SPECialized bookkeeping for the private investigation industry

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ABOUT ME

Hey—I’m Trish Fernandez, the person behind The PI Accountant.

After years in the bookkeeping world, I realized something: private investigators were getting overlooked. Most accounting folks didn’t understand the way PI firms actually work—retainers, subcontractors, weird surveillance expenses, you name it. That’s when I knew I could make a real difference.

Before this, I worked as a Crime Intelligence Analyst with the Florida Department of Financial Services. Then I spent 15 years in the private sector digging into fraud, special investigations, and running the administration office behind the scenes. That background gave me a serious edge when it comes to understanding your world and what makes your books different.

Now, I help PI businesses across the U.S. with two main things:

  • Monthly, Done-For-You Bookkeeping (so you can stop stressing)
  • A DIY Bookkeeping Toolkit (for those who want to learn it themselves—with zero fluff)

My team and I also jump in to help with GL and Workers’ Comp audits, and prep your 1099’s so you’re not scrambling in January.

I’m all about financial clarity—without the boring jargon. Whether you’re totally hands-off or want to do it yourself, I’ve got your back.

Let’s make your books make sense—so you can get back to your cases.

-Trish

Bookkeeping services menu

Explore customized bookkeeping and financial services crafted specifically for the unique challenges of private investigators

Pi bookkeeping toolkit (diy)

” I cant afford you to do my books, so help me figure them out.”

  • (60 min) monthly group call – limited to first 5 attendees
  • Video Library Training Tools
  • Downloadable resources (customized PI Chart of Accounts)
  • Private Community book where you can ask questions throughout the month

Done for you bookkeepinG

” I need someone to just handle my books each month- start to finish.”

  • Categorized transactions
  • Reconcile accounts
  • Receipt management
  • Access to your own secure portal
  • Monthly reports
  • CPA Coordination

ADditional services offered

  • Payroll Services via Gusto
  • Job Costing
  • 1099 Filing
  • WC/ GL Audit assistance
  • Sales Tax Filing
  • Clean-Up/Catch-Up Services
  • Set-up QBO & Training

WHY private investigators choose us

We Speak PI. You don’t have to explain what a retainer is—or why surveillance gear ends up on your expense list. We already get it.

Real-World Experience. From fraud investigations to crime intelligence, I’ve worked on the inside and know how your business runs. This isn’t generic bookkeeping—it’s tailor-made for the PI life.

No Judgement. No Jargon. Behind on your books? Embarrassed to hand over your QBO file? Don’t be. We’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help, not lecture.

Audit-Ready Always. We specialize in audit prep for GL and Workers’ Comp reviews, plus clean 1099s to keep your contractors and the IRS happy.

DIY or DFY—Your Call. Whether you want us to handle it all, or learn how to do it yourself with our PI-specific course, we’ll support you either way.

Expert Bookkeeping Made Simple for Private Investigators

Trish@ThePIAccountant.com

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