Best Expense Management Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 20 best software from the 24 tools reviewed.
Expense management software is designed to streamline how businesses track, approve, and report expenses. For finance and accounting professionals, the right tool can cut down on manual processes, ensure policy and tax compliance, and deliver better visibility into spending across departments.
As a digital software expert with a background in financial management, I’ve helped many finance teams navigate the overwhelming process of choosing the right platform. I’ve seen how the wrong tool can create more friction than it solves, from poor integrations and delayed reimbursements to inconsistent data and compliance risks. With so many options on the market, it’s not always clear which ones are worth your time.
That’s why I spent countless hours researching, testing, and comparing top-rated expense management solutions. This list is built to help you make a confident, informed decision that actually supports the way your team works.
Why Trust Our Expense Management Software Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing expense management software since 2023. As financial management professionals ourselves, we know how critical and challenging it is to make the right decision when selecting software. We invest in deep research to help our audience make better software purchasing decisions. We’ve tested over 2,000 tools for different financial operations use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent, and take a look at our software review methodology.
Best Expense Management Software: Pricing Comparison Chart
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top expense management software selections to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for SMS receipt and card sync | Free demo available | From $11.99/user/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for automated approval workflows | Free demo available | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for global teams | Free trial + demo available | From $29/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for automated expense reporting | 30-day free trial + free plan available | From $15/user/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best for automated expense data extraction | Free demo available | From $5.20/user/month | Website | |
| 6 | Best for mobile receipt scanning | 30-day free trial | From $6.30/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 7 | Best for setting budget limits | Free trial available | From $499/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best accounting software for small business owners or self-employed professionals | 30-day free trial | From $19/user/month | Website | |
| 9 | Best for cashback rewards | Free plan available | From $25/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for managing multi-currency accounts | Free trial available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 11 | Best for streamlining expense management | Not available | From $12/user/month | Website | |
| 12 | Best for accounts payable automation | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 13 | Best for user experience | Free plan available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 14 | Best for auto-scanning receipts | Free demo available | From $4/user/month | Website | |
| 15 | Best for mileage tracking | Free demo available | From $7/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 16 | Best for receipt scanning and logging | Free plan available | From $5/user/month | Website | |
| 17 | Best for fraud detection capabilities | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 18 | Best for credit card reconciliation | Free demo available | From $9/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 19 | Best for small businesses | 30-day free trial | From $2/month | Website | |
| 20 | Best for real-time expense tracking | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
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Rippling Spend
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
LiveFlow
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
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Best Expense Management Software Reviews
Dive into my comprehensive reviews to explore the strengths and weaknesses of leading expense management software. I’ll detail their features, benefits, and ideal scenarios to help you find the perfect fit for your business needs.
Best for SMS receipt and card sync
Sage Expense Management (formerly Fyle) is an expense management software built to help you capture receipts and track expenses as soon as they happen. It works directly with your existing credit cards and lets you submit receipts by text, email, or app, reducing manual work and improving visibility into company spending.
Why I picked Sage Expense Management: Sage Expense Management is an expense management software built to help you capture receipts and track expenses as soon as they happen. It works directly with your existing credit cards and lets you submit receipts by text, email, or app. You can track receipts via text and reconcile card spend automatically, which helps reduce manual work and gives you clearer visibility into company spending.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include AI-powered expense coding, automated policy violation alerts, and budget tracking by department or project. You can also configure approval workflows to match your internal processes, reducing back-and-forth during reviews. Sage Expense Management supports real-time reconciliation on your existing business credit cards, so you can match transactions without issuing new ones. It also offers a mobile app and centralized storage to help your team stay audit-ready.
Integrations include NetSuite, Sage Intacct, Xero, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, Sage 300 CRE, TravelPerk, Bamboo HR, Gmail, Outlook, and Slack.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Text-based receipt capture
- AI-powered expense categorization
- Real-time credit card reconciliation
Cons:
- Auto-filing speed may vary
- Limited customization for complex cases
New Product Updates from Sage Expense Management (formerly Fyle)
Sage Expense Management Rebrand and New Feature Enhancements
Sage Expense Management (formerly Fyle) has introduced a refreshed brand identity and several feature improvements that enhance usability across web and mobile. The update focuses on smoother workflows, stronger admin controls, and expanded integration options for more efficient expense management. For more information, visit Sage Expense Management’s official site.
Rippling Spend caters to businesses needing an intuitive expense management solution that integrates with existing HR and financial tools. It appeals to HR professionals, finance teams, and business leaders across industries by offering automated workflows, customizable policies, and real-time analytics. This platform addresses challenges in financial efficiency and control by providing global spend tracking and automated policy controls.
Why I Picked Rippling Spend
I picked Rippling Spend because its automated approval workflows stand out as an efficient solution for businesses looking to streamline financial processes. The platform allows you to create advanced workflows based on specific data inputs, ensuring that approvals are routed to the right people at the right time. With features like customizable approval rules and real-time analytics, Rippling Spend helps your team maintain compliance with company policies while reducing administrative overhead. This makes it an appealing choice for organizations aiming to enhance operational efficiency and manage expenses more effectively.
Rippling Spend Key Features
In addition to its exceptional automated approval workflows, Rippling Spend offers a variety of features designed to enhance your team's expense management capabilities.
- Custom Policies: Automates and enforces specific spending rules tailored to your company's needs, optimizing approval workflows.
