24 Best Accounting Software For Accountants Reviewed for 2024
Best Accounting Software For Accountants Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
There are countless accounting software options out there, so figuring out which is best for you is tough. You want to manage your finances accurately and efficiently, but need to figure out which tool fits your needs. I've got you! In this post, I draw from my years of experience using various accounting tools for businesses, and share my picks of the best accounting software.
These tools help you track income and expenses, generate financial reports, and ensure compliance. They solve the main pain points of manual data entry, error-prone calculations, and time-consuming financial management.
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How To Choose Accounting Software for Accountants
As you work through your own unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Scalability and Growth: Consider the ability of the accounting software to grow with your firm. If your client base expands or your services diversify, the software should handle additional transactions, users, and complex reporting needs without significant system overhauls. For instance, if you plan to manage more clients in the future or offer more services like payroll processing, the software should accommodate these changes seamlessly.
- Integration Capabilities: Evaluate the software’s ability to integrate with other systems you use, such as tax preparation software, CRM tools, or banking platforms. Smooth integration reduces the need for manual data entry and minimizes errors. For example, if you use specialized tax software, ensure that the accounting software can directly transfer data to avoid the hassle of manual input during tax season.
- Compliance and Regulatory Support: Accounting software must stay updated with changing tax laws and financial regulations to help you maintain compliance. This is especially critical for accountants managing multiple clients with varied regulatory requirements. Look for software that offers automatic updates for new laws or has built-in compliance checks, such as ensuring VAT or sales tax calculations are accurate and up-to-date.
- Usability and Training: The software should be user-friendly and easy to learn, even for those who may not be tech-savvy. This is crucial when onboarding new staff or managing a team with varying levels of technical expertise. Some software offers extensive tutorials, customer support, and training modules, which can be particularly beneficial for small firms without dedicated IT support.
- Cost vs. Value: While budget is always a concern, focus on the value that the software provides relative to its cost. Sometimes a higher upfront cost can lead to long-term savings through automation, fewer errors, or better client management. For example, investing in software with robust reporting tools might save time during audits or financial reviews, ultimately justifying the initial expense.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose accounting software that meets your firm’s needs today while positioning you for success as your practice evolves.
Best Accounting Software For Accountants Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Xero | From $15/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Zoho Books | From $15/month (billed annually) | Website |
| FreshBooks | From $10/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Bench | From $249/month (billed annually) | Website |
| ZarMoney | From $20/month (up to 2 users) | Website |
| Manager.io | From $59/user/month | Website |
| ZipBooks | From $15/user/month | Website |
| AccountEdge | From $20/user/month | Website |
| Kashoo | From $20/month | Website |
| MYOB | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Accounting Software For Accountants Reviews
This section provides an in-depth analysis and overview of various accounting software for accountants. We will walk through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases.
Xero is an accounting software platform that offers cloud-based accounting for small and medium-sized businesses with a strong focus on integrations.
Why I Picked Xero: I chose Xero because of its robust ecosystem of app integrations, which makes it a versatile option for businesses with varied needs. Its consistent integration with a wide range of third-party tools allows for a tailored accounting experience, which is uncommon among many accounting solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include real-time bank reconciliation, invoicing, inventory management, and multi-currency accounting. Xero also offers a mobile app for managing finances on the go.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, HubSpot, Gusto, Expensify, Shopify, Square, Bill.com, Salesforce, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Real-time financial data syncing
- Extensive app integration options
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Higher pricing for advanced features
- Limited customer support
Zoho Books is a cloud-based accounting software that provides a complete business management solution, including invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting.
Why I Picked Zoho Books: I chose Zoho Books because of its extensive suite of tools that go beyond basic accounting, making it a strong choice for businesses looking for a comprehensive management solution. The integration with other Zoho applications and its ability to manage multiple aspects of business operations in one platform sets it apart from other accounting software.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include automated bank feeds, invoicing, project management, inventory management, and tax compliance. Zoho Books also provides a client portal for easy communication and document sharing with clients.
