Running a modern accounting practice means juggling tight deadlines, strict compliance, and everchanging tax software. With so much sensitive data on the line, understanding IT services pricing for accounting firms is critical.
At Plus 1 Technology, we specialize in delivering managed IT services tailored specifically for accounting professionals. But what should your monthly budget actually look like? Below we unpack the numbers and explain why managed IT costs for CPAs are an investment, not an expense.
Typical Managed IT Pricing Models
There are two common pricing models for IT services
Per User or Per Device (Monthly)
Most accounting firms see monthly fees between $100 and $200 per user for fully managed IT support. This accounting IT support pricing usually includes:
- Unlimited helpdesk assistance
- Cybersecurity protections (EDR, DNS filtering, antivirus)
- Microsoft 365 licensing
- Automated patch management and 24/7 monitoring
- Cloud IT pricing for accountants: secure backup and disaster recovery
- Vendor management for UltraTax, Lacerte, Drake, QuickBooks and other tax platforms
- Strategic technology consulting focused on compliance and growth
If your provider charges per device, expect a blended cost across workstations, servers, and network gear. Most firms prefer peruser billing because it scales directly with headcount.
FlatRate Environment Fee
Larger multioffice practices often receive a flat figure tied to infrastructure complexity. A 25user firm running an onpremises server, multiple VPNs, and several niche applications might pay $3,500–$5,000 per month for comprehensive coverage.
Key Factors That Influence Pricing
Not every firm is the same. Here are some factors that influence pricing:
Remote Work
Hybrid and remote teams require secure endpoints and encrypted access to client files, raising the monthly IT services pricing for accounting firms slightly.
Regulatory Compliance
Firms that must satisfy FTC Safeguards or GLBA controls need detailed logging, reporting, and compliance support, all of which can add to cybersecurity pricing for accounting firms.
Number of Locations
Each office adds firewalls, switches, and onsite support needs.
Specialized Software
Tax and audit software often demand custom configurations and vendor coordination.
Service Level
Providers may offer tiered plans—compare what is actually covered before focusing on the headline price.
What a Managed IT Plan Should Include
Your managed IT package should do more than “just fix things.” A modern, strategic provider like Plus 1 Technology will:
- Keep your systems secure and compliant
- Proactively prevent downtime
- Assist with your software vendors (not just tell you to “call support”)
- Offer regular business reviews and roadmap planning
- Provide documentation and access transparency
If your provider isn’t doing these things, you might be overpaying—even at a lower price point.
Cheaper Isn’t Always Better
Breakfix or “call us when it breaks” agreements rarely include proactive monitoring, cybersecurity layers, regular patch cycles, or strategic guidance. One ransomware incident can dwarf monthly managed IT costs for CPAs.
For most accounting firms, fully managed IT services should cost between $100 and $200 per user per month. Monthly IT service pricing for CPA firms at this level typically offsets far greater risks—data loss, missed filing deadlines, and reputational harm.
Next Steps
Curious what your specific environment would cost? Request a tailored proposal from Plus 1 Technology and see how our accounting focused stack keeps your data secure, your auditors happy, and your staff productive.
