BENCH SMALL BUSINESS GUIDES The DIY approach If your business is starting out as a side hustle with a limited budget, taking a DIY approach is a great way to get started. If you go this route, a consultation with a CPA or bookkeeper to help you set up your books will ensure you don’t end up with a year of books that have to be re-done by a professional. Your DIY bookkeeping can be handled using a simple spreadsheet, or you can work with one of the many online bookkeeping programs available. 14