As a start-up, should I outsource my accounting from the outset?

The clear answer: yes, especially in the start-up phase

For Swiss start-ups, outsourcing accounting from the outset is a strategically wise decision. In the critical start-up phase, you should focus all your limited time and energy on developing your business model, acquiring customers, and developing your product—not on complex accounting details.

Why startups benefit

Focus on your core business

Your time is your most valuable asset. Instead of familiarizing yourself with accounting charts, VAT regulations, and social security requirements, you are better off investing this time in revenue-generating activities. Every hour you spend on accounting is time you could be spending on building your business.

A professional impression right from the start

External partners and investors expect professional financial documents. Clean, expertly managed accounting signals reliability and professionalism—important factors for loans, investors, and business partners.

Scalability without hiring

Flexibility is crucial. With external service providers, you can adjust your accounting capacity as needed without fixed personnel costs or notice periods.

Expertise without training

Professional trustees know all the pitfalls and current regulations. You benefit immediately from years of experience instead of having to laboriously familiarize yourself with the subject matter.

Avoid typical startup mistakes by outsourcing

VAT problems from the start

Many startups underestimate the complexity of VAT. Incorrect registrations, missed deadlines, or unclear turnover thresholds can lead to expensive additional payments.

Common VAT mistakes:

• Late VAT registration when the turnover threshold is exceeded
• Incorrect rate application for different services
• Failure to claim input tax on start-up costs
• Unclear treatment of online services provided abroad

Incorrect investment and cost postings

Startup expenses are often unusual and require special accounting treatment. Development costs, patent applications, and equipment leasing are often categorized incorrectly.

Critical areas:

• Capitalization vs. immediate expense posting for development costs
• Correct treatment of start-up costs and pre-operating expenses
• Depreciation methods for IT equipment and software
• Posting of external financing and shareholder loans

Missing provisions and accruals

Accruals and deferrals are often overlooked, but lead to distorted monthly financial statements and incorrect decision-making bases.

Overlooked items:

• Provisions for year-end closing and consulting costs
• Vacation provisions for first employees
• Accruals for software licenses and insurance
• Tax provisions for current profits

Personnel costs and social security

The first employee brings complex obligations with them. Payroll accounting, social security registrations, and labor law provisions overwhelm many founders.

Common stumbling blocks:

• Late registration with social security
• Incorrect calculations of ancillary wage costs
• Overlooking accident insurance obligations
• Unclear distinction between employment and freelance work

The cost-benefit analysis

Hidden costs of doing it yourself

Doing your own accounting is rarely cheaper:

• Your opportunity costs (lost revenue)
• Software licenses and IT infrastructure
• Training and continuing education
• Error costs and rework
• Penalty interest for late submissions

Investment in professional support

Modern, digital accounting services are affordable today and offer immediate added value. Cost transparency enables precise budget planning.

Return on investment

The time saved usually quickly offsets the outsourcing costs. Additional value is created through:

• Better decision-making based on professional evaluations
• Tax optimisation and cost savings
• Avoided fines and additional payments
• Professional advice on business decisions

Digital solutions for modern start-ups

Cloud-based collaboration

Modern trustees work entirely digitally and enable seamless integration into your way of working. Upload via app, online dashboard, and real-time access to all data.

Scalable service packages

Start small and grow with us. Begin with basic services and gradually expand to payroll accounting, advanced consulting, or international aspects.