QuickBooks Online is a big name in the accounting world, and for good reason. We think it's a solid choice, especially if you're running a small business and need something that can grow with you. It's got a ton of features, and it's pretty user-friendly, which is always a plus.
One thing we really like is that QuickBooks Online has valuable accounting software features, including invoicing, expense tracking, and cash flow management. Plus, they're always updating the platform with new stuff, like AI integration. It's cool to see them staying ahead of the curve.
We've been using QuickBooks Online for a while now, and it's made our lives so much easier. The reporting tools are great, and we love that we can access it from anywhere. It's definitely worth checking out if you're looking for accounting software.
Here's a quick rundown of what we think are the best parts:
Of course, it's not perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that it can be tricky to upgrade from the Solopreneur plan. So, if you think your business might grow, you might want to start with a Simple Start plan or higher. Also, you need separate subscriptions for each business you run, and the plans limit the number of users who can access the software. But overall, we think it's a great option.
QuickBooks Online is a popular choice, and you'll find lots of integrations with other business tools. It's a good way to manage your business's cash flow and stay on top of your finances.
FreshBooks is another solid option we've been checking out. It's really popular with freelancers and small businesses, especially those who need to send invoices and track time. Let's get into the details.
FreshBooks is known for its user-friendly interface and focuses on making invoicing and expense tracking super easy. It's designed to help you get paid faster, which is always a plus. We've found that its features are pretty robust for what most consultants need.
Here's a quick rundown of what we like:
One thing we appreciate about FreshBooks is its focus on customer service. They seem to really care about helping their users, which can be a lifesaver when you're stuck on something.
It's not perfect, though. Some users have mentioned that it can get a bit pricey if you need to add a lot of team members. Also, it doesn't have some of the more advanced features that you might find in other accounting software, like inventory management. But for many consultants, the simplicity and ease of use make it a great choice. FreshBooks offers excellent phone support accounting software.
Okay, let's talk about Xero. We've been playing around with it, and honestly, it's pretty solid. It's designed to grow with your business, which is a huge plus if you're planning for the long haul. Xero offers a ton of integrations with other business apps – over 1,000, apparently! That's great because as consultants, we often need our accounting software to play nice with all sorts of other tools.
One thing we really liked was the dashboard. It's clean, customizable, and easy to get around, even if you're not an accounting whiz. Xero also has some cool features for bill management and bookkeeping. Plus, they seem to offer discounts pretty often, which is always a win.
Here's a quick rundown of what we've found:
Xero is great for small businesses that want to make supplier payments easier and like seeing data in a visual way. The at-a-glance reporting is a nice touch.
Of course, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Project tracking is only available on the most expensive plan, which is a bummer. And if you're someone who likes to pick up the phone for support, you might be out of luck. But overall, Xero is a strong contender, especially if you value a user-friendly interface and lots of integrations. It's definitely worth checking out if you're looking to streamline your supplier payments and get a better handle on your finances.
Zoho Books is another solid option we've been checking out. It's got a lot going for it, especially if you're looking for something that won't completely drain your bank account. It's known for being pretty flexible and affordable, which is always a plus in our book.
One thing that stands out is their automation. It seems like Zoho Books really tries to make things easier by automating a bunch of financial processes. We're talking workflow tools, invoice reminders, and even in-app notifications. Plus, if you're into that kind of thing, you can create custom functions using their scripting language. It's pretty cool.
They also have decent customer service, which is a big deal. You can get in touch with them through email, phone, or live chat, and they're available 24/7 from Monday to Friday. That's way more accessible than some other accounting software out there. You can visit Zoho Books to learn more about their features.
Here's a quick rundown of some pros and cons:
Zoho Books can be a helpful tool for basic non-profit accounting. However, its inadequate grant management features necessitate the use of additional tools. You might need to look into other options if you need robust grant management. Consider exploring other accounting software if this is a concern.
