1. Intuit QuickBooks Online

When it comes to accounting apps for small businesses, Intuit QuickBooks Online is a name that stands out. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of accounting tools, offering a wide range of features that cater to various business needs.

Key Features

• Inventory Management: Keep track of what’s in stock and what’s not with its inventory calculator.
• Bank Syncing: Automatically sync your bank records to keep tabs on expenses and income.
• Google Calendar Integration: Perfect for tracking billable hours accurately.
• Tax Filing: Automatically file tax forms after completing a job with a contractor.
• Payment Scheduling: Schedule payments and keep your customers updated on billing progress.
• Mobile App: Pay bills on time, even when you’re on the go.

QuickBooks Online isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s about making accounting less of a chore and more of a breeze.

Pricing

For those just starting out, the QuickBooks Simple Start plan is ideal, priced at $30/month, and it even comes with a free 30-day trial. If your business needs grow, you can always opt for the Essentials, Plus, or Advanced plans, starting from $55/month to $200/month.

Why We Love It

QuickBooks Online combines powerful accounting tools with an intuitive user experience. It’s customizable, comes in multiple versions, and supports a variety of add-ons. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned accountant, QuickBooks Online has something for everyone.

Who Should Use It

While it’s a bit on the pricey side, QuickBooks Online is perfect for small businesses with a tech budget. It’s user-friendly enough for beginners but also has advanced features for those with more demanding needs.

For more detailed information on pricing and features, check out QuickBooks Online offers.

2. Xero

When it comes to handling accounting tasks for small businesses, Xero stands out as a top choice. It's like having a financial sidekick that makes managing your books a breeze. Xero's user-friendly interface is something we really appreciate, especially when you're juggling multiple tasks. It offers a range of features that make it ideal for businesses of any size.

Key Features

• Invoicing: Create and send invoices with ease, helping you get paid faster.
• Inventory Management: Keep track of your stock levels and manage orders efficiently.
• Payroll Management: Integrate with payroll services for seamless employee payments.

Xero's ability to integrate with over 1,000 third-party apps is a game-changer. This means you can connect your accounting software with tools you already use, streamlining your workflow even more.

With Xero, you can manage your finances from anywhere using its robust mobile app. Whether you're at the office or on the go, keeping tabs on your business's financial health has never been easier.

Pricing

Here's a quick look at Xero's pricing plans:

Xero's unlimited user feature is a huge plus, especially if you have a team that needs access to the system. Unlike some competitors that charge per user, Xero lets everyone in without extra fees.

Why Choose Xero?

1. Real-time Collaboration: Work with your team and accountant simultaneously, no matter where you are.
2. Advanced Reporting: Get insights into your business's performance with detailed reports.
3. Automated Processes: Save time with features like bank reconciliation and recurring bill replication.

If you're looking for an accounting solution that offers flexibility and comprehensive tools, Xero is definitely worth considering. Its ability to handle everything from cash flow tracking to transaction reconciliation makes it a reliable choice for any small business owner.

3. FreshBooks

FreshBooks is our go-to choice for freelancers and small business owners who want an easy-to-use accounting app. It's packed with features that make managing your finances as smooth as possible. From invoicing to expense tracking, FreshBooks has got you covered.

Why We Love FreshBooks

• User-Friendly Interface: Even if you're not a numbers person, you'll find FreshBooks easy to navigate.
• Automated Invoicing: Set up recurring profiles and let FreshBooks handle the rest.
• Time Tracking: Keep tabs on your billable hours effortlessly.

Pricing

FreshBooks offers a free 30-day trial, and its paid plans start at $19 per month for the Lite plan. If you need more features, the Plus plan is available at $33 per month, and the Premium plan at $60 per month.

Key Features

• Mobile App: Manage your finances on the go.
• Project Management: Collaborate with your team and track project progress.
• Reports: Generate insightful reports to help guide your business decisions.

FreshBooks isn't just about crunching numbers. It's about making your life easier so you can focus on what you do best—running your business.

For those of us who are all about simplicity and efficiency, FreshBooks is a solid choice. It's not just an accounting app; it's a tool that helps you grow your business without the hassle. If you're looking for software that does it all, FreshBooks might just be your new best friend.

4. Sage 50 Accounting

Sage 50 Accounting is like the Swiss Army knife of accounting software for small businesses. It's loaded with features that cater to those who need a bit more than just basic bookkeeping. This software is particularly great for businesses that don't always have reliable internet access since it’s desktop-based, yet it still offers some cloud-connected capabilities.

Key Features

• Advanced Inventory Management: Perfect for businesses that need to keep a close eye on stock levels.
• Comprehensive Reporting: From standard to customizable reports, it's all here.
• Project Tracking: Keep tabs on your projects without breaking a sweat.
• Invoicing: Easily create and manage invoices.
• Business Software Integrations: Works well with payroll, HR, CRM, and more.