- Expense Tracking: Monitors all expenses, including corporate card usage and payroll, from a single interface, providing a comprehensive view of company spending.
- Card Controls: Provides customizable spending limits and controls for corporate cards, allowing you to manage spend proactively.
- Receipt Management: Automatically requests and organizes receipts for corporate card transactions, simplifying record-keeping and auditing processes.
Rippling Spend Integrations
Integrations include PayPal, 1Password, YubiKey, Carta, Zendesk, and various HR, finance, and IT applications.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive features for various operations
- Automated workflow features
- Employee self-service options
Cons:
- Initial setup can be time-consuming
- Potential learning curve when maximizing the platform's features
New Product Updates from Rippling Spend
Rippling Spend Introduces AI-Powered Expense Fraud Detection
Rippling Spend adds built-in AI detection to automatically flag manipulated or AI-generated receipts. This enhancement strengthens financial oversight and ensures greater accuracy in expense approvals. For more information, visit Rippling Spend's official site.
For those seeking an effective expense management solution, Deel offers a unique approach, especially for businesses that deal with global operations. By integrating expense management into its payroll and HR platform, your team can track and process employee expenses while adhering to various local regulations. This setup not only simplifies financial tasks but also delivers valuable insights through its reporting tools, helping your business manage spending and remain financially agile.
Why I Picked Deel
I picked Deel for its exceptional capability in supporting global teams with expense management, making it a standout choice for businesses operating across multiple countries. Deel's platform allows your team to submit expenses in any currency, automatically converting them for seamless reimbursement in the next payroll cycle. This feature, combined with a centralized view of all expense submissions, ensures compliance with local regulations and reduces administrative burdens. By simplifying the expense reporting process, Deel enhances financial management and transparency, making it an invaluable tool for companies wanting to maintain a clear and organized financial structure globally.
Deel Key Features
In addition to its global team capabilities, Deel offers a suite of features that enhance its appeal as an Expense Management Software.
- Automated Expense Tracking: This feature allows your team to automatically track expenses, reducing manual entry and minimizing errors.
- Customizable Approval Workflows: You can tailor approval processes to fit your organization's structure, ensuring that expenses are reviewed and approved efficiently.
- Integration with Accounting Systems: Deel seamlessly integrates with existing accounting software, allowing for a smooth transfer of financial data and reducing administrative workload.
- Real-Time Reporting and Analytics: This feature provides instant access to financial reports, enabling you to monitor spending patterns and make informed budgetary decisions.
Deel Integrations
Integrations include Expensify, QuickBooks, Google Workspace, Slack, JIRA, HubSpot, BambooHR, Workday, Xero, Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, and Zendesk.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated per diem calculations
- Country-specific expense policies
- Strong global compliance tools
Cons:
- Limited offline functionality
- Can feel complex for small teams
New Product Updates from Deel
Introducing Deel AI Workforce
Deel has launched the AI Workforce, a set of specialized agents designed to handle repetitive HR, payroll, and compliance tasks with speed and accuracy. These AI agents don’t just assist—they execute tasks from start to finish. For more information, visit Deel's official site.
For businesses seeking to refine financial processes, Ramp provides an AI-driven expense management solution that simplifies expense tracking and compliance. Tailored for organizations aiming to automate expense reporting and approval workflows, it reduces manual tasks and enhances operational efficiency. With real-time analytics and integration with accounting systems, Ramp ensures precise financial management, enabling your team to concentrate on strategic priorities.
Why I Picked Ramp
I picked Ramp as a standout choice for expense management software because its automated expense reporting features drastically reduce manual intervention, a key issue for many finance teams. With its ability to automatically submit expenses via SMS or mobile app, and match receipts using AI-powered OCR, Ramp saves valuable time and minimizes errors. The platform's real-time insights into spending empower your team to make informed budget adjustments, while its seamless integration with existing accounting systems ensures streamlined financial reporting. These capabilities make Ramp an ideal solution for businesses looking to enhance efficiency and maintain precise control over expenses.
Ramp Key Features
In addition to its automated expense reporting capabilities, Ramp offers several other features that enhance its utility for managing business expenses:
- Card Management: Provides unlimited physical and virtual corporate cards with granular controls and real-time tracking, ensuring you maintain oversight of all transactions.
- Approval Workflows: Customizable rules for expense approvals are integrated with HRIS, allowing your team to enforce policies effectively and streamline the approval process.
- AI Agents: These autonomous controllers enforce policies with high accuracy and offer omnichannel support for employee inquiries, reducing administrative burdens.
- Analytics & Reporting: Real-time dashboards and AI-driven recommendations provide you with audit-ready reports for compliance, enabling better financial analysis and decision-making.
Ramp Integrations
Integrations include NetSuite, QuickBooks, Xero, Amazon Business, American Airlines AAdvantage Business, DoorDash, and Egencia. Ramp also offers an API for custom integrations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive reporting features
- Ability to issue multiple virtual cards with customizable controls
- Automated expense reporting and receipt matching
Cons:
- Mostly focuses on accounts payable and spend management
- Could offer more advanced accounting features
New Product Updates from Ramp
AI-Powered Policy Agents by Ramp for Real-Time Expense Review and Fraud Detection
Ramp's new AI-powered Policy Agents review expenses in real time to flag fraud and out-of-policy spending, interact with employees, and recommend policy improvements. For more details, visit Ramp Announcements.
