18 Best Accounting Software With Client Portals Reviewed In 2024
Best Accounting Software With Client Portals 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.
Accounting software with a client portal is a valuable asset for any company. With the right solution, teams can streamline processes and maintain communication with individual clients. But finding the right tool can be a challenge, especially with so many options available.
Using my experience with finance and accounting software, I tested and compared several of the top accounting software with client portals available. From there, I compiled my results into in-depth reviews to help you find the best software for your unique needs. I’m confident that you’ll discover your next tool in the list below.
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Best Accounting Software With Client Portals Reviews
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Zoho Books | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Bench | From $249/month (billed annually) | Website |
| BILL | From $29/user/month | Website |
| BQE Core | Pricing upon request | Website |
| TaxDome | From $58/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| OneUp | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Kashflow | From $14.50/user/month | Website |
| QuickBooks | From $35/month | Website |
| Wave | From $14/month | Website |
| BrightManager | From $44/user/month + VAT (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 With Client Portal
As you work through your own unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Security and Compliance: Ensuring the security of client data is paramount, especially in industries like accounting where sensitive financial information is handled. Look for software that offers strong security features such as encryption, two-factor authentication, and compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.
- Integration Capabilities: The ability to integrate with other tools and software you already use can significantly enhance your workflow efficiency. Accounting software with a client portal should integrate with your existing systems, such as QuickBooks, Google Drive, or Dropbox.
- Ease of Use for Clients: The software should be user-friendly for both your team and your clients. A complicated interface can lead to frustration and decreased productivity. Look for features like password-less access and intuitive navigation.
- Automated Reminders and Notifications: Automating routine tasks such as sending reminders for document submissions can save time and reduce administrative burdens. This feature ensures that clients are notified of your requests without manual follow-up.
- Branding Customization: Customizing the client portal to reflect your brand can enhance client trust and provide a more professional appearance. Look for software that allows you to add your logo, brand colors, and custom URLs.
Best Accounting Software With Client Portals Reviews
This in-depth analysis provides overviews of various accounting software with client portals. We will walk through the pros and cons of each tool, their features, and their best use cases.
Zoho Books is a cloud-based accounting software designed to streamline financial management for businesses. Its extensive range of features covers invoicing, expense tracking, project management, and more.
Why I picked Zoho Books: Zoho Books offers a full suite of tools for accounting, invoicing, expense tracking, and tax compliance, all integrated into a user-friendly platform. Its automation features, customizable reports, and seamless integration with other Zoho apps ensure efficient management of finances across various business processes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include invoicing, expense tracking, project management, and automated workflows. Zoho Books also allows businesses to send customized invoices, track expenses, manage projects, and automate repetitive tasks, making financial management more efficient.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Square, G Suite, Microsoft Office 365, Slack, Zapier, Zoho CRM, Zoho Inventory, and Zoho Projects.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive feature set
- Strong automation tools
- Robust mobile app
Cons:
- Limited to 10 users
- Fewer third-party integrations
Bench offers dedicated bookkeeping services for small businesses. It provides monthly bookkeeping, tax advisory, and catch-up bookkeeping services.
Why I picked Bench: Bench provides small businesses with a team of professional bookkeepers who handle everything from categorizing transactions to preparing financial statements. Its intuitive platform offers easy access to real-time financial insights, while personalized support ensures businesses get tailored advice and accurate records without the hassle of doing the bookkeeping themselves.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include dedicated bookkeeping experts who handle monthly books and year-end tax-ready financial packages, unlimited communication with your bookkeeping team, and real-time financial insights. Bench also offers tax advisory and filing services, making it a comprehensive solution for small business owners.
Integrations include Stripe, Square, Shopify, PayPal, Amazon, Gusto, QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks, and Wave.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Dedicated bookkeepers
- Comprehensive financial packages
- Real-time insights
Cons:
- Moderate learning curve
- Limited software integrations
BILL is an advanced financial management tool designed to streamline business payments and simplify cash flow management. It offers a strong set of key features that cater specifically to businesses seeking to automate and optimize their accounts payable and receivable processes.
