Sniff-Test Questions to Ask Your Bookkeeper About AP, AR, Banking, and Credit Cards.

As a business owner, you rely on your bookkeeper to manage the financial details that keep your operations running. However, delegating these tasks doesn’t mean you should stop paying attention.

Without the right checks in place, small problems like late bills, missed receivables, unreconciled accounts, or uncategorized expenses can slowly eat away at your profits and increase your risk.

You don’t need to be a finance expert to keep a close eye on your books. Think of these as conversation starters, practical checkpoints that help you and your bookkeeper stay aligned, spot potential issues early, and reinforce accountability

 A straightforward “sniff-test” checklist, built on targeted questions, gives you confidence that financial processes are running smoothly and ensures your numbers can be trusted.

Below is a collaborative checklist of sniff-test questions you can ask across four key areas: Accounts Payable (AP), Accounts Receivable (AR), Banking, and Credit Cards.

Turning Questions Into Collaboration

Asking these questions isn’t about micromanaging your bookkeeper—it’s about collaboration and partnership. The best financial systems are built on open communication. A bookkeeper should welcome these check-ins because they:

• Show you’re engaged and invested in accurate records.
  
• Surface issues before they turn into costly mistakes.
  
• Create accountability on both sides—you ask, they explain, and together you problem-solve.

 A simple sniff-test,asking straightforward, practical questions—can give you confidence in your Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Banking, and Credit Card processes.

Think of it as quality control for your financial backbone. By keeping the lines of communication open and collaborative, you’ll not only safeguard your business but also set the stage for smarter, more confident decisions.

Your bookkeeper isn’t just a service provider—they’re a financial partner. And the right questions will help both of you work smarter together.