Klippa SpendControl is a cloud-based solution designed to simplify how you handle business expenses. By leveraging advanced technologies, it automates the process of submitting, approving, and processing expenses, reducing the time and effort required for these tasks.
Why I picked Klippa SpendControl: I like its use of optical character recognition (OCR) technology. This feature automatically extracts data from receipts and invoices, eliminating the need for manual data entry and reducing errors. Additionally, Klippa offers customizable approval workflows, enabling you to set up multi-level authorization processes that align with your company's policies. Additionally, the dashboard feature provides a real-time overview of all expenses, so you're always aware of where your money's going and can make informed decisions quickly.
Standout features & integrations:
Standout features include fraud detection to maintain integrity over your expense management process, the ability to convert foreign currencies based on daily rates or set your own rate, integration with Google Maps for accurate mileage claims, and the option to export data in various formats such as XLSX, CSV, XML, UBL, and PDF.
Integrations include AFAS Software, SAP, Exact Online, Odoo, Twinfield, Oracle Netsuite, Xero, Okta, QuickBooks, and Microsoft Entra ID.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Efficient OCR technology reduces manual data entry
- Customizable approval workflows
- Effective fraud detection through duplicate claim identification
Cons:
- Initial setup may require time
- Most integrations are add-ons
For those seeking an efficient expense management solution, FreshBooks offers a user-friendly platform tailored for small business owners and freelancers. With features like automatic bank syncing, mobile receipt scanning, and easy categorization for tax purposes, you can effortlessly track expenses and maintain organized financial records. Whether you're billing clients for expenses or managing project budgets, FreshBooks provides the tools you need to focus on growing your business.
Why I Picked FreshBooks
I picked FreshBooks for its standout feature in mobile receipt scanning, which is particularly beneficial for those who need efficient expense management. With the ability to scan both paper and digital receipts, FreshBooks automatically captures crucial details like merchant information, totals, and taxes, significantly reducing the need for manual data entry. This feature not only keeps your financial records updated by linking to bank accounts or credit cards, but it also stores receipts in the cloud for easy access and organization during tax season. As a result, you can categorize expenses easily and ensure nothing is missed when invoicing clients, making it an invaluable tool for small businesses and freelancers.
FreshBooks Key Features
In addition to its mobile receipt scanning capabilities, FreshBooks offers several features designed to enhance your expense management experience.
- Expense Tracking: Easily categorize and track all your business expenses with automatic updates from linked bank accounts.
- Multi-Currency Support: Manage expenses and invoices in different currencies, making it ideal for businesses operating globally.
- Project Budgeting: Set and monitor project budgets to ensure you stay on track with your financial goals.
- Time Tracking: Record billable hours directly within FreshBooks, ensuring accurate invoicing for your clients.
FreshBooks Integrations
Integrations include HubSpot, Gusto, Wagepoint, Mailchimp, Stripe, Shopify, PayPal, Zoom, Slack, and Trello.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Billable expense tracking
- Automated expense categorization
- Easy mobile receipt scanning
Cons:
- Learning curve for customization
- Limited advanced reporting options
Discover a solution that simplifies your purchasing processes and enhances control over your expenses with Precoro. Ideal for businesses of all sizes, this AI-driven platform integrates with popular accounting systems like NetSuite and QuickBooks, offering features such as vendor management and invoice approval. With Precoro, you can manage spending across different projects and locations, giving your team the tools they need for better efficiency and compliance.
Why I Picked Precoro
I picked Precoro because it excels in setting budget limits, a crucial feature for expense management. Its platform allows you to specify budget constraints for various departments and projects, ensuring that your spending aligns with financial objectives. With real-time visibility into expenses, you can monitor compliance and receive alerts to prevent overspending. Additionally, features like automated approval processes and three-way matching enhance financial oversight, making Precoro a reliable choice for maintaining fiscal discipline.
Precoro Key Features
In addition to setting budget limits, Precoro offers a range of features designed to enhance your expense management processes.
- Centralized Tracking: This feature allows your team to track all expenditures from a single platform, providing comprehensive visibility into spending activities.
- Automated Reimbursement: Precoro automates the reimbursement process, reducing manual data entry and minimizing errors, ensuring timely processing of expense claims.
- Advanced Reporting Capabilities: With customizable reports, you can analyze spending patterns, identify cost-saving opportunities, and make informed financial decisions.
- Mobile Access: Your team can manage expenses on-the-go, accessing the platform from any device, which supports real-time decision-making and approvals.
Precoro Integrations
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, NetSuite, Xero, Amazon, Google, Power BI, Slack, HiBob, Keycloak, and JumpCloud.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Subscription management tools
- Customizable approval workflows adapt to various business needs
- Real-time budget monitoring
Cons:
- Occasional challenges with data configuration
- Could offer more native integrations
Best accounting software for small business owners or self-employed professionals
QuickBooks Online is an accounting platform designed for small business owners and self-employed professionals. It helps you manage expenses, track bills and purchases, and view cash flow all in one place. By organizing your finances, it simplifies reporting and keeps your records accurate.
Why I picked QuickBooks Online:
QuickBooks Online is best if you want an affordable and efficient way to handle expense reporting. You can automatically sort receipts, reclassify multiple transactions in bulk, and keep your categories organized. Its dashboard gives you a clear view of spending and cash flow, helping you make smarter financial decisions. Plus, it offers a self-employed plan that makes it easier for solo entrepreneurs to stay on top of their finances.
