Best Online Accounting Software for Small Business in 2023

When it comes to managing the financial aspects of a business, having a reliable online accounting software can make a world of difference. Online accounting software offers numerous benefits, such as automating tasks, simplifying bookkeeping processes, and providing real-time financial insights. In this article, I’ll provide you with an overview of some of the best online accounting software options available for small businesses. If you are ready, let’s go.

Online Accounting Software for Small Business
Online Accounting Software for Small Business

What is Online Accounting Software?

Online accounting software refers to a digital tool or application that helps businesses manage their financial transactions, bookkeeping, and overall accounting processes. It operates on the cloud, allowing users to access their financial data from anywhere with an internet connection.

Online accounting software eliminates the need for manual paperwork and provides a centralized platform for organizing and tracking financial information. It typically offers a range of features such as invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, financial reporting, payroll management, and tax preparation.

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Features of Online Accounting Software for Small Business

Below are the key features of online accounting software include:

1. Invoicing and Billing:

The software enables users to create and send professional invoices to clients, track payment statuses, and automate recurring invoices.

2. Expense Tracking:

Users can record and categorize business expenses, link them to specific projects or clients, and generate expense reports for better financial analysis.

3. Bank Reconciliation:

The software can automatically import bank transactions and help reconcile them with the corresponding records, ensuring accuracy and saving time.

4. Financial Reporting:

Users can generate various reports, such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and customizable reports to gain insights into their business’s financial health.

5. Tax Management:

Online accounting software often includes tax-related features, such as calculating sales tax, generating tax reports, and simplifying tax preparation.

6. Integration with Third-Party Applications:

Many accounting software options integrate with other business tools like payment gateways, payroll systems, inventory management software, and customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, enhancing efficiency and workflow.

7. Collaboration and Multi-User Access:

Online accounting software allows multiple users, such as business owners, accountants, and team members, to access and collaborate on financial data simultaneously.

Benefits of Using Online Accounting Software

The benefits of using online accounting software include:

  • Improved accuracy,
  • Time savings,
  • Enhanced organization,
  • Streamlined processes,
  • Real-time data access,
  • Scalability, and
  • Data security.

Overall, online accounting software simplifies financial management for small businesses, empowering them to make informed decisions, maintain compliance, and focus on growing their ventures.

List of Best Online Accounting Software for small business

Here’s a list of the best online accounting software for small businesses:

  1. QuickBooks Online
  2. Xero
  3. Zoho Books
  4. Wave
  5. FreshBooks
  6. Sage Business Cloud Accounting
  7. Kashoo
  8. FreeAgent
  9. Nutcache
  10. OneUp

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Top Online Accounting Software for small business

1. QuickBooks Online

QuickBooks Online is a widely recognized and highly regarded online accounting software for small businesses. Developed by Intuit, QuickBooks Online offers a range of features and tools to help streamline financial management processes. Some key features of QuickBooks Online include:

  1. Invoicing: Create and send professional invoices to customers, track payment status, and set up recurring invoices.
  2. Expense Tracking: Record and categorize expenses, track business purchases, and link expenses to specific projects or clients.
  3. Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank accounts to automatically import and reconcile transactions, ensuring accuracy and saving time.
  4. Financial Reporting: Generate reports such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements to gain insights into your business’s financial health.
  5. Sales Tax Management: Calculate and track sales tax, automate tax reporting, and easily prepare tax filings.
  6. Integrations: QuickBooks Online integrates with various third-party applications and tools such as payment processors, payroll services, and CRM systems.
  7. Multi-User Access: Collaborate with your accountant or team members by providing them with access to your QuickBooks Online account.
  8. Mobile Access: Access your financial data and perform essential tasks using the QuickBooks Online mobile app on your smartphone or tablet.

QuickBooks Online offers different pricing plans to cater to various business needs, ranging from basic features for self-employed individuals to more advanced capabilities for growing businesses. It’s important to explore the specific features and pricing details to choose the most suitable plan for your small business.

