Best General Ledger Software Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best general ledger software:
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
A good general ledger system does more than just track debits and credits—it automates entries, integrates with other financial tools, and provides real-time insights to help you make smarter decisions. If your current system is clunky, lacks automation, or requires too much manual work, it might be time for an upgrade.
As a financial controller, I’ve worked with all kinds of general ledger software, from basic setups to enterprise-level solutions. I know firsthand how the right system can streamline processes and work for your team and business goals, instead of against them.
This listicle breaks down the top general ledger software options, so you can compare the best solutions without endless research. Whether you need better automation, stronger integrations, or just a more user-friendly experience, you’ll find the right fit here.
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Best General Ledger Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top general ledger software selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Zoho Books Zoho Books simplifies accounting with cloud-based automation and integrations. | Best for affordability | Free trial + free plan available | From $15/month (billed annually) | Website |
2 | Acumatica Acumatica integrates cloud-based financials with customizable reporting. | Best for cloud ERP integration | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
3 | SoftLedger SoftLedger provides real-time data access with multi-entity consolidation. | Best for real-time updates | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
4 | Xledger Xledger delivers automated accounting with AI-driven financial insights. | Best for multi-currency support | Free demo | Pricing upon request | Website |
5 | Flexi Flexi ensures compliance with secure, audit-ready financial management. | Best for compliance needs | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
6 | Adagio Ledger Adagio Ledger supports mid-sized businesses with batch processing and audit trails. | Best for customizable reports | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
7 | SapphireOne SapphireOne provides enterprise-level customization with deep financial tools. | Best for comprehensive modules | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
8 | Multiview Multiview unifies financial data with advanced analytics and BI reporting. | Best for healthcare sector | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
9 | Eleven Eleven scales with high-volume transactions and AI-driven analytics. | Best for scalability | Free trial available | From $25/2 users/month (billed annually) | Website |
10 | Passport Business Solutions Passport Business Solutions offers flexible reporting for growing businesses. | Best for small businesses | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website |
Best General Ledger Software Review
Below are my detailed summaries of the best general ledger software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer an in-depth look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Zoho Books is an online accounting software designed for small to medium-sized businesses that need efficient financial management.
Why I picked Zoho Books: Zoho Book’s affordable pricing makes it accessible for businesses on a budget. In most plans, the software provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies accounting tasks for your team. It also offers automated workflows to reduce manual effort and improve efficiency. Overall, Zoho Books helps teams handle key functions such as invoicing, expense tracking, and tax management for a lower than average cost.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated bank feeds, which help you reconcile transactions quickly and accurately. You can also benefit from its time tracking capabilities, allowing you to manage billable hours effectively. Additionally, Zoho Books offers comprehensive financial reporting, giving you insights into your business's financial health.
Integrations include PayPal, Stripe, Square, Zoho CRM, Zoho Projects, G Suite, Slack, Office 365, Zapier, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Comprehensive reporting options
- Effective time tracking
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Basic inventory management
Acumatica is a cloud-based ERP software designed for small to mid-sized businesses, offering advanced financial management solutions. It's ideal for industries like manufacturing, distribution, and retail, focusing on financial operations.
Why I picked Acumatica: Acumatica excels in cloud ERP integration, providing connectivity across various business functions. With features like multi-entity accounting and flexible deployment options, it caters to diverse business needs. Its real-time data access and user-friendly interface also enhance financial decision-making, making it a standout option for businesses seeking to scale processes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable dashboards that provide real-time insights into your financial data. You can also benefit from automated tax calculations, which help reduce manual errors. Additionally, it offers detailed audit trails, ensuring transparency and accuracy in your financial records.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Power BI, Avalara, Shopify, HubSpot, DocuSign, Magento, Adobe Sign, Smartsheet, and Microsoft Teams.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time data access
- Automated tax calculations
- Detailed audit trails
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- Limited mobile app features
SoftLedger is a cloud-based accounting software designed for businesses that require real-time financial updates. It serves industries like finance, real estate, and cryptocurrency, providing essential financial management functions.
Why I picked SoftLedger: Real-time updates are crucial for businesses that need current data, and with SoftLedger, users gain access to consistently improved data. The software also provides automated consolidations, which help financial processes across multiple entities, and cryptocurrency accounting processes. With these features, SoftLedger is a unique choice for companies looking for up-to-date financial insights.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include flexible reporting options that allow you to customize financial reports to suit your needs. You can also benefit from its multi-entity management, which helps manage financials across different branches. Additionally, the software offers automated workflows, reducing the need for manual intervention.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, Stripe, Coinbase, Plaid, Twilio, Slack, Amazon Web Services, Google Sheets, and HubSpot.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cryptocurrency accounting support
- Automated consolidations
- Flexible reporting options
Cons:
- Complexity in setup
- Limited customization options
Xledger is a cloud-based financial management solution designed for medium to large enterprises. It supports multiple business functions, including accounting, payroll, and expense management, offering value to international businesses.
