18 Best Accounting Software For Advertising Agencies Reviewed In 2024
Best Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 18 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Finding the right accounting software is essential for advertising agencies to manage their finances efficiently while focusing on creativity and client relationships. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know which will suit your company the best.
To help you get started in your search, I used my experience in financial operations to test and review some of the top advertising agency accounting software on the market. In my reviews, we’ll highlight their features, benefits, and suitability for different business sizes. Whether you run a boutique agency or a large firm, this guide will help you find the perfect fit for your accounting needs.
Why Trust Our Software Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing accounting software since 2023. As CFOs ourselves, we know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision when selecting software.
Need expert help selecting the right tool?
With one-on-one help, we guide you to your top software options. Narrow down your software search & make a confident choice.
We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different finance and accounting use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & our software review methodology.
Best Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Bonsai | From $19/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| ZarMoney | From $20/month (up to 2 users) | Website |
| Crunch | From $56 + VAT p/m | Website |
| Function Point | From $34/user/month | Website |
| MYOB | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Fiskl | From $3/3 months (then $13/month) | Website |
| Patriot | From $17/month + $4/employee | Website |
| Wave | From $14/month | Website |
| Akaunting | From $8/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Xero | From $15/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow to Choose Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Industry-Specific Features: Advertising agencies have unique accounting needs that differ from other industries. Look for software that offers project-based accounting, time tracking, and job costing. These features help track revenues and expenses for each project, providing a clearer picture of your agency's profitability.
- User-Friendliness: Complex software can be intimidating and difficult to navigate, which can hinder its adoption by your team. Choose a user-friendly solution with an intuitive interface, easy navigation, and clear instructions. This ensures that your team can efficiently use the software without extensive training.
- Integration Capabilities: Your accounting software should integrate seamlessly with other tools used by your agency, such as project management platforms, CRM systems, and time-tracking tools. This integration streamlines workflows and improves data consistency across your operations.
- Real-Time Reporting and Analytics: In today's dynamic business environment, having access to real-time financial data is important. Choose software that offers real-time reporting and analytics capabilities. This helps you monitor your agency's financial health, make informed decisions, and quickly respond to changes in your business environment.
- Scalability: As your agency grows, so will your accounting needs. Choose a scalable solution that can grow with your business, such as adding more users, managing more clients, or upgrading to advanced features as needed.
Best Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Reviews
Below, you’ll find an in-depth analysis of each accounting software tailored for advertising agencies. It includes overviews, pros and cons, features, and the best use cases for each tool.
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 client management, project tracking, invoicing, and expense tracking. Bonsai also offers customizable templates for contracts, proposals, and invoices, ensuring professional standards are maintained.
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 advanced inventory management, online payments, bank connections, and automated sales tax calculations. ZarMoney also offers comprehensive reporting tools and role-based user access, essential for maintaining financial oversight and security.
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
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 invoicing, bookkeeping, on-demand accountants, dedicated accountants, and one-off services for specific accounting needs. Crunch also offers year-end accounts, payroll, bookkeeping, and various financial and legal support services.
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
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 batch invoicing, allowing agencies to create and send multiple invoices quickly, and billability tracking, which helps agencies understand their true profitability by separating billable and non-billable hours. Additionally, Function Point offers strong expense management to ensure all project-related costs are accurately tracked and billed.
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
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:
Standout features include invoicing, tax management, payroll, inventory management, and financial reporting.
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
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 customizable invoices, automated accounting, and comprehensive expense tracking. Fiskl also allows users to create professional invoices in any currency, automate their accounting processes, and track expenses by client.
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
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 payroll management, easy integration with QuickBooks Online, and detailed payroll reports. Patriot also offers tools for managing employee information, tax settings, and direct deposit options.
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
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 invoicing, payments, accounting, and payroll. Wave allows users to connect their bank accounts, automatically import transactions, and generate financial reports with a smart dashboard that organizes income, expenses, payments, and invoices, simplifying tax time.
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
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 invoicing, expense tracking, cash flow management, a client portal, double-entry accounting, inventory management, project tracking, and payroll.
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
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 invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, multi-currency support, project tracking, and advanced reporting tools.
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.
- FreshBooks
Best for small business invoicing and expense tracking
- Zoho Books
Best for affordability and ease of use
- Sage Intacct
Best for advanced financial management
- Planful
Best for financial planning and analysis
- Zuora
Best for subscription-based businesses
- Productive.io
Best for agency-specific workflows
- QuickBooks
Best for small business accounting
- Workamajig
Best for project management integration
Related Reviews
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 Advertising Agencies Selection Criteria
The criteria for choosing an accounting software for advertising agencies should directly address buyer needs and common pain points, ensuring that the software serves its intended purpose effectively. As an expert who has personally tried and researched these tools, here are the requirements I use when evaluating software:
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
Trends in Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies
Here are some trends I’ve noticed for accounting software for advertising agencies, plus what they might mean for the future. I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs to tease out the most important insights.
- 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 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.
- 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
When choosing accounting software for advertising agencies, it's important to consider the features that streamline financial management and enhance operational efficiency. Having extensively used these tools, I can highlight some of the key features you can expect from a strong accounting software for advertising agencies:
- 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 selecting accounting software for advertising agencies, it's essential to focus on tools that streamline financial operations, enhance accuracy, and provide valuable insights. Along with these benefits, here are a few additional perks you should keep in mind when shopping for a new 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
When considering accounting software for advertising agencies, it's essential to understand the different pricing plans and what each offers. Keep in mind that pricing can vary widely depending on the features and level of support you need.
Below is a table outlining common plan types, their average prices, and the features typically included.
Accounting Software for Advertising Agencies Plan Comparison Table
| Plant 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 |
When shopping for your next accounting system, always consider your agency's size, project complexity, and budget. By ensuring the software fits your needs, you can be confident that it will serve your agency effectively for years.
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.
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 The Self-Employed
- Accounting Software For Large Business
- Accounting Software For Consultants
- Accounting Software for Mac
- Accounting Software For Accountants
- 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?
Ready to compound your abilities as a finance professional? Subscribe to our free newsletter.