Xeno Online Accounting Software

Xero is a popular cloud-based accounting software designed for small businesses. It offers a comprehensive set of features and tools to simplify financial management. Some key features of Xero include:

  • Invoicing: Create and customize professional invoices, track payments, and set up automated invoice reminders.
  • Expense Tracking: Capture and categorize expenses, reconcile bank transactions, and track spending.
  • Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank accounts to automatically import and reconcile transactions, ensuring accuracy and saving time.
  • Financial Reporting: Generate reports such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements to gain insights into your business’s financial performance.
  • Payroll Management: Calculate and process employee payroll, including tax deductions and direct deposits (available in select countries).
  • Inventory Management: Track and manage inventory levels, including stock control and tracking the cost of goods sold.
  • Integrations: Xero integrates with a wide range of third-party apps and services, including payment processors, point-of-sale systems, and CRM tools.
  • Multi-Currency Support: Conduct business in multiple currencies, track foreign exchange gains and losses, and manage international transactions.
  • Collaboration: Collaborate with your accountant or team members by providing them with access to your Xero account and setting different permission levels.
  • Mobile Access: Access Xero on the go with the mobile app, available for iOS and Android devices.

Xero offers various pricing plans, depending on the needs and size of your business. It’s important to explore the specific features and pricing details to choose the most suitable plan for your business. Xero’s user-friendly interface and extensive feature set make it a popular choice for small businesses looking for efficient and effective accounting software.

Zoho Books Online Accounting Software

Zoho Books is an online accounting software designed for small businesses to efficiently manage their financial processes. It offers a range of features to simplify bookkeeping, invoicing, and financial reporting. Here are some key features of Zoho Books:

  1. Invoicing: Create professional invoices, customize templates, and send them to customers. Track payment status and send automated payment reminders.
  2. Expense Tracking: Record and categorize business expenses, attach receipts, and track reimbursable expenses. Keep a track of vendor bills and easily reconcile payments.
  3. Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank and credit card accounts to automatically import transactions. Reconcile bank statements and ensure accurate bookkeeping.
  4. Financial Reporting: Generate various financial reports such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Gain insights into your business’s financial health.
  5. Inventory Management: Track and manage your inventory levels, monitor stock movements, and get alerts for low stock. Keep track of stock valuation and streamline purchase orders.
  6. Time Tracking: Record billable hours for projects and track employee timesheets. Easily bill clients based on the time worked.
  7. Sales Tax Management: Manage sales tax calculations, set up tax rates, and generate sales tax reports. Ensure compliance with tax regulations.
  8. Multi-Currency Support: Conduct business in multiple currencies, record transactions in different currencies, and handle exchange rate fluctuations.
  9. Collaboration: Collaborate with your accountant, team members, or clients by providing access to your Zoho Books account. Set user roles and permissions to control access.
  10. Integrations: Zoho Books integrates with other Zoho applications as well as third-party tools such as payment gateways, CRM systems, and e-commerce platforms.

Zoho Books offers various pricing plans to cater to different business needs. From affordable plans for small businesses to more advanced options for growing businesses, you can choose the plan that suits your requirements. Zoho Books is known for its user-friendly interface, automation features, and seamless integration capabilities, making it a popular choice for small businesses seeking efficient accounting software.

Online Accounting Software for Small Business
Online Accounting Software for Small Business

Wave Online Accounting Software for small business

Wave is an online accounting software designed for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and freelancers. It provides a suite of financial management tools to help businesses track income and expenses, manage invoicing, and streamline bookkeeping processes. Here are some key features of Wave:

