #205, Fleming Island, FL 32003 in Clay County. We serve businesses throughout Clay County and the surrounding Northeast Florida area. Remote clients are welcome too - location is rarely a barrier.
What are your office hours?
We're available Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. For anything urgent outside those hours, email is the best way to reach us at bferguson@pbjsa.com and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Do you work with businesses outside Clay County?
Yes - while our roots are in Clay County, we work with small businesses throughout Northeast Florida and remotely with clients across the country. Modern bookkeeping tools make location largely irrelevant. If you're a good fit, we'd love to work with you regardless of where you're based.
Let's Talk It Through
We're happy to answer anything not covered here. Reach out and we'll get back to you quickly.