Why I picked Xledger: Xledger’s multi-currency support is essential for companies operating in various countries. Along with this key feature, the software also provides automatic currency conversion, which simplifies international transactions, and consolidated financial statements. These capabilities make Xledger an excellent choice for businesses needing an advanced global accounting solution.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated bank reconciliation, which reduces manual effort in matching transactions. It also offers a fixed asset management module that helps track and manage your organization's assets. Additionally, the cloud-based design ensures that you can access your financial data from anywhere, providing flexibility for remote teams.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, NetSuite, FreshBooks, and Zoho Books.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automatic currency conversion
- Consolidated financial statements
- Automated bank reconciliation
Cons:
- Occasional system updates needed
- Dependence on internet connectivity
Flexi is an accounting software solution aimed at businesses that prioritize compliance and regulatory requirements. It serves industries such as banking, insurance, and healthcare, focusing on detailed financial management.
Why I picked Flexi: Flexi excels in meeting compliance needs, making it ideal for regulated industries. The software offers audit trails that help ensure transparency and accountability in financial reporting. It also provides real-time financial data access to support timely decision-making.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include automated workflow management, which reduces manual tasks and improves efficiency. It also offers customizable financial reporting, allowing you to tailor reports to your specific needs. Additionally, the software supports multi-currency transactions, making it suitable for global operations.
Integrations include Salesforce, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, QuickBooks, Sage, NetSuite, Xero, FreshBooks, and Zoho Books.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong compliance support
- Detailed audit trails
- Customizable financial reporting
Cons:
- Limited mobile functionality
- High learning curve for new users
Adagio Ledger is an advanced accounting software tailored for small to medium-sized businesses. It specializes in delivering detailed financial management functions to industries with specific reporting needs.
Why I picked Adagio Ledger: Adagio Ledger’s customizable reporting capabilities are ideal for businesses that require financial statements. The software also offers advanced reporting tools that let you design reports to fit your unique business requirements. Additionally, you can set up recurring entries to automate repetitive tasks, saving your team time while continuing to increase overall revenue.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced batch processing, which allows you to manage multiple transactions efficiently. There's also a feature for financial statement designers, letting you create complex financial reports. Plus, it supports multi-currency transactions, accommodating businesses that operate internationally.
Integrations include PayDirt Payroll, Softrak Inventory, Softrak Receivables, Softrak Payables, GridView, and Softrak OrderEntry.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Advanced batch processing
- Multi-currency support
- Financial statement designer
Cons:
- Steep learning curve
- No native mobile app
SapphireOne is an integrated accounting system solution designed for businesses that need a wide range of financial management tools. It caters to industries like accounting, finance, and manufacturing, providing various business functions such as accounts, payroll, and inventory management.
Why I picked SapphireOne: SapphireOne’s advanced modules cover a broad spectrum of business needs, making it versatile for different industries. The software offers detailed inventory management, which is vital for businesses with complex supply chains. It also provides extensive payroll capabilities, ensuring compliance with various regulations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced reporting tools that allow you to generate detailed financial reports. The software also supports multi-currency transactions, making it suitable for global operations. Additionally, it offers project management features, enabling you to track project costs and progress efficiently.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, Xero, MYOB, Stripe, PayPal, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive module coverage
- Advanced reporting tools
- Multi-currency support
Cons:
- Complexity in setup
- Requires training for effective use
Multiview is a financial management software for the healthcare industry, providing essential accounting functions. It serves hospitals and healthcare organizations by offering tools for budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance management.
Why I picked Multiview: Multiview is specifically designed for the healthcare sector, providing features that address specific needs. The software offers detailed budgeting tools that help manage financial planning effectively. It also includes compliance management capabilities, adhering to healthcare regulations. Combined, these features make Multiview particularly suited for healthcare organizations needing specialized financial oversight.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced budgeting capabilities, which allow you to create comprehensive financial plans. The software also offers real-time financial reporting, providing up-to-date insights into your organization's financial health. Additionally, it supports compliance tracking, helping you meet healthcare industry standards.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Workday, NetSuite, Sage, IBM, and Tableau.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed budgeting tools
- Real-time financial reporting
- Compliance management capabilities
Cons:
- Dependence on technical support
- Limited scalability for other industries
Eleven is a scalable general ledger software designed for growing businesses that need flexible financial solutions. It supports a wide range of accounting functions, making it suitable for companies that anticipate expansion.