Integrations include Zoho CRM, Zoho Projects, Zoho Inventory, PayPal, Stripe, G Suite, Office 365, Slack, Zapier, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable workflows
- Strong integration with other Zoho apps
- Comprehensive suite of business management tools
Cons:
- Higher cost for advanced features
- Limited third-party integrations outside Zoho
- Learning curve for new users
FreshBooks is a cloud-based accounting software tailored for freelancers and small businesses, offering easy invoicing, expense tracking, and time management.
Why I Picked FreshBooks: I chose FreshBooks for its simplicity and focus on the needs of freelancers and small businesses. Its user-friendly design and specialized features like time tracking and project management make it a standout choice for solo entrepreneurs and small teams looking for a straightforward accounting solution.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include customizable invoicing, expense tracking, time tracking, and project management. FreshBooks also offers mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing users to manage their finances on the go.
Integrations include G Suite, PayPal, Stripe, Gusto, Shopify, Trello, Slack, HubSpot, Zapier, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong invoicing and time tracking tools
- Designed for freelancers and small teams
- Simple and intuitive interface
Cons:
- Some features lack customization options
- Higher cost for additional users
- Limited reporting capabilities
Bench is a bookkeeping service that pairs you with a dedicated bookkeeper to manage your financial records and provide monthly reports.
Why I Picked Bench: I chose Bench for its dedicated bookkeeping services, which sets it apart from traditional accounting software. Unlike other tools that require you to do the bookkeeping yourself, Bench provides personalized support, making it ideal for businesses that prefer to outsource their financial management.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include monthly financial statements, real-time expense tracking, and tax-ready financials. Bench also offers a user-friendly platform where you can easily communicate with your dedicated bookkeeper and track your financial health.
Integrations include Stripe, PayPal, Square, Shopify, Gusto, QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Xero, HubSpot, and Amazon.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy communication with bookkeepers
- Monthly financial statements provided
- Dedicated bookkeeping service
Cons:
- No real-time customization options
- Limited to U.S.-based businesses
- Higher cost than DIY software
ZarMoney is an online accounting software that excels in inventory management, offering comprehensive tools for tracking and managing stock levels.
Why I Picked ZarMoney: I chose ZarMoney for its robust inventory management features, which are particularly beneficial for businesses that need to keep tight control over their stock. Its ability to integrate inventory management seamlessly with accounting functions makes it stand out from other accounting software options, especially for businesses with extensive product catalogs.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include real-time inventory tracking, automated stock alerts, multi-warehouse management, and detailed reporting on stock levels and inventory valuation. ZarMoney also supports vendor management and purchase order creation directly from the software.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Square, Shopify, Zapier, Google Workspace, QuickBooks, Mailchimp, Gusto, and Expensify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing for small businesses
- Real-time stock tracking and alerts
- Strong inventory management features
Cons:
- Customer support may have response delays
- Not ideal for very large enterprises
- Limited advanced accounting features
Manager.io is a comprehensive accounting software that offers free and unlimited access to its full suite of accounting features.
Why I Picked Manager.io: I chose Manager.io because it offers a complete accounting solution at no cost, making it a standout option for small business owners or individuals needing a robust yet free accounting tool. Its unlimited features without hidden costs are unique compared to other free accounting software.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include double-entry accounting, invoicing, expense tracking, and payroll management. Manager.io also provides comprehensive financial reporting and multi-currency support, which are valuable for businesses operating internationally.
Integrations include Zapier, PayPal, Stripe, Square, WooCommerce, Shopify, Google Sheets, QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-currency and payroll support
- Unlimited accounting features
- Completely free for the desktop version
Cons:
- User interface may feel outdated
- Desktop version lacks cloud accessibility
- Limited integrations with third-party apps
ZipBooks is an online accounting software offering smart insights and detailed reports, designed to help businesses make informed financial decisions.
Why I Picked ZipBooks: I chose ZipBooks for its ability to provide intelligent insights and comprehensive reports, which are crucial for businesses that need to monitor their financial performance closely. Its unique emphasis on smart recommendations and easy-to-read reports sets it apart from other accounting tools.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include smart tagging for transactions, real-time financial reporting, and automated invoicing. ZipBooks also provides a business health score, helping users quickly assess their financial standing.
