17 Best Accounting Software For Advertising Agencies and Marketing Reviewed in 2025
Best Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 17 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
When you're managing multiple campaign timelines, vendor payments, and client budgets, the last thing you need is a system that can't keep up. The right accounting software for advertising agencies should save you time, not waste it.
But with so many options available, where do you start? To make things easier, I tested and reviewed some of the top options—pulling from my own experience in financial operations and digital software.
In each review, I’ll break down the key features, who it’s best for, and what makes it worth considering. Whether you’re running a small shop or managing a bigger firm, this guide will help you find a tool that actually works for you.
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Best Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Summary
To make this quicker, I created this cost summary chart. It breaks down important pricing and trial information for each of my top accounting software for advertising agencies options.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for freelancers and small agencies | 7-day free trial | From $9/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 2 | Best for all-in-one financial management | Free demo available | From $20/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for agency-specific financial tools | Free demo available | From $34/user/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for integrated accounting and tax services | 14-day free trial | From $18.85/month + VAT p/m | Website | |
| 5 | Best for open-source accounting needs | Free trial available | From $8/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for affordable payroll and accounting | 30-day free trial + free demo available | From $8.50/month (for 3 months, then $17/month) | Website | |
| 7 | Best for scalable business solutions | 14-day free trial | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for free accounting and invoicing | Free plan available | From $14/month | Website | |
| 9 | Best for mobile invoicing and multi-currency support | Free trial available | From $3/3 months (then $13/month) | Website | |
| 10 | Best for financial automation and processing | 30-day free trial | From $2/month (for 3 months, then $20/month) | Website |
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LiveFlow
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
Visit Website -
Vena
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.5
Best Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Reviews
Below, I’ve broken down each accounting software made for ad agencies—what it does well, where it falls short, key features, and who it’s best for. It’s everything you need to find the right fit, all in one place.
Bonsai is an advanced platform designed specifically for freelancers and small agencies, offering streamlined solutions for client management, project tracking, and financial tasks. Its tailored features help simplify the complexities of business operations, ensuring efficient management and organization.
Why I picked Bonsai: Bonsai provides users with an advanced suite of tools tailored for freelancers and small agencies. Its next-level features for managing client relationships, projects, and finances distinguish it from other accounting software. Overall, the software is particularly suitable for freelancers and small agencies because it integrates essential business management tools into a single platform, thereby simplifying operations and enhancing efficiency.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include built-in task management to help keep creative teams aligned, and real-time activity tracking gives project managers visibility into project progress. Bonsai also allows for easy collaboration with contractors, making it ideal for agencies that frequently outsource work or scale teams based on client needs.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Calendly, Zapier, Stripe, PayPal, Google Calendar, Slack, Trello, Asana, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with popular tools
- Customizable templates
- Comprehensive toolset
Cons:
- Basic inventory management
- Limited to small agencies
ZarMoney is an all-in-one accounting, invoicing, and inventory solution designed to streamline financial management for businesses, including advertising agencies. It’s best known for its advanced financial tool suite that integrates various accounting functions into a single platform.
Why I picked ZarMoney: ZarMoney offers an all-in-one financial management solution with an extensive feature set. Unlike other accounting software, ZarMoney integrates accounting, invoicing, and inventory management into a single platform, making it particularly useful for advertising agencies managing multiple financial aspects efficiently. Its ability to handle complex financial tasks from one interface makes it the best choice for all-in-one financial management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable billing and time-tracking tools, which are ideal for agencies that bill clients by the hour or per project. The software also supports client-specific pricing and job costing, which is especially helpful for managing campaigns with varying scopes and budgets.
Integrations include QuickBooks, PayPal, Stripe, Square, Shopify, Amazon, eBay, Zapier, Google Drive, and Dropbox.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Role-based user access
- Advanced inventory management
- Comprehensive feature set
Cons:
- Mobile app limitations
- Complex learning curve
Function Point offers financial software tailored for creative agencies, featuring invoicing, expense management, and client billing. It excels in agency-specific financial tools, providing specialized invoicing and billing features to meet the unique needs of creative agencies.