Why I picked Eleven: Eleven’s scalability makes sure you can adapt as your business grows without changing software. The tool offers a customizable chart of accounts, allowing you to customize your financial structure while maintaining efficiency and adaptability. Additionally, with real-time financial insights, your team can make decisions quickly and effectively in dynamic business environments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time reporting, which provides instant access to your financial data. The software also offers automated approval workflows to simplify routine tasks, reducing manual input. Additionally, it supports multi-entity management, allowing you to handle multiple business units from a single platform.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, NetSuite, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce, FreshBooks, Zoho Books, and Sage.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable chart of accounts
- Real-time financial insights
- Multi-entity management
Cons:
- Initial setup complexity
- Requires ongoing system updates
Passport Business Solutions is an accounting software for small businesses, providing essential financial management functions. It assists in handling tasks like accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll processing.
Why I picked Passport Business Solutions: Passport Business Solutions is particularly effective for small businesses due to its straightforward setup and ease of use. The software offers a modular design, allowing you to choose only the features you need, while its focus on core accounting tasks ensures your financial operations run smoothly. This flexibility makes it cost-effective and scalable as your business grows.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable financial reporting, which lets you tailor reports to your business needs. The software also provides detailed audit trails, ensuring transparency and accountability in your financial records. Additionally, it supports multi-user access, allowing your team to collaborate efficiently.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks, Sage, Paychex, ADP, NetSuite, FreshBooks, Zoho Books, and Xero.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Cost-effective for small businesses
- Customizable financial reporting
- Multi-user access support
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Basic user interface
Other General Ledger Software
Here are some additional general ledger software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Foundation Software
For construction industry
- Sage Intacct
For medium-sized businesses
- Workday
For enterprise-level solutions
- FreshBooks
For freelancers and small teams
- Allvue
For fund accounting
- HighRadius
For automated reconciliation
- NetSuite General Ledger
For real-time financial insights
- QuickBooks
For small business accounting
General Ledger Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best general ledger software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like financial accuracy and integration capabilities. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Record financial transactions and account balances
- Manage accounts payable and receivable
- Generate financial reports
- Track assets and liabilities
- Reconcile bank and income statements
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Multi-currency support
- Automated compliance checks
- Advanced analytics and reporting
- Real-time data integration
- Customizable dashboards
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Ease of navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Customizable user preferences
- Responsiveness of the platform
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Access to interactive product tours
- Use of templates for setup
- Support from chatbots or live chat
- Offering of webinars or workshops
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- Availability of 24/7 support
- Access to a dedicated account manager
- Responsiveness to queries
- Availability of a knowledge base
- Support through multiple channels
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing structure
- Range of features offered
- Flexibility of pricing plans
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Transparency in pricing
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Consistency of positive feedback
- Commonly reported issues
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Frequency of updates and improvements
- Testimonials from similar industries
How to Choose General Ledger 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 | Ensure the software can grow with your business. Look for solutions that support additional users and transactions as your company expands. |
Integrations | Check if the software integrates with your existing tools, like CRM or ERP systems, to streamline processes and improve data accuracy. |
Customizability | Look for software that allows you to tailor reports and dashboards to fit your specific business needs and workflows. |
Ease of Use | Choose software with an intuitive interface and easy navigation to reduce the learning curve for your team. |
Budget | Compare pricing plans and ensure they fit within your financial constraints. Consider the total cost of ownership, including any hidden fees. |
Security Safeguards | Ensure the software offers robust security measures like data encryption and user access controls to protect sensitive financial information. |
Customer Support | Evaluate the availability and quality of support services, such as 24/7 assistance, to help resolve issues promptly. |
Reporting Features | Look for advanced reporting capabilities to provide insights into financial performance and aid in decision-making. |
Trends in General Ledger Software
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different general ledger software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-Powered Insights: More vendors are using AI to offer predictive analytics and insights. This helps businesses forecast financial trends and make informed decisions. For example, some tools now analyze spending patterns to suggest budget adjustments.
- Blockchain Integration: Blockchain technology is being adopted to enhance transparency and security. By creating immutable records, it helps prevent fraud and ensures accurate financial reporting. Some vendors are even exploring blockchain for audit trails.