Why I picked BILL: BILL is ideal for its strong cash flow forecasting capabilities, which are essential for businesses that need precise financial management. Its unique approach to managing payables, and receivables, and automating workflows sets it apart from other accounting software with client portals. I also like that it supports international payments in over 130 countries, allowing for payments in local currencies.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated invoice processing, real-time cash flow forecasting, and customizable approval workflows. These features make it ideal for businesses focused on detailed financial planning and control.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, Sage Intacct, Microsoft Dynamics, Expensify, Gusto, ADP, Rippling, Divvy.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong cash flow forecasting tools
- Wide range of integrations
- Automated invoice processing
Cons:
- Moderate learning curve
- Limited customization options
BQE Core is an all-in-one accounting software designed for project-based firms, offering features such as project management, accounting, time and expense tracking, billing and invoicing, and payment processing. The software aims to automate processes, streamline time and expense tracking, and improve efficiency in invoicing and payment collection.
Why I picked BQE Core: BQE Core integrates time tracking, project management, billing, and accounting into a single platform. Designed specifically for firms like architects, engineers, and consultants, it streamlines project workflows, improves financial oversight, and provides real-time insights to enhance productivity and profitability.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time visibility into project progress and budget utilization, automated reporting with scheduling and memorization, and robust task allocation and forecasting. The software also offers interactive Gantt charts and phased billing.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, MYOB, Microsoft Outlook, Google Drive, Dropbox, Slack, Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time project tracking
- Automated reporting
- Robust task allocation
Cons:
- Mobile app limitations
- Steep learning curve
TaxDome is an all-in-one practice management platform for tax, accounting, and bookkeeping firms. It centralizes and automates operations for tax preparation, bookkeeping, and accounting firms.
Why I picked TaxDome: TaxDome’s all-in-one platform streamlines client communication, document management, invoicing, and task automation. Its client portal software, secure file sharing, and workflow automation specifically cater to the unique needs of tax professionals, improving efficiency and client experience.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include built-in templates for tax returns, bookkeeping, payroll, and other accounting processes. The platform also offers secure document storage, e-signatures, invoicing, and client messaging.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Zapier, Stripe, PayPal, Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, Slack, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive feature set
- User-friendly interface
- Secure document storage
Cons:
- Potential learning curve
- Complex implementation
OneUp is an accounting software designed for small and medium-sized businesses, offering AI categorization, financial performance tracking, cash flow forecasting, invoicing, and bill payment features.
Why I picked OneUp: OneUp offers users unique AI-driven financial insights, which sets it apart from other accounting software with client portals. Its AI categorization and financial performance tracking are particularly impressive, making it the best choice for businesses looking to leverage AI for accurate financial management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include AI categorization of transactions, financial performance tracking, cash flow forecasting, invoicing, and bill payment. These features help businesses automate and streamline their financial processes, reducing administrative tasks and improving accuracy.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Zoho Books, Wave, PayPal, Square, Stripe, Google Sheets, Dropbox, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- AI categorization
- Financial performance tracking
- Cash flow forecasting
Cons:
- Limited report customization
- Lack of advanced inventory management
KashFlow is an online accounting software designed for small businesses and sole traders. It offers features including bookkeeping, payroll, and accounting services.
Why I picked KashFlow: KashFlow stands out with its focus on Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliance, which is important for UK businesses. The software offers seamless integration with HMRC, allowing businesses to easily submit VAT returns in accordance with MTD requirements. Overall, its user-friendly interface, automated tax calculations, and real-time reporting simplify the process, making compliance hassle-free for small businesses.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include VAT returns, invoicing, payments, and support. The software also offers a client portal for accountants to manage their clients' accounts, making it a versatile tool for both businesses and accounting professionals.
Integrations include PayPal, GoCardless, Stripe, Dropbox, Google Drive, Mailchimp, Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, and eBay.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy VAT management
- Mobile app access
- Customizable dashboard
Cons:
- Limited to UK tax compliance
- Potential learning curve
QuickBooks is an advanced accounting software designed for small businesses and self-employed individuals, offering a range of financial management tools. It’s best known for providing live expert assistance, helping users with setup and ongoing bookkeeping guidance.