Overall, Zoho Books seems like a pretty good choice, especially if you're a small business owner who wants something affordable with decent automation features. It's definitely worth checking out to see if it fits your needs.
Wave is another popular choice, especially since it offers a completely free version for basic accounting needs. We've found it's a solid option if you're just starting out and want to keep costs down. It's pretty straightforward to use, which is a big plus when you're already juggling a million things.
With Wave, you can track your income and expenses, send out invoices, and even manage your banking. It's designed for small businesses, so it's not going to have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive options, but it covers the essentials pretty well. The free plan includes unlimited invoicing, accounting, and banking.
One thing we appreciate about Wave is its user-friendly interface. It doesn't feel overwhelming, even if you're not an accounting expert. Plus, the fact that it's free makes it a really attractive option for consultants who are just getting their businesses off the ground.
Here's a quick rundown of what Wave offers:
However, keep in mind that if you need payroll services or more advanced features, you'll have to pay extra. Also, customer support can be a bit slow at times. But overall, Wave Accounting is a decent choice if you're looking for a free and simple accounting solution. It's also a great option for smaller entities due to its free and user-friendly features. Key considerations include the software's capabilities in invoicing, accounting, and payroll, as well as the availability of training and support resources. Adequate training ensures that treasurers can effectively manage finances, making it crucial to select a vendor that offers treasurer software comprehensive assistance.
Odoo is one of those platforms that tries to do everything, and honestly, it gets pretty close. We've been playing around with it, and it's kind of mind-blowing how many different apps and modules they pack into one system. It's not just accounting; it's CRM, inventory, manufacturing, and a whole bunch more.
One thing we noticed is that Odoo can be a bit overwhelming at first. There's a steep learning curve, especially if you're only used to basic accounting software. But once you get the hang of it, it's incredibly powerful. The modular approach means you can pick and choose the features you need, which is great for consultants who want to scale their operations without getting bogged down in unnecessary complexity. Odoo ERP is praised for its comprehensive all-in-one solution.
The pricing can be a little tricky, as it depends on which apps you use and how many users you have. It's definitely worth doing a deep dive into their pricing structure to make sure it fits your budget. Also, while Odoo is powerful, it might be overkill for very small consulting businesses that only need basic accounting functions. But if you're looking for a system that can grow with you and handle a wide range of business processes, Odoo is definitely worth considering. Odoo is a highly regarded business software solution.
Here's a quick rundown of why we think Odoo could be a good fit for consultants:
We've found that Sage Business Cloud Accounting is a solid option, especially if you're looking for something that bridges the gap between desktop and cloud solutions. It's one of the few that still offers a desktop version, which can be a lifesaver if your internet is spotty. But, it also lets you store your data in the cloud, so you can work remotely. Let's get into the details.
Cash flow management is definitely one of Sage's strong suits. It gives you the tools you need to keep a close eye on your money coming in and going out.
Sage 50 includes everything that modern business owners need to track their finances.
One thing to keep in mind is that the user interface can feel a bit dated compared to some of the newer, cloud-native options. Also, it can be more expensive than pure cloud-based solutions, and it doesn't have as many integrations as some of its competitors. If you're looking for a QuickBooks Online alternative, it's worth considering all your options.
Okay, let's talk about Kashoo. We've been checking out a bunch of accounting software, and Kashoo is one that often comes up, especially for small businesses. It's not as flashy as some of the others, but it gets the job done. Kashoo is designed with simplicity in mind, which can be a huge plus if you're not an accounting whiz.
One thing we noticed is that Kashoo really focuses on the essentials. It's got your basic invoicing, expense tracking, and reporting features covered. It's pretty straightforward to set up and use, which is great if you don't want to spend hours learning a complicated system. Simplicity is key here.
Here's a quick rundown of what we like:
Kashoo might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive options, but it's a solid choice if you need something simple and affordable to manage your business finances. It's worth considering if you're just starting out and want to keep things as uncomplicated as possible. Plus, users appreciate the strong support and clean design of the platform.
