DFY Without the Drama

How to Choose the Right Done-For-You Service Level

Choosing a done-for-you package should feel simple. You want the work handled by experts, delivered on time, and aligned with what your business actually needs. Here’s a clear way to pick the right level without overbuying or under-scoping.

First, define the job to be done

Before you pick a tier, write one plain-English sentence that starts with “I need…”
Examples:

• I need my last 12 months cleaned up in QuickBooks Online and monthly bookkeeping going forward.

• I need hiring set up in iSolved with onboarding paperwork, payroll, and ACA reporting.

• I need a tax strategy plan for Q4 plus year-end returns filed.

This anchors scope and keeps add-ons from creeping in later.

The 5-point fit check

Score each item 1 to 3. Higher total points usually means a higher tier.

1. Complexity
   Simple recurring tasks score low. Multi-entity, grant tracking, or industry rules score high.

2. Compliance risk
   Anything touching payroll, taxes, DOT, ACA, or state registrations raises the level.

3. Data quality
   Clean books and tidy files lower the level. Missing documents or messy imports raise it.

4. Team capacity
   If no one on your team can help collect data or review drafts, plan for a higher tier.

5. Timeline
   Rush turnarounds and fixed external deadlines push you up a level.

What tier do you actually need?

Use your total points as a guide.

• Starter DFY (best for 5–7 points)

  For straightforward needs with low risk.
  Includes:

  • Clear intake checklist

  • Standardized templates and SOPs

  • Light admin and email support

    Good for: simple monthly bookkeeping, basic hiring setup, one state registration.

• Core DFY (best for 8–11 points)

  For growing teams who want hands off but still want checkpoints.
  Includes everything in Starter plus:

  • Dedicated project plan and milestones

  • Data cleanup up to a defined date range

  • Cross-tool setup and testing

  • Review call with action items
    

    Good for: multi-month cleanups, payroll plus benefits, tax planning plus prep.

• Premium DFY (best for 12–15 points)

  For complex, regulated, or multi-entity operations.
  Includes everything in Core plus:

  • White-glove data gathering and document wrangling

  • Advanced reporting and custom dashboards

  • Vendor coordination and auditor-ready files

  • Priority response times
    

    Good for: audit-sensitive workflows, multi-state payroll, consolidated reporting.

Red flags that signal you need the next tier up

• You cannot provide timely approvals or documents.

• You need vendor coordination across multiple systems.

• You expect done-and-delivered outcomes, not just setup.

What to ask any provider before you commit

• What exactly is included and what is out of scope?

• What access do you need from me and by when?

• How will progress be tracked and how often will I hear from you?

• What does success look like on day 30, day 60, and day 90?

Quick next step

Book a short consult to run the 5-point fit check together. You will walk away with a clear recommendation tied to your goals, budget, and deadline.