Why I picked Function Point: Function Point stands out with specialized financial tools designed specifically for creative agencies. Unlike generic accounting software, Function Point addresses the unique financial management needs of advertising agencies, such as handling insertion orders and other industry-specific documents. It’s ideal for agency-specific financial tools due to its ability to streamline invoicing, expense management, and client billing, which are critical for creative agencies.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include resource scheduling and traffic management, which are tailored to the fast-paced, deadline-driven nature of ad work. Creative teams can also benefit from integrated time tracking that aligns directly with project milestones, ensuring billable work is logged accurately and efficiently.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Office 365, Trello, Asana, Basecamp, HubSpot, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Billability tracking
- Expense management
- Specialized invoicing
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Limited customization
Crunch offers online accounting software specifically designed for advertising agencies, featuring invoicing, bookkeeping, and on-demand accountants. It’s ideal for integrated accounting and tax services, providing an advanced suite of tools to manage both accounting and tax requirements efficiently.
Why I picked Crunch: Crunch stands out with its all-inclusive accounting packages that cater specifically to the needs of advertising agencies. The integration of accounting and tax services makes it a unique offering compared to other software. Additionally, Crunch provides dedicated accountant support, which is valuable for businesses looking for expert financial advice.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated expense tracking and real-time financial dashboards to help creative teams keep a close eye on campaign budgets and client profitability. The platform also supports project-based income categorization and VAT management, which is vital for agencies working with both domestic and international clients.
Integrations include Pure360, Brixx, Expend, Tripcatcher, Starling Bank, Tide, Xero, FreeAgent, QuickBooks, and Sage.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Bookkeeping and invoicing
- On-demand accountants
- Comprehensive tax services
Cons:
- Mobile app limitations
- Limited customization
Akaunting is an open-source online accounting software that offers comprehensive accounting features ensuring users have full privacy and control over their data. This makes it a strong and cost-effective solution for managing finances without sacrificing functionality or security.
Why I picked Akaunting: Akaunting provides a free, open-source platform that allows full control over financial management. Its cloud-based solution supports invoicing, expense tracking, and client management, making it easy for agencies to manage their finances efficiently. With multi-currency support, Akaunting is especially useful for agencies working with international clients.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a client portal, which allows for seamless communication and transparency with clients, giving them access to invoices and project updates in real time. The software's project tracking also helps agencies monitor budgets and timelines for each campaign, ensuring profitability and on-time delivery.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, WooCommerce, Shopify, Mollie, Razorpay, Authorize.net, Square, Paystack, and Coinbase.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-language support
- Comprehensive feature set
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited mobile app functionality
- Limited customer support
Patriot Software provides affordable payroll and accounting solutions tailored for small businesses. It excels in providing cost-effective payroll and accounting services with competitive pricing and advanced features that cater to the needs of small businesses.
Why I picked Patriot: Patriot is known for its affordability and large-scale features, which make it a standout choice among accounting software options for advertising agencies. Its seamless integration of payroll and accounting functions ensures that small businesses can manage their finances efficiently without high costs. Additionally, the software offers essential features at a lower price compared to other software, making it accessible for small agencies.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include custom 1099 preparation tools to help simplify payments to freelance creatives and contractors. The system also includes a secure document management feature, ideal for storing contracts, campaign budgets, and vendor agreements—all in one place.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Stripe, Ramp, Finch, Gusto, Xero, Deputy, ClockShark, OnPay, and TSheets.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy QuickBooks integration
- Comprehensive payroll features
- Reporting and analytics
Cons:
- Basic user interface
- Limited advanced accounting features
MYOB provides scalable business solutions for small to medium-sized businesses, accountants, and bookkeepers, offering advanced features that grow with your business needs. It excels in scalability and adaptability, making it ideal for businesses looking for solutions that expand as they grow.
Why I picked MYOB: MYOB offers features ranging from basic invoicing to complex financial management. Its integration with third-party apps and customizable reports make it easy for agencies to analyze profitability and streamline their financial processes. Additionally, MYOB’s cloud-based platform ensures real-time access to financial data, improving decision-making and collaboration.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include multi-currency support, agencies handling international clients can invoice and manage finances without hassle. The platform also includes budgeting tools that aid in forecasting and managing campaign spend.