Vidhi Mehta, an accountant with 8+ years experience, discussed her admiration for QuickBooks' expense management features. She said, "When I started using the recurring transactions feature for monthly expenses, it made a big difference. Things like rent, utilities, and subscriptions are now set up to record automatically each month. I don’t have to re-enter the same information over and over, and it ensures nothing gets missed."
Standout features & integrations:
Features include receipt scanning that organizes expenses automatically, cash flow tracking with clear dashboards, and bulk transaction reclassification to save time. These features help you reduce manual work and stay accurate with your financial reporting.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Square, Shopify, Gusto, Bill.com, Expensify, Amazon Business, eBay, and Etsy.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Expense categories update automatically
- Dashboard shows real-time cash flow
- Bulk reclassification saves you time
Cons:
- Occasional syncing delays with banks
- Can feel overwhelming for beginners
Slash is an expense management platform that combines corporate cards, business banking, and advanced analytics to simplify financial oversight for growing companies. It gives teams the flexibility to manage spending through high-yield business accounts and cashback-enabled cards while maintaining visibility across every transaction.
Why I picked Slash: I picked Slash because it turns everyday company spending into an opportunity to earn money back. Its unlimited cashback on corporate card purchases helps you offset operational costs while keeping your finances organized in one place. You can issue unlimited virtual or physical cards, set custom spending limits, and monitor usage in real time. I also like that its real-time analytics let you instantly see where your money is going, which can help you catch irregular spending patterns early.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable user controls for managing permissions and limits, high-yield business accounts that can grow your company’s idle funds, and automated transaction categorization to make reporting more efficient. The platform also supports same-day ACH transfers and FDIC-insured checking for added security and compliance.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Google Sheets, Notion, Airtable, Email, Webhook, Amplitude, Zapier, Slack, NetSuite, Xero, and Stripe.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Multi-entity financial data management
- Integrates with accounting platforms
- Automated transaction categorization and mapping
Cons:
- Learning curve for complex features
- Limited onboarding and training materials
Airwallex is a global payments and financial platform designed to help businesses manage international operations efficiently. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools including multi-currency business accounts, high-speed international transfers, and multi-currency corporate cards.
Why I picked Airwallex: I selected Airwallex for its ability to manage both virtual and physical company and employee cards, which support multiple currencies. This is particularly beneficial for businesses operating on a global scale, as it allows for tracking and managing expenses incurred in different countries. Its expense-tracking capabilities also include real-time spend visibility all integrated into one platform.
Standout features & integrations:
Standout features include local currency accounts with local bank details, international transfers, borderless cards, and automated domestic and international bill payment workflows.
Integrations include popular accounting tools like Xero, QuickBooks, NetSuite, Zoho Books, Sage, and Odoo, ecommerce marketplaces like Amazon and TikTok Shop, and platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, Lazada, Shopee, and Magento.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Provides virtual cards for supplier payments and employee expenses
- Supports transactions in multiple currencies
- Offers robust APIs that facilitate integration with other financial tools
Cons:
- Not all features and services are available in every region
- Lacks detailed control features for user approval roles
Emburse is an expense management platform that helps businesses control and track spending while reducing manual work. It’s designed for teams that want to simplify expense reporting and gain better visibility into financial data. The system provides tools for creating, submitting, and approving expenses from any device.
Why I picked Emburse:
Emburse is best if you want to cut down the time your team spends managing expenses. You can set up virtual and physical cards with built-in spending rules, making it easier to stay compliant with company policies. Mobile receipt capture and reminders keep everyone on track without paperwork piling up. Role-based permissions and approval flows give you confidence that spending is monitored, and automated categorizations make reporting much simpler.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include fraud protection to safeguard your business, Apple Wallet and Android Pay support for quick payments, and customizable approval flows that let you adapt rules to your organization’s structure. These features ensure smoother processes while giving you better control over expenses.
Integrations include NetSuite, Sage Intacct, QuickBooks, Xero, Salesforce, Chrome River, and Certify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong fraud protection measures
- Customizable approval workflows
- Easy mobile receipt capture
Cons:
- May require training for setup
- Pricing not clearly listed upfront
Airbase is a comprehensive spend management platform that simplifies expense management, accounts payable (AP), and corporate card spending.
Why I picked Airbase: I chose Airbase for the list because of its robust AP automation capabilities that significantly reduce manual work and improve accuracy in financial operations. Its comprehensive suite of tools and features offers unmatched consolidation and control, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to automate their accounts payable processes. It automates the entire procure-to-pay cycle and integrates seamlessly with accounting systems, ensuring that all financial data is synchronized and up-to-date.
Standout features & integrations:
Standout features include AI-powered automation for expense management, real-time reporting, and an automatic audit trail that ensures compliance and control. Its receipt management system and mobile app enhance the user experience by allowing for easy submission and tracking of expenses.
Integrations are available natively with a variety of systems, including NetSuite, Sage Intacct, QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics, HRIS, Jira, Ironclad, DocuSign, Asana, Slack, TravelPerk, SSO. It supports over 70 ERP systems through its ERP Integration API. Additionally, it offers credit card integration with American Express and Silicon Valley Bank Card.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive AP automation that streamlines the entire procure-to-pay cycle
- Real-time visibility into all company spending, enhancing financial control
- Seamless integration with major accounting systems and other business tools
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available
- The platform's extensive features may present a learning curve for new users
Navan is a sophisticated expense management solution that simplifies business expense tracking, reporting, and reconciliation. It integrates travel and expense management into a unified platform, making it a versatile tool for companies that require detailed financial oversight and real-time operational control.
