If you’re an entrepreneur who doesn’t know much about bookkeeping or accounting, you’re definitely not alone. You’ve probably heard about ways to automate your business’s financial tracking. That sounds cool, but you don’t have hundreds of dollars lying around to spend on costly software. Plus, a Google search reveals such a wide range of similar-looking programs. Where do you start? Here’s how to find the best bookkeeping software for you.
It depends on what you want. Using the right software can make managing your bookkeeping much easier and more efficient. It can also save you money in the long run. Sometimes, the best thing to do is outsource your bookkeeping.
This blog post will provide tips for choosing the right software for your goals and business. If you want an assessment tailored to your unique situation, book a free consultation with us, and we’ll hear you out.
Start By Picking Between These Main Types Of Software
Bookkeeping software comes in many different forms, from simple Excel spreadsheets to more advanced cloud-based systems. Some are designed specifically for small businesses, because they’re easy to set up and consistently use. Others can be more complex and require some technical knowledge. Here are a few of the most popular types of bookkeeping software:
1) Excel Spreadsheets: This is one of the most basic forms of bookkeeping software available, but you may be surprised how much it can get done. You can easily add customized formulas tailor-made for your situation. You can create charts or graphs in order to better monitor your finances. Most importantly, with an Excel spreadsheet, you can organize your financial data into categories like income, expenses, taxes, and payroll. If you want to keep things simple, your operations are fairly straightforward, and you have someone who doesn’t mind manually inputting numbers once in a while, this one is for you.
2) Cloud-Based Software: This type is becoming increasingly popular as more businesses move their operations online. It allows you to store your financial data securely in “the cloud,” a private internet storage you can access from anywhere (with an internet connection). Cloud-based software is especially useful for businesses that rely on collaboration with people online, and businesses that operate primarily online for their transactions.
3) Accounting Software: This type is designed for more detailed accounting tasks such as creating invoices and tracking inventory. There are often budgeting tools, tax calculators, and even payroll solutions in accounting software packages. If you’re looking to strategize and optimize, accounting software is your second-best bet. The most efficient choice would be hiring someone who already has the software — and already uses its full potential to help businesses perform much better. At ACM CPA, we have several bookkeepers who fit this description; you can contact us today for a free consultation; let us know how you want your business to grow this year.
4) Integrated Solutions: These are larger, more comprehensive systems that integrate multiple types of bookkeeping software into one package. They often include features from all of the above categories, plus customer relationship management (CRM) tools and other advanced business management features. If you have a medium-sized or large business that could save time and cash with features like automated invoicing or payroll, you might want to pay for an integrated solution.
Narrowing Down The Right Bookkeeping Software For Your Business
Before making a decision, check out the pricing and compare packages from different providers. Also, consider how easily the software can be customized and whether or not it integrates with other systems you may already be using, such as your accounting software.
Popular Accounting Software Solutions For Bookkeeping
- Quickbooks: This is one of the most popular and comprehensive bookkeeping software solutions on the market today. It includes features for invoicing, preparing payroll, tax preparation, inventory management, CRM, and more. The software is available as both a browser version and a desktop version.
- Xero: Another top-rated cloud-based accounting package. It has many of the same features as QuickBooks but offers even more customization.
- Wave Accounting: This free web-based software provides basic bookkeeping tools to help you manage your finances. For example, it includes tools for creating invoices, tracking expenses, and generating reports.
- Freshbooks: This cloud-based software is designed for small businesses and freelancers. It includes features such as invoicing, time tracking, expense management, and more.
Now You Know The Basics, But Take Your Time
By diligently finding the right bookkeeping software for your business, you can save yourself a lot of time, money, and stress in the long run. With the right support and tools in place, managing your finances will become much easier and more efficient. Whether you’re a small business just starting out or an established company looking to streamline your processes, bookkeeping software can help you take control of your finances and run a more successful business.
One of the easiest mistakes to make is rushing the decision. If you really want to know as soon as possible, contact us today at ACM CPA. We’ll use our years of expertise to find the perfect solution for your unique situation.