Integrations include Shopify, PayPal, Stripe, HubSpot, Salesforce, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Mailchimp, WooCommerce, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration capabilities
- Scalable solutions
- Comprehensive feature set
Cons:
- Limited customization
- Complex setup
Wave offers advanced features for financial management, invoicing, payments, and payroll. It excels in free accounting and invoicing, making it ideal for agencies looking to manage their finances without incurring additional expenses.
Why I picked Wave: Wave stands out as a strong, free accounting solution offering a wide range of features typically found in paid software. Its user-friendly interface and advanced financial management tools make it an excellent choice for advertising agencies. Additionally, the software’s ability to provide essential accounting and invoicing services for free helps users keep expenses low while maintaining high functionality.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable invoice templates that let agencies reflect their branding when billing clients, making it ideal for creative firms wanting to maintain a consistent visual identity. Its client management tools also help track project-specific expenses and payments, making it easier to handle multiple campaigns at once.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Shoeboxed, Etsy, Zapier, Google Sheets, QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Xero, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive financial management
- User-friendly interface
- Free accounting and invoicing
Cons:
- Limited customization
- Limited advanced features
Fiskl is an accounting software tailored for creative and marketing agencies, offering strong mobile invoicing and multi-currency support. This enables users to create and send invoices from their mobile devices in any currency, making it ideal for agencies with international clients.
Why I picked Fiskl: Fiskl excels in mobile invoicing and advanced multi-currency support, which is vital for advertising agencies with global clients. The software handles invoicing and payments on the go, supporting 168 currencies and 60 languages, making it the top choice for mobile invoicing and multi-currency needs.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include client portal access, allowing agency clients to view invoices and payment history seamlessly. The software also supports itemized billing, which is perfect for breaking down services like creative, strategy, and media buying.
Integrations include Stripe, PayPal, GoCardless, Xero, QuickBooks, FreshBooks, Square, Wave, Zoho Books, and Google Maps.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated accounting
- Multi-currency support
- Mobile invoicing
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Limited desktop features
Xero is an advanced accounting software designed for small businesses, accountants, and bookkeepers, offering an extensive range of features that cover all essential accounting needs.
Why I picked Xero: Xero is a great accounting software for advertising agencies due to its robust invoicing, expense tracking, and project management features. It allows agencies to handle multiple clients, automate recurring invoices, and integrate with other tools like project management platforms. Additionally, Xero’s financial reporting capabilities also provide valuable insights for making informed business decisions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include time tracking tools help monitor billable hours for specific campaigns, while customizable chart of accounts enables clear categorization of income and expenses across clients and services. The platform also supports collaboration by allowing multiple users with role-based permissions, which is ideal for finance teams, account managers, and external accountants working together.
Integrations include Stripe, PayPal, Gusto, HubSpot, Shopify, Square, WooCommerce, Mailchimp, Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced reporting tools
- Multi-currency support
- Comprehensive feature set
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Limited customer support options
Other Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
Below is a list of additional accounting software for advertising agencies that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- Zoho Books
For affordability and ease of use
- Sage Intacct
For advanced financial management
- Planful
For financial planning and analysis
- Zuora
For subscription-based businesses
- Productive.io
For agency-specific workflows
- QuickBooks
For small business accounting
- Workamajig
For project management integration
Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Selection Criteria
If you're in the market for a new accounting software for advertising agencies, you need to focus on what actually matters, like automation, visibility, and streamlined billing. After testing and digging into these tools myself, here’s what I found made a tool stand out:
Core Functionality (25% of total weighting score):
- Financial reporting
- Budget management
- Client billing and invoicing
- Expense tracking
- Payroll management
Additional Standout Features (25% of total weighting score):
- Integration with project management tools
- Advanced analytics and reporting capabilities
- Customizable dashboards
- Automated workflows
- Mobile accessibility
Usability (10% of total weighting score):
- Intuitive interface design
- Drag-and-drop functionality
- Easy navigation
- Role-based access configuration
- Interactive dashboards
Onboarding (10% of total weighting score):
