Records. Review. Decisions.
BookkeepingMake the records usable.
Controller supportStrengthen the close and review.
Fractional CFOConnect numbers to decisions.
Totalis resources / November 1, 2026
Start with the problem, not the title. The right scope depends on the condition of the records, the decisions ahead and who will supply information and approve the work. At Totalis, these are distinct layers of support, not interchangeable promises.
Bookkeeping: make the records usable
This layer addresses transaction records, reconciliations and a repeatable monthly routine. Cleanup may be needed before ongoing work can run smoothly. Useful outputs can include reconciled accounts, profit-and-loss and balance-sheet reports and a list of unresolved items. If you cannot explain a balance, begin with the records rather than asking a forecast to fix them.
Controller support: strengthen the close and review
This layer focuses on how accounting work is reviewed and completed. Depending on the engagement, it can include close oversight, reporting review, accounts payable and receivable visibility, documented responsibilities and exception follow-up. The goal is a clearer review process; it is not an audit or an assurance opinion.
Fractional CFO support: connect numbers to decisions
This layer supports budgets, forecasts, cash-flow planning and comparison of actual results with the plan. A useful engagement names the decisions to be supported and the assumptions behind each model. Forecasts are scenarios, not promises of revenue, financing or profit. Reliable underlying records remain essential.
The layers can work together
A business might need cleanup first, recurring accounting next, and periodic planning support later. Another may already have a bookkeeper and need a defined review or planning role. The scope should identify deliverables, cadence, source information, software costs and the person responsible for approval.
Bring these questions to the conversation
What is unreliable or taking too much time? Which decision is approaching? Who maintains the books now? What reports exist? Which records are missing? Start with the situation and agree on the work before choosing a recurring package. Totalis service descriptions, rather than a universal licensing definition, are the basis for the distinctions in this guide.
Your working checklist
Describe the records or process that need attention.
Identify whether cleanup is needed before recurring support.
Name the decision the reporting or forecast should support.
List current systems, reports and people responsible.
Agree on outputs, cadence, scope limits and approvals.
Separate bookkeeping/planning from tax filing, legal and assurance work.
Find the right service starting point
Prefer to explain the situation? Contact Totalis.
Sources and scope
General preparation guidance, not individualized tax or legal advice. Services and responsibilities are defined in the engagement. Do not submit sensitive records through a public inquiry form.