Why I picked Navan: I selected Navan for its user-friendly user interface and various integration capabilities, which stand out from other expense management tools. Navan is renowned for its user-centric design, which facilitates an intuitive user experience, making it the best choice for businesses prioritizing ease of use and efficient process management. This emphasis on user experience is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers and finance teams who handle extensive expense reporting.
Standout features & integrations:
Standout features include real-time expense tracking, automated policy compliance alerts, and the ability to manage expenses directly from a mobile app. These features ensure that expenses are tracked and managed efficiently, adhering to company policies without constant manual oversight. Additionally, Navan supports integration with major ERP systems like SAP and Oracle, enhancing its functionality within diverse IT ecosystems.
Integrations are available natively with significant platforms such as SAP, Oracle, Xero, Salesforce, Slack, Okta, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrated travel and expense management features
- Real-time visibility into expenditures
- User-friendly mobile app for on-the-go management
Cons:
- Dependent on third-party integrations for full functionality, which might be a concern for companies with highly customized systems
- Pricing is not transparent and needs to be confirmed directly for specific features or tiers
Zoho Expense is an expense management tool that automates expense recording and tracking.
Why I picked Zoho Expense: I selected Zoho Expense for this list due to its exceptional receipt scanning capability, which sets it apart from other expense management tools. I determined it to be the best for auto-scanning receipts as it offers a streamlined approach to digitizing and organizing receipts, making expense reporting more efficient.
Standout features & integrations:
Zoho Expense excels with features like automatic receipt scanning, multi-currency expenses, and integration with accounting software. It simplifies expense report creation and provides real-time expense tracking.
Integrations are available natively with Zoho Books, Zoho CRM, Zoho Invoice, Zoho People, QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks Desktop, Slack, Office 365, G Suite, and Salesforce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Efficient receipt scanning and data extraction
- Multi-currency and multi-organization support
- Direct integration with multiple Zoho products
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of 3 users for the starting plan
- Additional charges for extra users beyond the plan limit
Webexpenses is a comprehensive expense management tool designed to simplify and streamline the processes of tracking, managing, and reporting business expenses.
Why I picked Webexpenses: I chose Webexpenses because of its robust functionality and ease of use, which significantly stand out in the crowded market for expense management tools. It's especially adept at tracking mileage, providing precise and easy-to-manage logs ideal for businesses requiring detailed travel expense records. The tool's ability to integrate with major ERP and accounting systems makes it a top pick for organizations looking to enhance their financial operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Webexpenses has powerful features such as Google Vision-powered OCR for receipt scanning, drag-and-drop expense reporting, and intelligent receipt matching that enhance its utility. Its mobile app allows for expense management on the go, which is crucial for modern businesses. The tool also supports multi-currency and multi-approver workflows, which is essential for global companies.
Integrations include a wide range of systems, including Access, Acumatica, Deltek Costpoint, Era Link, Exchequer, Infor, Micronet, Microsoft Dynamics, Microsoft Great Plains, Microsoft NAV, MRI, MYOB, Netsuite, Oracle, Pegasus, Peoplesoft, Prolaw, Pronto, Quickbooks, Reckon, Sage Intacct and other Sage products, SAP S4 Hana and other SAP products, Xero, and many others.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with numerous ERP and accounting systems
- User-friendly mobile app for on-the-go management
Cons:
- Initial setup and implementation can take up to 8-10 weeks, depending on the complexities
- Requires a minimum of 3 active users, which may not be ideal for very small businesses
Expensify is a powerful expense management tool built to automate and simplify how businesses and individuals track, manage, and report spending. From receipt scanning to global reimbursements, it helps finance teams maintain accurate, real-time oversight of expenses across regions and departments.
Why I picked Expensify: I chose Expensify for its SmartScan technology and AI-driven automation. With SmartScan, you can capture receipts with a quick photo, instantly converting them into accurate digital records—no manual entry required. Expensify also supports global reimbursements in local currencies, making it a strong fit for organizations with international teams. Its AI automatically categorizes expenses and flags policy violations, reducing errors and ensuring compliance while saving valuable time.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include built-in travel booking with policy controls for managing trip-related spending, real-time corporate card management, and automatic syncing with accounting systems to keep financial data precise and current. Together, these capabilities streamline expense tracking, enforce compliance, and enhance reporting accuracy.
Integrations include QuickBooks, NetSuite, Xero, ADP, Uber, Lyft, Taxback, Kayak, FreshBooks, Wave, Salesforce, and Dropbox—making it easy to centralize financial data across your business ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- AI-powered expense categorization
- Global reimbursement capabilities
- SmartScan receipt automation
Cons:
- Dependent on consistent receipt quality
- Limited customization for niche policies
SAP Concur Expense is a powerful automated expense management solution built to help organizations control spending, detect fraud, and streamline reimbursement processes. Designed for enterprise use, it provides a unified platform to manage expenses, invoices, and travel—all while maintaining compliance and financial transparency.