  • Invoicing: Create and customize professional invoices, send them to clients, and track payment status. You can also set up recurring invoices for regular clients.
  • Expense Tracking: Record business expenses, categorize them, and track receipts. Wave allows you to connect your bank accounts for automatic transaction imports and reconciliation.
  • Bank Reconciliation: Import bank transactions and reconcile them with your records, ensuring accurate bookkeeping.
  • Financial Reporting: Generate essential financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to monitor the financial health of your business.
  • Receipt Scanning: Capture and store receipts by using the Wave mobile app or by emailing them to your Wave account. This helps with organizing and managing expense documentation.
  • Tax Preparation: Prepare for tax season by organizing your financial records and generating reports that simplify tax filing.
  • Payroll Management: Wave offers integrated payroll services to manage employee payroll, including direct deposits and tax calculations (available in select countries).
  • Integration with Payments: Wave provides a payment processing feature, allowing you to accept credit card payments directly from invoices.
  • Multi-Currency Support: Conduct business in multiple currencies and track foreign currency transactions and conversions.
  • Free Accounting Software: Wave offers free accounting software, making it a cost-effective choice for small businesses with basic accounting needs. Additional paid services, such as payroll and payment processing, are available at affordable rates.

Wave’s user-friendly interface, affordability, and range of features have made it a popular choice for small businesses and freelancers seeking a simple and accessible accounting solution.

Fresh books Online Accounting Software for Business

FreshBooks is an online accounting software designed for small businesses and self-employed professionals. It offers a range of features to streamline financial management and invoicing processes. Here are some key features of FreshBooks:

  1. Invoicing: Create professional-looking invoices, customize templates, and send them to clients. Track invoice status, send automated payment reminders, and accept online payments.
  2. Expense Tracking: Record business expenses, categorize them, and attach receipts. FreshBooks allows you to easily track and manage your business expenses.
  3. Time Tracking: Track billable hours spent on projects or client work. Convert tracked time into invoices, making it easier to bill clients accurately.
  4. Project Management: Plan and track projects, set budgets, and collaborate with team members or clients. Monitor project progress and associated expenses.
  5. Financial Reporting: Generate financial reports, including profit and loss statements, expense reports, and tax summaries. Gain insights into your business’s financial performance.
  6. Client Management: Keep track of client information, communication history, and project details in one place. Manage client relationships efficiently.
  7. Estimates and Proposals: Create professional estimates and proposals for clients. Convert approved estimates into invoices with a single click.
  8. Automated Expense Import: Connect your bank and credit card accounts to automatically import expenses and transactions, saving time on manual data entry.
  9. Mobile Access: Access FreshBooks on the go using the mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Manage your finances and invoicing anytime, anywhere.
  10. Integrations: FreshBooks integrates with various third-party apps and services, including payment processors, CRM systems, and project management tools.

FreshBooks offers different pricing plans, including a Lite plan for solo entrepreneurs and small businesses, and higher-tier plans for growing businesses with more extensive needs. The user-friendly interface, intuitive invoicing features, and time-saving automation make FreshBooks a popular choice for small businesses looking for efficient accounting software.

Sage Business Cloud Accounting Software for Business

Sage Business Cloud Accounting is an online accounting software designed to meet the needs of small and medium-sized businesses. It offers a range of features to simplify financial management and streamline business processes. Here are some key features of Sage Business Cloud Accounting:

  • Invoicing: Create and customize professional invoices, send them to customers, and track payment status. You can set up recurring invoices and automate invoice reminders.
  • Expense Tracking: Record business expenses, categorize them, and track receipts. Sage Business Cloud Accounting allows you to link expenses to specific projects or clients for better expense management.
  • Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank accounts to automatically import transactions and reconcile them with your records. This ensures accurate and up-to-date financial information.
  • Financial Reporting: Generate comprehensive financial reports, such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Gain insights into your business’s financial performance.
  • Cash Flow Management: Monitor and manage your cash flow with cash flow forecasting tools. Stay on top of your finances and make informed decisions.
  • Inventory Management: Track and manage your inventory levels, set reorder points, and get notifications for low stock. Accurately manage your stock and avoid inventory shortages.
  • Multi-Currency Support: Conduct business in multiple currencies, record transactions in different currencies, and handle foreign exchange gains and losses.
  • Tax Management: Simplify tax preparation with built-in tax features. Generate tax reports and stay compliant with tax regulations.
  • Collaboration: Collaborate with your accountant or team members by granting them access to your Sage Business Cloud Accounting account. Control user permissions and collaborate in real-time.
  • Integrations: Sage Business Cloud Accounting integrates with other business tools, such as payment processors and e-commerce platforms, to streamline your workflow and improve efficiency.

