How Much Does a Small Business Accountant Cost in Orlando?
Orlando accounting fees are competitive, with many firms offering flat monthly plans. Typical ranges:
| Service | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly bookkeeping | $199–$600/mo | Bank feeds, reconciliations, P&L |
| Small business tax prep | $400–$1,200 | Entity + owner returns |
| Entity setup (LLC / S-Corp) | $300–$800 | Filing, EIN, registered agent |
| Payroll | $50–$150/mo + per check | Full-service with filings |
| Sales tax filing | $50–$150/mo | Florida DR-15 / DR-16 returns |
| Catch-up / cleanup | $500–$2,000 | Behind on books or missing records |
Compare plans carefully — 'bookkeeping from $199' often excludes payroll and tax filing. Ask what's included and what triggers an hourly add-on.
Florida Taxes Every Business Owner Should Know
Florida has no state personal income tax — a real advantage for sole proprietors and LLC owners. But the tax map isn't empty:
- Corporate income tax: 5.5% on Florida C-corporations, with a $50,000 exemption for the first $50k of taxable income.
- Sales tax: 6% state rate, plus Orange County's surtax brings Orlando's combined rate to 6.5%.
- No state estate or inheritance tax.
- LLCs and S-corps pay through their owners' federal returns; Florida has no pass-through entity tax like some states.
Tourism-dependent businesses also face specific rules — transient rental taxes (6% state + 6% Orange County on short-term rentals) catch Airbnb and VRBO hosts who don't register. An Orlando accountant will make sure you're registered before the Department of Revenue sends a letter.
CPA vs. Bookkeeper vs. Enrolled Agent — Who Do You Need?
These titles are not interchangeable, and picking the right one saves you money:
- Bookkeeper: daily transaction entry, reconciliations, payroll data. $25–$75/hr or flat monthly. They don't give tax advice.
- Enrolled Agent (EA): federally licensed to represent you before the IRS, focused on tax. Good for tax resolution.
- CPA: licensed by Florida's Department of Business and Professional Regulation; can sign audited financials and give the broadest tax and entity advice. Higher rates.
Most Orlando small businesses pair a bookkeeper for monthly work with a CPA for tax season and entity decisions. If you're shopping solo, a CPA who also offers monthly bookkeeping packages (like the $199 plans above) can be the one-stop option.
Deducting Hurricane-Prep and Remote-Work Expenses
Orlando businesses face two recurring cost categories owners forget to track: hurricane preparedness and remote-work costs.
Generators, backup batteries, storm shutters, and business interruption insurance premiums are legitimate business deductions — keep receipts and mark the business purpose. For remote and hybrid teams, reimbursed home-office supplies, internet, and cell phone stipends can be structured tax-efficiently. The IRS tests are specific (regular and exclusive use for the home office), so have your accountant review the setup rather than guessing at the deduction.
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Get a Free Quote TodayFrequently Asked Questions
%Do I need a Florida CPA to prepare my business taxes?
You don't need a CPA specifically — an enrolled agent or qualified tax preparer can handle most returns. You need a CPA for audits, complex entity structures, and representation beyond the IRS's limits.
How much should a small business pay for bookkeeping in Orlando?
$199–$600/month is the typical range for a small business with 1–3 owners. Expect more for high-volume sales (restaurants, e-commerce) or payroll-heavy operations.
What taxes does an Orlando LLC pay?
An LLC's income flows to the owners' federal return (unless electing S-Corp or C-Corp status). Florida has no state income tax, but you'll owe federal self-employment tax and possibly FL corporate tax if you elected C-Corp.
Can I deduct my home office in Florida?
Yes, if it's used regularly and exclusively for business. The simplified method allows $5/sq ft up to 300 sq ft, or you can use the actual-expense method.
How do I know if I should elect S-Corp status?
Generally worth it when your net profit consistently exceeds about $60,000–$80,000, because it can reduce self-employment tax. Run the numbers with your accountant before electing — it adds payroll compliance costs.