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Notes on running a business.

Practical guidance on cash flow, accounting, and the decisions that come with running a business.

Articles — Page 3

Tax for Service Businesses
September 28, 2026
8 min read

S Corp Reasonable Compensation: What It Is and How to Set It

S corp reasonable compensation is the market-rate salary the IRS requires owner-employees to pay themselves before taking distributions. This guide explains how it's determined, what documentation you need, and what happens if the IRS decides your salary is too low.

Buyer Comparisons
September 26, 2026
6 min read

Startup Accounting Firm Pricing: Compare Cost and Scope

What should a startup accounting fee include? Compare bookkeeping, monthly close, tax coordination, and reporting scope from seed through Series A.

Buyer Comparisons
September 21, 2026
8 min read

Outsourced Accounting for Software & Web Studios: Cost, Scope & Project Accounting

What outsourced accounting costs for a software or web development studio, what studio-specific work should be in scope, and how project accounting is handled month to month.

Advisory & Decision-Making
September 12, 2026
7 min read

Burn Efficiency Metrics for Startups: Definitions & Formulas

Gross burn, net burn, cash runway, LTV-to-CAC — the burn efficiency metrics every startup founder needs to calculate, understand, and communicate to investors.

Buyer Comparisons
September 1, 2026
7 min read

Reconciliation Software vs Spreadsheet: How to Choose

Spreadsheets work for reconciliation up to a point — fewer than 100 transactions per month, one account, one currency. Here's how to know when software is the better call, what it actually automates, and what each option costs.

Buyer Comparisons
August 31, 2026
7 min read

Outsourced Accounting for Construction: Cost, Scope & Job Costing

For most contractors under $15M in revenue, outsourced accounting costs $3,000–$8,000 per month. Here's what drives that number, what job-costing work should be in scope, and where the revenue thresholds actually matter.

Monthly Close & Financial Operations
August 30, 2026
8 min read

Chart of Accounts for MSPs: A Practical Structure Guide

A practical reference for structuring an MSP chart of accounts — covering how to separate recurring, resale, and project revenue, where hardware and licence costs sit, and how to allocate tech labor correctly.

Buyer Comparisons
August 29, 2026
7 min read

Monthly Bookkeeping Service Cost: What Service Businesses Pay

Monthly bookkeeping service cost for a service business typically falls between $500 and $2,000 per month for ongoing outsourced work. Here's what changes the price and what you get at each tier.

FAQ

Before we talk.

A few practical details, so you know what to expect.

Where can I see an example of Laya’s monthly reporting?
The Sample Close page shows an illustrative agency close with financial statements, client margins, and operating insights. It is an example, not an actual client result.
Which plans include monthly accounting?
Base, Summit, and Peak include monthly accounting. Base starts at $500 per month. Vista is advisory only for businesses with an existing accounting team. See Pricing for inclusions and billing terms.
How should I use the examples and calculators?
Use them to explore a decision with your own inputs. Illustrative figures are not industry benchmarks or a forecast for your business. Check the assumptions and consult your accounting advisor before acting.

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Disclaimer: The articles and FAQs on this page are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute financial, tax, legal, or accounting advice. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with a qualified professional. Consult a licensed accountant, CPA, or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.