Finding the right accounting software for your business can be a tough decision. Software that works for one company, might not work for the other. A great deal of finding the right fit depends on the size of the company, the income flow, level of experience of the individual completing the accounting duties, and company budget. If you have a new business, you might want to try a few programs before you find the right one for you. Below are 5 of the more popular easy-to-use programs in the small business realm, and each offer their own special features for various needs.
1. SlickPie
SlickPie is an online accounting software program that is tailored for smaller businesses. The software is completely online, making it accessible from almost anywhere. It offers online invoices, allowing the user to either use one of the pre-set themes or offering a program that allows users to customize the look of their invoices. Along with online invoicing, the program offers online billing and document management. Through SlickPie, users can produce financial reports to monitor business growth. The software also offers tax management services. Another plus is cost, as it is completely free.
SlickPie relies on automation, offering features that allow companies to send out automatic payment reminders and auto-invoices. SlickPie is also the only no-cost accounting program to offer automated data entry, through its tool, MagicBot.
2. QuickBooks Online
A product of Intuit, QuickBooks has long been heralded as the go-to accounting software for small businesses. Two different versions of QuickBooks exist, including an online format, as well as a licensed version. The program offers easy, online access to all of your customers, vendors, and employee records.
Any user who purchases the online version of QuickBooks has access to free customer service as well. You can test out the program through a 30-day free trial and, after the trial expires, at a minimal monthly cost.
QuickBooks offers accounts payable and accounts receivable services. Users can also send out billing and invoicing to customers online. Unlike other accounting software programs, collections and fixed asset management are also offered. Additionally, QuickBooks also provides cash management.
3. Sage 50
Formally known as Sage Peachtree, Sage 50 is an accounting program commonly used by small to mid-sized businesses. The program offers accounts payable and accounts receivable services, bank reconciliation, and cash management. Users can also bill and invoice directly to customers through online services. Payroll and employee management is another feature of the program and is widely used by smaller and mid-sized businesses.
The program also allows the users to create and maintain a general business ledger. Sage comes at a monthly cost of $29.95 per month, with customer service being a part of this cost.
4. Kashoo
Kashoo is an accounting software program offered through the Apple App Store for iPad, iPhone, and web use. The format of this program is through the cloud and is widely used by smaller businesses already using any Apple product. The program allows small business owners to send invoices, manage finances, enter in expenses, and generate reports from the comfort of their own mobile device.
Accounts receivable and accounts payable are available through Kashoo, as well as cash management, CPA firms, and bank reconciliation. Users will be able to track expenses and income, and they will also be able to bill and invoice customers directly online. Payroll services are available, as well as spend and tax management services. One especially unique feature is Kashoo’s ability to enter handle multi-currency expenses.
Apple does offer a free trial for this program, with the starting monthly cost of $12.95 per month. Training is offered live online as well as through webinar format. Support is available online during business hours.
5. Xero
Xero is a program that both small business owners and accountants utilize. This online program can be utilized through mobile devices, like Kashoo, as well as via computer.
Users can process invoices and send out billing statements directly online. These can be done through pre-set templates or custom creation. You can handle payroll, including payroll taxes through the program. Xero does also have the capability to convert data directly from QuickBooks. Over 500 tools are available to allow the user to customize the program to their company’s specific needs.
Users can also reconcile multiple bank or credit accounts. Data is offered through a single ledger, which is a feature that makes it easy for users and accountants to collaborate and work together. Xero also supports multiple currencies.
Conclusion
It is not a “one size fits all” concept. Research your options, test what works for you, and you will find the right fit for your company. Take advantage of the free trials and demos out there, as well as reviews found all over the Web. Connect with other business owners in your line of work and see what works for them. However, most importantly, look at what features you need and what features you do not need. Line up those needs with one of the programs above, and you will find the right one for you.
