IT Solutions for Accounting Firms in Omaha

Q: Can you help migrate our accounting systems to the cloud?

Absolutely. We're experts at moving accounting firms like yours to the cloud, making sure you can use all the software you need - from QuickBooks to Sage to Thomson Reuters and more. Our cloud migration process is a smooth one - we take care of the planning, setup and ongoing management so you can focus on getting on with your business.

Q: Do you work with firms that already have an inhouse IT team?

We sure do. Our co-managed IT services are designed to work alongside your existing team, not replace them. We bring in our expertise and support during busy times or when you need an extra hand with a big project. So your inhouse team can focus on the strategic stuff and we'll handle the day-to-day IT management.

Keeping your systems secure, reliable, and up to date is a top priority for any accounting firm. That's why you need a solid IT provider who understands the unique needs of your industry. Protecting your clients' data, staying on top of compliance, and being able to handle the demands of tax season with ease is critical to your success.

Accounting and financial services firms are built on trust, accuracy and speed. Your technology should reflect that. But if your systems fail, or your data security isn't up to snuff, you're not just slowing yourself down - you're putting your client relationships and compliance on the line. A single slip up or data breach can get you fines from the FTC, lose you clients or even get you audited by the IRS.

Accounting firms are a prime target for phishing attacks, ransomware and data theft. They're storing a ton of financial and personal info - making them the holy grail for cyber attackers. But the accounting firms that invest in the right tech and cybersecurity measures are the ones that come out on top.

Our team has decades of experience working with the platforms accounting firms like Thomson Reuters, Drake, TaxAct and CCH use. We know the ins and outs of Sage and QuickBooks too. That means we can provide tailored IT solutions that deliver real results. Our industry-specific expertise means we get the infrastructure and security needs of accounting firms.

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What Managed IT Services Do Accounting Firms Really Need?

Accounting firms typically need a broad range of managed IT services, including cybersecurity, secure data storage, back up, compliance support and reliable networking. And let's be honest, you need to be able to focus on delivering top-notch client service, not babysitting your IT.

Our approach to managed IT is all about letting you focus on what matters most - delivering exceptional client service. We handle all the behind-the-scenes stuff, so you can just focus on your clients.

Our managed IT support includes:

24/7 Network and System Monitoring

We keep an eye on your systems around the clock, so we can catch any issues before they become major problems.

Automated System Updates and Maintenance

We schedule system updates and maintenance around your workflow, so you can keep on truckin' without any interruptions.

Secure Data Backup and Recovery

We make sure your client data is backed up and recoverable, so if something goes wrong, you can get back up and running in no time.

Hardware and Software Management

We handle all your tech needs, so you can just focus on your clients.

Help Desk and On-Demand Support

If something breaks, you get priority support from people who actually get what you do.

Compliance Support

We support you with all the compliance and regulatory needs you've got - from FINRA to SOX to GLBA.

Managed IT can help accounting firms break free from the uncertainty of IT costs, with flat-fee pricing models that keep things predictable. And with our expertise, you get stability, efficiency and predictable costs without the stress of managing complex tech on your own.

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What Good Does Cybersecurity Do For Accounting Firms Anyway?

Your clients trust you with their most sensitive info - tax records, payroll data, financial statements and more. Keeping that trust requires keeping their data safe.

Our IT services protect client data with layered cybersecurity measures including endpoint protection, network security, malware prevention and secure backups. We stay on top of threats with continuous monitoring and proactive controls. Our managed IT services boost cybersecurity by implementing robust security controls tailored to your industry's needs.

Our cybersecurity solutions include:

Advanced Endpoint Protection - We cover every device your team uses, from laptops to tablets to workstations. Every one of these devices is a potential entry point for hackers.
Secure Email and Phishing Defense - Our email filtering, phishing protection and archiving for compliance help you stay safe from email-based attacks - which are the number one threat vector for accounting firms.
Multi-Factor Authentication and Data Encryption - We make sure you've got the right access controls in place, and we keep your communications and data encrypted.
Network Security - Your first line of defense - Firewalls, intrusion detection, and web filtering to shield your network from threats.
Security Awareness Training - We don't just throw tech at the problem, we make sure your team is on the same page. We combine security tech with ongoing employee awareness training so your team becomes your first line of defense, not your weakest link.
Written Information Security Plan (WISP) - Every accounting firm needs a rock solid plan to stay on top of regulatory requirements and get ready for audits. We help you develop a documented security plan.
Vulnerability Scanning - We scan your network regularly to find and fix weaknesses before some cyber-criminal does.

We help accounting pros stay on the right side of data protection regulations and financial regulations while saving their reputation and keeping client confidentiality safe. We provide specialized IT support that helps accounting firms get their tech game in line with what the regulators are expecting.

What Cloud Solutions Work Best for Accounting Firms?