Integrations include PayPal, Square, Stripe, Gusto, Slack, Zapier, Google Workspace, QuickBooks, Xero, and FreshBooks.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing for small businesses
- Real-time business health score
- Smart financial insights and reports
Cons:
- Customer support response can vary
- Fewer integrations than competitors
- Limited advanced features
AccountEdge is a comprehensive accounting software offering advanced data management capabilities, ideal for businesses needing detailed financial control.
Why I Picked AccountEdge: I chose AccountEdge because of its powerful data management features that cater to businesses with complex accounting needs. Its ability to handle in-depth financial tracking, reporting, and inventory management sets it apart from other accounting tools, making it a top choice for businesses requiring more advanced accounting solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include multi-currency support, detailed financial reporting, payroll processing, and advanced inventory management. AccountEdge also offers a powerful general ledger system and customizable reporting options.
Integrations include Shopify, PayPal, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Stripe, Square, Gusto, Avalara, Mailchimp, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable reporting options
- Multi-currency and inventory support
- Advanced financial data management
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Requires desktop installation
- Limited cloud-based features
Kashoo is a cloud-based accounting software that simplifies bookkeeping through automation, designed specifically for small businesses and freelancers.
Why I Picked Kashoo: I chose Kashoo because of its emphasis on automation, which streamlines the accounting process for small businesses and freelancers. Its ability to automatically categorize expenses and simplify bookkeeping makes it distinct from other accounting tools that require more manual input.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include automatic expense categorization, real-time financial reporting, and receipt management. Kashoo also provides easy bank reconciliation and multi-currency support, making it a solid choice for businesses with international transactions.
Integrations include Stripe, PayPal, FreshBooks, Square, BluePay, SurePayroll, Google Workspace, QuickBooks, Etsy, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time expense categorization
- Simple and intuitive interface
- Strong automation capabilities
Cons:
- Higher cost for basic features
- Fewer integration options than competitors
- Limited advanced features
MYOB is an accounting software platform designed to offer scalable business solutions, suitable for small businesses up to larger enterprises.
Why I Picked MYOB: I chose MYOB because of its scalability, which makes it suitable for businesses at different growth stages. Its robust feature set and ability to grow with a business, from simple bookkeeping to more complex financial management, make it a standout among accounting tools.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Features include payroll management, inventory tracking, multi-currency support, and detailed financial reporting. MYOB also offers strong customization options and cloud-based access, enabling businesses to manage their finances from anywhere.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Shopify, Salesforce, Magento, WooCommerce, Microsoft 365, Xero, HubSpot, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong customization and integration options
- Comprehensive financial management tools
- Scalable for different business sizes
Cons:
- Customer support response time can vary
- Complexity increases with advanced features
- Limited features on lower tiers
Other Accounting Software For Accountants
Below is a list of additional accounting software for accountants that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Acumatica
Best for multi-entity accounting
- Wave
Best for free accounting features
- QuickBooks
Best for live expert assistance
- FreeAgent
Best for freelancer and small business support
- NetSuite
Best integration with ERP systems
- Clear Books
Best for cloud-based accounting
- Busy Accounting Software
Best for inventory management tools
- SlickAccount
Best for cash flow management
- ProSeries
Best for tax preparation features
- Intapp
Best compliance and risk management
- LessAccounting
Best for good simplicity and ease of use
- Patriot Accounting
Best for payroll integration
- Sage Software Suite
Best for good scalability for growing businesses
- Bill.com
Best for accounts payable automation
Related Reviews
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Accounting Software For Accountants Selection Criteria
When selecting accounting software for accountants, it’s important to focus on functionality and how well the software meets specific use cases. Accountants rely on these tools for precise financial management, reporting, and compliance. The criteria below are designed to address the needs and pain points of accounting professionals, ensuring that the selected software is efficient, reliable, and capable of handling the complexities of accounting tasks.