Who's It For?

If your business is in construction or manufacturing, Sage 50's advanced inventory management and job costing features are a big win. It's also a strong choice for professional bookkeepers who need robust accounting capabilities.

Despite its power, Sage 50 Accounting isn't for everyone. If you're looking for something mobile-friendly or on a tight budget, it might not be the best fit.

Pricing

Here's a quick look at the pricing tiers:

Keep in mind, these prices are for a single user, and they go up with more users.

Final Thoughts

Sage 50 Accounting is a powerhouse for those who need its advanced features, but its lack of a mobile app and higher cost might steer some towards other options. Still, for those who need its specific strengths, it's a solid choice.

5. Wave

Let's talk about Wave, the go-to accounting app for small businesses on a budget. Wave Accounting is a budget-friendly solution tailored for micro businesses, including those with fewer than 10 employees, contractors, and freelancers, making it ideal for service-based enterprises.

Why Choose Wave?

• Free Core Features: Yes, you heard it right! Wave offers its core accounting features for free. This includes invoicing, accounting, and receipt scanning, which is a huge plus for startups or small businesses looking to cut costs.
• User-Friendly Interface: Wave's interface is clean and easy to navigate, meaning you don't need to be a tech whiz to figure things out. It's designed to make accounting as painless as possible.
• Integrated Payment Processing: While the core features are free, Wave makes its money through payment processing. You can accept credit card and ACH payments directly from your invoices, though there are transaction fees involved.

Perfect for Small Teams

Wave really shines for small teams or solo entrepreneurs who need a straightforward accounting solution without all the bells and whistles. It's especially great for service-based businesses, like consultants or freelancers, who need to track expenses and income without a lot of fuss.

"Wave is like that trusty old car that just keeps on running. It might not have all the luxury features, but it gets you where you need to go without breaking the bank."

Things to Consider

1. Limited Integrations: While Wave covers the basics well, it doesn't offer extensive integrations with other software, which might be a limitation if you're looking for a more connected ecosystem.
2. Customer Support: Wave's support is mostly self-service, with a comprehensive help center. However, if you need to talk to someone, you'll need to pay for premium support.
3. Advanced Features: If you're looking for advanced features like inventory management or time tracking, you might need to look elsewhere or consider additional software.

In short, if you're a small business or freelancer looking for a no-cost way to handle your basic accounting needs, Wave could be just what you're looking for. It's simple, effective, and won't cost you a dime for the essentials.

6. Zoho Books

When it comes to managing finances, Zoho Books stands out as a favorite among small business owners. It's not just about crunching numbers; it's about making accounting a breeze. Let's dive into why Zoho Books is a go-to choice for many.

• User-Friendly Interface: Zoho Books offers an intuitive layout that's easy to navigate, even if you're not a numbers person. This means less time figuring out the software and more time focusing on your business.
• Automation at Its Best: One of the standout features is its ability to automate repetitive tasks. You can set it up to auto-charge for recurring transactions, which saves a ton of time and reduces manual errors.
• Comprehensive Invoicing: Creating invoices is a snap. Zoho Books lets you generate them in seconds, ensuring you get paid faster. Plus, it can automatically send out purchase orders when your stock runs low.
• Advanced Reporting and Analytics: Stay on top of your business performance with detailed reports and analytics. Whether it's tracking sales, expenses, or inventory, Zoho Books has got you covered.
• Mobile Accessibility: Manage your finances on the go with Zoho Books' mobile app. Whether you're at a coffee shop or on a business trip, you can keep tabs on your business from anywhere.

Zoho Books is a powerhouse for small businesses looking to streamline their accounting processes without breaking the bank. With its robust features and affordability, it's a smart choice for any growing business.

Pricing

Here's a quick look at Zoho Books' pricing options:

Zoho Books is especially praised for its user-friendly billing and invoicing features, making it a top pick for many small businesses.

7. Patriot Software Accounting

When it comes to keeping things simple and affordable for small businesses, Patriot Software Accounting really stands out. It's designed with the non-accountant in mind, offering an intuitive interface that doesn't overwhelm you with jargon or complex features. This makes it a top pick for small business owners who want to manage their finances without a steep learning curve.

Key Features

• Affordable Pricing: Patriot Software Accounting is budget-friendly, which is a big plus for startups and small businesses looking to cut costs.
• User-Friendly Interface: The software is straightforward, so you won't need an accounting degree to figure it out.
• Mobile Access: You can handle your accounts on the go, which is super handy if you're often away from your desk.

