Why cloud accounting?

It’s ok, we get that question a lot

Your financial planning and accounting needs are changing with the times. We think it’s important to work with accountants who can keep up.

Responsive tax planning
+ services

Forget paying your accountant to punch numbers into a spreadsheet.

We’ve made that part easier and more streamlined, which gives us time to focus on what your business really needs so we can find ways to really make a difference for your bottom line. Now that’s win-win.

Secure + private datA

Some people are a little uneasy about cloud-based financial solutions. We get it. This is your private financial information.  

That’s why we work with the best and brightest in accounting tech to design our systems for optimal security. Protecting you and your personal data will always be our top priority.

Easy to use app + online tools

You’ll be glad you ditched the shoebox full of receipts. We’re here to make tracking your finances hassle-free.  

Xero automatically handles tasks that used to take up way too much time including bank reconciliations and transaction coding. Not to mention it makes bills and invoices a breeze.

Flexible meeting schedule
+ consulting

We want to work with your busy schedule, not complicate it. Our team is remotely based in Edmonton, so we can be reached by phone, email, Skype or, if you prefer the more personal touch, we’d be happy to come to you.

Do business anywhere, from any device

With cloud-based accounting software, it’s easy to access all your accounting data from anywhere – all you need is a device and a secure WIFI connection. Xero even has a handy mobile app.

Over +700 connected apps

Xero can connect with over 700 time-saving apps, and their list keeps growing. We don’t claim to be an expert on all of them, but we will help connect you with the solutions that your specific industry or business requires, even if that means connecting you with someone else.

What is a cloud accounting firm?

A cloud-based accounting firm provides accounting services using a combination of online and in-person services. Instead of keeping your files in paper form in a filing cabinet or a storage room, everything is securely stored online in the cloud.

Clients collaborate directly with accountants by downloading and transferring their financial information effortlessly through a secure online portal.

Do you work with other accounting software other than Xero? What if I’m using something else?

Based on our professional experience and research, we believe that Xero is by far the best accounting software currently available in Canada. While we do have experience with other widely-used cloud accounting platforms such as QuickBooks Online and Sage, we do not recommend these to our clients in most cases. In our experience working in public accounting firms, using multiple accounting platforms often means increased operating costs and can sometimes decrease the level of dedicated service we can provide.

With that said, we know that moving to Xero may not be an option for every client. This is something that we consider on a case to case basis during our initial consultations. If this is a concern, we recommend you contact us to discuss your specific situation and requirements.

How long do you keep my files online, and does the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) allow this?

The CRA requires books and records to be retained in Canada for seven years. We have systems in place with secure providers in Canada to ensure we are always compliant. Your records remain secured in our cloud-based server, backed-up daily, and are accessible to only our staff during this time. If you choose to change accountants, we can provide copies of all records for this time period at your request. CRA accepts electronic versions of virtually all documentation and does not require paper forms or records including documents (receipts).

What about those Mark and Brendon guys?

Mark and Brendon are as hip as CPA Alberta’s rules of professional conduct will allow. We consider ourselves to be somewhere between “rock stars” and well… “accountants” on the coolness scale. Seriously though, we enjoy working with our clients, and we want you to feel you can call or email us any time and be greeted with friendly, professional service. We’d say that’s pretty cool. More about the partners.

Ok, but is the cloud secure?

Short answer, yes. For the most part, cloud platforms are very secure and most of us use them in some form every day. At Breakaway, we take security very seriously. The security and privacy of our systems is built right into our platforms.

All the platforms and software that Breakaway uses to work with and protect your data are set up with two-step authentication. This validation is required to access any sensitive information or systems. Worst case, even if our computers were stolen, and our passwords were compromised, an intruder would still require access to our personal mobile devices.

Xero is also extremely secure. You can read all about Xero’s security assurance.

Breakaway doesn’t have an actual office space, right? What happens if I want to meet with someone?

We may work remotely, but we absolutely encourage direct contact with our clients and provide regular check-in’s and support via phone or email. We also meet face-to-face via Skype, Slack, or Microsoft Teams. Being online also enables us to be portable. As Mark and Brendon are both based in Edmonton, AB we are also happy to meet clients who are in the YEG area in person at no extra charge.

So, who actually does the work on my file?

All file work is always reviewed by Mark and Brendon personally. Unlike many firms, we do not outsource any of our work overseas or to subcontractors.