Why I picked QuickBooks: QuickBooks stands out with its unique offering of live expert assistance, which is a game-changer for small business owners who need personalized help. The ability to connect with live experts for setup and bookkeeping guidance makes it an invaluable tool for those who may not have extensive accounting knowledge. This sets QuickBooks apart from other accounting software by providing real-time support and confidence in managing finances.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include live expert assistance, automated bookkeeping, and comprehensive financial reporting. QuickBooks also offers tools for income and expense tracking, invoicing, payment processing, and tax preparation.
Integrations include Amazon, Bill.com, PayPal, Shopify, Square, Stripe, TSheets, WooCommerce, Zapier, and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Live expert assistance
- Comprehensive financial tools
- Automated bookkeeping
Cons:
- Higher cost for advanced features
- Limited customization options
Wave is a small business software that provides free invoicing and accounting services. It offers an advanced suite of money management tools, including invoicing, payments, accounting, banking, payroll, and access to advisors.
Why I picked Wave: Wave offers a full suite of accounting features, including invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting, without any cost. This, combined with its seamless integration of accounting and communication features, makes it ideal for small businesses seeking a simple, cost-effective solution.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable invoices, online payment options, and automated bookkeeping. Wave's dashboard provides a complete picture of your business health, and its mobile app allows for on-the-go management of invoices and payments.
Integrations include Google Sheets, Square, Mailchimp, Acuity Scheduling, HubSpot, Stripe, PayPal, Slack, QuickBooks, and BlueCamroo.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Complete financial overviews
- Customizable invoices
- Online payment options
Cons:
- Limited scalability
- No built-in third-party app integrations
BrightManager is a cloud-based practice management software designed for accountants and bookkeepers, offering features such as automated client communication, task management, client portal, time tracking, and profitability analysis.
Why I picked BrightManager: BrightManager excels in automating practice management tasks, which is vital for accounting firms looking to streamline their operations. Its ability to automate client communication, task management, and onboarding processes sets it apart from other accounting software with client portals.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated client emails and texts, automated task management, automated onboarding, client portal, notifications, time tracking, profitability analysis, customizable templates, and client timelines.
Integrations include FreeAgent, GoProposal by Sage, QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, and Zapier.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated client communication
- Comprehensive task management
- Advanced time tracking
Cons:
- Complex initial setup
- Mobile app limitations
Other Accounting Software With Client Portals
Below is a list of additional accounting software with client portals that I shortlisted. While they didn’t make the top 10, they’re still valuable and worth further research.
- MYOB
Best for scalable business solutions
- Xero
Best for flawless app integrations
- Maxio
Best for revenue management tools
- Plooto
Best for payment processing automation
- Karbon
Best for team collaboration features
- Keeper
Best for data security and privacy
- HoneyBook
Best for project management integration
- Sage Accounting
Best for scalability for growing businesses
Accounting Software With Client Portals Selection Criteria
The criteria for choosing accounting software with client portals 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
- Automate invoicing and billing processes to save time and reduce errors
- Monitor and categorize expenses to maintain accurate financial records
- Generate financial reports for better decision-making
- Facilitate communication with clients through the portal
- Integrate payment gateways to streamline payment collection
Additional Standout Features: 25% of total weighting score
- Allow users to tailor their dashboards to display relevant financial metrics
- Provide predictive analytics and insights to help businesses make informed decisions
- Ensure the software is accessible via mobile devices for on-the-go management
- Support integrations with other business tools like CRM and project management software
- Implement robust security measures to protect sensitive financial data
Usability: 10% of total weighting score
- Ensure the interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate.
- Include features like drag-and-drop for ease of use.
- Offer customization options to cater to different user preferences.
- Ensure the software is responsive and works well on various devices.