Sage Business Cloud Accounting offers different pricing plans to accommodate the needs of various businesses. It is known for its user-friendly interface, comprehensive features, and scalability, making it a popular choice for small and medium-sized businesses seeking effective accounting software.

Kashoo Online Accounting Software for Business

Kashoo is an online accounting software designed for small businesses and freelancers. It offers a user-friendly interface and a range of features to simplify financial management. Here are some key features of Kashoo:

  1. Invoicing: Create professional invoices, customize templates, and send them to clients. Track invoice status, set up recurring invoices, and accept online payments.
  2. Expense Tracking: Record business expenses, categorize them, and attach receipts. Kashoo allows you to easily track and manage your expenses.
  3. Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank accounts to automatically import transactions. Reconcile bank statements with your records and ensure accurate bookkeeping.
  4. Financial Reporting: Generate financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Gain insights into your business’s financial performance.
  5. Multi-Currency Support: Conduct business in multiple currencies, record transactions in different currencies, and handle foreign exchange gains and losses.
  6. Sales Tax Management: Manage sales tax calculations, set up tax rates, and generate reports to simplify tax compliance.
  7. Collaboration: Share access to your Kashoo account with your accountant or team members. Collaborate on financial tasks and control user permissions.
  8. Mobile Access: Access Kashoo on the go using the mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Stay connected to your finances wherever you are.
  9. Integrations: Kashoo integrates with various third-party apps and services, such as payment processors and time-tracking tools, to streamline your workflow.
  10. Affordable Pricing: Kashoo offers affordable pricing plans, making it suitable for small businesses and freelancers with basic accounting needs.

Kashoo’s user-friendly interface and simplicity make it a popular choice for small businesses and freelancers who need straightforward accounting software. It provides essential features to manage invoicing, expenses, and financial reporting, allowing you to stay organized and make informed financial decisions.

Free agent Online Accounting Software for Business

FreeAgent is an online accounting software designed for small businesses, freelancers, and contractors. It provides a comprehensive set of features to help manage finances and streamline accounting processes. Here are some key features of FreeAgent:

  • Invoicing: Create professional invoices, customize templates, and send them to clients. Track invoice status and set up recurring invoices for regular billing.
  • Expense Tracking: Record and categorize business expenses, attach receipts, and track reimbursable expenses. Easily manage and track your expenses.
  • Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank accounts to automatically import transactions. Reconcile bank statements with your records, ensuring accuracy and saving time.
  • Financial Reporting: Generate a range of financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Gain insights into your business’s financial health.
  • Tax Management: FreeAgent provides features to handle tax calculations and VAT (Value Added Tax) reporting. Generate tax summaries and file taxes more efficiently.
  • Time Tracking: Track billable hours and projects. Convert tracked time into invoices for accurate billing.
  • Project Management: Manage projects, track time, and expenses associated with specific projects. Monitor project profitability and progress.
  • Client Management: Keep track of client details, communication history, and project information. Easily manage client relationships within the platform.
  • Mobile Access: Access FreeAgent on the go with the mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Stay connected to your financial information and perform tasks remotely.
  • Integrations: FreeAgent integrates with various third-party apps and services, including payment processors, project management tools, and CRM systems.

FreeAgent offers different pricing plans, with features varying depending on the plan. It is known for its user-friendly interface, automation capabilities, and strong support for freelancers and contractors. The software aims to simplify accounting and financial management, making it an attractive option for small businesses and self-employed professionals.