Okay, let's talk about FreeAgent. We've been playing around with it, and honestly, it's got some cool stuff going on. It's definitely aimed at smaller businesses and freelancers, which is great if that's you.
One thing we noticed is that it's pretty user-friendly. The interface is clean, and it's not too hard to figure out where everything is. That's a big plus in our book because nobody wants to spend hours just trying to understand how to use their accounting software. We think that FreeAgent is effective for small businesses.
Here's a quick rundown of what we like:
FreeAgent is a solid choice if you're looking for something straightforward and easy to get started with. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the bigger players, but it gets the job done without being overwhelming.
Of course, no software is perfect. We did find a few things that could be better. For example, the reporting features are a little basic. If you need really in-depth reports, you might find it lacking. Also, it's not the cheapest option out there, so that's something to keep in mind. When you compare accounting software, make sure to check the pricing.
Overall, we think FreeAgent is a decent option, especially if you value simplicity and ease of use. It's worth checking out if you're a freelancer or small business owner who wants to keep your accounting simple.
Invoice Ninja is another contender that we've been keeping an eye on. It's designed with freelancers and small businesses in mind, especially those who need robust invoicing capabilities. We've found it particularly useful for creating professional-looking invoices and managing clients. It's a solid choice if invoicing is your primary concern.
Invoice Ninja stands out with its focus on automation and customization. You can set up recurring invoices, automate payment reminders, and even create custom invoice designs to match your brand. Plus, it integrates with a bunch of payment gateways, making it easy for your clients to pay you, which is always a win. After years of manual invoicing, Invoice Ninja simplifies the invoicing process, allowing users to manage numbers, layouts, and clients efficiently.
Here's a quick rundown of what we like about Invoice Ninja:
We've noticed that Invoice Ninja's interface can feel a bit overwhelming at first, especially if you're used to simpler accounting software. But once you get the hang of it, the features it offers are pretty powerful.
GoDaddy Bookkeeping is an interesting option, especially if you're already using GoDaddy for other services. It's designed with simplicity in mind, which can be a real plus if you're not an accounting expert. We've found it's particularly appealing to sole proprietors and very small businesses that need a straightforward way to track income and expenses.
It's not as feature-rich as some of the other options we've discussed, like QuickBooks Online, but its ease of use can be a major selling point.
The main draw of GoDaddy Bookkeeping is its integration with GoDaddy's other services. If you're already managing your website and domain through GoDaddy, having your bookkeeping integrated can streamline your workflow.
Here's what we think are the key benefits:
However, it's worth noting some potential drawbacks. For example, it might not scale well as your business grows, and it lacks some of the advanced features found in other accounting software. If you need robust reporting or seamless app integrations, you might want to consider alternatives. Overall, GoDaddy Bookkeeping is a solid choice for very small businesses that prioritize simplicity and integration with GoDaddy's ecosystem. It's a good starting point for basic bookkeeping needs.
OneUp is interesting because it aims to integrate inventory management with accounting, which is pretty cool if you're dealing with physical products. It's designed to help small businesses manage their sales, inventory, and accounting all in one place. We think it's worth a look if you're struggling to keep track of stock while also trying to manage your finances.
OneUp's pricing can vary depending on the features and the number of users you need. The Ultimate plan allows up to 15 users, but adding more will cost you extra. The free plan allows for up to 1,000 transactions per year, while the paid plans can handle up to 100,000 transactions annually. This makes it scalable for growing businesses.
OneUp could be a solid choice if you need to manage both your inventory and accounting in one system. It's especially useful if you're tired of juggling multiple platforms and want something that brings everything together.
Here's a quick rundown of what OneUp offers:
When choosing accounting software, it's important to consider how an online accounting consultant can help you maximize its potential. Also, remember to explore the top accounting software options available to find the best fit for your business needs.