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Pre-built templates
- Chatbots for instant support
- Webinars for in-depth training
Customer Support (10% of total weighting score):
- 24/7 availability
- Multi-channel support (phone, email, chat)
- Dedicated account managers
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Fast response times
Value For Money (10% of total weighting score):
- Competitive pricing models
- Transparent pricing structure
- Flexible subscription plans
- Cost-benefit analysis
- Discounts for long-term commitments
Customer Reviews (10% of total weighting score):
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on ease of use
- Comments on customer support
- Insights on feature effectiveness
- User testimonials on ROI
How to Choose Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
It’s easy to get lost in endless features and confusing pricing. To keep things simple while you figure out what works best for you, here’s a quick checklist to help you stay on track:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Ensure the software can grow with your agency. Look for features that can handle increased transactions as your client base expands. |
| Integrations | Choose software that integrates with tools your team already uses, like CRM systems or project management apps, to ensure seamless data flow. |
| Customizability | Opt for software that lets you tailor reports and dashboards to your agency's specific needs, providing insights into financial performance. |
| Ease of Use | Look for an intuitive interface that your team can quickly learn and navigate, reducing the need for extensive training. |
| Budget | Consider the total cost, including any subscription fees and hidden charges, to ensure it aligns with your financial constraints. |
| Security Safeguards | Prioritize software with strong encryption and regular security updates to protect sensitive financial data from breaches. |
Trends in Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
I've been digging through tons of product updates, release notes, and press announcements, and a few trends in accounting software for advertising agencies really stood out. Here’s what I’m seeing—and what it could mean for how we work going forward.
- Automation: Automation is revolutionizing accounting processes by reducing manual tasks such as bank reconciliation and journal entries. This trend is important because it allows accountants to focus on higher-value work, improving efficiency and accuracy.
- Cloud-Based Accounting Software: Cloud-based solutions are becoming the norm, enabling real-time collaboration and remote work. This trend is significant as it offers flexibility and scalability, making it easier for agencies (whether in-house or freelance) to manage their finances from anywhere.
- Data Analytics and Forecasting Tools: Advanced data analytics and forecasting tools are being increasingly adopted. These tools are vital for providing insights and making data-driven decisions, helping agencies to be more proactive and strategic.
- Data Security: With the rise in cyberattacks, data security is a top priority. Implementing strong cybersecurity measures is essential to protect sensitive financial information and maintain client trust, especially in the media space.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is transforming accounting by automating tasks like data entry and invoice processing. This trend is noteworthy as it enhances efficiency and provides predictive insights, allowing accountants to make informed decisions.
What Is Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies?
Accounting software for advertising agencies is a specialized tool designed to manage the financial operations of advertising firms. Used by financial managers, accountants, and agency owners, it helps track expenses, manage budgets, and generate financial reports. The software ensures accurate billing, monitors project costs, and maintains financial compliance.
Key components typically include expense tracking, invoicing, budget management, and financial reporting, enabling users to handle client billing, monitor project profitability, and produce detailed financial statements. Additionally, the software integrates with other tools to provide an in-depth view of the agency's financial health.
Features of Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
The right accounting software for advertising agencies offers key features, such as revenue recognition, customizable chart of accounts, and approval workflows. But it doesn't stop there. Here's some other features your software should have:
- Project-Based Accounting: This feature allows you to track income and expenses for individual projects, ensuring that each campaign's profitability is accurately measured.
- Time Tracking: Time tracking capabilities help monitor the hours spent on each project, which is essential for billing clients accurately and managing resources effectively.
- Client Billing and Invoicing: Automated billing and invoicing streamline the process of charging clients, reducing errors and ensuring timely payments.
- Expense Management: Efficient expense management tools help track and categorize expenses, making it easier to control costs and identify areas for savings.
- Budgeting and Forecasting: This feature provides tools to create budgets and forecasts, helping agencies plan for future financial needs and make informed business decisions.
- Financial Reporting: Comprehensive financial reporting capabilities offer insights into the agency's financial performance, aiding in strategic planning and decision-making.