NutCache Online Accounting Software for Business

Nutcache is an online project management and accounting software designed for small businesses, freelancers, and teams. It offers a combination of project management features and integrated accounting functionalities. Here are some key features of Nutcache:

  • Project Management: Create projects, assign tasks, and track progress. Collaborate with team members, set deadlines, and manage project timelines efficiently.
  • Time Tracking: Track billable hours and time spent on tasks and projects. Convert tracked time into invoices for accurate client billing.
  • Invoicing: Create professional invoices, customize templates, and send them to clients. Track invoice status, set up recurring invoices, and accept online payments.
  • Expense Tracking: Record and categorize business expenses, attach receipts, and track reimbursable expenses. Easily manage and track your expenses associated with projects.
  • Financial Reporting: Generate financial reports, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Monitor project profitability and overall business performance.
  • Estimates and Quotes: Create detailed project estimates and quotes for clients. Convert approved estimates into invoices to streamline billing processes.
  • Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank accounts to automatically import transactions. Reconcile bank statements and ensure accurate bookkeeping.
  • Multi-Currency Support: Conduct business in multiple currencies, record transactions in different currencies, and handle exchange rate fluctuations.
  • Collaboration: Collaborate with team members and clients within the platform. Share project updates, files, and communicate in real-time.
  • Integrations: Nutcache integrates with various third-party apps and services, such as payment gateways and accounting software, to enhance its functionality and streamline workflows.

Nutcache offers different pricing plans, including a free plan with limited features and paid plans with additional features and functionality. It provides a comprehensive solution for project management and accounting needs, making it a suitable choice for small businesses and freelancers looking for an integrated platform to manage their projects and finances.

OneUp Online Accounting Software for Business

OneUp is an online accounting software designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It offers a range of features to streamline financial management and automate bookkeeping tasks. Here are some key features of OneUp:

  1. Invoicing: Create professional invoices, customize templates, and send them to clients. Track invoice status and receive online payments.
  2. Expense Tracking: Record business expenses, categorize them, and attach receipts. OneUp allows you to easily track and manage your expenses.
  3. Bank Reconciliation: Connect your bank accounts to automatically import transactions and reconcile them with your records. This ensures accurate and up-to-date financial information.
  4. Financial Reporting: Generate comprehensive financial reports, such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Gain insights into your business’s financial performance.
  5. Inventory Management: Track and manage your inventory levels, set reorder points, and get notifications for low stock. Optimize inventory management and avoid stockouts.
  6. Purchasing and Vendor Management: Create purchase orders, track purchases, and manage vendor information. Streamline procurement processes and stay organized.
  7. Multi-Currency Support: Conduct business in multiple currencies, record transactions in different currencies, and handle foreign exchange gains and losses.
  8. Tax Management: OneUp provides features for tax calculations and reporting. Stay compliant with tax regulations and generate tax reports easily.
  9. Integration with E-commerce Platforms: OneUp integrates with popular e-commerce platforms, allowing for seamless synchronization of sales, inventory, and customer data.
  10. Collaboration and User Permissions: Collaborate with team members and grant them specific access and permissions within the software.

OneUp offers different pricing plans to cater to various business needs, with scalable options for growing businesses. It is known for its user-friendly interface, automation capabilities, and efficient financial management features. OneUp aims to simplify accounting processes and provide businesses with the tools they need to manage their finances effectively.

Guide to Choosing the Best Online Accounting Software for Small Businesses

Choosing the best accounting software for your small business is an important decision that can greatly impact your financial management processes. Here is a guide to help you make an informed choice:

1. Assess Your Needs:

Start by understanding your business’s specific accounting needs. Consider factors such as the size of your business, the complexity of your financial transactions, the number of users who will need access, and any specific industry requirements you may have.

2. Key Features:

Look for software that offers the core features you require, such as invoicing, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, financial reporting, and tax management. Consider any additional features that may be important to your business, such as inventory management or project tracking.

3. Scalability:

Consider your business’s growth potential. Choose software that can scale with your business and accommodate increased transaction volume and user requirements as your business expands.

4. Ease of Use:

Opt for software that is user-friendly and intuitive. It should have a clean interface and offer easy navigation and accessibility to important features. Consider whether you or your team would require any training or  support to effectively use the software.