ZipBooks is another option we should consider. It's got a good range of features, and it's designed to be user-friendly, which is always a plus.
ZipBooks offers a free plan, which is great if we're just starting out and want to keep costs down. However, the paid plans unlock more advanced features as we grow. It's worth checking out to see if it fits our specific needs. Accounting software can be a game changer.
ZipBooks is known for its invoicing and reporting capabilities, which can help us stay on top of our finances and make informed decisions. It's definitely worth a look if we need something that's both affordable and feature-rich.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
ZipBooks offers a large feature catalog for those who need it. We can also look at other top accounting software options to compare.
AccountEdge is a solid option if you're looking for desktop accounting software. It's not cloud-based like many of the others we've looked at, but that can be a plus for some businesses. We've found that some consultants prefer having their data stored locally, and AccountEdge caters to that need.
It's got a pretty comprehensive feature set, covering everything from general ledger to sales and purchases. We've used it for inventory management in the past, and it handled things pretty well. It's definitely more robust than some of the simpler, cloud-only options.
One thing to keep in mind is that because it's desktop software, you're tied to a specific computer. We've had to deal with that limitation before, and it can be a bit of a pain if you need to access your data from multiple locations. However, they do offer a cloud-based add-on for remote access, but it comes at an extra cost.
We think AccountEdge is a good choice if you need a powerful, desktop-based accounting solution and don't mind the limitations that come with it. It's not the flashiest software out there, but it gets the job done.
Here's a quick rundown of some of the things we like about AccountEdge:
If you're considering AccountEdge, we recommend checking out their free trial to see if it fits your needs. It's always best to get hands-on experience before committing to any accounting software. Remember to consider essential features when making your choice.
Okay, let's talk about Billy. We've been checking out a bunch of accounting software, and Billy is one that's been popping up a lot, especially for freelancers and small businesses. It seems pretty straightforward, which is a big plus in our book. No one wants to spend hours trying to figure out how to send an invoice, right?
Billy by Ageras targets small businesses, self-employed individuals, and freelancers. It's designed to be intuitive, which is great if you're not an accounting expert. We all know how confusing accounting can get, so anything that simplifies the process is a win.
Here's what we've gathered about Billy:
We think Billy is a solid option if you're looking for something simple and easy to use. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive software, but it gets the job done, especially if you're just starting out. Plus, the AI-powered invoice processing can really speed things up.
Overall, we think Billy is worth checking out if you're in the market for accounting software that won't break the bank and is easy to learn.
Pandle is another option we're looking at for consultants in 2025. It's designed to be user-friendly, especially for those who aren't accounting experts. We've found that its simplicity can be a real advantage for solo consultants or small firms who need to manage their finances without a steep learning curve.
Pandle offers a free plan, which is pretty cool if you're just starting out and want to keep costs down. It includes features like bank reconciliation, income and expense tracking, and basic reporting. For more advanced features, like multiple users and project tracking, you'll need to upgrade to a paid plan. We think it's worth checking out to see if it fits your needs.
Pandle's interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate. The software automates many tasks, such as bank feeds and invoice creation, which saves time and reduces the risk of errors. It also offers good customer support, with helpful resources and responsive assistance.
Here's a quick rundown of what Pandle brings to the table:
We think Pandle is a solid choice, especially if you value simplicity and affordability. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive options, but it gets the job done for many consultants. You can read Pandle reviews to see what other users are saying. When considering QuickBooks and Pandle, think about the features that are most important to your consulting business.
Brightbook is another free accounting software option that's worth considering, especially if you're just starting out. We've found it to be pretty straightforward, which is a big plus when you're trying to wrap your head around small business accounting. It's not packed with features like some of the paid options, but it covers the basics well.
One of the things we appreciate about Brightbook is its simplicity. It's designed to be user-friendly, so you don't need to be an accounting expert to get started. You can easily manage your invoices, track your expenses, and generate reports. It's a solid choice if you need free accounting software and don't want to be overwhelmed by a complicated interface.