Why I picked SAP Concur Expense: I chose SAP Concur Expense for its enterprise-grade capabilities in spend tracking and policy enforcement. Its robust expense monitoring tools help identify unauthorized or out-of-policy spending, while advanced fraud detection adds an extra layer of protection. The software’s budget management tools give finance leaders real-time insight into spending trends, enabling better forecasting and control. Additionally, its automation of the accounts payable process reduces manual work, speeds up reimbursements, and enhances accuracy across financial operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include data analytics that uncover spending patterns for strategic decision-making, built-in travel management for managing itineraries and expenses in one place, and automated invoice processing that minimizes manual data entry. Together, these features give finance teams full visibility into organizational spending from submission to settlement.
Integrations include SAP, NetSuite, App Center, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, QuickBooks, Xero, ADP, Uber for Business, Kantata OX, and Workato.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Deep analytics for spend optimization
- Automated AP and reimbursement workflows
- Enterprise-grade fraud detection
Cons:
- Advanced features may require customization
- Can be complex for smaller teams
Rydoo is an intuitive expense management platform that streamlines reporting, approvals, and reconciliation for modern businesses. It’s designed to automate repetitive financial tasks, ensure compliance, and give finance teams greater control over spending across the organization.
Why I picked Rydoo: I chose Rydoo for its automation-driven approach to expense management. Its custom policy rules automate approvals, cutting down on manual review time, while AI-powered receipt scanning captures expense details instantly and accurately. Rydoo also supports credit card reconciliation, ensuring every transaction is matched and accounted for — improving oversight and reducing financial discrepancies. Together, these capabilities free up finance teams to focus on more strategic priorities.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include mileage tracking and per diem management for traveling employees, as well as smart corporate cards that offer real-time visibility into company spending. Rydoo also ensures compliance with local regulations, making it a reliable choice for multinational organizations with complex reporting requirements.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, NetSuite, VAT IT, SAP S/4HANA, Workday, Amex GBT Egencia, Uber, Lyft, Mastercard, American Express, and Visa — allowing for seamless synchronization across accounting and travel systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong regulatory compliance
- AI-powered receipt capture
- Automated approval workflows
Cons:
- Requires setup for policy automation
- Limited customization in reporting
Xero streamlines expense management for small businesses with its comprehensive features. It is the best for small businesses due to its tailored financial tools and services.
Why I picked Xero: I selected Xero for its strong reputation among small business accounting software. Its focus on simplifying accounting for smaller operations and providing essential financial tools makes it a standout choice. Xero is best for small businesses because it delivers a suite of features that directly address the unique challenges faced by small business owners in managing their finances.
Standout features & integrations:
Standout features include easy invoice creation, expense claims, bank reconciliation, and detailed financial reporting. These tools are crucial for small businesses to maintain control over their finances.
Integrations include Hubdoc, Gusto, Stripe, PayPal, WorkflowMax, Square, Expensify, Vend, Deputy, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Tailored specifically for small business needs
- Comprehensive financial management features
- Extensive integration options with other tools
Cons:
- Limited invoices and bills on the Early plan
- Higher-tier plans are required for additional features
Paylocity is a dynamic platform designed to help businesses streamline expense management and improve financial visibility. It simplifies tracking and reporting while supporting collaboration across departments like HR, finance, and IT — making it a strong choice for organizations seeking unified financial oversight.
Why I picked Paylocity: I chose Paylocity for its automated expense reporting and real-time tracking capabilities. These features eliminate manual data entry and ensure that expenses are captured and categorized accurately as they occur. Its seamless integrations with major accounting systems make reconciliation easier and keep financial records consistently accurate. By centralizing financial data, Paylocity enables teams to make faster, data-driven decisions and align more effectively across functions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated expense reporting that minimizes manual processes, real-time expense tracking for up-to-the-minute visibility, and strong integration capabilities that ensure data accuracy across systems. Together, these tools empower teams to make timely financial decisions and maintain reliable reporting.
Integrations connect Paylocity with key platforms such as Indeed, Ironclad, Jira Software, Timeero, 15Five, Acumatica, JazzHR, Salesforce, Slack, Smartsheet, Snagajob, and Zendesk — enhancing collaboration and ensuring smooth data flow across your organization.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports cross-department collaboration
- Strong accounting system integrations
- Real-time expense visibility
Cons:
- Requires consistent data governance policies
- Limited customization for niche workflows
Other Expense Management Software To Consider
Below is a list of additional expense management software that I shortlisted. Even though they didn’t make it into my top 10 list, they’re still worth checking out:
- Sage Intacct
For finance-driven expense visibility
- NetSuite
For project tracking
- Happay
For automated data capture
- ExpenseOnDemand
For global scalability
Selection Criteria for Expense Management Software
Selecting expense management software requires a thorough understanding of the functionality and specific use cases most critical for businesses. The criteria for choosing this software should align with buyer needs, addressing common pain points such as tracking expenses efficiently, ensuring compliance with company policies, and integrating with existing financial systems. This is the set of essential criteria I used when evaluating these expense management solutions.