Limitations

• Limited Features: While it's easy to use, it doesn't have all the bells and whistles some larger businesses might need.
• No Inventory Tracking: If you need to keep tabs on stock, you might want to look elsewhere.
• Basic Reporting: The reports are pretty standard, so if you need detailed financial analysis, you might need extra help.

Patriot Software Accounting is perfect for small businesses that need a straightforward, no-frills accounting solution. It's not about fancy features but about getting the job done efficiently.

Who Should Use It?

If you're running a small business and need an affordable, easy-to-use accounting solution, this might just be the software for you. However, if your business is set to grow rapidly, you might outgrow it quickly. Patriot Accounting is best suited for those who want to keep things simple and cost-effective.

8. NetSuite

NetSuite is a powerhouse when it comes to accounting software for small businesses. It's not just about crunching numbers; it's about making your business life easier. NetSuite's billing and invoicing features are top-notch, with 31% of users praising its ability to streamline and automate billing tasks. This can be a game-changer for small businesses looking to save time and reduce errors.

Key Features:

• Automated tax reporting with a built-in tax engine.
• Systematized close checklists to simplify record-keeping.
• SuitePayments integration for easy payment processing.
• Mobile app access to financial data on the go.

With NetSuite, you're not just buying software; you're investing in a tool that grows with your business. Its scalability means that as your company expands, NetSuite can handle the increased complexity without breaking a sweat.

NetSuite's cloud-based platform means you can access your data from anywhere, anytime. This flexibility is perfect for small business owners who are always on the move. Plus, it integrates seamlessly with other business tools, so you can manage everything from one place.

If you're worried about the learning curve, don't be. While it might seem a bit daunting at first, the payoff is well worth it. And remember, every great tool requires a bit of getting used to. So, if you're ready to take your business accounting to the next level, NetSuite might just be the perfect fit for you.

9. TrulySmall Accounting

When it comes to keeping things simple and efficient, TrulySmall Accounting is a fantastic choice for small business owners. It's designed for the little guys—owner-operators, contractors, and freelancers—who want to streamline their accounting without getting bogged down in complexity.

Key Features

• Free Invoice Generator: TrulySmall offers a handy free invoice generator, making it easier to get paid quickly. You can even set up convenience fees for different payment methods, which is a neat little feature.
• Ready-Made Templates: They provide ready-made templates for forms and reports, saving you time and effort.
• Automatic Bookkeeping: With its double-entry ledger, it organizes your bookkeeping processes automatically, so you don't have to sweat the small stuff.
• Multi-Currency Support: Instantly view transactions and balances in different currencies, all from their mobile app.

Pricing

TrulySmall Accounting is priced at $20 per month, and they offer a free 14-day trial. It's a small price to pay for a big reduction in your accounting headaches.

TrulySmall is perfect for those who want to focus on their business, not their books. It’s like having a personal assistant who never takes a day off.

User Experience

In a comparison of Xero and TrulySmall Accounting, users have noted that TrulySmall's Android app holds a solid rating of 4.3, indicating a generally positive user experience.

If you're looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense accounting tool, TrulySmall is definitely worth considering. It's all about making your life easier, one invoice at a time.

10. Odoo Accounting

Let's talk about Odoo Accounting, the underdog in the world of financial software. It's part of a cloud ERP system that's really tailored for small businesses. What makes it stand out? It's not just about keeping the books; it's about doing it smartly with AI.

Key Features

• Smart Reconciliation: Automatically links invoices to payments. No more manual matching.
• Multi-Company Reports: You can consolidate reports across different companies in one place. Super handy if you're juggling multiple ventures.
• Customer Portal: Clients can track their purchases. It's like giving them a peek behind the curtain.
• Mobile App: Annotate expense reports on the go. Perfect for those always on the move.

Pricing

Odoo lets you try out its accounting app for free, which is pretty cool. If you decide to stick with it, they offer a Standard Plan at $9.10 per user per month, and a Custom Plan at $13.60 per user per month.

We love how Odoo integrates with other apps like Inventory, Expenses, and Sales to make business operations smoother. It's like having a whole team of assistants in one app.

Odoo is ideal for those who want a bit more than just accounting. It's about managing everything, from customer relationships to inventory, all in one spot. If you're a small business owner looking for a comprehensive tool, Odoo might just be your new best friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes accounting software important for small businesses?

Accounting software helps small business owners keep track of their money, manage expenses, and prepare for tax time. It automates many of the boring tasks like data entry and report generation, making it easier to focus on growing the business.

How do I choose the right accounting software for my business?

Choosing the right accounting software depends on your business needs. Look for software that fits your budget, is easy to use, and offers features that can grow with your business. Consider whether it integrates with other tools you use.

Can accounting software help with taxes?

Yes, many accounting software programs can help with taxes by organizing your financial information and generating reports you can use to prepare your tax returns or share with your accountant.