Brightbook is particularly useful for freelancers or very small businesses that need a simple, no-frills accounting solution. It might not scale as well as some of the other options, but it's a great way to get your finances in order without spending any money.
Here's a quick rundown of what Brightbook offers:
Brightbook's free plan is ideal for those with limited accounting needs. If you find that you need more advanced features down the road, you can always upgrade to a paid plan or switch to a different software. But for many small businesses, Brightbook provides a solid foundation for managing their finances. It's especially useful for very small businesses that need to keep costs down.
GnuCash is an interesting option, especially since it's free and open-source. For consultants watching their bottom line, that price tag is pretty appealing. It's not the flashiest software out there, but it gets the job done, particularly if you're comfortable with a bit of a learning curve. Let's take a closer look.
GnuCash might not have all the bells and whistles of paid software, but it's a powerful tool for managing your finances if you're willing to put in the time to learn it. It's especially good for those who like to tinker and customize their software.
One thing to keep in mind is that GnuCash might not be as intuitive as some of the more user-friendly options like QuickBooks or FreshBooks. However, the price is right, and it offers a lot of functionality for those willing to learn. It's a solid choice if you need accounting software and don't want to spend a fortune. For freelancers and small business owners, it's worth checking out to see if it fits your needs.
MYOB Essentials is another option we've explored, and it's worth considering, especially if you're already familiar with the MYOB ecosystem. It's designed to be a straightforward, user-friendly accounting solution, which can be a real plus if you're not an accounting whiz.
One of the things we appreciate about MYOB Essentials is its focus on the basics. It covers the core accounting functions you'd expect, like invoicing, expense tracking, and bank reconciliation. It's not overloaded with features you might never use, which can make it less intimidating than some of the more complex software out there. For a reliable accounting solution, MYOB Business is a solid choice.
Here's a quick rundown of what MYOB Essentials brings to the table:
MYOB Essentials is a good fit if you need a simple, no-frills accounting solution that gets the job done. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the other options, but it's a solid choice for consultants who want to keep their accounting simple and manageable.
While MYOB Essentials might not be the flashiest option, its simplicity and focus on core accounting functions make it a contender for consultants who value ease of use and a straightforward approach. For small businesses, QuickBooks Online is a great option.
TallyPrime is a popular accounting solution, especially in certain regions. We've found that it's known for its comprehensive features and ability to handle complex accounting tasks. It's designed to cater to businesses of various sizes, offering a range of functionalities from basic accounting to inventory management and statutory compliance. It's a desktop application, but with features that allow for cloud connectivity.
One thing to keep in mind is that while TallyPrime is feature-rich, it might have a steeper learning curve compared to some of the more user-friendly, cloud-based options we've discussed. However, for businesses needing robust, on-premise accounting with advanced capabilities, it's definitely worth considering. If you are looking for an excellent accounting software, TallyPrime might be the one for you.
TallyPrime is a solid choice if you need a powerful, on-premise accounting solution, but be prepared to invest time in learning its ins and outs. It's not as intuitive as some cloud-based options, but its comprehensive features can be a major asset for businesses with complex accounting needs.
Here are some of the things that TallyPrime offers:
Aplos is accounting software tailored for nonprofits. We've found it particularly useful for organizations that need to track donations and manage funds with specific restrictions. It's designed to be user-friendly, which is a big plus if you're not an accounting expert. Aplos helps nonprofits stay organized and compliant.
Aplos is a solid choice if your nonprofit needs a dedicated accounting solution that understands the unique challenges of nonprofit finance. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more general accounting software, but it makes up for it with its focus on nonprofit needs. We think you should check out APLOS is a user-friendly software if you are a nonprofit.
LessAccounting is one of those tools that tries to keep things super simple. It's designed for small businesses that don't want to get bogged down in complicated accounting jargon. We've found it's particularly useful if you're just starting out and need something straightforward to manage your finances.
