Ask Client Account – Purpose, Benefits & Workflow

🗂 Purpose of the Ask Client Account

In bookkeeping, accuracy and categorization are essential. However, there are many instances where a transaction appears in a client’s bank feed, but the purpose of the transaction isn’t immediately clear. Rather than risk miscategorizing it, we temporarily place it in an “Ask Client” account.

This account serves as a holding place for transactions that need clarification. By doing so:

• We avoid misclassifying expenses or income.
• We keep financial records clean and transparent.
• We create a clear workflow for collaboration between BKE and the client.

✨ Benefits of Using Ask Client

• Accuracy: Ensures transactions are categorized correctly the first time.
• Efficiency: Keeps bookkeeping moving without delays, even when details are pending.
• Communication: Provides a clear channel for client input on unclear items.
• Audit Trail: Maintains a record of all inquiries for future reference.

🔄 Workflow: How Ask Client Is Used at BKE

1. Transaction Entry
   • When we (BKE) import transactions from your bank feed, if a transaction cannot be confidently categorized, we code it to the Ask Client account.
2. Client Notification
   • That transaction then shows up on your BKE Client Page.
   • You will see it flagged as needing input.
3. Client Response
   • You provide us with clarification on what the transaction was for (e.g., office supplies, travel, loan payment, etc.).
4. Reclassification
   • Once we receive your response, BKE reclassifies the transaction out of Ask Client and into the proper account.
   • Your books are then updated to reflect the correct categorization.

🧾 Example Scenario

• A charge for $250 appears from a new vendor, “ABC Services LLC.”
• BKE cannot determine if this was for marketing, consulting, or equipment rental.
• The charge is placed into the Ask Client account and shows on your BKE page.
• You confirm it was consulting services.
• We reclassify it out of Ask Client into Professional Services Expense.

📝 Additional Notes on Workflow & Best Practices

• Future Transactions — When we can see a clear and consistent pattern (for example, a vendor that always relates to Consulting Services), we’ll apply that categorization going forward to minimize unnecessary “Ask Client” items. If the purpose of a vendor changes in the future, you can simply let us know and we’ll adjust.
• Recurring Vendor Preferences — Some clients prefer that all transactions from certain vendors (like Amazon) default to a specific category, such as Office Supplies. We’re happy to accommodate these preferences to keep workflow moving smoothly. If an exception ever arises, you can quickly flag it for us through Insight.
• Client Review & Accuracy — While we work hard to apply patterns and preferences, bookkeeping isn’t perfect and exceptions do occur. That’s why we provide a Transaction Detail List each month. Reviewing this list is a best practice — it allows you to confirm accuracy, catch any needed recategorizations, and maintain full transparency in your books.