- Sustainability Reporting: There's a growing focus on features that track environmental impact and sustainability metrics. This trend is driven by businesses wanting to align financial reporting with corporate social responsibility goals.
- User-Centric Design: Vendors are starting to prioritize user experience with more intuitive interfaces and personalized dashboards. This makes software easier to use, reducing the learning curve for new users.
- Regulatory Compliance Automation: With ever-changing regulations, tools are now offering automated compliance updates. This ensures businesses stay up-to-date with legal requirements, reducing the risk of penalties.
What Is General Ledger Software?
General ledger software is a tool that helps businesses manage their financial records by tracking transactions, generating reports, and maintaining accounts. Accountants, financial analysts, and business managers typically use these tools to ensure accurate financial reporting and decision-making.
These tools provide key features, such as real-time reporting, AI-powered insights, and compliance automation to help with forecasting trends, improving user experience, and staying up-to-date with regulations. Overall, general ledger software provides businesses with the necessary financial oversight and control to operate efficiently.
Features of General Ledger Software
When selecting general ledger software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automated Workflows: Streamline repetitive tasks to save time and reduce manual errors.
- Real-Time Reporting: Provide up-to-date financial data to help businesses make quick, informed decisions.
- Multi-Currency Support: Handle transactions in different currencies, ideal for businesses operating internationally.
- Compliance Tracking: Ensure adherence to industry regulations and reduce the risk of penalties.
- Customizable Dashboards: Allow users to tailor the interface to fit their specific needs and preferences.
- AI-Powered Insights: Offer predictive analytics to forecast trends and improve financial planning.
- Advanced Budgeting Tools: Help create detailed financial plans to manage resources effectively.
- Audit Trails: Maintain a clear record of all transactions to enhance transparency and accountability.
- User-Friendly Interface: Make the software easy to navigate, reducing the learning curve for new users.
Benefits of General Ledger Software
Implementing general ledger software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved Accuracy: Automated workflows and real-time reporting reduce manual errors and enhance financial precision.
- Enhanced Decision-Making: AI-powered insights and advanced analytics offer valuable data to guide strategic choices.
- Regulatory Compliance: Compliance tracking helps ensure your business adheres to industry regulations, minimizing risks.
- Time Savings: Features like automated processes and user-friendly interfaces speed up financial tasks and boost productivity.
- Customization: Customizable dashboards and reports allow you to tailor the system to fit your specific operational needs.
- Increased Transparency: Audit trails provide clear records of transactions, promoting accountability and trust within your team.
Costs and Pricing of General Ledger Software
Selecting general ledger software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in general ledger software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for General Ledger Software
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Plan | $0/user/month | Basic transaction tracking, limited reporting, and minimal support. |
Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Enhanced reporting, basic integrations, and user-friendly interface. |
Business Plan | $30-$75/user/month | Multi-currency support, customizable dashboards, and advanced analytics. |
Enterprise Plan | $80-$150/user/month | AI-powered insights, compliance tracking, and dedicated customer support. |
General Ledger Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about general ledger software:
What are the 4 C's of the general ledger?
The 4 C’s of a general ledger refer to Chart of Accounts, Calendar, Currency, and accounting Convention. These elements ensure consistency in financial reporting. They help structure the financial data, set the timeline for financial periods, manage multiple currencies, and apply standardized accounting rules.
What are the 5 elements of the general ledger?
The five elements of a general ledger are assets, liabilities, owner’s equity, revenue, and expenses. These categories help organize financial data to reflect the company’s financial position. Understanding these elements allows you to track financial performance and prepare accurate financial statements.
What are the rules for general ledger?
A general ledger follows the double-entry bookkeeping method, where each transaction affects at least two accounts. One account is debited while another is credited, securing the total debits equal total credits. This rule maintains balance in your accounts and ensures accurate financial records.
How does general ledger software automate processes?
General ledger software automates processes like invoice capture, transaction recording, and financial reporting. This reduces manual data entry, minimizes errors, and saves time. By automating these tasks, your team can focus on analyzing financial data rather than inputting it.
How can general ledger software help with compliance?
General ledger software helps with compliance by providing accurate financial records and audit trails. It makes sure that all transactions are documented and easily accessible for audits. This can help your business adhere to industry regulations and avoid penalties.
Why is integration important in general ledger software?
Integration is important because it allows your general ledger accounting software to connect with other systems like CRM and ERP. This ensures data consistency across platforms, reduces duplicate data entry, and enhances overall efficiency in managing financial information.
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