One of the things we appreciate about LessAccounting is its focus on automation. It automates tasks like invoice creation and expense tracking, which can save a lot of time. However, it's worth noting that it might not have all the advanced features that larger or more established businesses need. It's more of a basic tool, but that's exactly what some people are looking for.
Here's a quick rundown of what LessAccounting offers:
LessAccounting is a solid choice if you need something simple and easy to use. It's not packed with features, but it covers the essentials for small business accounting. If you find yourself needing more advanced capabilities down the road, you can always switch to a more robust solution.
For those who need affordable online accounting software, LessAccounting is worth considering. It's a no-frills option that gets the job done without overwhelming you with unnecessary complexity. It's all about keeping accounting simple and accessible.
CloudBooks is another option we've explored, and it's got some interesting things going for it. It aims to be an all-in-one solution, which can be appealing if you're trying to consolidate your tools. Let's get into the details.
CloudBooks tries to stand out with its project management features integrated directly into the accounting software. This means you can track time, manage tasks, and invoice clients all in one place. For consultants juggling multiple projects, this could be a real time-saver. It's not perfect, but it's worth a look if you value that integration.
Here's a quick rundown of what we think are the key features:
CloudBooks aims to simplify the entire process from project initiation to payment collection. It's designed to help consultants stay organized and efficient, potentially reducing the need for multiple separate apps.
While it offers a lot, it's important to consider whether the integration is worth it for your specific needs. Some users find that the individual components aren't as robust as dedicated software. For example, if you need very advanced project management, you might still prefer a separate tool like Asana or Trello. Similarly, for complex accounting needs, consider bookkeeping software like QuickBooks might be a better fit. It really depends on the balance you're looking for between convenience and depth of features.
Ultimately, CloudBooks is worth considering if you're looking for a streamlined, all-in-one solution, but be sure to weigh its strengths and weaknesses against your specific consulting business needs. For those seeking stress-free financial management, exploring the best accounting apps might also be beneficial.
SlickPie is another option we're looking at for consultants. It aims to be a user-friendly solution, especially for small businesses and freelancers. Let's see what it brings to the table.
SlickPie's focus seems to be on simplicity and ease of use. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some of the more robust options, but it could be a good fit if you're looking for something straightforward. It's worth checking out their free plan to see if it meets your basic needs. Remember to explore the best accounting tools for your business to make an informed decision.
We should also consider how it stacks up against other free bookkeeping options out there. Compare free options to see what fits your needs.
Okay, so we've covered a bunch of the big names and some solid contenders in the accounting software world. But guess what? The list doesn't stop there! There are tons of other options out there, each with its own quirks and features. Finding the right fit really depends on your specific consulting business and what you need to get done.
We're talking about software like:
It's easy to get lost in the sea of options. Don't be afraid to try out free trials and demos. See what feels right for you and your team. Consider things like ease of use, pricing, and whether it integrates with other tools you already use.
And hey, don't forget to check out some of the smaller, niche players too. You might just find a hidden gem that perfectly fits your consulting style. For example, if you are looking for expert assistance, consider QuickBooks Live Bookkeeper.
Here's a quick comparison of user limits for some popular platforms:
If you’re looking for even more great tips and resources, don’t forget to check out our website! We have plenty of helpful information waiting for you. Visit us today and discover what you’ve been missing!
Some of the top accounting software for consultants in the U.S. are QuickBooks Online, FreshBooks, Zoho Books, and Xero. These programs have features that help consultants with things like invoicing, tracking time, and managing clients.
The best accounting software for service providers depends on what they need. For example, QuickBooks Online is great for tracking time and managing projects, while FreshBooks is known for being easy to use and has strong invoicing tools. It's important to look at what features matter most for your consulting work.
Yes, there are some good free accounting software options like Wave and ZipBooks. They may not have all the advanced features of paid software, but they can be a good choice for consultants who are just starting out or have a tight budget.