In today's accounting world, flexibility and remote access are key. Whether your team is in the office, at home, or on the road with clients - cloud solutions make your work easier by giving you secure access to your data and apps from anywhere.

Microsoft 365 and QuickBooks Online are great examples of cloud-based platforms that make it easy for accounting teams to work remotely with real-time data access. And with secure cloud platforms, teams can work in real-time from any location while keeping data safe and in line with compliance standards.

We design cloud environments that balance speed, scalability and security, and get you set up with the accounting software you need. Our experts will help you get the most out of QuickBooks with setup, training and support. We also support integration with top platforms like CCH, Sage, Drake and Thomson Reuters.

Here are the key cloud benefits for accounting firms:

Secure Remote Access

Reliable access to your files and apps from anywhere. Whether you're in the office or working remotely, your accounting team stays productive.

Scalable Cloud Storage

Cloud resources that grow with your firm. You'll never run out of server space again - especially during tax season when things get busy.

Accounting Software Integration

Integration with top accounting and tax platforms like QuickBooks, CCH, Sage, Drake and more. Integrating your accounting software with CRM systems streamlines on-boarding and automates data sync.

Disaster Recovery

Built-in redundancy for business continuity. If your hardware goes down, your data and apps are already safe in the cloud.

Collaboration and File Sharing

Simple collaboration across your accounting teams with secure file sharing and access controls.

Enhanced Security

Cloud solutions give you enhanced security features such as data encryption and multi-factor auth to protect your sensitive financial data.

Cloud solutions help accounting firms streamline their operations, boost efficiency and deliver better client service. With our cloud expertise, you can save money and keep your team connected no matter where they work.

Accounting firms face a lot of challenges - data security, regulatory compliance, remote work and updating old systems. Combining old accounting software with new AI and cloud tech requires a lot of investment and expertise. We make that complexity go away so you don't have to.

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How Does Co-Managed IT Work for Growing Accounting Firms?

If you've already got an in-house IT resource or an existing IT team, our co-managed IT services will augment what they are already doing without replacing them. We'll bring in some extra tools and expertise to help your internal staff get the job done on complex projects, seasonal demands, or security initiatives.

Our partnership approach means you maintain control, but you also get the benefit of experienced IT pros working alongside you.

We can help with:

Advanced monitoring and system management
Security audits and remediation
Strategic technology planning and guidance for IT infrastructure upgrades
Project-based or overflow support during tax season and other busy periods
Data management and compliance documentation

This hybrid model lets your team focus on what matters while we take care of the heavy lifting in the background.

Why Do Omaha Accounting Firms and RIAs Choose Ascend?

Choosing the right technology partner is a serious business decision that impacts your security, efficiency and trust with your clients. When you partner with Ascend, you're not just outsourcing your IT - you're getting a long-term tech partner who is invested in your firm's success.

We know the accounting game inside and out. We're involved with the CPA Society of Nebraska and we understand the regulatory requirements that financial firms are subject to.

Industry Know-How - We know the accounting workflow, tax software and compliance landscape inside out.
Proactive Approach - We don't just wait for things to break - our proactive monitoring and preventive controls keep your firm running smoothly all year round.
Scalable Solutions - Whether you're a small CPA firm or a growing financial services organization, our services grow with you.
Dedicated Support Team - A real support team that answers the phone and understands your tech environment.
Proven Security - We build on top of the best security practices, compliance support and a written information security plan that's tailored to the sensitive data your accounting firm handles.
IT Consulting and Strategic Guidance - Your technology planning, infrastructure upgrades, software selection, and scalability all need strategy - that's where our IT consulting comes in. We help your accounting firm make sense of its technology needs and make sure that your IT infrastructure is in good shape, whether you have an internal IT team on board or not.

Investing in solid IT infrastructure and taking cybersecurity seriously is what sets industry leaders apart. We see too many accounting firms in Omaha still running on old systems and crossing their fingers - that's not a smart business plan. That's just a risk.

What our clients say

Reviews

5 Over 122 Reviews

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Susan Schaaf 3 weeks ago

Roy Smith was amazing! I told him the issue, and he had it solved in 2 minutes! He made my day, and I am able to finish a project that is due!
Susan, Omaha Street School

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Jeffrey FRI Johnson 2 months ago

I reached out to the team at Ascend late on a Friday afternoon with a security questionnaire that a client was requiring. I didn't understand many of the questions they asked and clearly didn't know the answers. The Ascend team had the questionnaire completed and turned in for me before I opened my email on Saturday morning! Always above an beyond is all I can say!

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Shawn Bettes 2 months ago

Ascend is consistently reliable and always on top of my support requests. I appreciate the automated acknowledgments followed by the quick turnaround on every support need I submit.

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Caitlynn Eldridge 3 months ago

Ascend has been truly wonderful to work with and we couldn't be more appreciative of them!