Core Expense Management Software Functionalities (25% of total score): To be considered for inclusion in my list of the best expense management software, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases first:
- Real-time expense tracking
- Receipt capture and storage
- Expense report submission and approval workflow
- Policy compliance management
- Integration with accounting and payroll systems
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score): To help me find the best expense management software out of numerous available options, I also kept a keen eye out for unique features, including the following:
- Innovative dashboard and analytics tools for better expense visibility
- Mobile app capabilities (for Android and iOS devices) that enhance on-the-go expense reporting
- AI-powered features for automatic categorization and fraud detection
- Multi-currency and multi-language support for global businesses
- Integration with travel booking systems for streamlined travel expense management
Usability (10% of total score): To evaluate the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive navigation and user interface that minimizes the learning curve
- A clear and concise layout that facilitates quick data entry and retrieval
- Responsive design that ensures functionality across various devices and platforms
- Visual cues and guidance that help users perform tasks more efficiently
Onboarding (10% of total score): To get a sense of each software provider's customer onboarding process, I considered the following factors:
- Comprehensive training materials such as videos and user guides
- Interactive product tours that demonstrate key features and workflows
- Template libraries that help new users get started quickly
- Support channels like chatbots and webinars that provide real-time assistance
Customer Support (10% of total score): To evaluate the level of customer support each vendor offered, I considered the following:
- Availability of 24/7 support through multiple channels (phone, email, chat)
- A knowledgeable and responsive support team that resolves issues promptly
- Community forums where users can share solutions and best practices
- Regular updates and clear communication about new features and fixes
Value for Price (10% of total score): To gauge the value of each software, I considered the following factors:
- Transparent pricing models that align with the features offered
- Flexible plans that cater to businesses of different sizes and needs
- Free trials or demos that allow for hands-on evaluation before purchase
- Cost-benefit analysis comparing the software's efficiency gains against its price
Customer Reviews (10% of total score): Evaluating customer reviews is the final element of my selection process, which helps me understand how well a product performs in the hands of real users. Here are the factors I considered:
- Consistent positive feedback across various user demographics
- High ratings for specific features that are critical to expense management
- Testimonials that highlight the software's impact on business processes
- Constructive criticism and how the company addresses user concerns
How To Choose Expense Management Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Will the software grow with your business? Consider future needs and whether the tool can handle increased users or expenses without a hitch. |
| Integrations | Does it sync with your existing systems? Ensure it connects smoothly with your accounting software, HR tools, and other platforms you use. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to fit your processes? Look for options to customize workflows, reports, and permissions to align with your team’s needs. |
| Ease of Use | Is it intuitive for your team? A straightforward interface reduces training time and user errors. Test with different team members to gauge usability. |
| Implementation and Onboarding | How long will it take to get up and running? Evaluate the time and resources needed for setup. Quick onboarding can save you valuable time. |
| Cost | Does it fit your budget? Consider not just the initial price but also ongoing fees, potential add-ons, and whether it offers value for money. |
| Security Safeguards | Are your data protected? Verify the software's security measures, like encryption and access controls, to keep sensitive data safe. |
| Compliance Requirements | Does it meet regulatory standards? Check for compliance with industry regulations, such as GDPR or other local legal requirements, to avoid potential issues. |
Trends for Expense Management Software in 2025
Expense management software is evolving rapidly. Here are the key trends shaping its future:
- Integration with AI for Predictive Analytics: Artificial intelligence is integrated into expense management software to provide predictive analytics. This trend allows for better budget forecasting and fraud detection. It's important because it helps businesses proactively manage their spending.
- Real-Time Expense Tracking: Real-time expense tracking is becoming a standard feature. This allows for immediate visibility and control over expenditures. It's interesting as it enables quicker decision-making and policy enforcement.
- Enhanced Mobile Experience: The mobile experience for expense management is significantly enhanced. Users can now manage expenses anytime, anywhere, with greater ease. This is important for the growing mobile workforce that relies on convenience and accessibility.
- Automated Compliance Checks: Expense management software is increasingly incorporating automated compliance checks. This ensures that expense claims adhere to company policies and external regulations. It's progressive because it reduces the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties.
- Personalized User Dashboards: Personalized dashboards are being offered by expense management tools. These dashboards provide tailored insights and a user-friendly interface. This unique trend improves user engagement and the overall expense management process.
What is Expense Management Software?
Expense management software is a tool that automates how businesses track, approve, and reimburse spending.
It helps streamline expense reporting, reduce manual errors, and enforce company policies. Teams use it to manage receipts, employee reimbursements, travel costs, and recurring expenses, all in one dashboard. By centralizing data and automating workflows, it saves time for finance departments and improves budget visibility.
Features of Expense Management Software
When selecting expense management software, it's essential to consider the features that will streamline and enhance the financial operations of your business. The right features can simplify the expense reporting process, ensure compliance with company policies, and provide valuable insights into spending patterns.
Here are the most important features to look for:
- Receipt Capture: This feature allows users to capture receipts using their mobile devices digitally. It's crucial for reducing paperwork and making the expense reporting process more efficient.
- Multi-Currency Support: With this, the software can handle transactions in different currencies. It is important for businesses with global operations to accurately track and reimburse expenses in the local currency of their employees.
- Mileage Tracking: This feature automates the calculation of mileage reimbursement. It is essential for companies with employees who travel frequently to ensure accurate expense reporting for travel.
- Policy Compliance: This feature is important to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure all expenses are legitimate and within company guidelines.
- Approval Workflow: This establishes a clear expense report submissions and approvals process. It is important for maintaining control over expenses and ensuring timely reimbursements.
- Integration Capabilities: The ability to integrate with other financial systems and software is important for a seamless data flow across different business platforms, reducing manual data entry and errors.
