About Sum & Sage

What makes Sum & Sage different from other bookkeeping services?

At Sum & Sage, bookkeeping goes beyond transaction tracking. With a background in forensic accounting and financial crime investigations, I bring an investigative edge: catching discrepancies early, ensuring audit-readiness, and delivering executive-quality reporting. You get luxury-level financial partnership designed for nonprofits and boutique businesses.

Are you actually qualified to handle my organization's books?

Yes. I hold a B.S. in Accounting and an M.S. in Financial Crime Investigations, both completed by age 23, and I’m currently pursuing CPA certification (est. completion - 2026). My forensic training provides advanced analytical skills that most traditional bookkeepers don’t offer. While I’m early in my career, my approach is rigorous, methodical, and rooted in professional standards.

Do you work with for-profit businesses?

Yes. While I specialize in nonprofits, I also serve boutique for-profits, particularly those that are mission-driven. My ideal clients have $200K–$5M in annual revenue or budgets and value clarity, strategy, and elevated reporting.

Services & Pricing

Why are your prices higher than other bookkeepers?

Because this isn’t just bookkeeping. You’re investing in forensic-level accuracy, white-glove service, and advisory partnership that supports your growth. My work provides peace of mind and the strategic clarity leaders need to make confident decisions.

What’s included in the Clarity Reset?

The Clarity Reset is the onboarding foundation for every client. It includes:

• Full review and cleanup of your existing books

• Compliance and accuracy checks

• QuickBooks setup or optimization

• System refinements for efficiency

• A curated welcome package and strategy session

Investment ranges from $500–$2,500, depending on complexity.

Can I just try your services for one month?

No. Partnerships require commitments: 6 months for The Essentials and 12 months for The Executive and The Boardroom. This ensures meaningful results and sustained value.

Do you handle A/P and A/R?

Yes. Full-service bookkeeping includes recording vendor bills, preparing payment batches for your approval, recording cleared payments, invoicing, recording receipts, and A/R aging visibility.

Do you run payroll or file taxes?

No. I record payroll from your provider and prepare a complete CPA handoff at year-end. I don’t file tax returns or operate payroll systems.

What software do you use?

I primarily use QuickBooks Online, with integrations for grant tracking, compliance, and advanced reporting.

Working Together

How often will we communicate?

Every client receives proactive updates and timely responses. The Executive and The Boardroom include recurring advisory sessions, while all packages include monthly reporting and on-call support.

What do you need from me to get started?

Access to your bank accounts, financial records, and any existing QuickBooks files. I’ll guide you through a streamlined intake process during the Clarity Reset.

How quickly can we get started?

Most clients begin within 1–2 weeks of signing the partnership agreement and paying the Reset fee. The Reset itself usually takes 1–2 weeks, after which ongoing services begin.

What if my nonprofit has strict compliance requirements?

That’s exactly where I add value. My background in nonprofit audit and forensic work equips me to design systems for fund accounting, grant tracking, and audit preparation.

Impact Commitment

How do I apply for community partnership pricing?

• Sliding Scale and Local Partner applications are reviewed quarterly.

• Pro Bono applications open September through November for the following year.

All community partnerships follow the same professional standards and retainer commitments as full-price engagements.

What qualifies a business as a “local partner”

Small businesses with genuine local roots and demonstrated community impact. This often includes family-owned operations, creative studios, or service providers who directly strengthen the communities they serve.

Still have questions?

Let’s talk through them on a Clarity Call where we map out how Sum & Sage can meet your needs.