Onboarding: 10% of total weighting score
- Provide training videos to help users get started
- Offer interactive tours to guide users through the software's features
- Supply templates to simplify the setup process
- Conduct webinars to educate users on advanced features and best practices
Customer Support: 10% of total weighting score
- Offer round-the-clock customer support to address any issues promptly
- Provide live chat options for real-time assistance
- Maintain a detailed knowledge base for self-service support
- Assign dedicated account managers for personalized support
Value For Money: 10% of total weighting score
- Ensure pricing is transparent with no hidden fees
- Offer flexible pricing plans to cater to different business sizes and needs
- Provide free trials to allow users to test the software before committing
- Evaluate the cost against the features and benefits provided
Customer Reviews: 10% of total weighting score
- Assess overall user satisfaction and feedback
- Look at ratings for specific features to gauge their effectiveness
- Consider feedback on customer support experiences
- Evaluate reviews on the software's ease of use and learning curve
Trends for Accounting Software With Client Portals
Here are some trends I’ve noticed for accounting software with client portals, 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.
- AI-Powered Automation: AI is automating routine tasks like data entry and reconciliation. This reduces human error and saves time, making it valuable for improving efficiency.
- Blockchain Integration: Blockchain ensures secure and transparent transactions while enhancing trust and reducing fraud.
- Real-Time Data Access: Clients can now access financial data in real time. This improves decision-making and client satisfaction and is an overall game-changer for client engagement.
- Customizable Dashboards: Dashboards are becoming more customizable, with users being able to tailor them to their specific needs. This flexibility enhances user experience.
- Mobile Accessibility: Mobile apps for accounting software are on the rise as they allow clients to manage finances on the go.
What Is Accounting Software With Client Portals?
Accounting software with client portals is a tool that combines traditional accounting functions with a dedicated interface for client interactions. Businesses and accounting professionals use it to manage financial transactions, generate reports, and facilitate communication with clients.
The components of accounting software with a client portal typically include modules for invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and financial reporting. This integration streamlines the workflow for accountants and enhances transparency for clients.
Features of Accounting Software With Client Portals
When selecting accounting software with a client portal, it's important to consider features that will enhance both your workflow and client experience. Here are the most important features to look for when searching for your next tool:
- Security and Compliance: Strong security measures such as multi-factor authentication, data encryption, and role-based access control are essential. These features protect sensitive information and ensure compliance with industry regulations, giving you and your clients peace of mind.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is necessary. The portal should be intuitive and easy to navigate, even for clients with limited technical experience. This encourages client adoption and maximizes the portal’s benefits.
- Client Communication: Effective communication is key to building strong client relationships. Secure messaging within the portal allows for real-time communication, enabling a more responsive service.
- Branding Customization: The ability to customize the portal with your firm’s branding helps maintain a consistent brand identity. This includes incorporating your company URL, logo, and color scheme, fostering professionalism, and reinforcing brand recognition.
- Document Management and Uploads: The client portal should have a document management system. Clients should be able to easily upload documents in various formats, while you should be able to organize documents into different folders and subfolders.
- Realtime Updates: Keeping clients informed with real-time activity updates promotes transparency and builds trust. Notifications for uploaded documents, completed tasks, and upcoming deadlines ensure clients stay in the loop throughout the engagement.
- Integrations: Look for a client portal that integrates with your existing accounting software. This ensures data consistency and eliminates manual data entry between systems, saving time and effort.
- Client Access Management: Maintain control over user access with granular permission settings. Assign different levels of access based on user roles so only authorized personnel can view sensitive data.
- Automated Reminders and Notifications: A good portal must be able to automatically send reminders and notifications to clients about upcoming deadlines, requests, and task completions. This keeps everyone on track and promotes a more organized and efficient workflow.
- Business Management Tools: Features such as reporting and analytics deliver insights into how your clients are using the platform and determine opportunities for improvement. This helps you provide the best possible experience for your clients.
By choosing accounting software with these features, you can streamline your workflows, improve communication, and enhance security, thus promoting a more efficient and productive working environment.
Benefits of Accounting Software With Client Portals
Accounting software with a client portal offers a range of advantages, including:
- Enhanced Client Communication: The software facilitates communication between clients and accountants, ensuring that all parties are on the same page and can easily share important financial documents and information.