Core Functionality - 25% of total weighting score:
- Accurate financial reporting and analysis
- Automated invoicing and billing
- Expense tracking and management
- Payroll processing
- Tax preparation and filing
Additional Standout Features - 25% of total weighting score:
- Integration with third-party tools for expanded functionality
- AI-driven financial insights and automation
- Industry-specific accounting modules (e.g., construction, healthcare)
- Multi-currency and multi-entity support
- Real-time collaboration features for team-based accounting
Usability - 10% of total weighting score:
- Intuitive navigation and clean interface design
- Efficient workflow automation to reduce manual tasks
- Customizable dashboards and reporting tools
- Role-based access with easy configuration
- Mobile accessibility for on-the-go financial management
Onboarding - 10% of total weighting score:
- Availability of step-by-step tutorials and training videos
- Interactive product tours to guide new users
- Pre-built templates for quick setup
- Migration tools to import data from previous systems
- Access to live webinars and Q&A sessions for real-time learning
Customer Support - 10% of total weighting score:
- 24/7 availability of support channels (phone, email, chat)
- Dedicated account managers for personalized support
- Comprehensive knowledge base and FAQs
- Access to community forums and user groups
- Fast response times and issue resolution
Value for Money - 10% of total weighting score:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Tiered pricing models to suit different business sizes
- Free trials or demo versions to test the software
- Discounts for long-term contracts or annual billing
- Feature-rich packages that justify the cost
Customer Reviews - 10% of total weighting score:
- High ratings for reliability and performance
- Positive feedback on customer service and support
- Consistency in delivering promised features
- Recognition for innovation and user satisfaction
- Common themes in customer feedback on usability and functionality
Trends For Accounting Software For Accountants in 2024
Accounting software continues to evolve rapidly to meet the demands of modern finance professionals. Below are the most significant trends shaping the industry right now.
AI-Powered Automation
AI-driven features are increasingly automating routine accounting tasks such as data entry and reconciliation. This trend is significant because it reduces manual errors and frees up accountants to focus on more strategic activities. It also makes accounting processes faster and more efficient.
Real-Time Data Analytics
Real-time data analytics is becoming a standard feature in accounting software, offering immediate insights into financial performance. This trend is important as it allows accountants to make data-driven decisions quickly. It helps firms stay agile in a rapidly changing financial environment.
Blockchain for Transparency
Blockchain technology is being integrated into accounting software to enhance transparency and security in financial transactions. This trend is interesting because it provides a tamper-proof record of transactions. It is especially important for industries requiring high levels of compliance and trust.
Cloud-Based Collaboration
Cloud-based accounting platforms are enabling better collaboration among teams, regardless of location. This trend is progressive because it allows for seamless sharing and updating of financial data in real-time. It supports remote work and increases overall productivity.
Sustainability and ESG Reporting
Accounting software is increasingly incorporating tools for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting. This trend is crucial as businesses are under growing pressure to demonstrate their sustainability efforts. It allows accountants to integrate ESG metrics into financial reports effortlessly.
These trends highlight the ongoing innovation in accounting software, shaping the future of financial management.
What Is Accounting Software For Accountants?
Accounting software for accountants is a specialized tool designed to manage and streamline financial processes such as bookkeeping, invoicing, payroll, and tax preparation.
An accounting system is used by accounting services and firms to ensure accurate financial record-keeping, compliance with regulations, and efficient financial reporting. This software is essential for accountants who need to handle complex financial data, automate routine tasks, and generate detailed reports for clients or internal business use.
Features Of Accounting Software For Accountants
When evaluating SaaS accounting software for accountants, I focus on the specific features that make it a valuable tool for financial management and reporting. Here are the key features I consider essential in accounting software.
- General Ledger Management: Centralizes financial data for accurate tracking of all transactions.
- Accounts Payable and Receivable: Manages incoming and outgoing payments efficiently.
- Payroll Processing: Automates salary calculations, tax deductions, and employee payments.
- Tax Compliance: Ensures adherence to local, state, and federal tax regulations.
- Financial Reporting: Generates detailed reports for financial analysis and decision-making.
- Bank Reconciliation: Matches transactions with bank statements for accuracy.
- Expense Tracking: Monitors and categorizes business expenses automatically.
- Inventory Management: Tracks inventory levels and integrates with accounting records.
- Multi-Currency Support: Handles transactions in different currencies with real-time conversion.
- Audit Trails: Provides a detailed log of all financial activities for accountability.
These features are what I look for to ensure the software meets the rigorous demands of professional accounting firms. The right combination of these tools can significantly improve efficiency and accuracy in financial management.
Benefits Of Accounting Software For Accountants
Accounting software offers significant advantages to both individual accountants and organizations by streamlining financial management processes and enhancing accuracy. Here are the primary benefits of using accounting software for accountants.
