True Cost of DIY Books

“Free” bookkeeping isn't free — it costs your hours, the penalties you didn't see coming, and the VAT you can't claim. Add it up honestly.

Your bookkeeping today

Hours spent on books per weekReceipts, M-Pesa reconciliation, chasing invoices, KRA portal time…That person's monthly income (KES)Their time is worth income ÷ 176 per hour — usually the ownerKRA penalties & late fees paid last year (KES)Late VAT or PAYE filings, interest, fines — the whole yearMy business is VAT-registered

What it adds up to

Your time, valued at your rate: KES 0/mo
Penalties & late fees: KES 0/mo
True monthly cost of DIY books: KES 0
Over a full year: KES 0
Essential Compliance (done for you): from KES 15,000/mo

Time is valued at that person's own rate; lost input VAT assumes the 16% standard rate. Essential Compliance covers bookkeeping, reconciliation and every statutory filing — WhatsApp us or book a free consultation.