- Improved Data Accuracy: By automating data entry and calculations, the software reduces the risk of human error, leading to more accurate financial records and reports.
- Time Efficiency: Automating routine accounting tasks such as invoicing, payroll, and tax calculations saves significant time, allowing accountants to focus on more strategic activities.
- Real-Time Financial Insights: The software provides real-time access to financial data, enabling businesses to make informed decisions quickly and respond to financial challenges proactively.
- Enhanced Security: With strong security features, the software ensures that sensitive financial data is protected from unauthorized access, reducing the risk of data breaches and fraud.
Accounting software with a client portal is a powerful tool that can transform the way businesses manage their finances and interact with clients. By leveraging these benefits, organizations can achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and security in their financial operations.
Costs & Pricing of Accounting Software With Client Portals
This section provides an estimate of average accounting software with client portal plans and costs. The data is based on various pricing models and common features available in the market.
Plan Comparison Table for Accounting Software With Client Portals
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic invoicing, expense tracking, limited user access, and basic financial reports |
| Personal Plan | $10 - $50/month | Income/expense tracking, generating invoices, payable/receivable management, and 1-2 user access |
| Business Plan | $50 - $150/month | Multi-user access, recurring invoicing, expense reporting, inventory management, sales tax handling, payroll processing, and mobile optimization |
| Enterprise Plan | $150+/month | Custom fields, automated reporting, project costing, custom integrations, warehouse optimization, order management, sales pipeline visibility, robust analytics, and international taxation handling |
Accounting Software With Client Portal FAQs
How do I ensure the security of client data in accounting software with a client portal?
Ensuring the security of client data in accounting software with a client portal involves several key practices. Firstly, the software should use encryption protocols such as AES-256 for data at rest and SSL for data in transit. This ensures that data is protected both when stored and when being transferred. Additionally, implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to verify their identity through a secondary method, such as a code sent to their phone. Regular security audits and compliance with standards like SOC II, GDPR, and HIPAA are also crucial. Finally, using secure, passwordless login methods, such as magic links or biometric authentication, can further enhance security by reducing the risk of password-related breaches.
Can I customize the client portal to reflect my firm's branding?
Yes, many accounting software solutions with client portals offer customization options to reflect your firm’s branding. This typically includes the ability to add your company logo, use your brand colors, and customize the URL of the client portal. For example, Financial Cents allows you to white-label the client portal, making it look and feel like an extension of your brand. You can change the portal URL to your preferred domain name, replace button colors with your brand colors, and add your logo to the portal and notifications. This not only enhances the professional appearance of your client portal but also helps build client trust and confidence.
How do automated reminders and notifications work in client portals?
Automated reminders and notifications in client portals are designed to streamline communication and ensure that tasks and document requests are completed on time. These features allow you to set up automated email or SMS reminders for clients, notifying them of upcoming deadlines, document requests, or other important tasks. For instance, Financial Cents sends automated reminders to clients when a document is shared with them, when a document is uploaded to a shared folder, or when a task is due. This reduces the need for manual follow-ups and helps keep both clients and accounting professionals on track.
How can I manage client access and permissions in a client portal?
Managing client access and permissions in a client portal involves setting up user roles and access controls to ensure that clients and team members only have access to the information relevant to them. Most client portals allow you to define different levels of access for various users. For example, you can restrict clients to view-only access for certain documents while granting full editing rights to your team members. Some portals also offer features like document version tracking and audit trails, which provide visibility into who accessed or modified a document and when. This helps maintain data integrity and security while ensuring that everyone has the information they need to perform their tasks.
What are the benefits of using a passwordless login system in a client portal?
A passwordless login system enhances security and user convenience by eliminating the need for clients to remember and manage passwords. Instead, clients can access the portal using secure methods such as magic links sent via email, biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition), or one-time passwords. This reduces the risk of password-related breaches and simplifies the login process for clients, making it easier for them to access their information. For example, Financial Cents uses a secure magic link that clients can click to gain instant access to the portal, saving them the hassle of remembering passwords and improving their overall user experience.
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