- Increased Efficiency: Automates routine financial tasks, saving time and reducing the likelihood of manual errors.
- Improved Accuracy: Provides precise calculations and consistent data, which helps avoid costly mistakes in financial records.
- Better Financial Insights: Generates detailed reports and analytics, enabling more informed decision-making based on real-time financial data.
- Enhanced Compliance: Keeps up with regulatory changes and ensures that financial practices adhere to local, state, and federal laws.
- Scalability: Supports growing businesses by handling more complex financial transactions and increasing data volume without compromising performance.
By implementing the right software, users can expect greater control, accuracy, and efficiency in their accounting processes.
Costs And Pricing Of Accounting Software For Accountants
Understanding the costs and pricing options for accounting software is essential for selecting the right tool for your business needs. The pricing for accounting software varies based on the features, the number of users, and the level of support offered. Below, I have outlined the typical plan options available for accounting software, helping you choose the one that best fits your requirements and budget.
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic invoicing, expense tracking, limited reporting, single-user support |
| Basic Plan | $10-$25/user/month | Invoicing, accounts payable/receivable, basic reporting, email support |
| Standard Plan | $30-$50/user/month | Payroll processing, advanced reporting, multi-user access, integrations |
| Premium Plan | $60-$100/user/month | Multi-currency support, inventory management, comprehensive reporting, priority support |
| Enterprise Plan | $150+/user/month | Custom features, unlimited users, dedicated account manager, full API access |
When selecting a plan, consider your business size, the complexity of your accounting practice needs, and your budget. The free and basic plans are suitable for small businesses or freelancers, while larger organizations may benefit more from the advanced features in the premium or enterprise plans.
Accounting Software for Accountants FAQs
Is cloud-based accounting software secure?
Yes, reputable cloud-based accounting software uses encryption and other security measures to protect your data. Regular backups and updates ensure data safety and compliance with industry standards. Always verify the security features of the software provider and use strong, unique passwords.
Can accounting software handle multiple currencies?
Many accounting software options offer multi-currency support, which is crucial for businesses dealing with international transactions. This feature automatically converts and tracks transactions in various currencies. Ensure that the software you choose supports the currencies you frequently use.
What is the difference between invoicing and accounting software?
Invoicing software focuses primarily on creating and managing invoices. Accounting software, on the other hand, offers a broader range of financial management tools, including invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and financial reporting. Accounting software provides a more comprehensive solution for managing business finances.
Can I integrate accounting software with other business tools?
Yes, most accounting software integrates with various other tools like CRM systems, eCommerce platforms, and payment gateways. These integrations streamline workflows and reduce manual data entry. Check for specific integrations that match your existing business tools.
Is it difficult to migrate from one accounting software to another?
Migration can be challenging but many accounting software providers offer tools and support to make the transition smoother. Before switching, back up your data and ensure that the new software can import your existing data formats. Consider professional help for complex migrations.
How often should I update my accounting software?
Regular updates are crucial to keep your software secure and compliant with the latest financial regulations. Most cloud-based software updates automatically, ensuring you have the latest features and security patches. If using desktop software, check for updates regularly and install them as needed.
Other Accounting Software Options
If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for here, check out these other tools that we’ve tested and evaluated:
- Accounting Software For Midsize Businesses
- Accounting Software for PC
- Engineering Accounting Software
- Accounting Software for Teams
- Accounting Software With CRM
- Real Estate Accounting Software
- Accounting Software With Client Portals
- Multi-Company Accounting Software
- Legal Accounting Software
- Accounting Software for Startups
- AI Accounting Software
- Accounting Workflow Management Software
- Accounting Software With Payroll For Small Businesses
- Accounting Software For Service Companies
- Accounting Software For Rental Properties
- Accounting Software For Advertising Agencies
- Accounting Software For The Self-Employed
- Accounting Software For Large Business
- Accounting Software For Consultants
- Accounting Software for Mac
- Cloud-Based Accounting Software
- Lease Accounting Software
- Small Business Accounting Software
- Property Management Accounting Software
- Construction Accounting Software
- Accounting Software For Nonprofits
- Online Accounting Software
- Business Accounting Software
What’s Next?
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