- Integration with Other Tools: Seamless integration with other software, such as CRM and project management tools, ensures that all financial data is synchronized and up-to-date.
- Multi-Currency Support: For agencies working with international clients, multi-currency support simplifies the process of handling transactions in different currencies.
- Tax Compliance: Built-in tax compliance features help ensure that the agency adheres to tax regulations, reducing the risk of penalties and fines.
- User-Friendly Interface: An intuitive and user-friendly interface makes it easier for staff to use the software effectively, reducing the learning curve and increasing productivity.
Benefits of Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
When you’re picking accounting software for an ad agency, the goal is pretty simple: make the numbers easier, more accurate, and more useful. But beyond the basics, there are a few extra perks that can really make a difference. Here’s what else to keep an eye out for when you’re choosing your next tool.
- Enhanced Financial Accuracy: Accounting software minimizes human errors by automating calculations and data entry, ensuring that financial records are precise and reliable.
- Time Efficiency: By automating routine tasks such as invoicing, payroll, and expense tracking, accounting software saves valuable time, allowing staff to focus on more strategic activities.
- Improved Financial Reporting: The software generates detailed financial reports and analytics, providing agencies with a clear understanding of their financial health and aiding in better decision-making.
- Streamlined Billing and Invoicing: Automated billing and invoicing features ensure timely and accurate client billing, improving cash flow and reducing the time spent on manual invoicing processes.
- Regulatory Compliance: Accounting software helps agencies stay compliant with financial regulations by keeping accurate records and providing tools to manage tax filings and audits efficiently.
Costs & Pricing of Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
It's no secret: pricing can get confusing fast, regardless of what you're shopping for. Different plans come with different features, and the costs can vary a lot depending on what you need.
To make things easier, I put together a simple table that breaks down the usual plan types, what they cost on average, and what you can expect to get with each one.
Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Plan Comparison Table
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic invoicing, expense tracking, limited reporting, and online payment processing |
| Personal Plan | $7-$20/month | Enhanced invoicing, time tracking, basic financial reporting, and integration with third-party apps |
| Business Plan | $20-$50/month | Advanced reporting, project-based accounting, multi-user support, and automated workflows |
| Enterprise Plan | $50-$299+/month | Customizable modules, ERP functionality, advanced security, and dedicated support |
Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about accounting software for advertising agencies.
How can accounting software help manage project-based accounting for advertising agencies?
Accounting software tailored for advertising agencies often includes project-based accounting features. These features allow agencies to allocate expenses and track costs specific to each project, client, job, or service. This capability is crucial for evaluating the profitability of different revenue streams within the agency. By assessing each project’s financial performance, agencies can strategically improve sales goals and strengthen their financial health.
How does accounting software facilitate expense tracking and allocation?
Expense tracking is essential for optimizing prices and ensuring profitability. Advanced accounting software allows agencies to manage payables, maintain vendor relationships, and track both direct and indirect costs. The software categorizes expenses and allocates them to specific jobs, providing a clear picture of where money is being spent and helping to optimize financial strategies.
What role does revenue recognition play in accounting software for advertising agencies?
Most advertising agencies use the accrual-basis accounting method, which requires following specific rules for revenue recognition. Advanced accounting software supports proper revenue recognition and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). This ensures that revenue is recorded accurately, providing a true picture of the agency’s financial health and aiding in strategic decision-making.
What is the importance of ERP functionality in accounting software for advertising agencies?
While basic accounting software handles financial transactions, some advanced solutions offer Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) functionality. ERP-integrated accounting software can manage various aspects of the business, including project management, client relationships, and resource allocation. This consolidation into a single platform streamlines operations, improves efficiency and provides a comprehensive view of the agency’s performance.
Can the software help with compliance and regulatory reporting specific to the advertising industry?
Yes, it includes comprehensive tools to assist with compliance and regulatory reporting. The software helps you adhere to industry-specific regulations by providing templates and guidelines for financial disclosures, tracking all necessary documentation, and automating the generation of reports required by regulatory bodies. This ensures your agency meets industry standards and reduces the risk of non-compliance penalties.
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