If you’re not sure how much you’re making after expenses, you’re flying blind. Software helps you understand the real numbers—revenue, costs, margins—so you can price smarter and grow faster. Accounting software sends invoices automatically, tracks payments, and reminds clients—so nothing falls through the cracks. One day you’re managing the team, the next you’re chasing invoices or sorting through receipts.
Top 10 business accounting software for startups in 2025
If your bookkeeping has fallen down the priority list in recent months (we get it!), a dedicated cleanup service will help ensure everything gets back on track. We rate QuickBooks Live for one-time cleanup bookkeeping, as your finances will be in top shape come tax filing season, when you’re ready to apply for a loan or looking for financial reports. Ignite Spot Accounting is an all-in-one solution for small businesses looking to bring on accounting experts to help balance their books. The direct help will get you a cash flow forecast, custom KPI report and break-even analysis.
Best for startups already using Zoho’s ecosystem or those seeking an affordable, integrated solution.
The online version gives you access from anywhere, plus you get access to the faster loading Android and iOS mobile apps. Airwallex is a fintech platform that helps you manage your business’s money more efficiently with payment acceptance, FX/multi-currency wallets, global accounts, and corporate cards. Xero (or a similar solution) is designed for managing https://www.citybiz.co/article/785736/the-real-value-of-accounting-services-for-startups/ your books, including invoicing, reporting, and compliance.
Create Xero invoices for new Shopify paid orders
Striven is unusually well suited to organizations that operate using grants, restricted funds or donor-driven projects. What differentiates it from standard cloud accounting solutions is its built-in fund accounting module. This feature is not a third-party plugin, but a core platform component that helps maintain compliance and financial visibility over segregated resources. FreshBooks is one of the few cloud accounting software platforms that includes time tracking on all its plans. Accounting software can play a significant role in streamlining cash flow management.
- These free accounting software plans are typically reserved for very small businesses, freelancers or those needing only basic invoicing and expense tracking.
- Long gone are the days of a book keeper using Quickbooks on their desktop, being siloed from the rest of the business’s IT infrastructure.
- Our account management team is staffed by CPAs and accountants who have, on average, 11 years of experience.
- FreshBooks is one of the easiest accounting platforms I’ve used, and that simplicity is what makes it such a smart choice for remote teams.
- It is like having an extra pair of eyes that catches weird general ledger entries that I used to only find during the stressful month-end close.
- Choosing the right small business accounting software isn’t just about balancing the books—it’s about building a foundation for smarter decisions, smoother operations, and sustainable growth.
Business Accounting Software Cons
- An accounting software for startups is a vital resource, providing entrepreneurs with the tools they need to streamline financial management and drive business growth.
- AccountEdge is a desktop accounting software designed for startups and small to medium-sized businesses.
- Ignite Spot Accounting is an all-in-one solution for small businesses looking to bring on accounting experts to help balance their books.
- This all-in-one accounting software for startups integrates core accounting features, including invoicing, expense tracking, and bank reconciliation.
- Unlike other options, you can add the company’s vehicles to the app and then pin mileage to each one, an interesting feature if you have a whole fleet at your disposal.
- You can deploy it on-premise or online (self-hosted or third-party).
Compared to traditional spreadsheets, accounting software significantly reduces the risk of errors, automates repetitive tasks, and provides a clearer financial picture to support decision-making. We also like the value that 1-800Accountant provides a full-service bookkeeping option for a reasonable $209 per month. You’ll get features including personalized financial planning, quarterly reviews, and proactive tax planning and advice. Not every online bookkeeping service is the same, and ultimately, what makes sense for each small business will differ. Let’s take a look at the features you should consider when picking what makes the most sense for your venture.
So, eventually, the companies get so complicated that it’s time for them to switch to NetSuite. Wave’s smart dashboard organizes your income, expenses, payments, and invoices. Transactions will appear in your bookkeeping automatically, and you’ll say goodbye to manual receipt entry.
How To Choose the Best Online Bookkeeping Service
QuickBooks’ payment processing services are criticized for frequent delays and a lack of transparency. Customer service is noted as being difficult to reach and often unhelpful. However, users also report recurring bugs, poor customer support and dissatisfaction with the high cost of adding users and features.
Its multi-user capabilities facilitate collaborative financial management, while inventory tracking and management features enhance control over stock. Mentioned in the Forbes Best Accounting Software 2025 list, AccountEdge boasts that customers save an average of up to 55% compared to other accounting software The Real Value of Accounting Services for Startups for startups. The software’s robust reporting tools provide insights into income, accounting reports, and overall financial health. NetSuite ERP streamlines financial operations, offering comprehensive modules for accounting, invoicing, and expense management.