5. Integration Capabilities:

Assess the software’s compatibility with other tools and systems you currently use or plan to use in the future. Look for options that integrate with your banking institutions, payment processors, e-commerce platforms, or other business software to streamline your workflow.

6. Mobile Accessibility:

Consider whether you need access to your accounting software on the go. Look for software that offers mobile apps or mobile-friendly interfaces to allow you to manage your finances conveniently from anywhere.

7. Security:

Ensure that the software prioritizes data security and offers features such as data encryption, secure backups, and user access controls. Verify that the software complies with relevant data protection and privacy regulations.

8. Pricing:

Consider your budget and compare the pricing plans of different accounting software options. Assess whether the features and functionalities offered justify the cost. Take into account any additional charges for add-ons or upgrades.

9. Customer Support:

Check the availability and quality of customer support provided by the software provider. Look for options that offer multiple support channels, such as email, phone, or live chat, and assess the responsiveness and effectiveness of their support team.

10. User Reviews and Recommendations:

Read user reviews and seek recommendations from other small business owners or professionals in your industry. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to gain insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the software.

By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision and select the accounting software that best aligns with your small business’s needs, budget, and growth objectives.

Online Accounting Software for Small Business
Online Accounting Software for Small Business

How Much Does Online Accounting Software for Small Business Cost?

Small business online accounting software ranges from $0 to $150 or more per month. However, basic plans are in roughly the $0 to $40 per month range and are a great place to start. With a basic plan, a small business will be able to categorize income and expenses, send invoices, and prepare financial reports without stress. As the business grows, most accounting software is scalable, and a plan can be easily upgraded to meet new business needs, however it will cost more than a basic package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about online accounting software for small businesses:

What is online accounting software?

Online accounting software is a cloud-based tool that allows businesses to manage their financial transactions, invoicing, expense tracking, and financial reporting online. It eliminates the need for manual bookkeeping and provides a centralized platform for financial management.

Why should I use online accounting software for my small business?

Online accounting software offers several benefits, such as automation of financial tasks, improved accuracy, real-time access to financial information, simplified invoicing and expense tracking, streamlined tax management, and integration with other business tools. It can save time, reduce errors, and provide valuable insights into your business’s financial health.

How secure is online accounting software?

Reputable online accounting software providers prioritize data security and employ measures such as data encryption, secure backups, user access controls, and compliance with relevant data protection regulations. It’s important to choose a trusted provider with a track record of robust security practices.

Can I access online accounting software from anywhere?

Yes, one of the advantages of online accounting software is that it can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. Many providers offer mobile apps or mobile-friendly interfaces, allowing you to manage your finances on the go.

Can I integrate online accounting software with other business tools?

Many online accounting software options offer integration capabilities with other business tools such as payment processors, e-commerce platforms, CRM systems, and project management tools. Integration can help streamline workflows and improve efficiency by automating data transfer between systems.

Do I need accounting knowledge to use online accounting software?

Online accounting software is designed to be user-friendly, even for users without extensive accounting knowledge. However, a basic understanding of accounting principles can be beneficial for effectively using the software and interpreting financial reports.

How much does online accounting software cost?

The cost of online accounting software varies depending on the provider, the features included, and the level of usage required. Pricing models can range from monthly or annual subscriptions based on the number of users or transactions. Some providers offer tiered pricing plans with different feature levels to accommodate varying business needs and budgets.

Can online accounting software help with tax compliance?

Yes, many online accounting software options offer features to help with tax compliance. They may provide tax calculation tools, generate tax reports, and assist in filling out tax forms. However, it’s important to consult with a tax professional for specific tax advice and ensure compliance with local tax regulations.

Can I switch to a different online accounting software if needed?

Switching between online accounting software providers is possible, although it can require some effort to transfer your financial data. Before making a switch, it’s recommended to evaluate your needs, compare features, and consider the migration process to ensure a smooth transition.

Can online accounting software generate financial reports?

Yes, online accounting software typically offers a range of financial reporting options, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and more. These reports provide insights into your business’s financial performance and help with decision-making and financial analysis.

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