Fractional Controller
A complete accounting department, without hiring one.
When basic bookkeeping isn’t enough anymore, a fractional controller brings structure: a reliable monthly close, accrual-basis financials and controls you can trust.
Last updated October 2026 · Reviewed by the AccuLedger Services team
In short
A fractional controller oversees your accounting function part-time. They run an accurate, on-schedule month-end close, maintain accrual-basis books, build internal controls and produce reliable financial reports. AccuLedger’s fractional controller and outsourced accounting services give growing businesses in Greater Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Ventura County and the Conejo Valley a complete accounting department without the cost of hiring one.
Who it’s for
Is fractional controller right for you?
Your outsourced accounting department: on-schedule month-end close, accrual accounting, internal controls and audit-ready reporting.
- Businesses outgrowing cash-basis booksAccrual financials that show true monthly profitability.
- Contractors & project-based firmsJob costing, WIP schedules and percentage-of-completion reporting.
- Companies facing an audit or reviewAudit-ready schedules, reconciliations and documentation.
- Teams with in-house bookkeepersSenior review, a close checklist and oversight of their work.
What’s included
What our fractional controller services include.
Month-end close management
A documented close checklist and calendar, so the books close accurately and on the same schedule every month.
Accrual accounting & revenue recognition
Accruals, prepaids, deferred revenue and depreciation recorded so each month reflects true performance.
Job, project & department costing
Profitability by job, project, location or department, including WIP schedules for contractors.
Internal controls & approvals
Segregation of duties, approval workflows and reconciliation reviews that protect your business from errors and fraud.
Audit, review & lender preparation
Supporting schedules and documentation ready for your CPA firm, bank or investors.
Bookkeeper oversight
Senior review of in-house or outsourced bookkeeping, with training and process improvements.
Our process
How it works.
Assess
Review of your close process, controls and reporting.
Design
Close checklist, calendar, policies and approval workflows.
Close
Accurate accrual-basis close every month, on schedule.
Report
Management reporting package and controller review.
| Cash basis | Accrual basis | |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue recorded | When cash is received | When it is earned |
| Expenses recorded | When cash is paid | When they are incurred |
| Shows true monthly profit? | Not reliably | Yes |
| Follows GAAP? | No | Yes |
| Best for | Very small, simple businesses | Growing businesses, lenders, investors, buyers |
FAQ
Fractional Controller questions, answered.
What does a fractional controller do?
A fractional controller manages the accounting function on a part-time basis. Typical responsibilities include running the month-end close, reviewing reconciliations, recording accruals and adjustments, maintaining internal controls, overseeing bookkeepers, and producing accurate monthly financial statements and management reports.
What is the difference between a controller and a bookkeeper?
A bookkeeper records and reconciles day-to-day transactions. A controller reviews that work, owns the month-end close, applies accrual accounting and accounting policies, designs internal controls, and is accountable for the accuracy of the financial statements as a whole.
When should a business switch from cash to accrual accounting?
Most businesses benefit from accrual accounting once they carry significant receivables, payables or inventory, have long-running projects, or need financial statements for lenders, investors or a buyer. Accrual is required under GAAP, and the IRS requires it for some larger businesses. We can keep accrual books for management while your tax return uses the method that is best for you.
Can you prepare us for an audit?
Yes. We prepare audit-ready books, reconciliations and supporting schedules, and we manage the "prepared by client" request list. The audit itself must be performed by an independent CPA firm. We work alongside them so the process is faster and less disruptive.
Can you work alongside our in-house accounting staff?
Absolutely. Many clients keep an in-house bookkeeper or AP clerk while we provide controller-level review, close management and reporting. We document processes and train your team as part of the engagement.
How quickly can you close the books each month?
Once your accounts and processes are established, most clients receive their monthly close package within the first few weeks of the following month. We agree on a close calendar with you up front and report against it.
Related services
Works well with.
Serving businesses in Conejo Valley, Ventura County, Santa Clarita Valley, Greater Los Angeles.
Talk to us about fractional controller.
Book a free, no-pressure consultation. We’ll review where things stand and send a fixed-fee proposal within two business days.