- Real-Time Analytics: This feature provides insights into spending patterns and trends, which is important for making informed decisions about company finances and budgeting.
- Mobile Accessibility: Allows users to submit and manage expenses on the go. This is important for convenience and ensuring that expense reporting can happen anytime, anywhere.
- Customizable Reports: The software can generate tailored reports for different needs. This is important for providing stakeholders with relevant financial data and strategic planning.
- Data Security: Ensures that all financial data is securely stored and managed. This is crucial for protecting sensitive information and maintaining trust in the expense management process.
Benefits of Expense Management Software
Expense management software is a powerful tool that can transform how organizations handle their financial processes. By automating and streamlining processes, these systems offer a range of benefits that can lead to cost savings, compliance, and improved operational efficiency.
Here are several benefits that users and organizations can expect from implementing expense management software:
- Streamlined Expense Reporting: Simplifies the submission process. Expense management software allows employees to easily submit expenses, often through mobile apps, which can significantly reduce the time and effort required compared to manual methods.
- Real-Time Expense Tracking: Offers visibility into spending. Users can monitor expenses as they occur, providing businesses with immediate insights into their financial outgoings and helping to manage budgets more effectively.
- Enhanced Policy Compliance: Enforces company spending policies. The software can be configured to flag or reject expenses that don't comply with company policies, reducing the risk of fraudulent claims and ensuring budget adherence.
- Efficient Reimbursement Process: Accelerates employee reimbursements. By automating the approval workflow, expense management software speeds up the reimbursement process, increasing employee satisfaction and reducing administrative workload.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Facilitates strategic planning. The analytics and reporting features of expense management software provide valuable data that can inform strategic business decisions, helping to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize spending patterns.
Costs & Pricing of Expense Management Software
Expense management software is critical for businesses of all sizes to track and manage their spending efficiently. These software solutions come in various plans to cater to different business needs and budgets.
Understanding the plan options and their pricing is essential for software buyers new to this type of software, as it helps them make an informed decision that aligns with their financial capabilities and business requirements.
Plan Comparison Table for Expense Management Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free | $0 | Basic expense tracking, receipt scanning, mobile app access, and limited reporting features |
| Standard | $8 - $15 per user/month | Advanced expense tracking, integration with accounting software, multi-level approvals, and customizable policies and controls |
| Professional | $15 - $30 per user/month | Everything in Standard, corporate card reconciliation, advanced reporting and analytics, and increased data storage and security features |
| Enterprise | Custom pricing | Everything in Professional, VIP support, custom integrations and workflows, and dedicated account management |
When considering which plan to choose, software buyers should evaluate the specific needs of their business and the level of support and customization they require. Scalability and integration capabilities are also important factors to consider as the business grows.
Depending on your needs, you may be able to start with an expense management tool on a small business plan, then hold off on scaling up until you actually need it.
Expense Management Software FAQs
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions you may have about expense management software and how it works:
Can expense management software help with tax compliance?
Yes, many expense management platforms help with tax compliance by automating record keeping and flagging deductible expenses. Look for tools that categorize transactions, store receipts, export relevant tax reports, and sync with your accounting software. This reduces manual errors and makes tax filing or audits more straightforward for your finance team.
Is cloud-based expense management software secure?
Yes, reputable cloud-based expense management software is usually very secure. Look for vendors that use data encryption, regular security audits, role-based permissions, and multi-factor authentication. Always check compliance certifications (such as SOC 2 or ISO 27001) and request documentation before onboarding a provider.
How does expense management software handle different currencies and international travel expenses?
The best expense management software supports multiple currencies and can convert expenses using live exchange rates. You can set default currencies for different teams and automate per diem rates for international travelers. This makes managing global expense reports, reimbursements, and consolidating financial data much simpler.
What should I look for in expense management software onboarding and user training?
Look for platforms that offer clear step-by-step onboarding, live or recorded training sessions, and a searchable knowledge base. Good vendors provide dedicated account managers for implementation and ongoing support. Make sure the software training also fits your team’s tech skills and covers mobile, web, and any integrations you’ll use.
How can expense management tools help prevent employee expense fraud?
Expense management software can detect fraud by setting spending limits, requiring receipt uploads, and flagging duplicate or unusual claims. Tools with AI and audit trails quickly identify risky patterns. You can also cse the rule-setting and approval workflows to make fraud detection part of daily expense processes.
What’s the best way to roll out expense management software across multiple departments or subsidiaries?
Plan your rollout in stages by piloting with one department, adjusting workflows, and then expanding. From there, use customizable approval chains, cost centers, and permissions to reflect your org chart. Then, communicate clearly with training resources for each team, and monitor feedback to ensure company-wide adoption runs smoothly.
Can expense management software integrate with corporate credit cards and automate reconciliation?
Yes, most modern platforms sync with business credit cards and bank accounts to pull in transactions automatically. This enables fast reconciliation, reduces manual work, and ensures every expense is matched to a receipt and policy. Also check for pre-built integrations with your company’s card provider for an all-in-one credit card expense management software.
How do I know when it’s time to upgrade from spreadsheets or basic accounting tools to specialized expense management software?
If you spend too much time reviewing manual reports, chasing receipts, or dealing with policy violations, it’s probably time to upgrade. As your volume of transactions grows or your team gets more remote, dedicated expense software (or expense management software for small business) saves you time, reduces errors, and gives you better visibility into company spending.
What’s Next?
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