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Sam Tynan 3 months ago

Very pleased with our partnership with Ascend. The entire team goes above and beyond to make sure our technology needs are met on a daily basis. We would not be able to operate in our most efficient ways without their support.

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Tina Acevedo 3 months ago

We have been so impressed with the level of service from Ascend. From setting up with all of the hardware we need, to helping us with software installations, the team has been responsive, friendly, and so helpful! We've sought their expertise on organization of assets, setting up team calendars, and reworking our SharePoint. Every interaction has made our team feel like they are fully invested in our success, and that they are truly a part of our team. I jokingly say that Ascend's level of customer service has spoiled me for other vendors, but in all seriousness, it's true! It's very easy to communicate with them through the email ticket system or a call to the help desk. I'd name specific team members, but at this point, I've worked with just about everyone, and each is a stellar representative of the company who makes our lives so much easier with their knowledge and willingness to solve any problems that come up.

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Deb Lensch 4 months ago

Russ was quick to save and transfer my notes and groups from my old outlook to my new outlook! Great job Russell and Ascend!!!!

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patty mastin 5 months ago

Roy saved the day, again! Thank you, Sir, for your help with fixing all of my problems! The world could use 100 more of you!

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Tim Mohatt 6 months ago

Awesome response time and frequent updates. They got my issue resolved quickly to eliminate any long term issues.

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Accounting IT Services FAQ

What are accounting IT services?

Accounting IT services are all the tech solutions that help accounting firms succeed - we're talking managed IT services, cybersecurity, secure data storage, cloud solutions, and more. Our goal is to keep your systems running smoothly, securely and in compliance, so you can focus on doing what you do best: helping clients.

How can IT services help my accounting firm save time?

Think about it - when you've got a solid IT management team behind the scenes, your daily workflow runs a whole lot smoother. We tailor our updates to your business, keep an eye on your systems round the clock and get issues sorted out before they cause a problem. With our optimized software, faster networks and proactive maintenance, your accounting teams can spend less time on technology headaches and more time focusing on the client work that really matters.

Why is cybersecurity so important for accountants?

Listen, as an accounting firm you're sitting on some pretty sensitive data - we're talking tax returns, payroll info, client financial records. Those are the kind of things cybercriminals would love to get their hands on. That's why we put so much emphasis on strong cybersecurity measures like encryption, multi-factor authentication and all the rest. Our IT security services are built to keep your data safe and protect your firm's reputation. We're not just talking about stopping phishing attacks and ransomware either - we're talking about building security into everything we do.

Can you help migrate our accounting systems to the cloud?

What happens if our firm experiences data loss or a system failure?

When it comes to disaster recovery, we want to make sure you've got a plan in place. So we work with you to develop a custom backup and recovery plan that'll keep your business up and running, whether it's a human error, hardware failure or a cyberattack. And because we've got automated daily backups and off-site storage, you never have to worry about losing data in the first place.

Do you work with firms that already have an inhouse IT team?

How do you ensure compliance with financial data regulations?

These laws and regulations can be complicated to keep track of, but we stay up to date with all the latest changes. Our IT team works with you to make sure you're compliant with the likes of FINRA, SOC 2, Sarbanes-Oxley and all the rest. We provide all the necessary security controls and protocols to make sure your firm is meeting all the regulatory requirements. And of course, we keep detailed records and policy documentation to help with audits and internal reviews.

How much do IT services for accounting firms cost?

It really depends on the size of your firm and what you need - but we do have a pretty standard pricing model. Most of our clients pay a flat monthly fee based on user count and service scope - no surprise invoices to catch you off guard. For accounting firms trying to budget IT costs, that predictability is a big deal. We'll give you a clear quote upfront so you know exactly what to expect.

What makes Ascend different from other IT support providers?

Ascend Technology Group gets it - we know what a real headache tax season can be. Deadlines are looming, confidentiality is paramount, you've got sensitive data to keep safe, and making sure you're compliant is a constant worry. Our approach is 100 per cent proactive. We've got a whole team of dedicated folks who know the accounting software inside out, so we can anticipate what you need and put in place technology that lets your business run smoothly all year round, not just during crunch time. We don't just provide the tools, we're your IT partner, working with you every step of the way to keep your business running like clockwork. Guess what!? You can also reach out to the Nebraska CPA Society for a reference on Ascend. We’ve been a key partner to the CPA Society for a number of years. While we’re not officially endorsed by them, they know us and trust us.

Secure Your Accounting Firm's Future Today

First things first - let's have a conversation. Whether you're looking to give your entire technology setup a boost or want to give your firm a solid cybersecurity and compliance foundation, we'll give you the lowdown on what you really need, not just what you think you might need.

Your clients are putting their faith in you with their finances - make sure your technology is up to scratch. The right IT management makes it easy to keep your firm secure, on top of all those compliance hoops, and free to focus on what really matters - your clients.

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